Best Dog Food for Large Breed Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide
Large breed dogs require a specific type of dog food that meets their nutritional needs. The best dog food for large breed dogs should contain high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Large breed dogs need a balanced diet that supports their growth and development while also maintaining their overall health.
When choosing the best dog food for large breed dogs, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients. The first ingredient should be a high-quality protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish. The food should also contain healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support healthy skin and coat.
One critical thing to consider when choosing the best dog food for large breed dogs is the size of the kibble. Large breed dogs require larger kibble to prevent choking and promote healthy digestion. Additionally, it’s essential to choose a dog food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health and mobility.
We spent countless hours researching and testing ten different brands of dog food to identify the best options for large breed dogs. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide a detailed analysis of each brand’s ingredients, nutritional value, and overall quality.
Best Dog Foods for Large Breed Dogs
As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. When it comes to large breed dogs, it’s especially important to choose a dog food that meets their unique nutritional needs. Large breed dogs require a balanced diet that supports their joint health, muscle development, and overall well-being. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your pup. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various dog foods to bring you our top picks for the best dog foods for large breed dogs.
ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food for large breed dogs.
Pros
- The Biologically Appropriate recipe is based on what your dog’s ancestors consumed in the wild.
- Contains 85% animal ingredients, including WholePrey ingredients like nourishing organs.
- First five ingredients are fresh or raw poultry and fish, providing your dog with high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Cons
- The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
We recently tried ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food for our large breed dog and were impressed with the Biologically Appropriate recipe that mimics what dogs would eat in the wild. The kibble shape is unique and easier for our dog to eat. We appreciate that it contains 85% animal ingredients, including fresh or raw poultry and fish, which provide high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.
However, we did notice that the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, and some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble. Additionally, this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Overall, we believe that ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option for large breed dogs who need a high protein diet to thrive.
IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 30 lb. Bag
If you’re looking for a dog food that is both nutritious and tasty for your large breed dog, then IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.
Pros
- The kibble is 100% complete and balanced, with no fillers, providing your dog with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.
- The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin in the formula support strong bones and joints, which is especially important for large breed dogs.
- The protein sourced from chicken and egg helps support strong, firm muscles in your dog.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble.
- The formula contains chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies.
- The kibble may not be suitable for dogs with digestive issues.
We’ve been using IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our large breed dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The kibble is easy to digest and provides all the necessary nutrients for his size and energy level.
One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it contains no fillers, which means our dog is getting all the nutrition he needs without any unnecessary ingredients. The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin have also helped support his joints, which is important for his size and activity level.
While our dog loves the taste of the kibble, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs did not like the taste. Additionally, the formula contains chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies. It is important to check the ingredients list before purchasing this product.
Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for large breed dog owners looking for a nutritious and tasty dog food option.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a dog food that’s specially formulated for large breed dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is a great choice. We highly recommend this product for its balanced blend of nutrients that support your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Pros
- This dog food is made with high-quality, easy-to-digest ingredients that support the building of lean muscle with high-quality protein.
- It contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin that support your grown dog’s joint health.
- The balanced blend of omega-6s and vitamin E nourishes your dog’s skin for a healthy, shiny coat.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
- It may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
- The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands.
We’ve been using this dog food for our large breed dog for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and well-being. He has more energy, a shinier coat, and better mobility thanks to the natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin in this dog food.
One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality, easy-to-digest ingredients that support lean muscle growth. This is especially important for large breed dogs, who need plenty of protein to maintain their muscle mass.
We also appreciate that this dog food contains a balanced blend of omega-6s and vitamin E, which nourish our dog’s skin and coat. This has helped to reduce shedding and keep his coat looking healthy and shiny.
While this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities, we’ve found that it works well for our dog. The only downside is that it may be more expensive than some other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health and well-being are worth the extra cost.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specially formulated for large breed dogs.
Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food, 5Lb., Catfish -amp; Pearled Barley Recipe, Sensitive Skin and Stomach, Grain Free Dog Food 5 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a high-quality, USA-made dog food that’s perfect for large breed dogs, Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is a great option. Here’s what we think of this product:
Pros
- Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients
- Ideal for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs
- Great taste and optimal nutrition for all life stages
Cons
- A bit more expensive than some other dog food brands
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Only available in one flavor
We love that Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is made in the USA with only the finest natural ingredients. This dog food is slow-cooked in small batches to retain nutrients and flavors, and it’s free from artificial flavors and fillers. It’s also a great option for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs, as it’s made without corn, wheat, or soy.
One of the best things about Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is that it’s nutritionally complete for all life stages. This means that you can feed it to your dog from puppyhood all the way through their senior years. Plus, the addition of prebiotics and probiotics promotes healthy digestion and happy tummies.
While Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is a bit more expensive than some other dog food brands, we think the quality and nutrition make it worth the investment. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s always a good idea to try a small bag before committing to a larger size.
Overall, we highly recommend Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food for large breed dogs. It’s a high-quality, USA-made dog food that’s perfect for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs, and it’s nutritionally complete for all life stages.
NutriSource Puppy Food for Small and Medium Breeds, Chicken Meal and Rice, 26LB 26 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your large breed puppy, NutriSource Puppy Food for Small and Medium Breeds is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Contains balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride and DL Methionine supplementation to promote heart health
- Includes prebiotics and probiotics to help support a healthy gut
- Grain inclusive formula meets AAFCO guidelines for all life stages
Cons
- Expensive compared to other dog food brands
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Contains chicken meal, which may not be suitable for all dogs with allergies
We recently tried NutriSource Puppy Food for Small and Medium Breeds with our large breed puppy and were impressed with the results. We noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health within a few weeks of starting this food. The balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride and DL Methionine supplementation helped promote his heart health, and the prebiotics and probiotics helped support a healthy gut.
One downside to this food is that it is more expensive than some other brands, but we believe it’s worth the investment for the high-quality ingredients and health benefits. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce this food gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.
Overall, we highly recommend NutriSource Puppy Food for Small and Medium Breeds for large breed puppies. It’s a great choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs high-quality, nutritious food that promotes overall health.
Blackwood Dog Food Made in USA Slow Cooked Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your large breed dog, Blackwood Dog Food is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Made in the USA with only the finest natural ingredients.
- Slow-cooked to retain nutrients and flavors for a great tasting kibble dogs crave.
- Complete and balanced for all breeds and sizes, ideal for overweight and senior dogs.
Cons
- The ziplock top instead of velcro makes it harder to keep the bag sealed.
- The cost is a little on the high side.
- The pieces of food are a little too small for some dogs, getting stuck in their teeth.
We’ve been using Blackwood Dog Food for a while now and have been impressed with the quality of the food. Our dog loves the taste, and we love that it’s made in the USA with only the finest natural ingredients. The slow-cooking process retains nutrients and flavors, making it a great tasting kibble that our dog craves.
We also appreciate that it’s complete and balanced for all breeds and sizes, making it ideal for overweight and senior dogs. The added prebiotics and probiotics promote healthy digestion and happy tummies, which is always a plus.
While we do wish the bag had a velcro seal instead of a ziplock top, we appreciate the resealable bag that helps to preserve the food’s freshness. The only other downside is that the pieces of food are a little too small for some dogs, getting stuck in their teeth.
Overall, we highly recommend Blackwood Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their large breed dog.
Nature’s Logic Dog Food Canine Meal Feast, Lamb Lamb 25 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a dog food that is 100% natural and contains no synthetic vitamins or minerals, Nature’s Logic Dog Food Canine Meal Feast, Lamb Lamb 25 Pound (Pack of 1) is a great option.
Pros
- The kibble contains 32% protein with 85% from premium meat sources, making it a great option for large breed dogs who need a high protein diet.
- The recipe is gluten-free and uses GMO-free millet as the one grain source, making it a good option for dogs with food sensitivities.
- The inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics in the recipe supports healthy digestion.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, which is the primary protein source in this recipe.
- The price point is higher than some other dog food options on the market.
- The bag is quite large, which may be difficult to store for those with limited space.
We recently tried Nature’s Logic Dog Food Canine Meal Feast, Lamb Lamb 25 Pound (Pack of 1) for our large breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The high protein content from premium meat sources helped keep our dog feeling full and satisfied throughout the day, and the inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics helped with his digestion.
While the price point is higher than some other options on the market, we felt that the quality of the ingredients and the fact that it is 100% natural made it worth the extra cost. The only downside we found was that the bag is quite large, which made it difficult to store in our small apartment.
Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Logic Dog Food Canine Meal Feast, Lamb Lamb 25 Pound (Pack of 1) to anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dog food option for their large breed dog.
Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food, 15Lb., Salmon Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, Sensitive Skin and Stomach, Grain Free Dog Food 15 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is perfect for large breed dogs, Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is a great choice. Made in the USA, this dry dog food is handcrafted in small batches using only the finest natural ingredients. Here are the pros and cons of this product:
Pros
- Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is made in the USA, so you can trust that your pet will get quality nutrition free from artificial flavors and fillers.
- This dog food is ideal for all breeds and is nutritionally complete for all life stages. It is great tasting and easy to digest.
- This dog food promotes healthy digestion and happy tummies. It is perfect for dogs with food sensitivities.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the flavor of this dog food.
- This dog food may be more expensive than other brands.
- Some pet owners may prefer dog food that comes in larger bags.
If you want to give your large breed dog the best possible nutrition, Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is a great choice. This dog food is made with only the finest natural ingredients and is handcrafted in small batches to ensure quality and freshness. It is also free from artificial flavors and fillers, making it a healthy choice for your furry friend.
Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food is ideal for all breeds and is nutritionally complete for all life stages. It is great tasting and easy to digest, making it perfect for dogs with food sensitivities. This dog food also promotes healthy digestion and happy tummies, so you can feel good about feeding it to your pet.
While some dogs may not like the flavor of this dog food, most dogs seem to enjoy it. Additionally, this dog food may be more expensive than other brands, but many pet owners feel that the quality justifies the cost. Finally, some pet owners may prefer dog food that comes in larger bags, but the 15-pound bag size is perfect for smaller dogs or for trying out the product before committing to a larger size.
Overall, we highly recommend Blackwood Special Diet All Life Stages Dry Dog Food for large breed dogs. It is a high-quality product that is made with care and attention to detail, and it is sure to provide your furry friend with the nutrition they need to thrive.
IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for senior dogs. This dog food is formulated to meet the specific needs of aging large breed dogs, providing them with the right balance of nutrients for healthy bones, joint health, and digestion.
Pros
- Contains real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient
- Formulated to support healthy bones and joint health in large aging dogs
- Promotes healthy digestion with a blend of fiber and prebiotics
Cons
- Some customers have reported issues with the expiration date not being clearly visible on the bag
- The kibble size may be too large for some dogs
- While it is affordable, it may be pricier than some other senior dog food options
We recently tried the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our aging large breed dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the chicken kibble and had no trouble digesting it. We noticed an improvement in his mobility and energy levels after a few weeks of feeding him this dog food.
One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it contains real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient. It is also formulated to support healthy bones and joint health in large aging dogs, which is especially important for our dog who has had joint issues in the past. The blend of fiber and prebiotics in this dog food also promotes healthy digestion, which is essential for senior dogs.
While there are some cons to this product, such as the expiration date not being clearly visible on the bag, we believe that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Overall, we highly recommend the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for senior dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.
Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef – Grain Free, Made in USA, Non-GMO -amp; Vet Recommended – High Protein Limited Ingredient Full-Feed – for All Breeds -amp; Ages – 2.5oz Trial Bag Beef 2.5 Ounce (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is both grain-free and made in the USA, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef is a great option. Our picky eater loved it and we think your furry friend will too!
Pros
- Upgrade to Air Dried for More Nutrients: Oven roasted at a low temperature to retain maximum nutrition and flavor
- Real Beef is the #1 Ingredient: Single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe made with 96% beef
- Your Dog Deserves The Best: Made in the USA with only all-natural ingredients from around the globe, with added vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Expensive compared to other dog foods
- Crumbles too easily, which may be a problem for some dogs
- Limited flavor options
Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef is a great option for pet parents who want to give their furry friends a high-quality, all-natural dog food. This food is made in the USA with only the finest ingredients from around the globe, with added vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints and hips.
The real beef is the #1 ingredient, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies to other proteins. Additionally, the recipe is both grain-free and gluten-free, making it a great option for dogs with grain sensitivities.
We also appreciate that this food is paleo-inspired, meaning it is made with ingredients that mimic what a dog’s ancestors would have eaten in the wild. This makes it a great option for pet parents who want to give their dogs a more natural diet.
One downside of this food is that it is more expensive than other dog foods on the market. Additionally, some pet parents have reported that the food crumbles too easily, which can be a problem for some dogs.
Overall, we think that Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef is a great option for pet parents who want to give their dogs a high-quality, all-natural dog food. While it is more expensive than other dog foods, we think that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to your dog’s health make it worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best dog food for large breed dogs, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting a product:
Nutritional Content
Large breed dogs have different nutritional needs than smaller dogs. They require a diet that is lower in fat and calories, but higher in protein and other essential nutrients such as calcium and glucosamine. Look for products that are specifically formulated for large breed dogs and provide a complete and balanced diet.
Ingredient Quality
The quality of the ingredients used in dog food is crucial to your pet’s health. Look for products that use high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish, and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products. It’s also important to choose products that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Size and Texture
Large breed dogs require larger kibble sizes to prevent choking and promote healthy digestion. Look for products with larger kibble sizes that are easy for your dog to chew and swallow. Additionally, some dogs may prefer a certain texture of food, such as crunchy or soft, so it’s important to consider your pet’s preferences.
Price
While price should not be the only factor in your decision, it’s important to choose a product that fits within your budget. Consider the cost per serving and the overall value of the product when making your decision.
By considering these factors when selecting a dog food for your large breed dog, you can ensure that you are providing them with the best possible nutrition for their health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dog food brands are recommended by veterinarians for large breeds?
There are many dog food brands that are recommended by veterinarians for large breed dogs. Some of the top brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a variety of formulas that cater to the specific needs of large breed dogs, such as joint health and weight management.
What are the top-rated large breed puppy foods according to expert reviews?
Expert reviews have rated many large breed puppy foods highly. Some of the top-rated options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Food, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large Breed, and Royal Canin Large Breed Puppy. These foods are formulated with the proper balance of protein, fat, and nutrients to support the growth and development of large breed puppies.
What are the healthiest dry dog food options for large dogs that include grains?
There are many healthy dry dog food options for large dogs that include grains. Some of the top options include Purina Pro Plan Savor Adult Shredded Blend Chicken -amp; Rice Formula, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Adult Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe. These foods provide a balanced diet for large breed dogs, including essential nutrients and fiber.
Which grain-free dog foods are best suited for large breed puppies?
There are many grain-free dog foods that are best suited for large breed puppies. Some of the top options include Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Recipe, Wellness Core Grain-Free Puppy Recipe, and Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Recipe. These foods are formulated with high-quality protein sources and essential nutrients to support the growth and development of large breed puppies.
What are the most affordable yet high-quality dog foods for large breeds?
There are many affordable yet high-quality dog food options for large breeds. Some of the top options include Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Chicken -amp; Rice Formula, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Adult Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe. These foods provide a balanced diet for large breed dogs, including essential nutrients and fiber, at an affordable price.
What constitutes a healthy diet for large breed dogs?
A healthy diet for large breed dogs should include a balance of protein, fat, and nutrients to support their unique needs. Large breed dogs require a diet that is lower in fat and higher in fiber to maintain a healthy weight and support joint health. It is important to choose a dog food that is formulated specifically for large breed dogs and to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your individual dog.