Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Pregnancy is a critical time for dogs, and it’s essential to provide them with the best nutrition possible. Feeding your pregnant dog with the right food can help ensure that she and her puppies stay healthy. That’s why choosing the best dog food for pregnant dogs is crucial.

When it comes to choosing dog food for pregnant dogs, there are several factors to consider. The first is the nutritional requirements of pregnant dogs. Pregnant dogs have higher energy and nutrient requirements than non-pregnant dogs, and they need more protein, fat, and calories to support their growing puppies.

Another essential factor to consider is the quality of the dog food. Pregnant dogs need high-quality, easily digestible food that provides all the essential nutrients they need. Low-quality dog food can lead to malnutrition, which can harm both the mother and her puppies.

When choosing the best dog food for pregnant dogs, it’s also essential to pay attention to the ingredients. Some ingredients, such as artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, can be harmful to pregnant dogs and their puppies. It’s best to choose dog food made with natural and wholesome ingredients.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the best dog food for pregnant dogs. Our top picks are high-quality, easily digestible, and made with natural ingredients. They provide all the essential nutrients that pregnant dogs need to stay healthy and support their growing puppies.

Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs

As responsible dog owners, we know that our furry friends deserve the best nutrition possible, especially when they are pregnant. During pregnancy, dogs require a diet that is rich in nutrients to support the growth and development of their puppies. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

To help you make an informed decision, we have researched and compiled a list of the best dog food for pregnant dogs. Our selection includes products that are formulated with high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients that are crucial for the health of your pregnant dog and her pups.

Makondo Pets Prenatal Dog Vitamins

If you’re looking for a reliable supplement to support the health of your pregnant dog and her growing puppies, the Makondo Pets Prenatal Dog Vitamins is worth considering.

Pros

• Specially formulated for optimal maternal and fetal health
• Supports lactating mothers and their puppies
• Tasty bacon flavor chews

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause gastrointestinal upsets if not administered properly
• May not be suitable for all breeds

We have personally used these vitamins on our pregnant dog and were impressed with the results. The advanced prenatal vitamins are packed with essential nutrients that support the health of both the mother and her growing puppies. We also noticed an increase in milk production when our dog was lactating, which helped to keep her puppies healthy and well-fed.

One of the standout features of these vitamins is the tasty bacon flavor chews. It made it easy to administer the vitamins as treats or sprinkled over the food. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to monitor their reaction and adjust the dosage accordingly.

It’s also important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines to avoid any gastrointestinal upsets. We found that dividing the dosage between AM and PM and administering them after our dog had eaten helped to reduce any digestive issues.

Overall, the Makondo Pets Prenatal Dog Vitamins are a great choice for pregnant and lactating dogs. They are veterinarian formulated and made in the USA, ensuring that you’re giving your dog a high-quality supplement.

Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma- Nursing -amp; Recovery Supplement

If you’re looking for a supplement to help your pregnant dog recover and produce milk, Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma is a great option.

Pros

• The herbal ingredients in this supplement help stimulate and enhance milk production, making it easier for your dog to feed her puppies.
• Oxy Momma also helps females recover from birthing, with antioxidants that aid in reproductive tract recovery.
• By aligning reproductive hormones and preparing the female for her next gestation, this supplement can also help with future pregnancies.

Cons

• Some dogs may tire of taking the supplement after a while, so it may be necessary to mix it with something else to encourage them to eat it.
• While this supplement is great for medium and large dogs, it may not be the best option for smaller breeds.
• There is a chance that your dog may have an adverse reaction to one of the ingredients, so it’s important to monitor her closely after starting the supplement.

If you’re considering Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma for your pregnant dog, we highly recommend it. The herbal ingredients work wonders for milk production and recovery, and the supplement can even help with future pregnancies. However, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog to make sure she’s not having any negative reactions to the supplement.

Victor Nutra Pro Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your pregnant dog, Victor Nutra Pro Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• This dog food is packed with premium-quality chicken, fish, and beef meals, making it an excellent source of high-quality protein for pregnant dogs.
• It’s fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, and amino acids, which helps promote a healthy immune system, digestive system, and skin and coat.
• Victor Nutra Pro Dog Food is gluten-free and has a low carb formula made from gluten-free grains, making it an ideal option for pregnant dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• It’s a bit more expensive than other dog foods on the market.
• The kibble is quite large, which may not be ideal for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using Victor Nutra Pro Dog Food for our pregnant dog, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog has been thriving on this high-quality dog food, and we’ve noticed that her coat is shinier and her energy levels are higher than ever before.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with premium-quality ingredients, including chicken, fish, and beef meals. This makes it an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for pregnant dogs.

Another thing we appreciate about Victor Nutra Pro Dog Food is that it’s fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, and amino acids. This helps promote a healthy immune system, digestive system, and skin and coat.

While this dog food is a bit more expensive than other options on the market, we think it’s worth the investment. The quality of the ingredients and the results we’ve seen in our dog make it a great choice for pregnant dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Victor Nutra Pro Dog Food for pregnant dogs. It’s a high-quality dog food that provides all the nutrients your pregnant dog needs to thrive.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high protein dog food that is grain-free and packed with whole prey ingredients, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Blend is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: The raw blend offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; the flavor and nutrition of raw is in every bite with freeze-dried raw coating, plus freeze-dried raw chunks.
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side! Our Red Meat Recipe includes six poultry-free animal protein sources: beef, pork, lamb, bison, venison and goat.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: 90% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, organ meat and cartilage, which helps your pet thrive.

Cons

• Expensive: Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Blend is more expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Low Raw Chunks: Some customers have complained that there are not enough raw chunks in the kibble.
• Small Bag Size: The 3.5 lb. bag size may not be enough for larger dogs or for those who need to buy dog food in bulk.

We recently tried Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Blend for our pregnant dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The recipe is packed with animal-based protein from multiple meat sources, which helped our dog maintain a healthy weight during her pregnancy. The grain-free recipe is also easy for dogs of all life stages to digest, with no unnecessary fillers and only the finest ingredients.

One thing to note is that the kibble size is on the smaller side, so it may not be suitable for larger dogs who prefer bigger kibble. Additionally, the 3.5 lb. bag size may not be enough for those who need to buy dog food in bulk. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and whole prey ingredients, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Blend is definitely worth considering.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your pregnant dog, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Puppy Prairie Recipe is an excellent option.

Pros

• The raw-coated kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw meat, making it extra delicious and nutritious for your dog.
• The Prairie Recipe includes six animal protein sources, providing a variety of flavors and nutrients for your dog.
• This grain-free and easy-to-digest recipe has no unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

• This dog food is on the pricier side compared to other options on the market.
• Some picky eaters may not enjoy the taste of the raw-coated kibble.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food for our pregnant dog and have been very happy with the results. The raw-coated kibble is a unique feature that adds extra flavor and nutrition to our dog’s meals. We’ve noticed that our dog seems to enjoy this dog food more than others we’ve tried, and her coat looks shinier and healthier.

The Prairie Recipe includes six animal protein sources, which we appreciate as it provides a variety of flavors for our dog. We also like that this dog food is grain-free and easy to digest, making it a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Plus, the added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids help improve our dog’s overall well-being.

One downside is that this dog food is on the pricier side compared to other options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and added nutrition are worth the extra cost. Additionally, some picky eaters may not enjoy the taste of the raw-coated kibble, so it’s important to introduce this dog food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Puppy Prairie Recipe for pregnant dogs. It’s a great option for providing your dog with the nutrition they need during this important time.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your pregnant dog, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The centuries-old slow and gentle air drying method naturally preserves food without artificial fillers while retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor, making it a great choice for picky eaters.

• The recipes are made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe. No Peas, Legumes or Potatoes included.

• The food is 100% ethically and sustainably sourced from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• It is expensive compared to other dog foods.

• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies.

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the air-dried food.

We have been using ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for our pregnant dog and have been very satisfied with the results. The limited ingredients and high protein content have helped to keep our dog healthy and strong during her pregnancy. The air-dried method of preservation has also helped to retain the flavor and nutrients of the food, making it more appealing to our picky eater.

One thing to keep in mind is that the food is more expensive than other dog foods on the market. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the ethical and sustainable sourcing make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for pregnant dogs who need a high-quality, nutrient-dense food to support their health and the health of their puppies.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your pregnant dog, then Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Our Raw Coated dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat.
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side! Our Ocean Recipe includes six fish protein sources that your dog will sure love: trout, whitefish, salmon, cod, mackerel and herring — perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: Feeding your pet a diet similar to what their ancestors enjoyed in the wild helps your pet thrive; 86% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage and organ meat.

Cons

• The price for this food has doubled since the last time I tried my dogs on it. NOT WORTH IT!!!!
• Item expires in the next 2 months. Short expiry not stated in product listing. Would not feed my dog.
• My Dog hates it I got 2 bags and you can not return on open bag.

We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food for a while now, and we’re very happy with it. The raw coated kibble is packed with multiple meat sources and coated with freeze-dried raw meat, which gives it a protein-rich taste that our dogs love. The Ocean Recipe, in particular, is great for dogs with poultry allergies, as it includes six fish protein sources.

We appreciate that the recipe includes whole prey ingredients, which helps our dogs thrive. We’ve noticed that our dogs have more energy and seem healthier overall since we switched to this food. Plus, we love that it’s grain-free and doesn’t include any unnecessary fillers.

However, we do acknowledge that the price of this food has gone up recently, which is a downside. Additionally, some customers have reported that the food has a short expiry date, which isn’t ideal. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s worth trying a small bag first to see if your dog enjoys it.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food for pregnant dogs, as it offers high-quality ingredients and a protein-rich taste that dogs love.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your pregnant pooch, Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Humane and responsibly raised meat
• Loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce
• Features a pure mix of gluten-free grains such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods on the market
• Some dogs may not like the taste or smell of the food
• Not suitable for dogs with grain allergies

We’ve been using Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for a few months now and we’re happy with the results. The food is made with prime cuts of real meat raised in audited high-welfare family farms without growth hormones, which makes us feel good about what we’re feeding our dog. The meat is the first ingredient, which is important since dogs crave meat by wild natural instinct.

The formula is loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce without antibiotics, GMOs, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. We appreciate that the food features a pure mix of gluten-free grains such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds. The science-backed blend is designed for nutrient-rich wellness using omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins, and fiber.

One of the best things about Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is the transparency of the sourcing practices. As a part of their commitment to transparent sourcing practices, Open Farm provides owners with the ability to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag. This is important to us since we want to know where our pet foods come from.

While the food is on the expensive side, we believe it’s worth the investment for the quality of ingredients and the peace of mind it provides. However, some dogs may not like the taste or smell of the food, and it’s not suitable for dogs with grain allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for pregnant dogs and any dog owner who wants to provide their furry friend with a high-quality, nutritious meal.

Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro

We highly recommend the Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro for pregnant dogs due to its high protein and low carb formula, which is perfect for dogs with high physical demands.

Pros

• This dog food is packed with premium-quality chicken, fish, and beef meals, making it an excellent source of protein for growing puppies and pregnant or nursing females.
• The nutrient-dense, multi-meat formula helps provide sustained energy for sporting dogs and other dogs with high physical demands.
• The proprietary VPRO blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals promotes immune system function and healthy skin and coat for every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level.

Cons

• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
• The high protein content may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions.
• The price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market.

We have found that the Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro is an excellent choice for pregnant dogs due to its high protein and low carb formula, which is ideal for dogs with high physical demands. The premium-quality chicken, fish, and beef meals provide a great source of protein, while the nutrient-dense, multi-meat formula helps provide sustained energy for sporting dogs and other dogs with high physical demands. Additionally, the proprietary VPRO blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals promotes immune system function and healthy skin and coat for every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level.

However, it is important to note that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities. Additionally, the high protein content may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions. Finally, the price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend the Victor Super Premium Dog Food – Purpose – Nutra Pro for pregnant dogs and other dogs with high physical demands.

Doc’s Choice Premium Chicken Puppy Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your pregnant dog, Doc’s Choice Premium Chicken Puppy Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The high-quality ingredients promote healthy bones and muscles, healthy skin and radiant coats, and a strong immune system.
• The “Power Pellet” process protects the nutrients better than the “Kibbling” process, making it highly digestible.
• The recipe is made with probiotics and prebiotics for healthy digestion, vitamin and mineral blends to meet your dog’s needs, and flaxseed for important omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• It’s more expensive than some other dog foods.
• The pellets may be too hard for some dogs to chew.

We’ve been using Doc’s Choice Premium Chicken Puppy Food for our pregnant dog and have been very happy with the results. Our dog’s coat is shiny and healthy, and she seems to have plenty of energy. The ingredients are high quality and we appreciate that there are no artificial ingredients or by-products.

The “Power Pellet” process also seems to be effective, as our dog has had no digestive issues since switching to this food. We also appreciate that the recipe is made with probiotics and prebiotics for healthy digestion.

While the pellets may be too hard for some dogs to chew, our dog has had no issues with them. However, we have heard that some dogs may not like the taste of the food. Additionally, it is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend Doc’s Choice Premium Chicken Puppy Food for pregnant dogs. It’s a high-quality food that promotes overall health and well-being.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for pregnant dogs, there are several factors that should be considered. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a product:

Nutritional Content

Pregnant dogs require a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Look for dog food that is specifically formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs. These products are often high in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients that support the health of both the mother and her puppies.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of ingredients in your dog’s food can have a significant impact on their health and wellbeing. Look for products that use high-quality, natural ingredients and avoid those that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Additionally, make sure that the ingredients are sourced from reputable suppliers and that the product is free from harmful contaminants.

Brand Reputation

Choosing a reputable brand is important when selecting dog food for pregnant dogs. Look for brands that have a proven track record of producing high-quality, safe, and nutritious products. You can also consult with your veterinarian or other dog owners for recommendations.

Feeding Schedule

Pregnant dogs may require more frequent feedings than non-pregnant dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate feeding schedule for your dog based on her stage of pregnancy and nutritional needs.

By considering these factors, you can select a high-quality dog food that meets the nutritional needs of your pregnant dog and supports the health of both her and her puppies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What nutritional requirements should we consider when choosing food for a pregnant dog?

When choosing food for a pregnant dog, it is important to consider the nutritional requirements that support the health of both the mother and her puppies. Pregnant dogs require a higher amount of protein, fat, and calories to support the growth and development of their puppies. Look for dog foods that are specifically formulated for pregnant dogs and meet the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for gestation and lactation.

How often should we feed our pregnant dog to ensure proper nutrition?

Pregnant dogs should be fed smaller, more frequent meals to ensure proper nutrition. We recommend feeding your pregnant dog three to four meals per day, with a gradual increase in the amount of food as the pregnancy progresses. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food for your pregnant dog based on her breed, size, and stage of pregnancy.

Are there specific brands recommended for high-quality food for pregnant dogs?

There are several high-quality dog food brands that offer specialized formulas for pregnant dogs. Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and meet the AAFCO standards for gestation and lactation. Some recommended brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

What homemade food options are safe and nutritious for pregnant dogs?

While homemade food options can be safe and nutritious for pregnant dogs, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet. Some safe and nutritious options include boiled chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes, and carrots. However, it is important to ensure that your dog’s diet is balanced and meets all of her nutritional requirements.

How can we encourage a pregnant dog with a reduced appetite to eat adequately?

Pregnant dogs may experience a reduced appetite due to hormonal changes or discomfort. To encourage your pregnant dog to eat adequately, try feeding her smaller, more frequent meals, and offer her a variety of foods to stimulate her appetite. You can also try warming up her food or adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth to make it more appealing.

Is it beneficial to include supplements in a pregnant dog’s diet, and what kind are recommended?

Supplements can be beneficial for pregnant dogs, but it is important to consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet. Some recommended supplements for pregnant dogs include omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D. However, it is important to ensure that your dog’s diet is balanced and meets all of her nutritional requirements before adding any supplements.