Best Dog Food Brands for Large Breed Puppies in 2024

Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs than small breed puppies or adult dogs. They require a balanced diet that supports their growth and development without causing any health issues. Choosing the right dog food brand for large breed puppies can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in the market.

When looking for the best dog food brands for large breed puppies, there are a few critical things to consider. One of the most important factors is the protein content. Large breed puppies require a higher protein content to support their muscle growth and development. Additionally, the food should have a balanced calcium and phosphorus ratio to prevent any skeletal issues.

Another crucial factor to consider is the size of the kibble. Large breed puppies need larger kibble sizes to prevent choking and encourage chewing, which helps with digestion. It is also essential to look for dog food brands that use high-quality ingredients and avoid fillers and artificial preservatives.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the best options for large breed puppies. In the following sections, we will review the top dog food brands that meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies and support their growth and development.

Best Dog Food Brands for Large Breed Puppies

As pet owners, we understand that choosing the right dog food for our furry friends can be a daunting task. This is especially true for large breed puppies, as they require a specific balance of nutrients to support their growth and development. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog food brands for large breed puppies, based on expert recommendations and customer reviews. Whether you’re looking for grain-free options or those with added supplements, our roundup has got you covered.

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your large breed puppy’s growth and development, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated to support an appropriate growth rate for large breed puppies
• Glucosamine supports developing joints and cartilage
• DHA from omega-rich fish oil nourishes brain and vision development

Cons

• Contains corn, which some dogs may be allergic to
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May be too expensive for some budgets

We have been using this dog food for our large breed puppy for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The high-quality protein from real chicken as the first ingredient provides the building blocks he needs to maintain his active lifestyle, while the nutrient-rich formula is designed for puppies weighing over 50 pounds at maturity.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the inclusion of glucosamine, which supports developing joints and cartilage. This is especially important for large breed puppies, who are more prone to joint problems as they grow older. Additionally, the DHA from omega-rich fish oil nourishes brain and vision development, which is crucial for a puppy’s overall development.

While we have had a positive experience with this dog food, we do acknowledge that it may not be suitable for all dogs. Some dogs may be allergic to corn, which is one of the ingredients in this dog food. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some trial and error to find a brand that your dog enjoys. Finally, the cost of this dog food may be prohibitive for some budgets, so it’s important to factor in the cost when making a decision.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that supports their large breed puppy’s growth and development.

Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, affordable dog food for your large breed puppy, Wonder Bound is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient, providing a good source of protein for your growing pup.
• Contains L-Carnitine to support lean muscle development.
• Includes DHA for brain and vision development.

Cons

• Some customers reported that the kibble size is too big for smaller puppies.
• A few reviewers noted that the food caused gas in their dogs.
• Not suitable for dogs with grain allergies.

We recently tried Wonder Bound for our large breed puppy and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken and rice formula is easy on our pup’s stomach and provides the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. We also appreciate that it contains probiotics and fiber for digestive support.

One downside we noticed is that the kibble size is quite large, which may be difficult for smaller puppies to chew. Additionally, a few reviewers reported that the food caused gas in their dogs, so it may not be the best choice for pups with sensitive stomachs.

Overall, we think Wonder Bound is a solid choice for large breed puppies. It’s affordable, high-quality, and provides the essential nutrients your pup needs to grow up strong and healthy.

Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Dry Dog Puppy Food with Grains, Natural Ingredients, Made in USA with Real Meat (Puppy, Chicken, Salmon -amp; Rice, 30-Pound Bag) Chicken Puppy Large Breed 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want to provide your large breed puppy with a nutritionally dense crunchy kibble that supports whole-body health, then Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Dry Dog Puppy Food is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• This dog food is protein-rich, containing high-quality ingredients such as chicken and salmon that support whole-body health.
• It is all-natural, providing an ideal balance of nature’s finest ingredients, carefully selected to nourish and sustain your dog’s wellbeing.
• The food supports brain development and coat, with guaranteed levels of DHA from Salmon Oil, antioxidants to support strong immune systems, balanced nutrients to promote optimal energy, and omega fatty acids to ensure healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• This puppy dry food doesn’t contain poultry by-products, wheat, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.
• The food is made in the USA, using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, and prepared in their state-of-the-art facility.
• Every puppy is a little different, so optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, size, activity level, breed, and environment.

We highly recommend Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Dry Dog Puppy Food for large breed puppy owners who want to provide their puppies with a nutritionally dense, all-natural, and protein-rich diet. This well-crafted dog food is perfect for supporting whole-body health, brain development, and coat.

The food is made without any harmful ingredients such as poultry by-products, wheat, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives. Additionally, it is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, ensuring that your puppy gets only the best.

While every puppy is different, the feeding guidelines provide an initial recommendation that can be adjusted as needed. With this food, you can be confident that you are providing your puppy with a well-balanced and healthy diet.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with nutrition, then the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula is a great choice.

Pros

• The first ingredient in this dog food is real lamb, which is a great source of protein to help support strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• This dog food is made with prebiotic fiber to help maintain your dog’s gut health and provide immune support.
• Natural sources of glucosamine for dogs support joint health, vitamins A and E promote bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals nourish a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, so it may be necessary to try a few different flavors before finding the right one for your pup.
• This dog food is not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, such as those who require a grain-free diet.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs.

We recently tried the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for our large breed puppy, and we were impressed with the results. Our pup loved the taste of the lamb, and we noticed that his coat became shinier and his eyes brighter after just a few weeks of eating this food.

One thing we really appreciated about this dog food is that it is made with high-quality ingredients, including real lamb as the first ingredient. We also liked that it contains prebiotic fiber to help support our pup’s gut health and immune system.

While we did notice an improvement in our pup’s coat and eyes, we did not see a significant improvement in his joint health. However, we understand that joint health can take time to improve, and we plan to continue feeding him this food to see if there are any long-term benefits.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with nutrition.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30 lb Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for large breed puppies, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to support healthy muscle development.
• Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility in larger dogs.
• Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• The price point is higher compared to other dog food brands, but the high-quality ingredients justify the cost.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The kibble size may be too large for some puppies to comfortably chew.

We have personally used this dog food for our large breed puppy and have seen noticeable improvements in his coat, energy levels, and overall health. The real chicken and wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit provide a balanced and nutritious diet that we can feel good about feeding our furry friend.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility in larger dogs. This is especially important for large breed puppies who are more prone to joint issues as they age. Additionally, the exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits provide added nutritional support to keep our puppy healthy and happy.

While the price point may be higher compared to other dog food brands, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and noticeable improvements in our puppy’s health justify the cost. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, and the kibble size may be too large for some puppies to comfortably chew.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for large breed puppies.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Puppy Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Puppy Dry Dog Food for large breed puppies. This protein-rich recipe features real chicken as the first ingredient and is crafted with an optimal balance of protein and fat to support your puppy’s growth and development.

Pros

• Provides balanced nutrition for puppies up to 1 year of age
• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Proudly made with no chicken by-product meal, no artificial flavors or colors, no artificial preservatives, no corn, wheat, or soy

Cons

• May be a bit pricey compared to other brands
• Some puppies may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for puppies with certain dietary restrictions

We have used NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Puppy Dry Dog Food for our own large breed puppy and have seen great results. Our puppy loves the taste and we love that it is made with quality ingredients sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers.

One thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. We also appreciate that it contains no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy.

Overall, we believe that NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great choice for large breed puppies. It provides balanced nutrition, is made with quality ingredients, and is free from artificial additives.

Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your large breed puppy, Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great option. Here’s what we think:

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, this protein-rich recipe is sure to satisfy your puppy’s appetite.
• Crafted with high-quality ingredients, this recipe contains no chicken by-product meal, no artificial flavors or colors, no artificial preservatives, no corn, wheat, or soy protein.
• This recipe promotes healthy vitality by supporting healthy brain and eye development, healthy digestion, and immunity for your dog.

Cons

• This recipe may not be suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to chicken or other ingredients in the recipe.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste or texture of this food.
• This recipe may be more expensive than some other puppy foods on the market.

We’ve been using Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we’re very happy with it. Our puppy loves the taste, and we love the fact that it contains high-quality ingredients that promote his overall health and well-being. We’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and his digestion is better since we switched to this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this recipe may not be suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to chicken or other ingredients in the recipe. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste or texture of this food. However, we believe that the benefits of this high-quality dog food outweigh any potential drawbacks.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious food for their furry friend.

NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Rice, 26LB 26 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your large breed puppy, NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• NutriSource Chicken and Rice Dry Dog Food is formulated to meet AAFCO guidelines for all lifestages.
• NutriSource grain inclusive formulas include prebiotics and probiotics to help support a healthy gut.
• Balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids along with L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride and DL Methionine supplementation to promote heart health make NutriSource grain inclusive formulas stand out.

Cons

• The price is higher than some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• It’s not widely available in brick and mortar stores.

We’ve been using NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food for our large breed puppy for several months now and have been very happy with the results. Our puppy has maintained a healthy weight and has plenty of energy for playtime and exercise. We appreciate that this food is formulated to meet AAFCO guidelines for all lifestages, so we don’t have to worry about switching to a different food as our puppy grows.

One thing we really like about NutriSource grain inclusive formulas is that they include prebiotics and probiotics to help support a healthy gut. We’ve noticed that our puppy has had less digestive issues since we switched to this food. Additionally, the balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids along with L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride and DL Methionine supplementation to promote heart health make NutriSource grain inclusive formulas stand out. We feel good knowing that we’re providing our puppy with a high-quality food that supports his overall health and wellbeing.

The only downsides to NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food are that it’s more expensive than some other dog food brands, and some dogs may not like the taste of this food. Additionally, it’s not widely available in brick and mortar stores, so we have to order it online. However, we feel that the benefits of this food outweigh the cost and inconvenience. Overall, we highly recommend NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food for large breed puppies.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30-lb Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically formulated for large breed puppies, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. With real chicken as the first ingredient and a variety of other natural ingredients, this food is designed to support healthy growth and development in your puppy.

Pros

• Real chicken as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein for healthy muscle growth
• Contains DHA, ARA, and Choline to support brain and eye development
• Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food
• May be more expensive than some other dog food options
• Some customers have reported issues with packaging

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our own large breed puppy, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our puppy has been growing and developing well, and we’ve noticed that his coat looks shiny and healthy.

One of the things we like about this food is that it contains a variety of natural ingredients that we feel good about feeding our puppy. We also appreciate that it’s specifically formulated for large breed puppies, which means that it contains the right balance of nutrients to support healthy growth and development.

Another thing we like about this food is that it contains exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. These bits are carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

While we’ve been very happy with this food, we do recognize that it may not be the right choice for every dog. Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, and it may be more expensive than some other dog food options. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with packaging, so it’s important to check the bag carefully before feeding it to your dog.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food to other dog owners who are looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that’s specifically formulated for large breed puppies.

IAMS Proactive Health Puppy Food Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 30.6 lb. Bag Large Breed 30.6 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious puppy food for your large breed pup, IAMS Proactive Health Puppy Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• Complete and balanced with 0% fillers
• Contains omega-3 DHA for smarter, more trainable puppies
• Supports muscle growth with high-quality protein

Cons

• Some ingredients may not be suitable for all dogs
• Packaging may not be as durable as other brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Puppy Food for our large breed puppy and have been impressed with the results. The food is complete and balanced with no fillers, which means our puppy is getting all the nutrients he needs without any unnecessary additives.

One of the standout features of this food is the omega-3 DHA, which is essential for brain development and helps make puppies more trainable. We’ve noticed that our puppy is quick to learn new commands and tricks, which we attribute in part to the DHA in his food.

In addition to brain development, this food also supports muscle growth with high-quality protein. Our puppy has been growing quickly and we’ve been pleased with his muscle development and overall health.

While we’ve had a positive experience with this food, we understand that it may not be suitable for all dogs. Some of the ingredients may not agree with certain dogs, so it’s important to monitor your pup’s reaction when introducing new food.

We’ve also noticed that the packaging may not be as durable as other brands, which can be a concern if you need to store the food for an extended period of time.

Finally, while our puppy enjoys the taste of this food, we’ve heard from other pet owners that their dogs may not be as enthusiastic. As with any food, it’s important to pay attention to your dog’s preferences and adjust as necessary.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Proactive Health Puppy Food with Real Chicken for large breed puppies. It’s a nutritious and well-balanced food that supports brain and muscle development, and we’ve been pleased with the results for our own pup.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food brand for your large breed puppy, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:

Nutritional Content

Large breed puppies require a specific nutritional balance to support their growth and development. Look for dog food brands that are formulated with high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, lamb, or fish. Additionally, make sure the food contains the right balance of fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support your puppy’s overall health.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of ingredients in your puppy’s food can have a significant impact on their health and wellbeing. Look for dog food brands that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients, and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products.

Breed-Specific Formulas

Some dog food brands offer breed-specific formulas that are tailored to the unique nutritional needs of different breeds. Look for a brand that offers a formula specifically designed for large breed puppies.

Feeding Guidelines

It’s important to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the dog food brand to ensure your puppy is getting the right amount of food. Overfeeding your puppy can lead to obesity and other health problems, so make sure you’re following the recommended serving sizes.

Price

While price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when choosing a dog food brand, it’s important to find a brand that fits within your budget. Look for a brand that offers high-quality ingredients and nutritional content at a reasonable price.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food brand for your large breed puppy and ensure they receive the nutrition they need to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated puppy foods for large breed growth and development?

There are several top-rated puppy foods for large breed growth and development. Some of the most popular brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Blue Buffalo. These brands have been specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies and promote healthy growth and development.

Which dog food formulas are recommended by veterinarians for large breed puppies?

Veterinarians typically recommend dog food formulas that are high in protein and contain a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus. Some of the recommended formulas include Royal Canin Large Breed Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large Breed, and Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy.

What ingredients should I look for in food for my large breed puppy?

When choosing food for your large breed puppy, it’s important to look for ingredients that are high in protein, such as chicken, turkey, and lamb. You should also look for formulas that contain a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus, as well as essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids.

How does large breed puppy food differ from adult large breed dog food?

Large breed puppy food is formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of growing puppies. It typically contains higher levels of protein, fat, and calories to support healthy growth and development. Adult large breed dog food, on the other hand, is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of fully-grown dogs and has lower levels of protein, fat, and calories.

Are there specific large breed puppy foods that are grain-free and without chicken?

Yes, there are several grain-free and chicken-free options available for large breed puppies. Some of the most popular brands include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Puppy, Merrick Grain-Free Large Breed Puppy, and Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy.

What are the nutritional needs of large breed puppies compared to small breed puppies?

Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs than small breed puppies. They require more protein, fat, and calories to support healthy growth and development. Large breed puppies also need a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus to promote strong bones and teeth. It’s important to choose a formula that is specifically formulated for large breed puppies to ensure they get the nutrients they need.