Best Puppy Dog Food For Golden Retrievers

When To Feed Your Puppy

Feeding your puppy 3 to 4 times a day smaller portions makes it easier for their body to digest the food. When puppies are fed frequent meals, this helps to keep a balanced energy level rather than peaking and falling so much throughout the day. A good source is to look at the bag to see what the recommended amount of food is and how often to feed your puppy.

Observing how your puppy handles feeding time can help you to see how much and how often they need food as a puppy. If they lose their energy quickly after a feeding, maybe they need a little more for their energy level.

If you are having questions or concerns about feeding times, be sure to consult your veterinarian. They can help you understand what is best for you and your puppy.

Ingredients To Avoid In Dog Food

While preservatives are necessary to stop the animal ingredients from going rancid, the best dog food for your golden retriever would ideally contain natural dog food preservatives. There are several varieties on the market to avoid as they contain chemical preservatives for dog food like the ones listed below.

• BHA and BHT Also known as butylated hydroxyanisole and butylated hydroxytoluene. Im not going to sit here and pretend I know what any of those words mean. The World Health Organization has determined that they are carcinogenic, and I DO know what that means. These are ingredients you dont want to find in your dogs food.
• Propylene glycolThis substance has been banned by the FDA as an ingredient in cat food. There are better ways to preserve the moisture content in dog food than with a substance that is known to cause anemia.
• TBHQTertiary butylhydroquinone is a preservative that has been shown to cause stomach tumors as well as damage to the DNA in cells.
• Propyl gallateThis substance is full of something known as xenoestrogens which have been linked to breast cancer.
• EthoxyquinThis is used as a hardening agent in rubber and as a pesticide. It has found its way to the banned substance list in both Australia and the EU and is currently under investigation by the FDA for concerns about liver and blood issues.

Eagle Pack Chicken And Pork Adult Large And Giant Breed

Primary Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pork Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Rice, Dehulled Barley

Eagle Packs dry food is exclusively for large to giant breed dogs, made with a blend of chicken and pork. Its combination of proteins and whole grains support your Golden Retrievers bone health and improve their digestion. The exclusive formula also increases energy levels!

Customer Review: It has everything they need and nothing they dont. We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product!

Rating: 4.4/5

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Our Fourth Choice: Hills Science Diet Large Breed Puppy

4th Choice

Hills Science Diet is specially made with an optimal level of calcium for controlled bone growth. It consists of high-quality protein to help your Golden Retriever build and maintain lean muscle. It is made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust.

This brand meets and exceeds nutrient guidelines from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association and the Association of American Feed Control Officials . They employ veterinary nutrition specialists, PhD nutritionists, food scientists, flavorists, and veterinarians.

Top Ingredients:

• Uses a balanced set of minerals to promote strong bones and teeth in large puppies
• Meets and exceeds nutrient guidelines
• 2 flavor options- chicken meal & oats and lamb meal & rice
• The lamb formula is only available in a 33lb bag size while the chicken formula is available in 15.5lb and 30lbs.

How Can I Make Sure The Food Is Appropriate For My Puppys Level Of Development

As youve compared different kinds of dog food, you may have noticed that some of them are marketed as being for puppies or senior dogs. Because a pups dietary tract grows and matures over time, your dog may have different needs at different times in its life.

In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog.

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Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Puppy Recipe

Rich in protein and healthy fats, this Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Recipe is a great choice for your Golden Retriever puppy. This formula features novel proteins like real buffalo, lamb meal, and roasted venison as well as digestible grain-free carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and peas. This recipe is loaded with fresh fruits and vegetables as natural sources of key nutrients, with chelated minerals and powerful antioxidants. It is also supplemented with probiotics for healthy digestion and is completely free from low-quality fillers and artificial additives.

• Pros: Rich in premium animal protein, digestible grain-free carbohydrates, fresh fruits and veggies, probiotics for healthy digestion, no artificial additives or fillers
• Cons: Contains some plant protein , may be a little high in fat for some puppies

Hills Science Diet Dry Dog Food Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Recipes

Ingredients:Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Yellow Peas, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Sorghum, Egg Product, Chicken Fat, Soybean Oil, Brown Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Flaxseed, Iodized Salt, vitamins , Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Choline Chloride, Taurine, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas, minerals , Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Oat Fiber, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli.

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Purina Pro Plan Dry Puppy Food

The most advanced nutrition for your pet`s best life is the main motto of Purina Pro Plan, the company behind this dry puppy food.

Your average Golden Retriever pup needs a few basic ingredients so it can properly develop, such as DHA for proper eye & brain development, calcium, phosphorus and a few other minerals for powerful bone structure, and antioxidants for developing the dog`s immunity.

In addition, a puppy of such a large breed also requires omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for nourishing the skin & coat. And what do you know! This specific pet food has all these ingredients included altogether in one single formula.

So, with a formula completely fortified with probiotics and a delicious chicken flavor, this dog food promises to make a great impression to both you and your little one.

Basic Stats:

• Dimensions: 5 x 17.5 x 33 inches
• Weight: 34 pounds

What We Don`t Like:

• Some canines might not enjoy the flavor.

Nutritional Needs Of Golden Retrievers

• Protein

Like all dogs, protein should form an essential component of the diet of your Golden Retriever. As a guideline, they should have at least 18% protein in their diet, whereas puppies need slightly more at 22%. This is why protein is so prominently featured in the foods discussed above. This is essential in supporting the muscular bodies of these large and active dogs. For more options, check out our detailed review of high protein dog food.

• Fat

Concentrated energy is provided by fat in Retriever dog food, and this should form 5% of your adult dogs diet and 8% of your puppys. However, fat and calorie content should still be low to moderate compared to smaller dogs with faster metabolisms. Look for specific types of fat like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids as these can help to reduce shedding, as well as adding gloss and shine to your dogs coat.

For more options head over to our guide on Fish Oils For Dogs.

• Carbohydrates

Carb levels should depend on the age of your dog and their regular activity levels. The more active your dog is, the higher their carbohydrate needs will be.

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Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Dry Dog Food

PetListed Verdict:

Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food is formulated specifically for dogs that require high protein and high carbohydrate diets. This dry kibble features a mixture of meats including beef, chicken, lamb, and venison, as well as healthy carbs including peas and sweet potatoes.

Key Details:

• High protein and high fat content for maximum performance and lean muscle
• Contains LifeSource Bits, a veterinarian approved mixture of vitamins, minerals, an antioxidants.
• Pricier compared with other dry dog foods

Holistic Select Large & Giant Breed Puppy Recipe

This Holistic Select Large & Giant Breed Puppy Recipe will nourish your Golden Retriever puppys body from the inside out. Specifically designed for large-breed puppies, this recipe is protein-rich with controlled levels of calcium and phosphorus as well as moderate fat content. It features lamb meal as the primary protein with chicken meal and anchovy & sardine meal for supplemental protein. This recipe contains brown rice and white rice for digestible carbohydrates and menhaden fish oil for omega fatty acids. Youll also be glad to know that it is supplemented with probiotics for healthy digestion.

• Pros: Formulated for large breeds, protein-rich lamb meal, digestible carbohydrates, rich in omega fatty acids, fresh fruits and vegetables, probiotics for healthy digestion
• Cons: Some dogs are sensitive to chicken ingredients, not grain-free, fairly expensive

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Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy Food

The top five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, and salmon meal. The recipe contains a minimum of 32 percent protein.

It has 14 percent fat, and 45 percent estimated carbs and has a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44percent. It also has a safe, balanced amount of calcium.

Its also a relatively inexpensive food for the quality of its ingredients.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Large

The top five ingredients are deboned salmon, chicken meal, pea protein, peas, and tapioca starch, with a minimum of 32 percent protein.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Chicken is a great option for those looking for higher protein and an optimal blend of calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins to help keep bones strong.

Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids found in fish meal and flaxseed ensure a healthy coat.

An ideal blend of protein, fat and carbohydrates are also included to assist your large breed dog in keeping a healthy weight.

The formula doesnt contain any grains or gluten and has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

It also has antioxidants to boost immune health and no poultry by-products.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are added for healthy joints.

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Best Dog Food For Golden Retrievers In 2021

This is our review of the best dog food for Golden Retrievers in 2021.

The best dog foods for this breed feature concentrated nutrition that supports heart health.

Goldens are beloved for their friendliness, intelligence, and confidence. But they are especially sensitive to dietary concerns that may cause health issues.

Im a former veterinary technician who researched the best dog foods for Golden Retrievers to help you find the best food for your dog.

I found that Wellness Large Breed Adult Complete Health Dog Food is the best overall dog food for Goldens.

Every dog is an individual. So, Ive included reviews of the best brands for every category of dog food for Golden Retrievers.

Lets get started.

• Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult Dry Food

Chicken Soup For The Soul Large Breed

Primary Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Brown Rice

Made with real chicken and turkey, the large breed dry food from Chicken Soup for the Soul is an excellent choice for your Golden Retriever. It contains the perfect combination of natural ingredients to enhance your pets coat and skin, as well as improve their immune system and boost their digestive health.

Customer Review: Always been an excellent food for my dogs. The food is a great holistic diet, produces a shiny coat, good digestion, and a healthy dog. I highly recommend it.

Rating: 4.5/5

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Primal Beef Formula Nuggets Grain

We always like including a product you might not be aware of, which is why Primal Beef Formula Nuggets Grain-Free Freeze-Dried dog food is on the list. Not only is it different to all the other products featured here, its also a good alternative to a raw diet.

This formula is not wet or a kibble, instead its a freeze-dried raw food that is hydrated to make it almost wet. If youre keen to try a raw diet for your dog, this is probably the most hassle-free way of doing it. The food is 77% beef and 23% supplements and plant-based foods, so theres very few fillers or unhealthy additives. With the beef, there is also fruit and vegetables including kale, broccoli, apple, blueberry, and yam. And the plant foods are organic, so there are fewer pesticides

If youre new to this type of dog food, the biggest challenge will be in preparing it correctly. Weve included a quick clip to show you how

Foods Your Golden Retriever Should Not Eat

Resist those pleading eyes, and avoid feeding your golden retriever human foodsespecially greasy, salty, or sugary snacks that can be hard on their digestive system, and can cause painful pancreatitis.

Never feed your golden retriever grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, avocados, or macadamia nuts, which are all highly toxic to dogs. Also, be aware of any product that may contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which can lead to liver failure.

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Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dog Food

The Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dog Food is a protein-rich dog food that contains real deboned chicken as its first ingredient. It has salmon oil, chicken and turkey meal, a vitamin E supplement, and a blend of vitamins and minerals to support the overall health of you golden retriever puppy. The food formula has a variety of fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, apples, kale, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and bananas to provide your pet with important vitamins and minerals.

The dog food has probiotics to support healthy digestion. It contains added DHA to support healthy eye and brain development. The food also has a blend of antioxidants to helps keep your puppys immune system working right. The food formula does not contain fillers, wheat, corn, soy, or artificial ingredients, nor are there any unidentifiable animal products. It has flaxseed which is a source of Omega-3 for healthy skin and coat.

Merrick Real Buffalo Beef + Sweet Potato Grain

This grain-free formula by Merrick is generally well-loved by all pooches, including Golden Retrievers. And its actually quite good for them because of its high protein grain-free formula. Your retriever will get powerful proteins from quality buffalo meat and beef. Sweet potatoes are among the top five ingredients, which means your pet gets enough carb to stay active all day. Then you have also got peas, apples, blueberries and natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

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The 7 Best Dog Foods For Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are famously upbeat, loyal, and intelligent animals. Whether as a companion or addition to a family with small children, Goldens continue to be one of the top pet choices for millions of families around the country.

The food you give your dog has a major impact on their health and wellbeing, so its important to choose the right option. To help, we researched hundreds of products and thousands of verified reviews to find the 7 best dog foods for Golden Retrievers available now. Heres our list:

What Food Should Golden Retrievers Eat

Unfortunately, these pups will eat whatever you serve them. They dont seem to have any food preference and could win a pie contest any day of the week. They have an insatiable appetite and, even when full, theyll behave as if they were on the brink of starvation. This means you are entirely in charge of their nutrition, as well as its quality.

If you dont want your hairy companion to become obese, you need to follow some feeding guidelines. You shouldnt skip their meals, as it can have a negative impact on their development. However, extra meals pose a significant threat to their joins in the future.

In the first three months, your Golden puppy should get three meals a day. After that, feed them two meals a day until the rest of their lives. As for the amount of food they should eat daily, take a look at the table below.

Dont let your pup eat at least one hour and a half before bedtime if you want to avoid night accidents. Give them 2030 minutes for each meal.

Golden Retrievers are susceptible to cancers, allergies, and joint problems. If you opt for high-quality food for your furry friend, youll reduce the risk of these health issues.

Given that this breed is highly energetic, they need lots of carbs and protein in their nutrition. Protein can come from many ingredients, but not all are beneficial for your buddys health.

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