What Do We Suggest
Food is indispensable for having a complete, healthy, and flourishing life span. Your loved Great Dane needs the same. Keeping in view Great Dane parents concern in choosing the right food for their dogs. We have enumerated our best healthy and nutritious Great Dane puppy food recommendations.
If you are yet unable to decide on the dog food to feed a Great Dane puppy, we recommend the NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food as our best dry dog food for Great Dane puppies.
This high quality Great Dane puppy food is grain free. And provides the pups with a reliable strong foundation. You can extend the time a Great Dane pup is on puppy food. It is indubitably favored than not fed on a puppy diet long enough. Therefore, it is advised to feed Great Dane puppy food till the pup is 15-18 months old. After that you can switch to a senior dry dog food for Great Danes from the brands mentioned above.
Although we have reviewed the best dog food for Great Danes even so it is suggested to check the pack of the Great Dane puppy food product.
The Great Dane dog food formula recipes keep on changing. Hence it is better to read the levels of various components including Calcium and Phosphorous, before feeding. The largest levels of calcium and phosphorus in a recipe for Great Danes are 1.5 and 1.0 respectively.
Purina Pro Plan Dry Puppy Food Large Breed
Purina Chicken and Rice formulas are made for large breed puppies. It is made by using high-quality protein contents extracted from a farm-raised chicken. Moreover, this formula contains glucosamine that strengthens the bones, joints, and cartilage of large breed puppies. The recipe is a great combination of chicken and brown rice, rich in DHA which is the main constituent of mothers feed. The DHA helps the dogs develop their brain, eyes, and cognitive skills.
Purina Pro Plan Dry Puppy food is fortified with prebiotics and probiotics that are very useful for indigestion. The antioxidants present in this blend strengthen the immune system of your Dane while the calcium and phosphorus work on his joints and bones. It also includes Omega fatty acids necessary for the health of the skin and coat.
Purina believes that each bred has different needs so it has designed the dog food accordingly. Thing formula targets large breeds like the Dane puppies so it concentrates on the growth and development of those lovely pets.
Pros:
Choosing A Dog Food For A Great Dane Puppy
Choosing the right dog food largely depends upon the age of your dog and also upon its activity level. The dog food for a Great Dane puppy must contain greater protein content and calories for the growth and development of the bones than a normal puppy or an older dog. However, more food intake or excessive intake may cause growing them too quickly and lead to the development of orthopedic issues. So, make sure that the food you buy does not have a calorie content more than the specified range to prevent overgrowth.
Look for a formula that is designed according to the special nutritional requirements of the large puppy breeds because these specific dog foods provide a balance of proteins, calories, and other ingredients that are needed for the growth of large dogs. The balance of proteins and calories is necessary for the optimal weight balance, along with the growth of bones to avoid bone and joint diseases.
On average, a Great Dane puppy feeding chart must contain at least 22% of proteins however, the calorie intake must be limited to 18% per serving. This breed of dog is giant in size, and this is the reason they do not need a great number of calories and fats like the small breed. Make sure that the recipe you choose your giant buddy must fulfill the following dietary requirements
Recommended Reading: When To Switch Your Dog Off Puppy Food
Health Issues And Diet
Unfortunately, a predisposition to several health issues accompanies the Great Danes giant size. Work with your veterinarian to develop a diet that best addresses your dogs unique needs.
Bloat and Gastric Torsion
Bloat was the most common emergency we treated Great Danes for in the veterinary hospital. It is a scary condition that can have serious consequences. But diet can play an essential role in managing the risk of this condition.
Gastric torsion causes the stomach to twist when overextended. This blocks blood circulation, which can be fatal. Splitting your Great Danes food into multiple meals per day will help prevent this condition. Large kibble size can also help slow down your pup when eating.
Joint Problems and Hip Dysplasia
The Great Danes large size places excess strain on their bones and joints. Weight management is a crucial aspect of reducing the risks of joint disease.
Great Danes with joint disease can benefit from food that includes glucosamine. This ingredient helps ease joint discomfort.
Puppies who grow too quickly can develop hip dysplasia. This skeletal disease involves a malformation of the hip joint that can cause arthritis. A balanced diet is crucial for preventing developmental disorders in growing Danes.
Heart Issues
Great Danes can suffer from dilated cardiomyopathy. This disease occurs when the heart enlarges, resulting in a reduced pumping capacity.
Immune and Endocrine Health
Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
This Wellness Large Breed Recipe has chicken as its base ingredient. Other nutrients and minerals including calcium and phosphorus have been added to ensure your dog gets the best for healthy growth. Yucca Schidigera extract has been particularly added to reduce the smell of your Danes stool. This formula contains no corn, no wheat, and no soy.
Also Check: Is Blue Buffalo Dog Food Aafco Approved
What Is The Best Protein Level For Great Dane Puppy Food
Many people believe that protein is the most important thing to look at. This is fairly dated information, based again on old observations. Some people believe you should keep protein levels less than 24%.
Many Great Danes are being starved of protein in the name of this. Protein provides amino acids that are necessary for health. Protein must come primarily from a meat source. Meat meals and meat by-product meals are ideal, as they offer a concentrated source of amino acids and protein!
Food brands that use fresh deboned meat and no meat meals will be deficient and likely heavy in starches dont fall for marketing that is designed to appeal to your tastes. Foods that are extremely heavy in peas, lentils, garbanzo beans, potatoes, or derivatives of them are not safe to feed.
Meat meals contain biologically appropriate meat tissue, bone, cartilage, and organ. These ingredients have also been shown to reduce the risk of bloat by 53%!
Some of the best foods will have protein levels up to 32%! Royal Canin Giant Breed Puppy, for example, which has been scientifically proven for growth.
Large and giant breed foods from science-backed companies such as Purina, Iams, Hills, Eukanuba, and Royal Canin will have been correctly formulated for growth, regardless of the protein level indicated on the bag.
How to Choose a Healthy Food for your Dog:
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association has put together some common-sense guidelines for choosing food.
Great Dane Dog Food: Faq
Lets go through the frequently asked questions about the best dog food for Great Danes:
What kind of food is best for Great Danes?
The best dog foods for Great Danes are those formulated for large breeds. The nutrient needs of the Great Danes vary depending on several factors. So, check your dogs age, activity level, size, sensitivities, and taste preference to determine the best dog food.
How much should I feed my Great Dane dog?
Eight-week-old Great Dane puppies should start with 2 to 4 cups, gradually increasing to 7 to 10 cups in their first year. This should be divided into three meals a day. Male adults can be fed 8 to 14 cups a day while female adults from 6 to 9 cups daily. This may vary according to their size and activity level.
Do Great Danes need a special diet?
Great Danes need dog food specially designed for large breeds with large-sized kibbles for proper chewing. Some Great Danes with food sensitivities or medical conditions may need special diets prescribed by the vet, just like any breed.
Should Great Danes eat grain-free food?
We included grain-free options in our list above for you to choose from. The necessity of feeding your Great Dane grain-free dog food depends on his nutrient needs, taste preference, and health conditions. Whether grain-free options are better or not is still up for more studies.
How often should you feed a Great Dane?Do Great Danes have sensitive stomachs?
Read next
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Healthy Great Dane Puppy Food You Have To Check Out
This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.
You certainly do not want to try out any dry dog food on your puppy. It will put the pup on the receiving end by thwarting its natural potential to develop. Thus instead of feeding any puppy food you do not know would be healthy for the pup, choose our suggested kibble food recipes.
To save you all the rumpus, we have further categorized the best dry dog food brands available with Great Dane puppy food recommendations. Feel comfortable and start feeding the best food to your dog or pup immediately.
All below mentioned Great Dane dog food recommendations feature
Real meat as a premium protein ingredient. Natural sources of Glucosamine, probiotics, and fatty acids. Zero artificial additives.
If you are in a rush and just want to know what is the best dry dog food for Great Dane breed, then NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is our recommended healthy food particularly for Great Dane puppies.
In the article we will be reviewing the following best dog food for Great Danes. Along with the best puppy food to feed a Great Dane pup.
Do Great Danes Have A Lot Of Health Problems
Great Danes usually do not have many health problems but they easily catch one very common health issue named bloat and torsion. It is not a major health issue or life-threatening issue but it is quite painful for the Great Danes. In this disease, they get bloated because of the trapped air inside their stomach. It is usually caused naturally when the stomach twists itself however it has a treatment as well.
Some of the dogs are more prone to this problem but others are not. If a dog faces this problem once then chances are that it will occur again as well. Try giving your Great Dane a good diet to make sure it is not bloated.
Recommended Reading: Reviews For Diamond Naturals Dog Food
Soft Dry Dog Food Faqs
Soft dry dog food is a relatively new product on the market, and so it is natural for you to have some questions about this kind of food. Heres answering some frequently asked questions that most pet parents have.
Is there soft kibble dog food?
There is a wide range of soft kibbles available in dog food. They are neither hard and dry nor of wet gravy but soft, juicy, and chewy. They are ideal for puppies and senior dogs for it is easy to consume, hassle-free, and less messy.
Should you moisten dry dog food?
Moistened dry dog food is very suitable for pups, old dogs, or dogs with dental problems. This food is easy to chew and is palatable. By adding some amount of water or any other prescribed liquid, the food gets softened and is easy to eat. Moistening dry food for a dog also depends on the food choices of the dog. Some dogs are very picky and fussy about the type, form, and flavor of the food they are served. So, depending on their preferences, one must decide on whether to moisten dry food or not.
Is soft dog food good for old dogs?
As a dog grows old, they tend to develop sensitive and weak teeth. Replacing their dry food with soft, wet, and moistened food can help them in easing out their eating process. Thus, grinding on hard and dry food can become difficult and painful for them. One can also add some amount of fruits, vegetables, and canned food to their diet to fill in their nutrition requirements.
What is moist dog food?Should I mix wet and dry dog food?
What To Feed My Great Dane Puppy
So, weve found out how to answer, How much do you feed a Great Dane puppy? But what is the best food for a Great Dane puppy?
Perhaps youve come to this article looking for some great Great Dane puppy food recommendations!
Maybe youre looking for the best Great Dane puppy food brands you can splash out on to treat your pup.
Or you might be looking for a cheaper option that still provides your baby with all of the nutrients he needs to grow strong and healthy.
There are plenty of options of foods to feed your Great Dane puppy, from dry kibble to other nutrient-filled options.
Don’t Miss: Wellness Core Digestive Health Dog Food
Great Dane Puppy Diet Tips
- Only quality ingredients, see our Dry Dog Food section for more info.
- Moderate calorie kibble recommended, 350 to 400 calories per cup.
- Main protein from a named meat source.
- A secondary named meat protein source.
- Ideal protein content between 23% & 29%.
- “All Life Stages – Adult – Large & Giant Breed Puppy” formulas with nutrient levels as discussed.
- Ideal fat content ranging between 12% to 18%.
- All important calcium levels best for large breeds, between 1% to 1.3%.
- Phosphorus levels from 0.8% to 1.3% and calcium to phosphorus ratio between 1:1 and 1.4:1.
- Essential fatty acids , digestive enzymes, probiotics & trace minerals.
- Keep your Great Dane puppy slim enough to feel their last rib.
- Avoid foods with added calcium, NEVER supplement calcium!
Great Dane Breed Overview
- Size: 28 to 32 inches, or more
- Weight: 110 to 190 pounds
- Energy Level: Low
- Lifespan: 7 to 10 years
The Great Dane is one of the largest dog breeds out there and therefore also one of the most easily recognizable. These dogs grow up wards of 28 to 32 inches tall and it isnt uncommon for them to weigh more than 150 pounds at maturity.
Although they may be massive, these dogs have hearts of gold and they bond very closely with their masters. This breed generally responds well to training, though they can be stubborn at times and may require a few more repetitions than more intelligent breeds to master a command.
They will always do their best to defend their family, however, and they make wonderful family companions. Great Danes have short, low-maintenance coats and low needs for exercise, but they do have some important health considerations you need to keep in mind and the quality of their diet will significantly impact their long-term health and longevity.
OUR TOP 3 PICKS FOR DOG FOODS FOR GREAT DANES
| Most Affordable |
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Nom Noms cooked meals are a good balance between dry food and raw diets. Meals are prepared and arrive at your house ready to serve or store in the fridge . Each recipe is handmade weekly and delivered right to your door. The Porkalicious Potluck only has seven ingredients.
Nom Nom food comes in insulated, recyclable trays. Trays can be placed in your refrigerator or freezer up to 24 hours before its given to your dog.
Also Check: What Is The Best Dog Food For Puppies
Our 2022 Great Dane Feeding Guide
Most dog owners have a tendency of overfeeding puppies. In the case of Great Danes, this should be avoided at all costs because this dog breed grows very fast, in a short space of time. If you overfeed your Dane puppy you risk promoting abnormal bone growth in the pup. Use our comprehensive feeding guide below to help you get started off on the right foot with your feeding schedule.
Great Dane Puppy
How much should you feed your puppy? How many meals per day?
The general weights in the following table are designed to help you keep track of your puppys growth and ensure that your little pup is growing at a healthy, recommended pace. The monthly meal plan is geared at helping you effectively plan out your pups daily meal requirements and avoid overeating.
Ideal Weight for a Great Dane Puppy
| LIFE STAGE: |
| 3 |
Senior Great Dane
Great Danes reach their twilight years around the age of 5-7 years. These dogs are considered senior or elderly Great Danes. In this life stage, it is important to monitor the dogs feeding even more carefully, to ensure that the dog isnt at risk of becoming overweight. An overweight Great Dane will be subject to a host of medical problems ranging from osteochondrosis, dysplasia, heart failure, diabetes to osteoarthritis.
Ideal Weight for an Adult Great Dane
Recommended Food for a Senior Great Dane
| AGE |
| 3 |
Difference #1 Growth Timelines
While small and medium breeds typically reach their full growth potential in a few months, giant breeds like Great Danes often take up to to two years to reach their full size.
Over these two years, their bodies will experience massive growth and transformation that needs to be handled carefully.
Providing too many nutrients can result in unnecessary weight gain, orthopedic issues, and even result in growth-related diseases. The most common of these diseases include Panosteitis and Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy .
To help prevent these issues from arising, its best to control their food to encourage slow and controlled growth over their first two years.
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