Best Food for Nursing Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Nursing dogs require a specific diet to ensure they are healthy and can produce enough milk for their puppies. The right food can provide the necessary nutrients for both the mother and her puppies. In this article, we will discuss the best food for nursing dogs.

When selecting food for a nursing dog, it is important to choose a product that is high in protein and calories. This will help the mother produce enough milk and ensure her puppies are getting the nutrients they need. Additionally, the food should be easily digestible to prevent any stomach issues.

One critical factor to consider when selecting food for a nursing dog is the ingredients. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and colors. Instead, look for food that is made with high-quality ingredients such as real meat and vegetables.

We spent hours researching and testing various brands to identify the best food for nursing dogs. Our top picks provide the necessary nutrients for nursing dogs and their puppies, are easily digestible, and made with high-quality ingredients.

Best Food for Nursing Dogs

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible, especially when it comes to nursing dogs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best food options for nursing dogs, taking into consideration their unique nutritional needs during this important time. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality, ingredients, and customer reviews to ensure your nursing dog receives the best possible care.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality food for your nursing dog, Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food could be a great choice.

Pros

• Tailor-made for mothers -amp; babydogs.
• Nutritional response helps to facilitate the transition from mother’s milk to solid food.
• Clinically proven antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, help support the healthy development of puppies’ immune systems.

Cons

• A bit more expensive than other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The kibble size is small, which may not be suitable for larger breeds.

We have used Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food for our nursing dog and her puppies, and we were impressed with the results. The food is specifically formulated to meet the high energy needs of nursing mothers and their puppies, and it provides the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development.

One of the things we liked about this food is that it helps facilitate the transition from mother’s milk to solid food. The nutritional response is designed to be easy on the puppies’ digestive system, and it’s a great way to introduce them to solid food.

Another benefit of this food is that it contains clinically proven antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, which help support the healthy development of puppies’ immune systems. This is important during the early stages of life when puppies are most vulnerable to illness.

However, there are a few downsides to this food. It is a bit more expensive than other brands, which may be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, which could make it difficult to get them to eat it.

Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food for any pet owner who wants to provide their nursing dog and her puppies with high-quality nutrition.

Lexelium Nursing Supplement

If you’re looking for a quality nursing supplement for your furry friend, then the Lexelium Nursing Supplement is worth considering.

Pros

• Provides quality nutrients that help increase lactation and improve the quality of milk for both dogs and cats
• Helps nourish young puppies and kittens for proper muscle, mental, and skeletal development
• Designed to help your nursing dog or cat recover quickly and replenish their energy levels

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the powder has a strong odor
• The bag is smaller than expected and may not last long if you have multiple nursing pets
• May not work for every pet, and results may vary depending on the individual animal

We recently tried this supplement with our nursing dog, and we were pleased with the results. The powder mixed well with both wet and dry food, and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste. We noticed an increase in her milk production and overall energy levels, which made caring for her litter of puppies much easier.

One thing to note is that the powder does have a strong odor, which may be off-putting for some pet owners. Additionally, the bag is smaller than expected, so if you have multiple nursing pets, you may need to purchase multiple bags.

Overall, we would recommend the Lexelium Nursing Supplement to anyone looking for a quality nursing supplement for their furry friend. It’s made in the USA with 100% human-grade ingredients and provides complete nourishment for nursing pets.

Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma

If you are looking for a premium post-natal supplement for your nursing dog, then Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma is a great option. We highly recommend this product for its impressive benefits and effectiveness.

Pros

• Provides multiple benefits for use with lactating moms
• Stimulates and enhances milk production for feeding babies
• Helps females recover from birthing

Cons

• Some dogs may get tired of taking the supplement
• Amazon delivery may not be as fast as expected
• May require a small amount of effort to get picky eaters to take it

Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma is a premium post-natal supplement that provides multiple benefits for use with lactating moms. It contains herbal ingredients that stimulate and enhance milk production, ensuring that your puppies receive the necessary nutrients for growth and development.

The supplement also helps females recover from birthing by providing antioxidants that aid in reproductive tract recovery. It aligns reproductive hormones and prepares the female for her next gestation.

While the product works, some dogs may get tired of taking the supplement. We recommend adding peanut butter or other tasty treats to make it more appealing. Additionally, Amazon delivery may not be as fast as expected, so it’s best to order in advance.

Overall, Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma is a proven product for good health of your dog after giving birth to her litter. It is a great reboot for momma dogs and is highly recommended for its effectiveness.

CANIDAE All Life Stages Less Active Formula

We highly recommend the CANIDAE All Life Stages Less Active Formula for dog owners looking for a premium dry dog food that meets the nutritional requirements of all life stages.

Pros

• Nutritionally dense kibble that nourishes in every bite, crafted with chicken, turkey, and lamb along with wholesome grains and made without corn, wheat, or soy
• Complete and balanced goodness for less active dogs of all ages and sizes with less fat and protein. One bag to feed them all, perfect for multi-dog homes
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with allergies to chicken, turkey, or lamb
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
• Slightly more expensive than other brands

We have been using this product for our less active dog for the past year, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The kibble is nutritionally dense, and our dog loves the taste and texture. We appreciate that this formula is suitable for dogs of all ages and sizes, making it an excellent choice for multi-dog households. The addition of antioxidants and probiotics supports a healthy digestive and immune system, and the blend of vitamins and minerals promotes healthy joints, skin, and coat.

One thing to note is that this formula contains chicken, turkey, and lamb, so it may not be suitable for dogs with allergies to these proteins. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble, so it is important to monitor your dog’s reaction when introducing this product. While this formula is slightly more expensive than other brands, we believe that the nutritional benefits and convenience of one bag for all life stages make it a worthwhile investment.

Overall, we highly recommend the CANIDAE All Life Stages Less Active Formula for dog owners looking for a premium dry dog food that meets the nutritional requirements of all life stages.

CANIDAE Pure Petite Salmon Recipe Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, limited-ingredient dog food for your small breed dog, then CANIDAE Pure Petite Salmon Recipe Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Crafted with real salmon as the first ingredient for a great taste your dog will love
• Limited number of wholesome ingredients that are easily recognizable, perfect for sensitive dogs
• Contains antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system

Cons

• The kibble size is quite small, which may not be suitable for larger small breed dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
• The price point is higher than some other dog food brands

We’ve been using CANIDAE Pure Petite Salmon Recipe Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for several months now, and we’re very happy with the results. The small kibble size is perfect for our dog, who can be quite picky, and the real salmon flavor is a hit with him.

One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is that it contains a limited number of wholesome ingredients. This makes it easier for us to understand what we’re feeding our dog and ensures that he’s getting the nutrition he needs without any unnecessary fillers.

We also appreciate that this dog food contains antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system. Our dog has had some digestive issues in the past, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement since switching to CANIDAE Pure Petite Salmon Recipe Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food.

Overall, we highly recommend CANIDAE Pure Petite Salmon Recipe Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their small breed dog. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the extra cost.

CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry 5 lb Chicken Meal -amp; Rice 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend purchasing the CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry food for nursing dogs because it is an all-in-one solution for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.

Pros

• The kibble is nutritionally dense and nourishing, made with premium ingredients like chicken and wholesome grains that are rich in essential amino acids and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
• It is formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.
• The food is made without corn, wheat, soy, or other fillers, making it a good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, but this is a common issue with any dog food.
• The kibble may be too small for larger breeds, but this can be easily remedied by purchasing a larger size.
• The bag may not last as long as expected for larger dogs, but this is also a common issue with any dog food.

We have been using the CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry food for our nursing dog and have been extremely satisfied with the results. Our dog has had no digestive issues, and her coat and skin have remained healthy and shiny. The kibble size is perfect for our small breed dog, but we can see how it may be too small for larger breeds. Overall, we highly recommend this product for its quality ingredients, nutritional value, and convenience for multi-dog households.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8

If you’re looking for a simple and natural meal complement for your nursing dog, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*.

Cons

• The price is a little steep compared to other dog food options.
• The size of each 2 oz. tray is small, so you may need to use multiple trays for larger dogs.
• The wet texture may not be preferred by all dogs.

We recently tried out the Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for our nursing dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The simple recipe made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck, is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs. We also love that it can be mixed in with dry kibble for added flavor and nutrition.

One thing to note is that the price is a little steep compared to other dog food options, but we believe it’s worth the investment for the quality ingredients. However, the small size of each 2 oz. tray may not be enough for larger dogs, so you may need to use multiple trays per meal.

Overall, we highly recommend the Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for those looking for a natural and simple meal option for their nursing dog.

CANIDAE Pure Puppy Real Salmon -amp; Oatmeal Recipe Dry Dog 4 LB Salmon -amp; Oatmeal Puppy 64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a limited ingredient dog food for your nursing dog, then CANIDAE Pure Puppy Real Salmon -amp; Oatmeal Recipe Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been great, and we highly recommend it.

Pros

• Real salmon as the first ingredient
• Crafted with wholesome grains like oatmeal, barley, and sorghum
• Limited number of premium ingredients that are easily recognizable

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies
• Not suitable for adult dogs

We love that this recipe is made using 9 or fewer key ingredients that are easily recognizable. It’s perfect for puppies with sensitive stomachs, and it’s formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system. The nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals also helps to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

One of the things we appreciate about CANIDAE is their commitment to creating a world of sustainable goodness for pets and our planet. They use wholesome, responsibly sourced proteins, and invest in regenerative farming, sustainable operations, and eco-friendly packaging. We believe that everything they do results in a better product.

CANIDAE Pure Puppy Real Salmon -amp; Oatmeal Recipe Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for nursing dogs who require a well-rounded meal that’s been crafted with their health and wellness in mind. We highly recommend this product for pet owners who want to give their furry friends the goodness they deserve.

Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality supplement to support your nursing dog’s health, Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs is a great choice.

Pros

• The proprietary blend of vitamins and minerals is specifically designed to meet the special requirements of lactating moms, promoting increased lactation in nursing dogs.
• The supplement helps to support your dog’s post-natal recovery, delivering essential nutrients to both the mom and her newborn puppies.
• The tasty soft chews are made in the USA with carefully selected, high-quality ingredients, and come with a 365-day guarantee.

Cons

• Some reviewers have noted that the soft chews are not actually soft, but rather crunchy pills.
• The price may be a bit high for some pet owners.
• While the supplement is suitable for all breed sizes, you’ll need to give your dog multiple chews per day based on her weight.

We’ve been using Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs to support our dog’s health during her post-natal period, and we’ve been very happy with the results. The supplement is easy to administer, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the soft chews.

One of the things we appreciate about this supplement is the proprietary blend of vitamins and minerals, which are specifically designed to meet the special requirements of lactating moms. We’ve noticed an increase in our dog’s milk production since starting her on the supplement, which has been great for her puppies.

In addition to promoting increased lactation, this supplement also helps to support your dog’s post-natal recovery. Giving birth can be exhausting for your pet, and the daily demands of breastfeeding can quickly drain her energy levels. This supplement delivers the essential nutrients needed to help your dog recover quickly, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamins A, C, and D3, iron, zinc, and potassium.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs to anyone looking for a high-quality supplement to support their nursing dog’s health. The supplement is made in the USA with carefully selected, high-quality ingredients, and comes with a 365-day guarantee.

HAPPY JACK Milkade Dog Breeding -amp; Nursing Supplies

If you’re looking for a reliable milk production aid for your nursing dog, HAPPY JACK Milkade Dog Breeding -amp; Nursing Supplies is a good option to consider.

Pros

• Increases clean, healthy milk production
• Helps to overcome neuritis of pregnancy due to dietary deficiency
• Prevents loss of pups by increasing milk supply and neutralizing acidity in milk

Cons

• Needs to be used 4-5 days before mother whelps and 10 days after
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not work for every dog

We’ve used HAPPY JACK Milkade Dog Breeding -amp; Nursing Supplies for several litters of puppies, and we’ve found that it’s an effective way to increase milk production and improve the quality of the milk. The formula is fast-acting, so we’ve seen results within a few days of starting to use it.

One of the things we like about this product is that it’s formulated to prevent loss of pups during the critical days following whelping. By increasing milk supply and neutralizing acidity in milk, it helps to ensure that all of the puppies get the nutrition they need to thrive.

Another benefit of HAPPY JACK Milkade Dog Breeding -amp; Nursing Supplies is that it’s made in the USA and has been a trusted product for professional breeders and kennel owners for over 70 years. We appreciate that it’s a product we can rely on to help us care for our dogs and their puppies.

While there are some downsides to this product, such as the need to use it before and after whelping and the possibility that some dogs may not like the taste, we’ve found that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Overall, we would recommend HAPPY JACK Milkade Dog Breeding -amp; Nursing Supplies to anyone looking for a milk production aid for their nursing dog.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best food for nursing dogs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for when choosing the right product:

Nutritional Content

The nutritional content of the food is a crucial factor to consider. Nursing dogs require a balanced diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support the growth and development of their puppies. Look for dog food that is specifically formulated for nursing dogs or for puppies. These products are designed to provide the essential nutrients that nursing dogs need.

Quality Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients is also important. Look for dog food that is made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products. These ingredients can be harmful to your dog’s health and may cause digestive issues.

Digestibility

The digestibility of the food is another important factor to consider. Nursing dogs need food that is easy to digest to ensure that they can absorb all of the essential nutrients. Look for dog food that is made with easily digestible ingredients such as chicken, rice, and sweet potatoes.

Feeding Schedule

It is important to establish a feeding schedule for your nursing dog. Most nursing dogs will need to eat several small meals throughout the day to ensure that they are getting enough nutrients to support their puppies. Talk to your veterinarian to determine the best feeding schedule for your dog.

Conclusion

Choosing the best food for your nursing dog can be a daunting task, but by considering the nutritional content, quality ingredients, digestibility, and feeding schedule, you can ensure that your dog is getting the essential nutrients that she needs to support her puppies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the optimal dietary requirements for a lactating canine?

A nursing dog requires a well-balanced diet that is rich in protein, fats, and essential nutrients. The diet should consist of high-quality commercial dog food or homemade meals that are formulated for lactating dogs. The food should have a minimum of 29% protein and 17% fat. It is also essential to provide plenty of fresh water to keep the mother dog hydrated.

Which supplements are recommended to enhance lactation in nursing dogs?

Supplements like calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B complex can help enhance lactation in nursing dogs. However, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian before adding any supplements to the dog’s diet.

How can a nursing dog’s weight be healthily increased through diet?

To increase a nursing dog’s weight, it is necessary to gradually increase the amount of food given. The food should be high in calories and protein to promote healthy weight gain. It is also essential to ensure that the dog is getting enough exercise to maintain muscle mass.

What are the benefits of feeding wet food to a nursing dog, and which brands are best?

Feeding wet food to a nursing dog can help increase their water intake and keep them hydrated. Wet food is also easier to digest, making it an excellent option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Some recommended brands for nursing dogs include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

Are there specific homemade food recipes that are beneficial for a nursing dog’s health?

There are many homemade food recipes that can be beneficial for a nursing dog’s health. However, it is essential to ensure that the recipes are well-balanced and meet the dog’s nutritional needs. Some recommended ingredients for homemade dog food include chicken, rice, sweet potatoes, and green beans.

After giving birth, what specific nutrients should a mother dog’s diet include?

After giving birth, a mother dog’s diet should include high-quality protein, calcium, and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and iron. It is also important to ensure that the dog is getting enough calories to support lactation and maintain a healthy weight. A veterinarian can recommend specific foods and supplements to support the mother dog’s nutritional needs.