LARGE BREED PUPPY FOOD Reviewed
- Last updated on November 21, 2023
- By: Hebby Bailey
Large Breed Puppy Food And Growth
Dog owners need to be aware of the importance of finding the right dog food that fits their dog’s size, breed for their optimal growth and development.
Large breed puppies have specific dietary needs that should be taken into account when choosing a food. The first thing to understand about large breed puppy food is that it is specifically formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of large breed puppies. Large breed puppies grow at an accelerated rate and require more calories and nutrients than smaller breeds. Large breed puppy food is higher in calories and protein to help support their growth, while also containing specific nutrients like calcium and phosphorus to help their bones and joints develop properly.
Some important considerations regarding large breed puppy food and their growth are as below:
- Large breed puppy should be getting fewer calories in terms of feeding. That is, they need a carefully balanced diet with fewer calories and lower levels of protein to help them mature at a controlled rate.
- Although the growth of any dog starts to slow at about six months of age, large and giant breed dogs don’t reach full physical maturity until they are two or three years old. As such, they should eat large breed puppy food that is formulated until they are two years old. These large breed puppy dog food are specifically customise and should support the growth rate of the puppy while also ensuring that rate does not exceed the ability of the bones to keep up with the rest of the body. When large breed puppies grow at a rate that outpaces the growth of their bones, these dogs are at a higher risk for developing hip and elbow dysplasia, and a painful disorder known as panosteitis.
- Large breed puppies while they need calcium, they do not need extra calcium in their dog food. In fact, too much calcium can leads to large but weak bones that lack the density needed for strength. This could result in joint and bone disorders and fractures susceptibility.
- As your large breed puppy is growing up, they need to eat more frequently and therefore need food that is more digestible.
Table of Contents
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Best Large Breed Puppy Food
Large Breed Puppy Foods: Our Top 3 Picks
If you want a quick recommendation on great puppy food for your large breed canine, check out the following:
Top 10 Best Large Breed Puppy Food
Key ingredients: Chicken, brewers rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, poultry by-product meal (source of glucosamine), whole grain wheat, animal fat preserved with mixed-tocopherols, pea fiber, fish meal (source of glucosamine), dried egg product, animal digest, fish oil, calcium phosphate, salt, others, vitamins, minerals.
Caloric content: 3934 kcal/kg, 419 kcal/cup
Available in: 18 lbs, 34 lbs, 47 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 28.0% min, Crude Fat 13.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.75% max, Moisture 12.0% max, Linoleic Acid 1.6% min, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 0.1% min, Calcium 1.1% min, Phosphorus 0.9% min, Vitamin A 15,000 IU/kg min, Vitamin E 100 IU/kg min, Glucosamine 500 ppm min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 1.8% min.
PURINA Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy Food is a high-quality chicken and rice formula made with natural sources of glucosamine to help support joint and cartilage health.
Made in the USA with only the finest, premium-quality, non-GMO ingredients from trusted sources, the recipe has real chicken as the first ingredient.
Plus, DHA from fish oil nourishes brain development. This recipe also contains calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals to help build strong bones and teeth.
Simply follow the daily feeding amount on the package – 106g of Pro Plan – for healthy, happy puppies.
Pros:
- Chicken and Rice recipe for large breed puppy.
- Contains omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coats.
- Includes glucosamine to support joint and cartilage health.
- Made in the USA.
- Includes DHA from fish oil for brain and eye development.
Cons:
- Includes poultry by-product meals which many dog owners do not prefer.
Key ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Barley, Potato Protein, Brewers Rice, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3622 kcal/kg, 379 kcal/cup
Available in: 30 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 26.0% min, Crude Fat 14.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Eicosapentaenoic Acid 0.05% min, Docosahexaenoic Acid 0.05% min, Calcium 1.20% min, Calcium 1.70% max, Selenium 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin E 60IU/kg min, Chondroitin Sulfate 850 mg/kg min, Glucosamine 250 mg/kg min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.2% min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.0% min.
NUTRO Large Breed Puppy Food is the perfect way to give your large breed puppy the nutrition they need to grow healthy and strong.
Made with high-quality chicken protein and brown rice, this food is packed with the nutrients your pup needs to thrive. Omega-3 fatty acids support healthy growth and development, while essential antioxidants help keep their immune system strong.
Plus, joint health support from glucosamine and chondroitin helps keep their bones and joints healthy as they grow.
And because it has no corn, wheat, or soy in the food, you can be sure your pup is getting only the best ingredients.
Give your large breed puppy the nutrition they need to grow up healthy and strong with NUTRO Large Breed Puppy Food.
Pros:
- Large breed puppy food for puppy up to 18 months.
- Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe.
- Made with Non- GMO ingredients.
- No corn, wheat, or soy added.
- Includes omega-3 Fatty Acids to support healthy growth and development.
- Contains antioxidants to support a healthy immune system.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin support joints and mobility.
- Includes calcium for strong teeth and bones.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with chicken or poultry allergies.
3. IAMS Smart Puppy Large Breed Dog Food
Key ingredients: Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Corn Gluten Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Fish Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Brewers Yeast, Dried Egg Product, Carrot, Biotin, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3633 kcal/kg, 378 kcal/cup
Available in: 15 lbs, 30.6 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Vitamin E 60 IU/kg, Glucosamine 350 mg/kg, Crude Protein 27.0%, Crude Fat 14.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0%, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.45%, Omega 6 fatty acids 2.25%, Phosphorus 0.8%, Calcium 1.2%, Moisture 10.0%.
IAMS Smart Puppy Large Breed Dog Food is a premium food formulated to meet the unique needs of large breed puppies, giving them the nutritional foundation they need for a long, healthy life.
Real chicken is the first ingredient for protein which promotes strong muscle growth, and it also includes fibers and prebiotics to help maintain a healthy digestive system.
Antioxidants support a strong immune system. This specially crafted formula is made in the USA with the finest ingredients including no corn, wheat, or soy.
In addition, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate help support healthy joints and bones, making this an ideal food for large-breed puppies who are susceptible to osteoarthritis as they age.
Pros:
- Includes Omega-3 DHA for healthy brain and eye development.
- Strong Bones and Joints with Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
- Fiber and prebiotic blend support healthy digestion.
- Antioxidants promote a strong immune system.
- 100% nutrition with no fillers.
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Proteins for strong muscles.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
Key ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas, Pea Protein, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Menhaden Fish Meal, Blueberries, Carrots, Salt, Salmon Oil, Taurine, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3,578 kcal/kg or 352 kcal/cup
Available in: 24 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 32.0% min, Crude Fat 14.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.50% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 0.10% min, Calcium 1.40% min, Calcium 1.75% max, Phosphorus 1.4% max, Phosphorus 1.0% min, Zinc 135 mg/kg min, Selenium 0.4 mg/kg min, Vitamin E 100 IU/kg min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.8% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.75% min, Arachidonic Acid 0.07% min, Taurine 0.10% min, Glucosamine 800 mg/kg min, Chondroitin Sulfate 600 mg/kg min.
AMERICAN JOURNEY Large Breed Dog Food For Puppies is the perfect choice for dogs who do not prefer chicken meat due to allergies.
Made with real salmon as the first ingredient, this food provides plenty of protein to support growing muscles. Additionally, the balance of calcium and phosphorus helps ensure proper bone development in large-breed puppies.
Plus, ARA and DHA help support brain and vision development. And best of all, this food contains no corn, wheat, or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Therefore, when looking for a dog food brand that provides overall health and wellness without compromising on the taste, AMERICAN JOURNEY Large Breed Dog Food For Puppies is a great option to consider.
Pros:
- Real Salmon is the first ingredient in this Salmon & Sweet Potato recipe.
- High quality protein for lean muscles.
- No corn, wheat, or soy ingredients.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Contains ARA and DHA promoting brain and vision development.
- Calcium and phosphorus help in healthy bone development.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with fish sensitivities.
Key ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Oats, Whole Grain Sorghum, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Pork Fat, Chicken Liver Flavor, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Lactic Acid, Pork Flavor, Iodized Salt, Potassium Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 394 kcal/cup
Available in: 15.5 lbs, 30 lbs, 33 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 24.0% min, Crude Fat 11.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium 0.8% min, Vitamin E 425 IU/kg min, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 95 mg/kg min, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 0.1% min.
HILL’S Science Diet Large Breed Puppy Food is a complete and balanced diet designed specifically for large-breed puppies – a dog food that will provide your pup with everything they need to grow into a healthy, strong adult dog
Made from natural, high-quality ingredients – with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It’s also made in the USA!
This large-breed puppy food contains chicken meal and oats as its main ingredients, providing your pup with high-quality protein for maintaining lean muscles, as well as the optimal calcium level for bone growth.
Plus, DHA is included for brain and eye development. Your pup will love the taste of this delicious food, and you’ll love knowing that they’re getting all the nutrients they need to grow into a healthy big dog!
Pros:
- Veterinarians’ #1 recommended brand.
- Chicken and Oats recipe.
- Includes DHA for cognitive or healthy brain development.
- Includes optimal minerals for strong bones and teeth.
- No chicken or poultry by-product meals are included.
- No synthetic colors and no artificial flavors.
- Vitamins E and C and antioxidants promote a strong immune system.
Cons:
- Not suitable for overweight dogs.
6. DIAMOND Naturals, Food for Large Breed Puppy
Key ingredients: Lamb, lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, grain sorghum, dried yeast, egg product, ground white rice, fish meal, tomato pomace, flaxseed, natural flavor, salmon oil, salt, taurine, dried chicory root, L-Carnitine, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, others, vitamins, minerals.
Caloric content: 3,650 kcal/kg, 414 kcal/cup
Available in: 6 lbs, 20 lbs, 40 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 27.0% min, Crude Fat 15.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 0.05% min, Calcium 1.2% min, Phosphorus 1.0% min, Zinc 150 mg/kg min, Selenium 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin A 10,0000 IU/kg min, Vitamin E 150 IU/kg min, Taurine 0.12% min, L-Carnitine 300 mg/kg min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.0% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.3% min.
Get your large breed puppy off to a healthy start with DIAMOND Naturals Lamb and Rice Formula Puppy Food.
This premium food is made with real pasture-raised lamb and provides high-quality protein and amino acids to support lean muscle growth.
It also contains added vitamins and minerals for skin and coat health, plus our proprietary probiotics blend to support digestion.
Plus, there are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The recipe also includes antioxidants supporting a strong immune system whereas the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote healthy and shiny skin and coat.
Give your big puppy the nourishment they need to grow up strong and healthy with DIAMOND Naturals Lamb and Rice Formula Puppy Food.
Pros:
- Lamb & Rice formula
- Complete and Balanced food for large breed puppies.
- Made in the USA with quality ingredients.
- Includes no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Contains pastured-raised lamb providing proteins for lean muscles.
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.
- Antioxidants promote a strong immune system and a healthy lifestyle.
- Includes proprietary probiotics to support digestion.
Cons:
- Includes meat meals.
Key ingredients: Corn, chicken by-product meal, wheat, wheat gluten, chicken fat, brewers rice, corn gluten meal, natural flavors, brewers rice flour, dried plain beet pulp, vegetable oil, fish oil, salt, psyllium seed husk, taurine, others, vitamins, minerals.
Caloric content: 3,667 kcal/kg, 352 kcal/cup
Available in: 2.5 lbs, 3 lbs, 6 lbs, 6 lbs, 13 lbs, 15 lbs, 17 lbs, 18 lbs, 30 lbs, 35 lbs, 35 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 28.0% min, Crude Fat 14.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Vitamin E 350 IU/kg min, Glucosamine 371 mg/kg min, Chondroitin Sulfate 3.75mg/kg min.
ROYAL CANIN Large Puppy Food is a top-quality kibble designed to eliminate the risk of choking, and the highly digestible portions help promote digestive health.
The specialized blend of minerals encourages bone and joint strength, while the vitamins and antioxidant blend are a great supporter of strong immune system development.
Taurine present in the formula, helps support the cardiovascular functions of your dog.
Plus, ROYAL CANIN Large Puppy Food is formulated to be highly palatable – it is the perfect, balanced and complete nutrition premium puppy food that will support your furry friend’s healthy development and which your pup is sure to love!
Pros:
- Bone and cartilage development with the specialized mineral blend.
- Made in the USA.
- Includes proteins for high digestibility.
- Antioxidants including Vitamin E promote a strong immune system.
- Encourages thorough chewing and reduces the risk of choking with the exclusive kibble design.
Cons:
- Includes wheat, corn, and chicken by-product meals.
8. EUKANUBA, Puppy Large Breed Food
Key ingredients: Chicken, Corn Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal (Natural source of Chondroitin Sulfate and Glucosamine), Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Brewers Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Flavor, Dried Egg Product, Fish Oil, Brewers Dried Yeast, Fish Meal, Salt, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3723 kcal/kg, 357 kcal/cup.
Available in: 4.5 lbs, 16 lbs, 30 lbs, 40 lbs.
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein (min.) 26.0%, Crude Fat (min.) 14.0%, Crude Fiber (max.) 3.7%, Moisture (max.) 10.0%, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) (min.) 0.11%, Calcium (min.) 1.08%, Phosphorus (min.) 0.94%, Vitamin E (min.) 280 IU/kg.
EUKANUBA Puppy Large Breed Food is formulated to provide your large breed puppy with everything they need for optimal development.
It starts with chicken as the first ingredient for high-quality protein to help build strong muscles and bones.
Made in the USA with premium-quality ingredients having calcium and phosphorus which are a perfect combination supporting healthy and strong bones and teeth.
The natural fiber and prebiotic blend aid in gentle digestion, while the immune system is supported by antioxidants and Vitamin E.
High DHA levels promote healthy brain development, making EUKANUBA Puppy Large Breed Food the perfect choice for your large breed puppy’s growth and development.
Pros:
- Chicken is the 1st ingredient
- Made in the USA.
- Include fiber and prebiotic blend promoting healthy digestion.
- Proven DHA levels supports healthy brain and eye development.
- Antioxidants support a strong immune system.
- Optimised fat and carbohydrates to fuel your large breed puppy growth and energy.
- Protein, calcium, and phosphorus promote healthy muscle and bone growth.
Cons:
- It is higher in price compared to other dog food brands on the list.
Key ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Pea Protein, Tapioca Starch, Pea Starch, Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Dried Tomato Pomace, Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Natural Flavor, Dried Egg Product, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Fish Oil (source of ARA-Arachidonic acid, DHA.
Caloric content: 3,555 kcal/kg, 411 kcal/cup
Available in: 24 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 35.0% min, Crude Fat 14.0% min, Crude Fiber 6.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, DHA 0.15% min, EPA 0.1% min, Calcium 1.2% min, Phosphorus 1.0% min, Choline 2,750 mg/kg min, ARA 0.05 % min, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1.0% min, Omega 6 Fatty Acids 2.5% min, L-Carnitine 100 mg/kg min.
Every large breed puppy needs food that will help them grow into a strong and healthy adult dog. That’s why you should try BLUE BUFFALO Wilderness Large Breed Puppy Food.
This food is made with real chicken ad the #1 ingredient for protein to encourage strong muscle growth, and it also contains DHA for cognitive development.
Plus, the LifeSource Bits help support immune system health.
Having no corn, wheat, or soy ingredients, and no artificial flavors or preservatives you can feel good about giving your puppy the best start in life with BLUE BUFFALO Wilderness Large Breed Puppy Food.
Pros:
- Includes DHA and ARA for brain and eye development.
- Helps promote tartar removal.
- No corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives are included.
- No chicken or poultry by-product meals are added.
- Essential vitamins and mineral support immune system health.
- Omega 3 and 6 included for healthy skin and coat.
- Optimal mix of calcium and minerals for proper bone development.
- Include real chicken as the #1 ingredient promoting strong and lean muscle growth.
Cons:
- It is not suitable for dogs with chicken or poultry sensitivities.
Key ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Ground Brown Rice, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Barley, Oats, Tomato Pomace, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Ground Flaxseed, Tomatoes, Salmon Oil, Carrots, Natural Chicken Flavor, Salt, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries.
Caloric content: 3,533 kcal/kg or 367 kcal/cup
Available in: 15 lbs, 30 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 29.0% min, Crude Fat 13.0% min, Crude Fiber 5.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium 1.3% min, Phosphorus 0.9% min, Vitamin A 25000 IU/kg min, Vitamin E 200 IU/kg min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 3.5% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.75% min, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 0.10% min, Taurine 0.09% min.
Healthy development is key for large-breed puppies and that’s why WELLNESS Complete Health Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies is a perfect choice.
This recipe features deboned chicken, brown rice, and salmon meal to provide high-quality protein for optimal energy.
Omega fatty acids from flaxseed help support a healthy coat and skin, while added DHA promotes healthy bone, brain, and eye development.
Taurine in the formula promotes healthy heart functions and as this recipe is made in the USA without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, you can rest assured that your pup is getting only the best.
So, give your pup the best start possible with WELLNESS Complete Health Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies.
Pros:
- Deboned Chicken, Brown Rice & Salmon meal recipe.
- Natural ingredients and nutrients for large puppies.
- Made in the USA.
- Guaranteed levels of calcium and phosphorous for bone and muscle development.
- Free from any GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
- Includes omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- Contains taurine for healthy heart functions.
- Includes DHA – for healthy bone, brain and eye development.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with pea allergies.
FAQs
Question: What is considered large breed dog ?
Technically any dog that’s at least 50 pounds is considered a large breed. So any puppy that’s classified as a breed that’s expected to weigh between 50-100 pounds full-grown is considered a large breed.
Question: Can my large breed puppy eat adult dog food ?
It depends. Obviously, puppies and dogs have different needs when it comes to the types of nutrients that they’re consuming, so it’s important to keep this in mind. But some puppy breeds may be able to consume certain types of adult dog foods, depending on the certain ingredients in that food.
Question:How Much Food Could I Feed My Large Breed Puppy ?
This depends on the size of your puppy as well as the type of food that you’re giving them. Most food products for large breed puppy come with serving suggestions on the label, but most puppies should be fed at least 1/2 cup to 1 cup of dry food.
Question: How often & when do I feed my large breed puppy ?
This also depends on your puppy’s size. To find out, you should consult your dog’s vet and consider how much food they need to eat in a day and then divide that by the number of times that you’re available to feed them. Most people feed them at least three times a day, and it’s usually when they eat their meals.
Question: When do I switch my large breed puppies to adult dog food ?
It varies among breeds, but most puppies should transfer to adult food sometime between six months to 12 months.
Large Breed Puppy Food Conclusion
Ultimately, it’s important that you provide the right dog food for your large breed puppy to ensure that they grow to their fullest. Since they’re large breed puppies, you know that they’re going to eventually weigh at least 50 pounds, requiring you to make sure that you provide them with the well-balanced diet with vitamins and the needed ingredients to promote joint and bone health.
With the above description and understanding, finding your large breed puppy food should now be easier. That being said, you should review this list and consider which products have the best flavors and your preferred ingredients suited to your large breed puppy needs. After that, you’re highly encouraged to choose between any of these products, since they are well regarded in the market for having high quality ingredients.
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Author:
Hebby Bailey
- Updated on November 21, 2023
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