Best Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies: Top Picks and Buying Guide

Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs compared to smaller breeds. They require a specific balance of nutrients to ensure proper growth and development. Choosing the right dog food for your large breed puppy can be overwhelming, as there are many options available on the market. In this article, we will guide you through the essential factors to consider when selecting the best dog food for large breed puppies.

One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing dog food for large breed puppies is the ratio of calcium and phosphorus. Large breed puppies need a lower ratio of calcium to phosphorus than smaller breeds to prevent skeletal issues. The ideal ratio is between 1:1 and 1.3:1. Additionally, large breed puppies require a specific balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support their growth and development.

When selecting dog food for large breed puppies, it is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses premium ingredients. Look for brands that use whole meats, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the first ingredient. Avoid dog food that contains fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.

We spent countless hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the best dog food for large breed puppies. In the following sections, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right dog food for your large breed puppy.

Best Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies

As pet owners, we know how important it is to choose the right dog food for our furry friends. This is especially true for large breed puppies, as they require a well-balanced diet that supports their growth and development without causing any health issues. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which dog food is the best for your pup. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog food for large breed puppies based on expert opinions and customer reviews. Read on to find the perfect food for your furry friend.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that is complete and balanced with 0% fillers, then IAMS Proactive Health Puppy Food Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option for your large breed puppy.

Pros

• Contains 22 key nutrients like those found in mother’s milk
• Enriched with antioxidants to support immune system development
• Contains omega-3 DHA for smarter, more trainable puppies

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this food
• Contains some ingredients that some customers may not prefer
• Some customers have reported that this food caused digestive issues for their dogs

We recently tried IAMS Proactive Health Puppy Food Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our large breed puppy and were impressed with the results. Our puppy loved the taste of this food and would eagerly eat it at every mealtime. We also noticed that our puppy’s coat looked shinier and healthier after switching to this food.

One of the things we like about this food is that it contains 22 key nutrients like those found in mother’s milk, which helps to support our puppy’s overall health and development. We also appreciate that this food is enriched with antioxidants to support immune system development and contains omega-3 DHA for smarter, more trainable puppies.

However, we did notice that some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this food and that it caused digestive issues for their dogs. Additionally, this food contains some ingredients that some customers may not prefer.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Proactive Health Puppy Food Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken to other large breed puppy owners who are looking for a complete and balanced food that will support their puppy’s growth and development.

ORIJEN Puppy Large Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Large Dry Dog Food for large breed puppies. This grain-free dog food is packed with 85% animal ingredients, including nourishing organs, and is based on the diet of your canine’s ancestors in the wild.

Pros

• High protein and fat content to support peak development in large breed puppies
• Made with fresh or raw poultry and fish, giving your dog a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals
• Grain-free and contains WholePrey ingredients to mimic what your dog’s ancestors consumed in the wild

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs

We have been using ORIJEN Puppy Large Dry Dog Food for our large breed puppy for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his growth and development. The high protein and fat content has helped him build strong muscles and maintain a healthy weight.

The fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients provide a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for a large breed puppy’s growth and development. We also appreciate that this dog food is grain-free and contains WholePrey ingredients, which mimic what dogs would eat in the wild.

However, this dog food is quite expensive compared to other brands, which may be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, and it may cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Large Dry Dog Food for large breed puppies who need a high protein diet to support their growth and development.

Best Breed Puppy Diet

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food for your large breed puppy, Best Breed Puppy Diet might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Veterinarian developed holistic nutrition ensures optimum growth and development of your puppy
• Natural sources of DHA from fish oils promote brain and vision development
• Hand-crafted using a unique slow-cooking process for easy digestion and optimum nutrient absorption

Cons

• Expensive compared to other brands
• Strong smell might not be appealing to some dogs
• Some puppies might take time to adjust to the new diet

We’ve been using Best Breed Puppy Diet for a few weeks now, and we’re quite impressed with the results. Our puppy seems to love the taste, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The formula is specifically designed for large breed puppies, with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, and enriched with taurine for optimum growth and development.

One of the things we love about Best Breed is that it is made with natural ingredients, enhanced with vitamins and minerals, and cooked to perfection. The slow-cooking process ensures that the food is easy to digest and that all the nutrients are absorbed properly. We’ve also noticed that our puppy seems to have more energy and is more active since we started feeding him Best Breed.

Another great thing about Best Breed is that it contains natural sources of DHA from fish oils, which are critical for nourishing brain and vision development. This is particularly important for large breed puppies, as they need all the help they can get to develop healthy brains and eyes.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that Best Breed is quite expensive compared to other brands. Also, some puppies might take time to adjust to the new diet, and the strong smell might not be appealing to some dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Best Breed Puppy Diet for large breed puppies. It’s a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious dog food that is sure to keep your puppy healthy and happy.

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

If you want your large breed puppy to grow healthy and strong, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice is an excellent choice. It is packed with high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients that support your puppy’s healthy growth and development.

Pros

• Real meat first ingredient
• Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function and retinal health
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune system health

Cons

• May be expensive compared to other brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Packaging may vary

We have been using this Blue Buffalo dog food for our large breed puppy for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The real chicken first ingredient provides high-quality protein that helps her build and maintain healthy muscles.

We also appreciate that this formula contains DHA and ARA, which are important fatty acids found in mother’s milk, to support cognitive function and retinal health. The antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits are also a great addition, providing a precise blend of vitamins and minerals to support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.

While this dog food may be more expensive compared to other brands, we believe it is worth the investment for our puppy’s health. However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of this formula, so it may not be the best fit for all puppies.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice for large breed puppies. It is a natural dog food made with the finest ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals, and it contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

Purina Pro Plan Gravy Wet Dog Food for Large Dogs, Large Breed Beef and Rice Entree – (Pack of 12) 13 oz. Cans Beef -amp; Rice 13 Ounce (Pack of 12)

If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food for your large breed puppy, Purina Pro Plan Gravy Wet Dog Food is a great choice. It’s made with real beef and rice, making it a tasty and nutritious option for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with real beef for a taste dogs love
• 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs over 50 pounds with 23 essential vitamins and minerals
• Helps support a healthy immune system and nourishes your dog’s skin and coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the texture of the chunks in gravy
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some users reported issues with damaged cans upon delivery

In our experience, Purina Pro Plan Gravy Wet Dog Food is a great option for large breed puppies. The high protein content helps promote lean muscle, while the calcium and phosphorus help maintain strong bones and teeth. We also appreciate that it contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

One of the standout features of this wet dog food is the gravy. It adds extra flavor and moisture to the chunks, making it more appealing to dogs who may be picky eaters. However, some dogs may not like the texture of the chunks in gravy, so it’s important to monitor their reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Gravy Wet Dog Food for large breed puppies. The specialized nutrition and high-quality ingredients make it a great choice for supporting your dog’s health and wellbeing.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 34-lb Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 34 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want to give your large breed puppy a high-quality and balanced diet that supports their healthy growth and development, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Real meat first ensures high-quality protein for building and maintaining healthy muscles.
• Contains DHA, ARA, and Choline to support brain and eye development.
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support immune system health and life stage needs.

Cons

• More expensive than some other puppy food options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging.

We have been using this product for a few months now and have seen great results in our large breed puppy’s growth and development. The real chicken first in the lineup of natural ingredients ensures that our puppy gets high-quality protein, while the addition of DHA, ARA, and Choline supports their brain and eye development. We also appreciate the inclusion of antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which help support our puppy’s immune system health.

One downside to this product is that it is more expensive than some other puppy food options. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture, so it may not be the best fit for every puppy. We have also experienced some issues with the packaging, which can be frustrating.

Overall, we believe that Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food is a great choice for large breed puppy owners who want to give their furry friend a high-quality and balanced diet. While it may be more expensive than other options, we believe that the benefits outweigh the cost.

Jack-amp;Pup 6-inch Gullet Sticks for Dogs

If you’re looking for a healthy, natural, and tasty treat for your furry friend, Jack-amp;Pup 6-inch Gullet Sticks for Dogs is a great option.

Pros

• Supports joint health due to the presence of natural Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
• Made from high-quality, grass-fed, free-range beef without any added hormones or antibiotics.
• 100% digestible, odor-free, and safe for your dog to consume.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the sticks don’t last very long.
• The product may have a strong odor when you first open the package.
• The price may be higher than some other dog treats on the market.

Jack-amp;Pup 6-inch Gullet Sticks for Dogs are a great way to provide your furry friend with a tasty treat that also promotes joint health. The sticks are made from high-quality beef that is sourced from grass-fed, free-range cattle. The beef is raised without any added hormones or antibiotics, making it a healthier and better-tasting treat. The sticks are processed in a USDA Human Grade Certified and Inspected facility, ensuring that they are of the highest quality.

One of the standout features of Jack-amp;Pup 6-inch Gullet Sticks for Dogs is that they are 100% digestible and odor-free. They are guaranteed not to cause any side-effects, making them a safe and healthy treat for your canine companion. The sticks are a natural, low-fat, and protein-rich, one-ingredient dog chew treat, being 100% beef muscle without any additives, artificial ingredients, or fillers. They are also wheat-free and gluten-free, making them a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

While some customers have reported that the sticks don’t last very long, they are still a great option for dogs of all sizes. The sticks are softer and easier to chew than bully sticks, making them a great alternative. They are also effective at promoting healthy teeth and gums, helping to remove tartar build-up, strengthen the gums, remove plaque, and promote overall enhanced oral health.

In conclusion, Jack-amp;Pup 6-inch Gullet Sticks for Dogs are a great option if you’re looking for a healthy and tasty treat for your furry friend. They are made from high-quality beef, are 100% digestible and odor-free, and promote joint health. While they may be a bit more expensive than some other dog treats on the market, they are a great investment in your dog’s health and well-being.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Starter Kit

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dog food for your large breed puppy, the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Starter Kit is a great option.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to support healthy muscle development.
• Specially formulated for puppies, with DHA to support cognitive function and retinal health.
• Contains wholesome ingredients with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors or preservatives.

Cons

• Some customers reported receiving dented cans, which may raise concerns about the quality of the product.
• A few customers reported that the food upset their puppy’s stomach.
• The product is relatively expensive compared to other puppy food options.

This puppy food is a great choice for large breed puppies, as it contains high-quality protein and DHA to support healthy growth and development. The wholesome ingredients ensure that your puppy is getting the best possible nutrition, without any fillers or artificial additives.

The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Starter Kit includes a 5-lb bag of dry dog food, 12 cans of wet puppy food, and a 4-oz bag of training treats. This makes it easy to provide your puppy with a variety of different foods and treats, which can help keep them interested in their meals.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Starter Kit for large breed puppies. It’s a bit pricier than some other options, but the high-quality ingredients and excellent nutrition make it well worth the investment.

Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your large breed puppy’s growth and development, Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food might be a great option.

Pros

• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient
• Supports healthy brain, vision, and joint development
• Contains probiotics and fiber for digestive health

Cons

• May cause gas in some dogs
• Some dogs may not like the flavor
• Not suitable for small breed puppies

We recently tried Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for our growing Labrador Retriever puppy and were impressed with the results. The real chicken as the #1 ingredient gave us peace of mind that our puppy was getting quality protein to support his muscle growth.

We also appreciated that the food contained L-Carnitine to support lean muscle development and Glucosamine for healthy joints and cartilage. Additionally, the DHA in the food supports brain and vision development, which is especially important for large breed puppies.

While our puppy seemed to enjoy the flavor of the food, we did notice that it caused some gas. However, this is not uncommon with new foods and may not be an issue for all dogs. We also found that the kibble was a bit large for our puppy, but this is not a concern for large breed puppies.

Overall, we would recommend Wonder Bound Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food to other puppy owners looking for a quality food that supports their puppy’s growth and development.

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food, 27.5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for the best dog food for your large breed puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy dry food is a great option. Here’s why:

Pros

• Made with an optimal level of calcium for controlled bone growth
• Uses DHA from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development
• High-quality protein helps your large pup build and maintain lean muscle

Cons

• Some customers reported issues with the packaging
• A few customers received the wrong flavor
• Some customers found the price to be too high

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy dry food for a while now, and we’re really happy with it. The kibble is the perfect size for our large breed puppy, and he seems to love the taste. We’ve noticed that his coat is shiny and healthy, and he has plenty of energy to play and explore.

One of the things we really like about this dog food is that it’s made with natural ingredients. We feel good about feeding our puppy a high-quality food that doesn’t contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. We also appreciate that it contains a balanced set of minerals to promote strong bones and teeth in large puppies.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it uses DHA from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development. We want our puppy to be as healthy and happy as possible, and we feel like this food is helping us achieve that goal.

Overall, we think Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy dry food is a great choice for anyone looking for the best dog food for large breed puppies. It’s made with natural ingredients, contains a balanced set of minerals, and uses DHA from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development. If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will help your puppy grow up strong and healthy, we highly recommend giving this one a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for large breed puppies, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features that you should look for when selecting a product:

Nutritional Content

Large breed puppies have specific nutritional needs that differ from those of smaller breeds. They require a diet that is high in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients to support their growth and development. Look for products that are specifically formulated for large breed puppies and contain high-quality ingredients.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of ingredients is also an important consideration when selecting a dog food. Look for products that contain real meat as the first ingredient, as well as other high-quality sources of protein such as fish or eggs. Avoid products that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives.

Feeding Guidelines

Feeding guidelines are another important factor to consider when choosing a dog food. Large breed puppies have different feeding requirements than smaller breeds, and it’s important to follow the recommended feeding guidelines to ensure that your puppy is getting the right amount of nutrients. Look for products that provide clear feeding guidelines based on your puppy’s age and weight.

Price

While price should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a dog food, it is an important consideration for many pet owners. Look for products that offer good value for the price, and consider purchasing in bulk to save money over time.

By considering these factors and doing your research, you can choose the best dog food for your large breed puppy and provide them with the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated foods for large breed puppies?

There are several top-rated foods for large breed puppies available in the market. Some of the most popular ones include Blue Buffalo Life Protection, Royal Canin Large Breed Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy, and Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy. These foods are formulated to provide the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of large breed puppies.

Which large breed puppy foods are recommended by veterinarians?

Veterinarians often recommend foods that are specifically formulated for large breed puppies. Some of the recommended brands include Royal Canin Large Breed Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy, and Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy. These foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet that meets the specific nutritional needs of large breed puppies.

Are there any high-quality large breed puppy foods that are chicken-free?

Yes, there are several high-quality large breed puppy foods that are chicken-free. Some of the options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Fish and Brown Rice Recipe, Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe, and Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Lamb and Sweet Potato Recipe. These foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet without chicken, which can be a common allergen for dogs.

What is the most nutritious dry dog food for large breed puppies?

The most nutritious dry dog food for large breed puppies is one that is specifically formulated for their nutritional needs. Some of the top options include Royal Canin Large Breed Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy, and Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy. These foods are formulated to provide the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of large breed puppies.

How should I choose food for a large breed puppy with a sensitive stomach?

If your large breed puppy has a sensitive stomach, it’s important to choose a food that is easily digestible and does not contain any common allergens. Look for foods that are labeled as “limited ingredient” or “sensitive stomach” formulas. Some good options include Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach, and Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin.

Do large breed puppies have specific dietary requirements compared to smaller breeds?

Yes, large breed puppies have specific dietary requirements compared to smaller breeds. They require a diet that is lower in calories and fat, but higher in protein and nutrients to support their rapid growth and development. It’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for large breed puppies to ensure they are getting the proper nutrition they need.