Best Dog Food for Puppy: Top Picks for Healthy Growth

Puppies are adorable creatures that require a lot of attention, care, and love. One of the most critical aspects of taking care of a puppy is feeding them the right kind of food. As a puppy owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend grows up to be healthy, active, and happy. That’s why choosing the best dog food for your puppy is crucial.

When it comes to selecting the right dog food for your puppy, there are several factors to consider. Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, and they need a balanced diet that promotes healthy growth and development. The best dog food for puppies should contain high-quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and healthy fats.

Puppy food comes in various forms, including dry kibble, wet food, and semi-moist food. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to choose the one that works best for your puppy’s needs. When selecting puppy food, pay attention to the ingredients, nutritional value, and the puppy’s age and breed.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing different types of puppy food to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition and taste for your furry friend. We also considered factors like price, availability, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.

Best Puppy Food

We understand that choosing the right food for your furry friend can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to puppies. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best puppy food options available on Amazon. Our list includes a variety of options to suit different dietary needs and preferences, so you can find the perfect fit for your pup. Read on to discover our top picks for the best puppy food on Amazon.

Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies, Life Protection Formula, Natural Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Puppy Dry Dog Food, 15 lb Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your puppy, Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies is a great option. Made with real chicken and enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, this formula is designed to support the healthy growth and development of your puppy.

Pros

• The primary ingredient is high-quality deboned chicken, which is great for building strong muscles.
• The recipe is made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.
• The formula is specially designed for puppies and contains DHA and ARA to support cognitive function and retinal health.

Cons

• The pellets are a bit small, which may be an issue for larger puppies who like to eat quickly.
• Some puppies may not like the taste of the food and may need to be transitioned slowly to this formula.
• The price point is a bit higher than some other puppy foods on the market.

Overall, we recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is specially formulated for puppies. The formula contains a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

In our experience, we found that our puppy loved the taste of this food and had no issues with digestion or bowel movements. The small pellets were easy for her to eat and didn’t cause any choking hazards. We also appreciated that the formula was made with premium ingredients and didn’t contain any fillers or by-products.

If you’re looking for a great dry dog food for your puppy, Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Puppies is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty option for your small breed puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for small breed puppies and the chicken flavor is delicious.
• Contains DHA from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development.
• Provides high-quality protein for building lean muscle and uses balanced minerals to promote strong bones and teeth.

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste of this food.
• The price point may be higher than other puppy food options.
• Some pet owners may prefer to feed their puppies wet food instead of dry kibble.

We recently started feeding our small breed puppy Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food and have been pleased with the results. The small kibble size is perfect for her tiny mouth and she seems to love the chicken flavor. We also appreciate that the food contains DHA from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development, as well as high-quality protein for building lean muscle.

One potential downside is that some puppies may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to monitor your puppy’s reaction to the food and make sure they are eating enough. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other puppy food options, so it’s important to factor that into your decision-making process.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for small breed puppies. It’s a nutritious and tasty option that can help support your puppy’s growth and development.

Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe

If you want to give your puppy the best nutrition for healthy growth and development, Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Real chicken as the first ingredient supports healthy muscle development
• Contains DHA and ARA to support cognitive function and retinal health
• LifeSource Bits provide a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for a healthy immune system

Cons

• Formula adjustments may occur from time to time
• Packaging may vary
• May not be suitable for puppies with specific dietary needs or restrictions

We recently tried this puppy food for our new furry friend and were impressed with the high-quality ingredients that went into it. The real chicken as the first ingredient provided a great source of protein for healthy muscle development, and the brown rice, garden fruits, and vegetables gave our puppy the wholesome nutrition needed for healthy growth and play.

What really impressed us about this puppy food was the inclusion of DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother’s milk, which support cognitive function and retinal health. The LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, also provided a great boost to our puppy’s immune system.

While we did notice that the packaging may vary and that formula adjustments may occur from time to time, we were overall satisfied with this product. However, if your puppy has specific dietary needs or restrictions, this puppy food may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food for any pet parent looking to give their puppy the best nutrition for healthy growth and development.

Bully Max Puppy Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy growth and development for your puppy, then Bully Max Puppy Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Nutrient-rich formula for growing puppies
• Real meat protein source with lamb as the main ingredient
• Suitable for all dog breeds

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste
• Expensive compared to other puppy foods
• May cause digestive issues in some puppies

We recently tried Bully Max Puppy Food for our new French Bulldog puppy, and we were impressed with the results. The high protein and growth formula, enriched with vitamins and postbiotics, provided our puppy with the energy and support he needed to grow and develop properly.

The real meat protein source with lamb as the main ingredient ensured that our puppy had a happy tummy and enjoyed his meals. The food was gentle on his sensitive stomach and promoted overall health and well-being.

We also appreciated that Bully Max Puppy Food is suitable for all dog breeds, from small to large, and offers comprehensive nourishment for growing pets. The fully disclosed ingredients gave us peace of mind, knowing that we were feeding our puppy the best possible food.

However, we did notice that some puppies may not like the taste of the food, and it is more expensive compared to other puppy foods on the market. Additionally, some puppies may experience digestive issues when transitioning to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend Bully Max Puppy Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy growth and development for their puppy.

Bully Max Wet Puppy Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, protein-rich wet dog food for your growing puppy, Bully Max Wet Puppy Food is a great option.

Pros

• This dehydrated dog food is easy to hydrate and turn into soft, nourishing wet dog food with just water.
• It’s formulated with premium ingredients that promote healthy coats and muscle growth, making it an excellent nutritional choice for all breeds, including Pitbulls, Cane Corsos, and Rottweilers.
• Bully Max Wet Puppy Food provides essential high-quality protein to support the growth and development of small and large breed puppies, ensuring optimal growth and development.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the chicken flavor.
• It may cause watery stool in some dogs.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

We recently tried Bully Max Wet Puppy Food for our growing Labrador Retriever, and we were impressed with the results. The dehydrated formula was easy to hydrate and turn into a soft, nourishing wet dog food that our puppy loved. We noticed that our puppy’s coat became shinier and healthier-looking after just a few weeks of using this product.

One of the things we loved about Bully Max Wet Puppy Food is that it’s suitable for all puppy sizes, from tiny breeds to large ones like Pitbulls and Cane Corsos. This specialized formula is specifically tailored for small breed puppy nutrition, providing the right nutrient balance for their size. It also meets AFFCO requirements for complete and balanced nutrition, ensuring that your puppy gets all the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the chicken flavor, and it may cause watery stool in some dogs. It’s also important to note that it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Overall, we highly recommend Bully Max Wet Puppy Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, protein-rich wet dog food for their growing puppy.

NUTRO ULTRA High Protein Natural Dry Dog Puppy Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken Lamb and Salmon, 30 lb. Bag 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want to give your puppy a healthy and delicious meal, NUTRO ULTRA High Protein Natural Dry Dog Puppy Food is a great option. Made with a blend of chicken, lamb, and salmon, this dog food is rich in high-quality protein and essential nutrients that your puppy needs to grow and thrive.

Pros

• The blend of chicken, lamb, and salmon provides a variety of protein sources for optimal nutrition.
• The recipe includes 15 superfoods like coconut, chia, and blueberries to support coat health and healthy skin.
• The recipe is made with non-GMO ingredients and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• The kibble may be too hard for some puppies to chew.
• The price point may be higher than other puppy foods on the market.

We’ve been using NUTRO ULTRA High Protein Natural Dry Dog Puppy Food for our puppy and have been very happy with the results. Our puppy loves the taste of the food and always finishes his bowl. We also appreciate that the recipe is made with high-quality ingredients and includes superfoods to support his overall health.

One thing to note is that the kibble is quite hard, which may be difficult for some puppies to chew. We’ve found that soaking the kibble in water for a few minutes before feeding helps to soften it up and make it easier for our puppy to eat.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA High Protein Natural Dry Dog Puppy Food for anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious food for their puppy. While it may be a bit pricier than other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the overall health benefits make it well worth the investment.

Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that promotes healthy growth and vitality, Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, ensuring protein-rich nutrition for your growing puppy.
• Crafted with high-quality, recognizable ingredients, and without chicken by-product meal, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
• Supports healthy brain and eye development, digestion, and immunity, as well as healthy skin and coat, strong bones, muscles, and joints.

Cons

• Some trace amounts of corn, wheat, or soy protein may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.
• May not be suitable for puppies with specific dietary needs or restrictions.
• On the pricier side compared to some other puppy food options.

We’ve been using Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for our own puppy, and have been happy with the results. Our puppy loves the taste and texture of the food, and we’ve noticed that she has healthy skin and coat, as well as strong bones and muscles.

One thing we appreciate about this food is that it’s made with high-quality, recognizable ingredients, without any artificial additives or fillers. We feel confident that we’re giving our puppy the best possible nutrition with this food.

Another great feature of this food is that it supports healthy brain and eye development, digestion, and immunity. We’ve noticed that our puppy seems to be developing well in all of these areas, and we attribute some of that to the nutrition she’s getting from this food.

Overall, we would recommend Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food to other puppy owners who are looking for a high-quality food that promotes healthy growth and vitality. While it may be on the pricier side compared to some other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our puppy’s health are worth the investment.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for puppies. It is a natural dry dog food that contains added vitamins, minerals, and taurine, which are essential for the growth and development of puppies.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient
• Contains fiber sources like peas and brown rice to support healthy digestion
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level

Cons

• Some puppies may not like the taste
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller puppies
• The bag is quite large, which may be difficult to store in smaller homes

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food has an excellent ingredient list, with real beef as the number one ingredient. This is a great source of protein that helps maintain lean muscle mass and supports healthy organs. The fiber sources in this dog food, including peas and brown rice, help support healthy digestion, which is essential for puppies.

We also appreciate that this dog food includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which contains omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants like those found in superfoods to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.

While most puppies will enjoy the taste of this dog food, some may not find it palatable. Additionally, the kibble size may be too big for smaller puppies, which may make it difficult for them to eat. Finally, the bag is quite large, which may be difficult to store in smaller homes.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for puppies. It is an excellent option for pet owners who want to feed their puppies a natural, healthy diet that supports their growth and development.

ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for those who want to provide their puppies with high-quality, protein-rich nutrition.

Pros

• The first five ingredients are fresh or raw chicken, turkey, turkey giblets, flounder, and whole mackerel, providing essential protein, vitamins, and minerals.
• The dog food is grain-free, making it an excellent option for puppies with food sensitivities or allergies.
• The dog food is made in the USA with quality ingredients from around the world, and no soy, corn, tapioca, or wheat ingredients are added in their kitchen.

Cons

• The dog food is quite pricey compared to other options on the market.
• Some puppies may not enjoy the taste of the dog food.
• The dog food may not be suitable for puppies with certain health conditions.

We have been using ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for our puppy for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The high protein content has helped him develop strong muscles, and the grain-free formula has eliminated his digestive issues.

The first five ingredients of the dog food are fresh or raw chicken, turkey, turkey giblets, flounder, and whole mackerel, providing essential protein, vitamins, and minerals that support peak development. Additionally, the ORIJEN WholePrey diet features the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey, mimicking what puppies’ ancestors consumed in the wild.

While the dog food is quite pricey compared to other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, some puppies may not enjoy the taste of the dog food, and it may not be suitable for puppies with certain health conditions.

Overall, we highly recommend ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for those who want to provide their puppies with high-quality, protein-rich nutrition.

IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag Chicken 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious puppy food, IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is an excellent choice. We highly recommend this product for its high-quality protein, omega-3 DHA, and 22 key nutrients for optimal growth and development.

Pros

• The formula is 100% complete and balanced with 0% fillers, ensuring your puppy gets all the nutrients they need without any unnecessary additives.
• The omega-3 DHA content promotes brain development, making your puppy smarter and more trainable.
• High-quality protein supports muscle growth and development, ensuring your puppy grows up strong and healthy.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small for larger breeds, making it difficult for them to chew and digest.
• Some puppies may experience digestive issues when transitioning to this food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually.
• The 15 lb. bag may not be enough for larger breeds or puppies who eat a lot.

We’ve had a great experience with IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken. Our puppy loves the taste and eagerly devours every meal. We’ve noticed positive changes in her energy levels and coat condition since switching to this food. The kibble size is perfect for our small breed puppy, and we appreciate that the formula is free from fillers and contains essential nutrients for optimal growth and development.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for anyone looking for a high-quality puppy food that provides complete and balanced nutrition. It’s a great investment in your puppy’s health and well-being.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your puppy, there are several factors to consider. We understand that it can be overwhelming to navigate the various options available in the market. That’s why we have put together a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Age and Breed

The first thing to consider when choosing the best dog food for your puppy is their age and breed. Different breeds have different nutritional requirements, and puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. It’s important to choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for puppies to ensure that they receive the right balance of nutrients for their growing bodies.

Ingredients

The quality of ingredients in your puppy’s food is crucial to their health and wellbeing. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives. It’s also important to choose a dog food that contains the right balance of carbohydrates, fats, and fiber to support your puppy’s growth and development.

Nutritional Value

When choosing a dog food for your puppy, it’s important to consider the nutritional value of the product. Look for dog foods that are complete and balanced, meaning they contain all the essential nutrients your puppy needs. You can check the nutritional value of a dog food by looking at the guaranteed analysis on the packaging.

Price

Price is also an important factor to consider when choosing the best dog food for your puppy. While it’s tempting to opt for cheaper dog foods, they may not provide the same nutritional value as more expensive options. However, that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to feed your puppy. Look for dog foods that provide good value for money and fit within your budget.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your puppy that meets their nutritional needs and supports their growth and development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do veterinarians recommend when selecting food for puppies?

When it comes to selecting food for puppies, veterinarians often recommend choosing a high-quality commercial dog food that is specifically formulated for puppies. This ensures that the puppy is getting all the necessary nutrients in the right amounts for their growth and development. It is also important to choose a food that is appropriate for the puppy’s breed size.

Which dog food is considered the best for small breed puppies?

The best dog food for small breed puppies is one that is specifically formulated for their unique needs. Look for a food that is high in protein and fat, as small breed puppies have a faster metabolism and require more energy. Some top-rated options for small breed puppies include Royal Canin X-Small Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Puppy, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Puppy.

What are the top-rated dry dog foods for puppies?

There are many high-quality dry dog foods available for puppies. Some of the top-rated options include Purina Pro Plan Puppy, Royal Canin Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy. When selecting a dry dog food, it is important to choose one that is specifically formulated for puppies and meets their nutritional needs.

How should one choose the best dog food for large breed puppies?

When choosing a dog food for large breed puppies, it is important to select a food that is specifically formulated for their unique needs. Large breed puppies require a diet that is lower in fat and calories to prevent them from growing too quickly, which can lead to skeletal problems later in life. Look for a food that is high in protein and contains added nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. Some top-rated options for large breed puppies include Royal Canin Large Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Puppy.

What are the benefits of choosing Royal Canin for puppy nutrition?

Royal Canin is a popular choice for puppy nutrition because they offer a wide variety of formulas that are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of different breeds and sizes of puppies. Their formulas are made with high-quality ingredients and are designed to provide all the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development. Additionally, Royal Canin offers a satisfaction guarantee, so if you or your puppy are not completely satisfied with their food, you can receive a full refund.

What are some healthy homemade food options for puppies?

While commercial dog food is often the best choice for puppies, there are some healthy homemade food options that can be incorporated into their diet. Some examples include cooked chicken or turkey, brown rice, sweet potatoes, and green beans. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist before making any significant changes to your puppy’s diet, as homemade food may not provide all the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.