Large breed dogs require a specific type of dog food that caters to their unique nutritional needs. The best dog food for large breeds should contain high-quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and healthy fats to support their growth and development.
When it comes to purchasing dog food for large breeds, pet owners should pay attention to the ingredients list and choose products that do not contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or colors. Additionally, it’s crucial to select dog food that is appropriate for the dog’s age and activity level.
We spent hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the ones that are best for large breed dogs. In this article, we will share our top picks and provide a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best dog food for your furry friend.
Best Dog Food for Large Breeds
As dog owners, we know that large breed dogs have unique nutritional needs. They require a diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support their growth and development. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right food for your furry friend. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dog food for large breeds. Our list includes options that are specifically formulated for large breed dogs, with high-quality ingredients that will keep your pup healthy and happy.
1. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for large breed adult dogs. This product is specially formulated to provide the energy needs of large breed adult dogs. It is made in the USA with global ingredients that you can trust.
Pros
- Supports your grown dog’s joint health with natural sources of Glucosamine & Chondroitin
- Promotes lean muscle in large dogs with high-quality protein
- Maintains your senior dog’s healthy skin and shiny coat with nourishing omega-6 fatty acids & vitamin E
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and barley recipe
- The food may be too dry for some dogs
- Some customers have reported issues with the packaging
We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our large breed dog for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The natural sources of Glucosamine & Chondroitin have helped support his joint health, and the high-quality protein has helped him maintain lean muscle mass.
One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and barley recipe. Additionally, the food may be too dry for some dogs, so it is important to ensure that your dog has access to plenty of water. Some customers have also reported issues with the packaging, so it is important to inspect the bag carefully upon arrival.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for large breed adult dogs. It is a high-quality product that provides the necessary nutrition for optimal health and energy levels.
2. Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula
We highly recommend the Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula for large breed dog owners who want to support their pet’s overall health and wellbeing.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, which supports strong muscles and a healthy heart.
- Contains a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients tailored to support the health of large breed dogs.
- Includes four antioxidant sources to provide immune support for dogs and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support a shiny, healthy skin and coat for dogs.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
- The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.
- The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.
We have been using the Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula for our German Shepherd for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The formula is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of large breed dogs, and we have seen a noticeable difference in our dog’s coat and skin health.
The inclusion of real chicken as the first ingredient is a huge plus, as it supports strong muscles and a healthy heart. Additionally, the SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients in the formula is tailored to support the health of large breed dogs, which is essential for our German Shepherd’s long-term wellbeing.
We also appreciate that the formula includes four antioxidant sources to provide immune support for dogs and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support a shiny, healthy skin and coat for dogs. Our dog’s coat has never looked better since we started using this dog food.
While some dogs may not like the taste of the food, we have not had any issues with our German Shepherd. However, we have heard from other dog owners that the kibble size may be too large for some dogs. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.
Overall, we highly recommend the Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula for large breed dog owners who want to provide their pets with high-quality, nutritious food that supports their overall health and wellbeing.
3. Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food, Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports joint health and immune system, then you should consider Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food, Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula.
Pros
- The crunchy kibble combined with tender, shredded pieces provides a delicious taste and texture that dogs love.
- The high protein formula, with real chicken as the first ingredient, ensures that your dog gets all the necessary nutrients to support muscle growth and maintenance.
- The product is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health, which helps your dog stay healthy and happy.
Cons
- The product is not eligible for international shipping.
- Some customers reported that their dogs did not like the food or experienced digestive issues after eating it.
- The product is more expensive than other dog food brands.
We recently tried Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food, Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula for our large breed dog, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste and texture of the food, and we noticed a significant improvement in his joint health and overall energy levels. The product is easy to digest, and the guaranteed live probiotics ensure that our dog’s immune system stays strong.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Joint Health Large Breed Dog Food, Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula for large breed dogs who need a high-quality, nutritious diet that supports joint and immune health.
4. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, No Corn or Wheat, Made in USA with Real Meat, Natural Ingredients, Glucosamine, Probiotics & Omega Fatty Acids (30-Pound Bag) Adult Food 30 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you want to provide your large breed dog with a nutritious and balanced diet, then you should consider buying the Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. It contains wholesome and natural ingredients that provide all the necessary nutrients to promote overall health and wellbeing.
Pros
- The crunchy kibble is protein-rich and made with chicken and brown rice, providing whole-body health to your dog.
- The recipe is created by nutritionists, veterinarians, and animal lovers, ensuring an ideal balance of nature’s finest ingredients.
- The food supports healthy weight and strong joints, supported by glucosamine for strong joints, antioxidants for a strong immune system, vitamins for healthy eyes and teeth, omega fatty acids to ensure healthy skin and coat, and probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
- It may be expensive compared to other dog foods in the market.
- The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.
We have been using this dog food for our large breed dog for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his coat’s shine and overall health. The food contains all the essential nutrients that our dog needs, and he loves the taste of it.
The crunchy kibble is made with high-quality chicken and brown rice, providing our dog with a protein-rich diet that promotes whole-body health. The recipe is created by nutritionists, veterinarians, and animal lovers, ensuring that it contains an ideal balance of nature’s finest ingredients.
Moreover, the food supports healthy weight and strong joints, which is essential for large breed dogs. The glucosamine in the food helps in building strong joints, while antioxidants support a strong immune system. The vitamins in the food promote healthy eyes and teeth, while omega fatty acids ensure healthy skin and coat. The probiotics and taurine in the food promote a healthy heart.
However, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, and it may be expensive compared to other dog foods in the market. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for some dogs, making it difficult for them to eat.
Overall, if you want to provide your large breed dog with a nutritious and balanced diet, then you should consider buying the Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. It is an excellent product that promotes overall health and wellbeing in dogs.
5. IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend purchasing IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food for your furry friend.
Pros
- The first ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken, and features smaller kibble size.
- Maintains bone and joint health with a formula tailored to support large breed active dogs.
- Promotes healthy digestion and immunity with a tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- The price may be higher than other brands.
- The bag may be difficult to reseal.
We have been using IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food for our large breed dog for several months now. We have noticed a significant improvement in his bone and joint health, as well as his overall energy and activity level.
The smaller kibble size is perfect for our dog’s mouth, and he seems to enjoy the taste. We have also noticed an improvement in his digestion and immunity, which we attribute to the tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics.
The only downside we have noticed is that the bag may be difficult to reseal, and the price may be higher than other brands. However, we believe that the benefits of this high-quality dog food outweigh the minor inconveniences.
Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, tailored dog food for their large breed dog.
6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s specially formulated for your large breed dog, you might want to consider the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food.
Pros
- Real meat is the first ingredient
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune system health
Cons
- Expensive
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- May cause stomach upset in some dogs
We tried this dog food for our large breed dog and were impressed with the high-quality ingredients. The real chicken as the first ingredient helped our dog build and maintain healthy muscles, and the wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit provided a balanced diet. We also appreciated that the formula contained glucosamine and chondroitin to help support our dog’s joint health and overall mobility.
Another great feature of this dog food is the antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. These are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.
However, this dog food is on the expensive side, and some dogs may not like the taste. We also noticed that some dogs may experience stomach upset when transitioning to this food.
Overall, if you’re looking for a natural dog food that’s specially formulated for your large breed dog and contains high-quality ingredients, the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food might be worth considering.
7. Nutro ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your large breed dog, we highly recommend Nutro ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food.
Pros
- Made with a trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon
- Provides complete and balanced nutrition for large breed adult dogs
- Made with high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers
Cons
- May contain trace amounts of certain ingredients due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
- Some customers have reported high prices compared to other dog food brands
- Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this dog food
We’ve been using Nutro ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food for our own large breed dog for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that his coat looks healthier and shinier since we started using it.
One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s made with a trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon. Chicken is the #1 ingredient, which means that this dog food is packed with high-quality protein that will help keep your dog strong and healthy.
Another great thing about Nutro ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food is that it provides complete and balanced nutrition for large breed adult dogs. This means that you can feel confident that your dog is getting all of the nutrients he needs to stay healthy and happy.
Finally, we appreciate that Nutro ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with high-quality ingredients carefully sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers. We know that we can trust this brand to provide our dog with the best possible nutrition.
Overall, we highly recommend Nutro ULTRA Adult Large Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their large breed dog.
8. Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
If you are looking for a dog food for your small breed dog, we highly recommend Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food.
Pros
- Precise nutrition for small dogs
- Helps maintain a healthy weight
- Supports skin and coat health
Cons
- Some picky eaters may not like the taste
- May be expensive for some budgets
- Not suitable for large breed dogs
We have been using Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our miniature poodle for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in her overall health. The exclusive kibble design is perfectly adapted for her miniature jaw, making it easy for her to eat. We also appreciate that the formula helps maintain a healthy weight with the addition of L-carnitine, which also helps meet her high energy needs.
Another benefit of this dog food is its optimal levels of fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which support skin and coat health. Our dog’s coat has become noticeably shinier and softer since switching to this food. Additionally, the enhanced palatability of the food makes it easier to satisfy the fussy appetites of small dogs.
While we have had a positive experience with this product, some picky eaters may not like the taste. Additionally, the cost may be a bit high for some budgets. Lastly, it is important to note that this dog food is not suitable for large breed dogs.
Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dog owners who want to maintain their pet’s health and well-being.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best dog food for large breeds, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Nutritional Requirements
Large breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than smaller dogs. They require a diet that is high in protein, fat, and calories to support their growth and development. Look for dog food that is specifically formulated for large breeds and meets the nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Ingredient Quality
The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is important. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog food that contains fillers, such as corn or wheat, as they provide little nutritional value and can cause digestive issues.
Joint Health
Large breed dogs are prone to joint issues, such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. Look for dog food that contains ingredients that support joint health, such as glucosamine and chondroitin.
Digestive Health
Large breed dogs are also prone to digestive issues. Look for dog food that contains probiotics, which can help support digestive health and improve nutrient absorption.
Feeding Schedule
Large breed dogs should be fed multiple small meals throughout the day to avoid overeating and prevent bloat. Consider feeding your dog at set times each day to establish a routine.
Portion Control
Portion control is important to prevent overeating and obesity in large breed dogs. Use a measuring cup to ensure you are feeding your dog the correct portion size based on their weight and activity level.
When choosing the best dog food for your large breed dog, consider these factors to ensure you are providing them with a nutritious and balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest diet for a large dog?
A healthy diet for a large dog should include high-quality protein, healthy fats, and a balanced amount of carbohydrates. Large breed dogs require a diet that is specifically formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. A diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates is ideal for large breeds.
What dogs should be on large breed dog food?
Large breed dog food is specifically formulated for dogs that weigh over 50 pounds at maturity. Breeds that typically require large breed dog food include Great Danes, Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, and other large breeds.
Should large dogs eat grain?
Grain-free diets have become popular in recent years, but it is not necessary for large dogs to eat grain-free food. In fact, some grains can be a good source of fiber and nutrients for dogs. However, it is important to choose high-quality grains and avoid fillers like corn and wheat.
Do large breed dogs need more protein?
Large breed dogs require a higher amount of protein than smaller dogs. This is because they have a larger body mass and require more energy to maintain muscle mass and support their overall health. A diet that is high in protein can help keep large breed dogs healthy and active.
Which brands offer the best large breed dog food?
There are many brands that offer high-quality large breed dog food. Some of the top brands include Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. It is important to choose a brand that uses high-quality ingredients and is specifically formulated for large breed dogs.
What are the top ingredients to look for in large breed dog food?
The top ingredients to look for in large breed dog food include high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish. It is also important to look for healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, large breed dog food should contain a balanced amount of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support overall health and wellbeing.
Featured Image by RD Law from Pixabay
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