Best Dog Food Brand for Puppies: Top Picks for Healthy Growth

Puppies are adorable and require special attention when it comes to their diet. Choosing the right dog food brand for your puppy can be a daunting task, considering the plethora of options available on the market. A puppy’s nutritional needs differ from those of adult dogs, and it’s crucial to select a brand that caters to their specific needs.

The best dog food brand for puppies should contain high-quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and healthy fats, all in the right proportions. Puppies need a diet that supports their growth and development, and the right brand can make all the difference.

When selecting the best dog food brand for puppies, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients. Avoid brands that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Look for brands that use real meat as the primary ingredient and have a balance of carbohydrates and fats to provide the necessary energy for your puppy’s active lifestyle.

We spent hours researching and testing ten different dog food brands to identify the best one for puppies. In the following sections, we’ll share our findings and help you choose the right brand to keep your puppy happy and healthy.

Best Dog Food Brands for Puppies

As dog owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. This is especially true when it comes to puppies, as they require a balanced and nutrient-rich diet to support their growth and development. With so many dog food brands on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your puppy. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog food brands for puppies, based on ingredients, quality, and customer reviews. Read on to find the perfect food for your furry friend.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies

If you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that’s made with natural ingredients and packed with nutrients, Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient
• Specially formulated for puppies with DHA and ARA for cognitive function and retinal health
• Contains immunity-boosting LifeSource Bits

Cons

• Packaging may vary
• Formula adjustments are made from time to time
• Price is not cheap

We love that Blue Buffalo’s dry dog food for puppies features high-quality deboned chicken as the primary ingredient, as well as cranberries and vegetables for a balanced diet to help build strong muscles. The formula is made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy. Plus, it’s specially formulated for puppies with DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother’s milk, to support cognitive function and retinal health. The inclusion of LifeSource Bits, which contain a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, helps support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

While packaging may vary and formula adjustments are made from time to time, we still highly recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies. It’s an excellent choice for pet owners who want to give their puppies the balanced nutrition they need to grow and thrive.

ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food

If you want to give your puppy the best nutrition, ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food is the way to go.

Pros

• Packed with nutrients to support peak development
• Made with 85% fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients
• Grain-free to cater to your puppy’s dietary needs

Cons

• May be too expensive for some pet owners
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for adult dogs

We have been using ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for our puppy for a few months now, and we have seen a noticeable difference in his energy levels and coat. This grain-free dog food is packed with essential nutrients, including fresh or raw chicken, turkey, turkey giblets, flounder, and whole mackerel. The high protein content helps support our puppy’s muscle growth and development.

One of the things we love about ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food is that it is made with 85% fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients, including ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients like nourishing organs to mimic what your puppy’s ancestors consumed in the wild. The freeze-dried dog food coating provides a burst of flavor that our puppy loves.

However, we do acknowledge that ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food may not be suitable for all pet owners. It is quite expensive compared to other dog food brands, and some dogs may not like the taste. Additionally, this dog food is only suitable for puppies and not adult dogs.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food brand that will provide your puppy with all the essential nutrients they need, we highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food.

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food, 12.5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious dog food brand for your little puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Supports the developmental needs of puppies in a small kibble and delicious chicken flavor
• Provides DHA from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development
• Uses a balanced set of minerals to promote strong bones and strong teeth

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste
• The kibble size may be too small for larger puppies
• Can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for our little puppy, and we’ve been really impressed with the results. Our puppy loves the taste of the chicken flavor, and we love that it’s made with natural ingredients.

One of the things we appreciate most about this dog food is that it’s carefully formulated to support the developmental needs of puppies. It contains DHA from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development, which is especially important during these early stages of growth.

Another great feature of this dog food is that it uses a balanced set of minerals to promote strong bones and strong teeth. This is crucial for puppies, as they need to develop strong bones and teeth to support their growing bodies.

While there are some downsides to this dog food, such as the higher price point and the possibility that some puppies may not like the taste, we believe that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Overall, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food brand for their little puppy.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that is made with only a few ingredients and is free of grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, then Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options.
• Some clumping may occur after shaking the product.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food on our puppy and were impressed with the quality of ingredients used in the recipe. The fact that it is made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, is a huge plus for us. We also like that it is free from grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

When we mixed it in with our puppy’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food, he was ecstatic and wagged his tail in excitement. The added flavor seemed to make him enjoy his meal even more. We appreciate that this dog food is crafted with real, recognizable ingredients, which gives us peace of mind that we are feeding our puppy quality food.

One downside to this product is that it is more expensive compared to other dog food options. Additionally, we noticed some clumping after shaking the product, which was a bit of a hassle. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to keep that in mind.

Overall, we recommend Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food for those who are looking for a natural dog food option that is made with quality ingredients.

Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food – Nutrientboost Wee Bit Whole Grain Made w/Real Bison, Brown Rice, -amp; Pearled Barley – High Fiber, Probiotic Dry Dog Food for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs – 3.75 LB 3.75 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your puppy, we highly recommend the Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food. It is packed with essential nutrients and is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Pros

• Real, lean bison provides a delicious, iron-rich source of protein.
• One of the smallest kibble piece sizes on the market. Provides easy chewing for toy and small breed mouths.
• Includes fiber-rich prebiotics, plus our patented, protected living probiotics stay alive and viable until consumed.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The bag is only 3.75 pounds, so you may need to purchase more frequently.

We were impressed with the Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food’s ingredient list, which includes real bison, brown rice, and pearled barley. These ingredients provide a rich source of fiber, B vitamins, and minerals to keep your dog happy and healthy. We also appreciate that the brand doesn’t include any corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives.

Another thing we love about this dog food is the small kibble size, which is perfect for toy and small breed dogs. It also includes fiber-rich prebiotics and patented, protected living probiotics that support gut health and overall immune support.

However, we do acknowledge that this dog food is more expensive than other brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it may take some trial and error to find out if your pup is a fan. Lastly, the bag is only 3.75 pounds, so you may need to purchase more frequently.

Overall, we highly recommend the Solid Gold Small Breed Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and benefits for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Dry Food Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a grain-free dog food that is packed with nutrients, then Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, making it a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• The fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• While this dog food is packed with nutrients, it may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with specific dietary requirements.
• Some customers have reported receiving bags of food that looked and smelled different from previous orders.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands.

We recently tried Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe with our puppy and were impressed with the results. Our puppy loved the taste of the food and seemed to have more energy throughout the day. We also noticed an improvement in his coat and skin health after a few weeks of feeding him this food.

One of the things we appreciated about this dog food was the inclusion of real salmon as the number one ingredient. This made us feel good about feeding our puppy a quality protein source that would help maintain his muscle strength. We also liked that the fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helped support his healthy digestion and immune system health.

While we were impressed with this dog food, we did notice that some customers have reported receiving bags of food that looked and smelled different from previous orders. It’s important to keep this in mind when ordering this product. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, so it’s important to consider your budget when making a decision.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with nutrients. It’s a great option for puppies and adult dogs alike, and we were impressed with the results we saw in our own pup.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag Red Meat Recipe 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe for puppies. This product is packed with responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources and then coated with freeze-dried raw meat. It provides a protein-rich taste that puppies crave with the nutrition they deserve.

Pros

• The recipe includes six animal protein sources that puppies will love, perfect for those with poultry allergies.
• The recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat, which helps puppies thrive.
• The recipe is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, improving puppies’ entire well-being.

Cons

• The product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands.
• The kibble doesn’t really appear to be raw coated as advertised in the pictures.
• The product has a short expiry date that isn’t stated in the product listing.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe is a great option for puppies. The recipe includes six animal protein sources that puppies will love, making it perfect for those with poultry allergies. Additionally, the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat, which helps puppies thrive. The recipe is also fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, improving puppies’ entire well-being. However, the product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands. The kibble doesn’t really appear to be raw coated as advertised in the pictures. Lastly, the product has a short expiry date that isn’t stated in the product listing. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your puppy, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe is a great option to consider.

Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your puppy, Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice for you.

Pros

• The kibble size is perfect for small breed puppies.
• It’s grain and gluten-free, making it easy on your puppy’s stomach.
• Provides a probiotic support formula for digestion and immunity.

Cons

• The smell of the food is a bit strong.
• It’s a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands.
• It’s only recommended for small breeds.

This dog food provides nourishing protein, antioxidants, superfood with vitamins and minerals, and omega fatty acids to support skin, coat, and immune system health. The probiotic support formula is also a great addition for your puppy’s digestive health and balanced gut flora.

The kibble size is perfect for small breed puppies, making it easier for them to eat and digest. The grain and gluten-free formula is also a great choice for puppies with sensitive stomachs.

However, the smell of the food is a bit strong, which may be a turn-off for some pet owners. Additionally, it’s a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands, and it’s only recommended for small breeds.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small breed puppy, Solid Gold Nutrientboost Mighty Mini Small Breed Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, Healthy Growth Formula with DHA, Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe, 4-lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food brand for your puppy, Blue Buffalo is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Chicken is the #1 ingredient
• Supports cognitive development with DHA
• High-protein dry dog food that contains exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste
• A bit expensive compared to other brands
• May cause stomach upset in some puppies

We recently tried Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for our new puppy and we were impressed with the quality of the product. The first thing we noticed was that chicken is the #1 ingredient, which is always a good sign. It’s also great to know that this puppy food supports cognitive development with DHA and provides energy for growth and play.

Another thing we liked about this dog food brand is that it contains exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits that support a healthy immune system. We also appreciated that it’s made with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, or soy, which are all common allergens for dogs.

However, we did notice that some puppies may not like the taste of this brand, so it’s important to keep that in mind. We also found that it’s a bit expensive compared to other brands on the market. Additionally, some puppies may experience stomach upset when transitioning to this brand, so it’s important to introduce it slowly.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality and nutritious dog food brand for their puppy.

Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula High Protein Natural Dry Puppy Food with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients – 16.5 lb. Bag Chicken 16.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want to give your puppy the best start in life, then Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula is the perfect choice. With added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, it provides complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup. We highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a high-quality puppy food.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high protein for strong, growing muscles and a healthy heart.
• Contains DHA, a nutrient found in mother’s milk, to support vision and brain development.
• Four antioxidant sources help promote a strong immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Can be expensive compared to other brands.
• May cause digestive issues in some puppies.

Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula is a highly digestible puppy food that features a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, including omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, for a shiny coat and healthy skin. The deliciously crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels deliver great taste in this Purina puppy dry food formula made with no artificial flavors or preservatives.

One of the best things about this product is that it contains 100 percent nutrition and 0 percent fillers. This means that every ingredient has a purpose, providing your puppy with the complete and balanced nutrition he needs to support his lifelong whole-body health.

We love that Purina ONE is produced in U.S. facilities where they take steps to make it good for your dog and good for the environment, like reducing water and using renewable electricity. When your dog has finished enjoying this food, please check your label for recycling guidance.

In conclusion, if you want to give your puppy the best start in life, then Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula is the perfect choice. With added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, it provides complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup. Try it out and see the difference it can make in your puppy’s overall health and well-being.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food brand for your puppy, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when selecting the right product for your furry friend:

Nutritional Content

Puppies have specific nutritional needs that differ from adult dogs, so it’s important to choose a dog food brand that is specifically formulated for puppies. Look for products that contain high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals to support your puppy’s growth and development.

Ingredients

The ingredients in your puppy’s food can have a big impact on their health and well-being. Look for brands that use high-quality, natural ingredients and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. It’s also important to avoid any ingredients that your puppy may be allergic or sensitive to.

Brand Reputation

When choosing a dog food brand, it’s important to consider the company’s reputation. Look for brands that have a history of producing high-quality products and have a good track record of customer satisfaction. You can also do some research online to read reviews and see what other pet owners have to say about the brand.

Price

While price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when choosing a dog food brand, it’s important to find a product that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that some premium brands may cost more, but they may also offer higher-quality ingredients and better nutritional content.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the best dog food brand for your puppy and ensure that they are getting the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended foods for puppies?

The top vet-recommended foods for puppies are those that are specifically formulated for their nutritional needs. Some popular brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan.

What is considered the healthiest diet for a growing puppy?

A healthy diet for a growing puppy should include a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Look for puppy foods that list whole meat sources, such as chicken or beef, as the first ingredient. Avoid foods that contain fillers like corn or wheat.

Which puppy food brands are best for small breed dogs?

Small breed puppies have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Some top brands for small breed puppies include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Nutro.

What dry puppy foods are nutritionists most likely to endorse?

Nutritionists tend to endorse dry puppy foods that are made with high-quality ingredients and are free from fillers and artificial preservatives. Some popular options include Orijen, Acana, and Taste of the Wild.

How do I choose the best quality food for a large breed puppy?

Large breed puppies have specific nutritional needs to support their growth and development. Look for foods that are formulated with controlled levels of calcium and phosphorus to support bone health. Some top brands for large breed puppies include Eukanuba, Nutro, and Royal Canin.

What are some affordable yet high-quality puppy food options?

There are many affordable puppy food options that still provide high-quality nutrition for your growing pup. Some good options include Purina ONE, Iams, and Pedigree. Just be sure to read the ingredient labels to ensure that the food is made with high-quality ingredients.