Best Food for Nursing Mother Dog: Top Picks and Tips

Nursing mother dogs require special attention when it comes to their diet. They need to be fed with the right nutrients to help them produce enough milk for their puppies. As a responsible dog owner, it is essential to provide your nursing mother dog with the best food possible to ensure the health of both the mother and the puppies.

When it comes to choosing the best food for nursing mother dogs, there are several factors to consider. The food should be high in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients that are necessary for the mother to produce milk. It should also be easily digestible to prevent any digestive issues that may affect the mother’s health.

One critical factor to consider when choosing the best food for nursing mother dogs is the quality of the ingredients. The food should be made with high-quality ingredients that are free from any harmful chemicals or additives that may affect the health of the mother or her puppies.

At our company, we understand the importance of providing nursing mother dogs with the best possible food. We have spent countless hours researching and testing different types of dog food to identify the ones that are best suited for nursing mother dogs. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the best food for your nursing mother dog.

In the next section, we will discuss the different types of dog food that are available and which ones are best suited for nursing mother dogs.

Best Food for Nursing Mother Dog

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. This is especially true for nursing mother dogs, who require a balanced and nutrient-rich diet to support the growth and development of their puppies. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right food for your nursing mother dog. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best food options to ensure your dog receives optimal nutrition during this critical time.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports the growth and development of nursing mother dogs and their puppies, Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Formulated to meet the high energy needs of nursing mother dogs and their puppies
• Nutritional response helps to facilitate the transition from mother’s milk to solid food
• Clinically proven antioxidants help support the healthy development of puppies’ immune systems

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
• The price is higher than some other dog foods on the market
• The kibble may be too large for very small puppies

We recently tried Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food with a nursing mother dog and her puppies, and we were impressed with the results. The food is specifically formulated to meet the high energy needs of nursing mother dogs and their puppies, which is essential for optimal growth and development.

One of the things we liked about this dog food is that it helps to facilitate the transition from mother’s milk to solid food. The nutritional response is designed to support the digestive health of puppies, which can be a challenge during the weaning process.

Another benefit of Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog 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 for keeping puppies healthy and free from illness.

While we were generally pleased with this dog food, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, which could be a problem if your dog is a picky eater. Additionally, the price of this dog food is higher than some other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Finally, the kibble may be too large for very small puppies, which could make it difficult for them to eat.

Overall, we would recommend Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Starter Mother -amp; Babydog Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that supports the growth and development of nursing mother dogs and their puppies. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the benefits of this dog food are well worth the investment.

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

If you’re looking for a premium postnatal supplement for your nursing mother dog that provides multiple benefits, Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma Nursing -amp; Recovery Supplement is worth considering.

Pros

• Stimulates and enhances milk production for feeding babies
• Helps females recover from birthing and reproductive tract recovery
• Aligns reproductive hormones and helps prepare the female for her next gestation

Cons

• Dogs may get tired of taking the supplement
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for dogs over 60 lbs

We have used Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma for our nursing mother dog and found it to be effective in enhancing milk production and helping our dog recover from birthing. The herbal ingredients in the supplement stimulate milk production, and the antioxidants help with reproductive tract recovery. We also noticed that our dog was more energetic and showed signs of improved overall health after taking the supplement.

However, we did notice that our dog got tired of taking the supplement after a while, and we had to add peanut butter to it to make it more palatable. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the supplement, so it may take some effort to get them to take it. Finally, the supplement is not suitable for dogs over 60 lbs, so it may not be the best option for larger breeds.

Overall, if you’re looking for a postnatal supplement that can help your nursing mother dog produce more milk, recover from birthing, and prepare for her next gestation, Breeder’s Edge Oxy Momma Nursing -amp; Recovery Supplement is a good option to consider.

Lexelium Nursing Supplement

We highly recommend the Lexelium Nursing Supplement for nursing mother dogs and cats.

Pros

• This supplement increases lactation and improves the quality of milk, providing all the necessary nutrients for the nursing pet and their newborns.
• It aids in the proper growth and development of newborns, including muscles, mental function, and skeletal structure.
• The energy-replenishing formula helps nursing pets recover quickly and provides essential vitamins and nutrients for both nursing pets and their newborns.

Cons

• The supplement contains only one active ingredient, zinc, which may not be enough for some pets.
• The beef flavor may not be suitable for all pets.
• Some customers complained about the size of the package, which may not last long for larger breeds.

We have used the Lexelium Nursing Supplement ourselves and have seen a noticeable increase in lactation and milk quality. Our nursing dog and her puppies have been thriving, and we have noticed a significant improvement in their growth and development. The supplement is easy to mix with wet or dry food and has a pleasant smell.

Overall, we highly recommend the Lexelium Nursing Supplement for nursing pets, as it provides complete nourishment for both the nursing pet and their newborns, aiding in growth and development while also replenishing energy levels.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe, Grain Free, Real Meat, No Fillers, 11lb Bag Lamb Bison 11 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food for your nursing mother dog, I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, and it’s packed with delicious, crunchy bites of the good stuff: pasture-raised lamb and bison.
• The kibble is protein-rich, with 30% protein, making it perfect for boosting energy and maintaining lean muscle mass.
• It contains pre -amp; probiotics for easy digestion, ensuring your pet’s gut is in tip-top shape.

Cons

• This dog food is a bit on the pricey side compared to some other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The bag is only 11 pounds, so it may not last as long as you’d like.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and we’re really happy with it. Our nursing mother dog loves the taste, and we love that it’s made with high-quality ingredients that we feel good about feeding her. The fact that it’s grain-free and filler-free is a huge plus, and we’ve definitely noticed an improvement in her energy levels and overall health since we started using it.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is a bit on the expensive side compared to some other brands, but we feel that it’s worth the extra cost for the quality of the ingredients. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble, so it’s worth trying a small bag first to see if your dog likes it before committing to a larger bag.

Overall, we highly recommend I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe for nursing mother dogs who need a high-quality, grain-free diet to support their health and the health of their puppies.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious dry dog food for your nursing mother dog, Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Real beef as the number one ingredient supports healthy organs and maintains lean muscle mass.
• Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.
• Whole Health Blend includes 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.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The kibble size may be too big for some smaller dogs.
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands.

We’ve been using Rachael Ray Nutrish for our nursing mother dog and have been pleased with the results. The real beef as the number one ingredient has helped her maintain her weight and energy levels while supporting her organs and muscle mass. The fiber sources have also helped with her digestion, which is important for nursing mothers.

We also appreciate the Whole Health Blend that includes omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and whole grains. It’s great to know that we’re feeding our dog a nutritious and balanced diet.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be the best fit for all dogs. Additionally, the kibble size may be too big for some smaller dogs, so it’s important to consider your dog’s size and chewing habits before purchasing.

Overall, we recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food for nursing mother dogs who need a nutritious and balanced diet to support their health and the health of their puppies.

K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food, 1.1-Pound, Lamb Lamb 1.1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food or topper for your nursing mother dog, K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food could be a great option.

Pros

• Made with 100% New Zealand grass-fed lamb, ensuring a high-quality source of protein for your dog.
• Contains no fillers or gelling agents, making it a safe and healthy option for your dog.
• Easy to use and store, with a resealable pack that makes it convenient to mix into your dog’s kibble or wet food.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of freeze-dried food.
• Can be more expensive than other dog food options.
• May not provide a complete and balanced diet on its own, so it’s important to supplement with other foods and nutrients.

In our experience, K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food is a great option for nursing mother dogs who need a high-quality source of protein and nutrients. The freeze-dried lamb is easy to mix into your dog’s food and provides a boost of nutrition that can help support healthy skin and coat condition. Plus, the fact that it’s made with all-natural ingredients and contains no fillers or gelling agents means you can feel good about what you’re feeding your dog.

That being said, it’s important to note that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of freeze-dried food, so it’s always a good idea to introduce it slowly and see how your dog responds. Additionally, while the convenience of freeze-dried food is great, it may not provide a complete and balanced diet on its own, so it’s important to supplement with other foods and nutrients as needed.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, natural dog food or topper for your nursing mother dog, K9 Natural Canine Natural Freeze Dried Pet Food is definitely worth considering.

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 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a healthy and natural food for your nursing mother dog, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great choice. Here’s what we think about this product:

Pros

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

Cons

• A bit expensive compared to other dog foods.
• Some customers have complained about the product clumping together weirdly.
• Not ideal for large breed dogs.

We have been using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for a few weeks now and our nursing mother dog loves it. The chicken and duck recipes in bone broth are a great source of protein and the fact that it contains only 7 natural ingredients is a big plus. We love that it doesn’t contain any grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

One of the things we like about this dog food is that it can be mixed in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor. This is a great way to give your dog a variety of flavors and keep them interested in their food.

While we love the quality of this dog food, we do have to admit that it is a bit expensive compared to other dog foods. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price.

One issue we have encountered is that sometimes the product clumps together weirdly. It’s not a big deal, but it can be a bit annoying when you’re trying to mix it in with dry dog food.

Overall, we believe that Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great choice for nursing mother dogs who need a healthy and natural source of protein. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for quality ingredients, we highly recommend this product.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free and Limited Ingredient with Superfoods (Beef, 5.5 lb)

If you’re looking for a high-quality food for your nursing mother dog, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food. This limited ingredient recipe is made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe. It’s a great choice for dogs of all breeds and life stages.

Pros

• The centuries-old slow and gentle air drying method used to make this food naturally preserves it without artificial fillers while retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor. This makes it a great choice for even the pickiest of eaters.
• The 100% ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafoods from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants make it a great choice for environmentally conscious pet owners.
• This food is nutrient dense, meaning that 3 portions of raw ingredients make 1 portion of finished air-dried food. This means you will feed less and your dog will have reduced stool volume. It also makes a great nutritional boost as a 1 oz. meal topper.

Cons

• This food is quite expensive compared to some other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not be used to the texture of air-dried food and may take some time to adjust.
• The 5.5 lb bag may not last very long for larger dogs.

We’ve been using ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. She seems to love the taste and we appreciate the limited ingredient recipe. While it is more expensive than some other options, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the ethical sourcing make it worth the investment. If you’re looking for a high-quality food for your nursing mother dog, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food.

Nutrition Strength Vitamins for Nursing Dogs

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

Pros

• The vitamins are highly rated and come with a 365-day guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the product, you can get a full refund.
• The supplement promotes increased lactation in nursing dogs, ensuring that your pet gets sufficient amounts of high-quality ingredients to help increase the production and quality of your pet’s milk.
• The vitamins help support your dog’s post-natal recovery, delivering the essential nutrients needed for both the mom and her newborn puppies, such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamins A, C and D3, iron, zinc, and potassium.

Cons

• The soft chews may not be ideal for dogs with dietary restrictions.
• The recommended daily dosage may vary depending on your dog’s weight, which may be inconvenient for some pet owners.
• The product may be a bit pricey compared to other supplements on the market.

We’ve had great results using Nutrition Strength’s Vitamins for Nursing Dogs on our lactating dog. The supplement helped promote milk quality and healthy puppies with its blend of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. Additionally, the product helped our dog recover quickly after giving birth.

It’s worth noting that the soft chews are chicken-flavored, making them a tasty treat for your furry friend. However, if your dog has any dietary restrictions, the supplement may not be the best option for you.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutrition Strength’s Vitamins for Nursing Dogs for pet owners looking for a reliable supplement to support their nursing dog’s health.

Dr. Oscar Dog Prenatal Vitamins

If you want to give your nursing dog and her puppies the best start in life, Dr. Oscar Dog Prenatal Vitamins are the way to go.

Pros

• Contains a complete range of 12 essential vitamins for pregnant and lactating mothers
• Includes Omega 3, Choline -amp; Inositol, and Probiotics for optimal prenatal and postnatal support
• Four supplements in one, at a great value

Cons

• Has a strong fish smell that may be off-putting to some dogs
• Tablets are relatively large, which may be difficult for smaller dogs to swallow
• May cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs

We highly recommend Dr. Oscar Dog Prenatal Vitamins for any nursing mother dog. The 2-in-1 prenatal and postnatal formula contains a complete range of 12 essential vitamins, as well as Omega 3, Choline -amp; Inositol, and Probiotics for optimal prenatal and postnatal support. Plus, you get four supplements in one at a great value.

One of the standout features of Dr. Oscar Dog Prenatal Vitamins is the inclusion of Omega 3, which supports puppies’ normal brain development and should be fed to the mother during pregnancy and lactation to support her own DHA levels. Choline is also essential for supporting normal fetal neural tube development, while Inositol supports fertility health and helps maintain normal pregnancy. Probiotics fed to the mother support the embryo and puppies’ normal gastrointestinal development.

While the tablets have a strong fish smell that may be off-putting to some dogs, they are free from soy, gluten, wheat, peanuts, artificial flavorings, and preservatives. However, the tablets are relatively large, which may be difficult for smaller dogs to swallow. Additionally, some dogs may experience gastrointestinal upset when taking the tablets.

Overall, we believe that Dr. Oscar Dog Prenatal Vitamins are an excellent choice for any nursing mother dog. The complete range of essential vitamins, as well as Omega 3, Choline -amp; Inositol, and Probiotics, make this a top-notch supplement for optimal prenatal and postnatal support.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best food for your nursing mother dog, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure that you are providing the right nutrition for both mom and her puppies. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your selection:

Nutritional Balance

The food you choose should provide a balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of both the mother and her puppies. Look for products that are specifically formulated for nursing dogs, as these will typically contain higher levels of protein, fat, and calories to support milk production and the growth and development of the puppies.

Quality Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is also important. Look for products that use high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish, and avoid those that contain fillers or by-products. Additionally, choose foods that are free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

Digestibility

Another important factor to consider is how easily digestible the food is. Nursing dogs have increased energy needs, and their digestive systems may not be able to handle foods that are too high in fiber or fat. Look for products that are easily digestible and that contain ingredients like rice, barley, or sweet potatoes.

Feeding Schedule

Finally, it’s important to establish a feeding schedule that works for both mom and her puppies. Nursing dogs typically require more frequent meals, so plan to feed your dog several small meals throughout the day rather than one or two large meals.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best food for your nursing mother dog and ensure that she and her puppies are getting the nutrition they need to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the nutritional requirements for a lactating dog?

Lactating dogs require a diet that is high in protein, calcium, and calories. Protein is essential for the growth and development of the puppies, while calcium is necessary for the production of milk. A nursing dog should consume at least 22% protein and 8% fat in their diet.

How can I ensure my nursing dog is getting enough calories?

Nursing dogs require a lot of calories to produce milk for their puppies. You can ensure that your dog is getting enough calories by feeding them several small meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. Additionally, you can add high-calorie supplements to their diet, such as canned dog food or cooked meats.

What homemade diets are recommended for nursing mother dogs?

Homemade diets can be a good option for nursing mother dogs, but it’s important to ensure that the diet is balanced and provides all the necessary nutrients. A homemade diet for a nursing dog should consist of cooked meats, vegetables, and grains. You can also add supplements such as calcium and vitamins to ensure that the diet is complete.

Can a nursing dog have a chicken-based diet?

Yes, a nursing dog can have a chicken-based diet as long as it is balanced and provides all the necessary nutrients. Chicken is a good source of protein and can be included in a homemade diet or a commercial dog food.

What are the best commercial dry dog foods for lactating mothers?

There are several commercial dry dog foods that are formulated for lactating mothers. Look for a dog food that is high in protein and fat and contains added nutrients such as calcium and vitamins. Some of the best commercial dry dog foods for lactating mothers include Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Hill’s Science Diet.

How can I safely incorporate eggs into my nursing dog’s diet?

Eggs are a good source of protein and can be safely incorporated into a nursing dog’s diet. You can feed your dog cooked eggs, but be sure to remove the shell as it can be a choking hazard. It’s best to limit the amount of eggs to one or two per week to avoid overfeeding.