Best Dry Dog Food For Puppies
If you’re wondering whether your puppy really needs a special food just for younger dogs, the answer is yes! Puppies need more calories, more fat, and a different vitamin and mineral balance to support healthy growth, Shepherd explains. Typically, puppy food is made for dogs under 1 year of age.
Though there aren’t any official AAFCO nutrient standards specifically for small and large breeds, some puppy foods are made specially for dogs of different sizes. “Balancing the nutrient needs of dogs given their wide size variety and ages is wise and common sense,” says Dodds. For instance, large breed puppies need a special ratio of calcium to phosphorus for their growing big bones, and they can benefit from supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin to help keep their joints healthy, according to Shepherd. On the flip side, puppy foods for smaller breeds often have smaller kibble pieces for smaller mouths. They may also be a bit higher in calories, since smaller breeds can have higher metabolisms.
If you want to make sure a food is appropriate for puppies, check the label for an AAFCO complete and balanced statement that says it’s intended for growth for all life stages. Some foods might also specifically state that they’re for younger dogs. Keep an eye out for any food that says “maintenance” on the package. These are meant specifically for adult dogs, so they won’t be right for a puppy.
Our picks for puppy food:
Charlee Bear Bearnola Bites Cranberry Cobbler Flavor Treats
First 5 ingredients: Oats, Honey, Cranberries, Oat Flour, Coconut Oil
Charlee Bear Bearnola Bites Cranberry Cobbler is a grain-inclusive dog treat that is great for dogs who love to munch on crunchy snacks.
These flavorful granola clusters are great for dogs of all ages. They are high in fiber from oats and oat flour, which help improve digestion and stool quality.
These treats have cranberries, which are loaded in antioxidants and nutrients that help decrease inflammation in dogs. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help improve bladder health as well as oral health. The many benefits of cranberries also include immune system boost and cancer prevention.
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Coconut oil is another superfood included in this bag of treats. It is high in essential fatty acids that not only support coat and skin health, but also cognitive function. It can also increase energy levels in dogs, not to mention it is very tasty. A cluster or two can certainly help perk your dog up.
According to feedback from buyers, dogs go nuts for these baked Bearnola Bites. Some of them were pleasantly surprised at how these meat-free treats excite their pooches. The perfectly sized clusters make them great for any size of dog. They can even be used as training rewards.
Pros:
- High-quality superfood ingredients
Cons:
- Not suitable for diabetic dogs or those who require low-glycemic treats
Diamond Naturals Beef Meal & Rice Formula Adult Dog Food
Best Budget Pick
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Beef Meal, 2. Ground White Rice, 3. Egg Product, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Dried Beet Pulp
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content : 3,518 kcal
- Analysis: Protein 25% | Fat 15% | Fiber 3.5% | Moisture 10%
Suitable for adult dogs of all breeds, the formula is rich in protein derived from fish and beef. The list of ingredients also includes various whole foods for lean nutrition and wholesome grains for maximum energy.
This recipe is a popular choice for pet parents who want a complete meal that includes powerful antioxidants and added vitamins for the health and well-being of their best friend.
Lastly, the essential omega fatty acids ensure your dogs coat stays healthy and shines!
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Our Pick For Wet Puppy Foodfreshpet Select Puppy
FreshPet Select puppy food is a non-GMO dog food free of artificial flavors and chemical preservatives. Their puppy formula consists of 100% natural farm-raised chicken with vegetables and brown rice. FreshPet food is always free of meat meal and by-products.
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* Note: Because wet food contains higher moisture levels than dry food, protein and fat ratios will not be comparable.
What Are Some Human Snacks I Can Feed My Puppy
Puppies are always eager to try new things, including human snacks. While it’s tempting to share your food with your furry friend, not all human foods are safe for dogs.
Before giving your puppy a snack, make sure it doesn’t contain any ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Some common dangerous ingredients include chocolate, raisins, and grapes.
If you’re not sure whether a food is safe for dogs, err on the side of caution and don’t give it to them. There are plenty of dog-safe snacks out there that your puppy will love just as much as people food.
So next time your puppy gives you those big, pleading eyes, reach for a bag of dog treats instead of your own snack. They’ll be just as happy, and a lot safer.
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Best Petco Dog Foods For Travel
Keeping your dog happy is a must. However, another thing thats just as important, if not more, is keeping them healthy! Thats why feeding your pooch a nutritious diet should be your number one responsibility as a pet owner. But getting the right dog food isnt easy, especially if you travel a lot with your dog. No matter how healthy the food is, its useless if your dog doesnt like how it tastes. This is why we want to recommend you the best Petco dog food. As you may already know, Petco is one of the leading companies that provide pet supplies, including pet food. Its collection of dog food never disappoints, and countless pet owners have purchased the ones on this list. You can rest assured that their dogs also love them! Keep scrolling and decide which food you should give your fido!
Regarding traveling with your dog, you should check out these best dog carriers! Also, you may want to get them one of these best dry shampoos for dogs to keep them clean!
Do I Need To Feed A Special Diet To My Large Breed Pup
Large breed puppies are more likely to develop joint and skeletal problems, which can worsen due to overfeeding. These dogs require controlled growth and thrive on food with higher calcium, fiber, and phosphorous levels. A large breed puppy should only be feed controlled calories and a balanced diet.
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Victor Performance Dog Food Pros And Cons
Listed below are some of the pros and cons.
PROS:
- Contains high levels of protein with premium-quality beef, chicken, and pork meals
- Suitable for both small, medium, and large breeds
- Ideal for sporting pups or dogs with high energy demands
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for long-term joint health
- Supports digestion and the immune system
CONS:
Why Trust The Spruce
This article was written by Arricca SanSone, a lifelong dog lover, who shares her home with two papillons who adore plush toys, snuggling, and barking at bunnies and delivery people. She researched the market based on an interview with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and criteria from the American Veterinary Medical Association, American College of Veterinary Nutrition, the Association of American Feed Control Officials, and the Pet Food Institute. She is a health and lifestyle writer for Prevention, Country Living, Veranda, House Beautiful, PureWow, and many others.
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How Do I Find Out If My Dog Is Allergic To Grains
Food-related allergies often present the same kind of symptoms in our dogs as we humans experience. Itchy skin, gastrointestinal upset of all kinds, lethargy, and ear infections are often indications of an allergy. As always, if any of these symptoms persist or are severe in nature, you should always consult your veterinarian.
What Are The Benefits Of Feeding My Dog Grains
Grains are usually one of the main sources of fiber in a dog food, so if you dont want to be waiting around for 30 minutes every time your dog goes outside, giving him a healthy dose of grains is a smart move.
Fiber can also be useful for lowering cholesterol and controlling blood sugar. This is especially important for overweight dogs, so be careful about cutting out grains if youre trying to convince your pup to drop a few pounds.
Many beneficial bacteria in the intestines thrive on healthy grains as well. If you keep those germs alive, your dog should absorb nutrients better, have smoother and more regular bowel movements, and have less gas .
There are many medical conditions that require nutrients that can only be found in grains as well, so be sure to check with your vet before making any changes to your dogs diet. The last thing you want to do is exacerbate a preexisting condition.
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Victor Active Dog And Puppy
This formula uses chicken, beef, and pork meals for a high protein diet intended for athletic dogs. The use of meal instead of whole proteins is intentional. Meals have a lot more concentrated protein than regular meats, and this allows Victor to pack in a much denser protein count in their kibble. It mixes antioxidant-rich sweet potatoes for complex carbohydrates, and the formula contains DHA which is critical for growing puppies.
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Hills Science Diet Dry Dog Food
Hills Science Diet Dry Dog Food, a sought-after dry food that is super nourishing, kicks off this list. As you can see from the picture below, this product is good for sensitive stomachs and skin. Its prebiotic fiber greatly improves your dogs digestive system, while Vitamin E and Omega-6 can nourish your dogs skin.
As the best Petco dog food, we should also mention that its made with natural ingredients only. So, you dont have to worry about GMOs, corn, and other dangerous ingredients. In fact, this food is also recommended by many professional vets! Considering its quality and popularity, you shouldnt think twice about getting your pooch this food!
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Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
Image courtesy Royal Canin
Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the needs of small-breed puppies. It’s made with high-quality proteins and nutrients, and it’s enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
This food also has a high protein content to help your puppy build lean muscle mass, and it’s made with high-quality ingredients that are easy to digest.
If you’re looking for a high-quality food for your small-breed puppy, Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great option. It’s made with high-quality proteins and nutrients, and it’s enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Puppy Formula
Protein 22.5% min, Fat 11% min, Fiber 4% max, Moisture 10% max
Top 5 ingredients: 1. Potatoes, 2. Duck Meal, 3. Duck, 4. Potato Protein, 5. Canola Oil
One of the biggest signs of quality for dog foods is if they use a single-source protein. Thankfully, this formula by Natural balance uses duck as its single protein source. With this grain-free formula, your pup would get fewer carbs and as much protein as possible. With added Omega-3, this puppy food helps dogs attain a shiny and smooth coat.
Also, check out these specific puppy food guides:
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Which Types Of Dog Is This Food Best Suited For
This product is suitable for small, medium, and large breed dogs. It is an excellent choice for adult dogs with high physical demands and energy levels. Whether your dog is a large breed dog like a Siberian husky or a breed like a Border collie, Victor Performance Dog food is suited for feeding them both.
Image source: victor super premium dog food
As promised, the formula is made with premium-quality ingredientsbeef, pork meals, and chicken, which are healthy protein sources. Victor Super Premium Dog Food High Energy doesnt contain any meat by-products, so you can sleep tight, knowing what youre feeding your beauty to.
This Victor dog food High Energy recipe is composed of 79% protein that comes from protein-dense ingredients like beef meal, chicken meal, and pork meal. These ingredients also give the whole formula a rich and savory flavor that your dog will surely love.
To sustain their high energy, this recipe contains gluten-free grains like grain sorghum and whole grain millet that provides carbohydrates. Other additional sources of carbs, fiber, and nutrients are dehydrated alfalfa meal, carrot powder, tomato pomace, and dried seaweed meal.
Victor High Energys recipe also contains selenium yeast that helps with metabolic function, cellular regeneration and for a boosted immune system. With prebiotics and probiotics, you are ensuring your poochs healthy digestion and overall healthy immune system.
Ingredient:
Best Affordable Puppy Food
While mass-market pet food brands may not market organic or natural ingredients, they do follow standard AAFCO guidelines. Not only that, but as big pet food companies, they often employ canine nutritionists to help design their formulas.
The experts at the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University explain that the most important information about your pets food isnt found in the marketing. Rather, they say, its vital that the manufacturer employ qualified nutritionists or use rigorous quality control practices.
Most major pet food companies do employ such experts, as you can see in this tool developed by the Pet Nutrition Alliance. All of that is to say: if you cant afford the primo food, your new puppy will be fine. Theyll still chew up your shoes and cover you in slobbery kisses.
Iams Proactive Health Smart Puppy
Iams is a mass-market brand that does contain corn, which is generally eschewed by boutique brands. However, its a solid quality option amongst its peers.
The recipe starts with real chicken and makes a point to avoid artificial dyes and preservatives, as well as soy or wheat.
Coming from the pet food experts at Purina, this quality food doesnt break the bank. Purina offers wet, dry, and large-breed versions in a variety of flavors.
This formula boasts chicken as the number one ingredient.
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Best Vegan Dog Food Brands
Wild Earth and V-Dog are the best vegan dog food brands on the market in 2020. Their food is packed full of high-protein ingredients and superfoods. Although your pup wont be getting any meat, they will be fully nourished and energized.
Some manufactures tout their specialized formulas based on dog breed. For instance, a high-energy farm dog who corrals livestock all day may need a much higher protein content food than an American Bulldog who spends the majority of his days laying on the couch. If you own a dog who is prone to specific diseases, periodontal illness, or congenital conditions, you will want to research specific ingredients to see how they may affect your dog by feeding them daily and make a choice on which brand and type of food to feed them.
Dont Sacrifice Quality To Save A Few Bucks
It might be tempting to save a few bucks by purchasing food with a slightly lower price tag. After all, were all feeling the pinch in our wallets these days.
However, to show the love you really feel for your Lab, you mustnt sacrifice their health just to save a few dollars.
The cheaper dog foods dont have the high-quality ingredients that the medium and high-priced brands do. These ingredients are where your pup gets the nutrients they need to grow and live, nutrients that are sadly lacking in the cheaper dog foods.
Youve probably heard the saying, You are what you eat. So if mans best friend is eating low-quality food, youre basically saying theyre not worth the extra money to feed them properly. With foods that are a bit more expensive, your pooch can eat a more well-balanced meal and enjoy it. Isnt your pups health and happiness worth more than a few bucks?
Not only this but what goes in, must come out. Cheap foods have low quality fillers meaning your puppy will need bigger portions to get the same nutrients. They eat more, they poop more, and this means house training becomes much harder for you. What you feed your puppy is a major factor in the success of your house training process.
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Is Oatmeal Ok For Dogs
Oatmeal is okay for dogs to eat as long as you give it to them in moderation. It absolutely doesnt need to be the primary ingredient in your puppy food, but having a bit of it in the food isnt going to hurt your dog. As with most things related to canine sustenance, its best to know how your individual dog is going to react.
Remember, too much fiber can be a problem for most dogs. Oatmeal tends to be a higher source of fiber, so giving your dog oatmeal by itself or even a food thats high in oatmeal content can cause your dog some significant problems. As a treat or in small amounts, though, this food is generally going to be fine.
Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Puppy Food Formula
Guaranteed Analysis: Protein 28.0% min, Fat 17.0% min, Fiber 5.0% max, Moisture 10% max
Top 5 ingredients: 1. Buffalo, 2. Lamb Meal, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Egg Product, 5. Pea Protein
This is the second Taste of The Wild puppy food on this list, and weve chosen it for the quality of ingredients. The High Prairie formula is great for dog owners who wish to feed their puppy natural and protein-rich foods.
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