Large breeds have a hefty appetite. Like several scoops a day and sent to your home on a monthly basis from your favorite pet store because it eats so much.
Understanding your dog’s nutritional needs can be challenging, which is why we turn to the experts at Chewy for guidance on the best dog food. Dr. Jessica Hockaday, a veterinarian with extensive experience in the field, emphasizes the importance of tailoring your dog’s diet to their lifestyle, activity level, size, and life stage.
She is a lover of animals and has insightful information to help us navigate questions surrounding grain-free and protein-heavy diets.
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“Protein is extremely important for all dogs, large and small, the majority of a dog’s body is composed of proteins, some that the body can’t make itself,” said Dr. Hockaday. “A balanced protein in their diet is needed at every life stage.”
Whereas, she cautioned us to be wary of grain-free diets until further research can back it up.
“Recently, the FDA announced they were investigating grain-free diets due to reports of dogs consuming a ‘grain-free’ diet possibly being linked to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The original study had flaws in the data and is under further investigation to reach a consensus,” Dr. Hockaday told The Post.
It’s easy to jump on trends, especially when you’re being served a cute Instagram ad that swears this diet changed the dog’s life. We want backed scientific research that can lay out all the facts.
With Dr. Hockaday’s expertise, it’s clear that making informed decisions about your dog’s nutrition is crucial at your online pet store or in person. While you’re at it, spoil your pup with dog beds or toys with top clearance deals at Chewy.
- Best Overall: Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Large Adult Dry Dog Food
- Best Value: Purina ONE Natural Large-Breed +Plus Formula Dry Dog Food
- Best for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large-Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
- Best for Seniors: Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
- Best for Allergies: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Vegetarian Dry Dog Food
Whether considering grain-free or protein-heavy diets, consulting with your vet ensures that your furry friend’s dietary needs are met safely and effectively. Below, Dr. Hockaday answers questions and advises us in our FAQ section.
Best Overall: Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Large Adult Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Promotes a healthy coat and skin
- Rich in fiber
Cons:
- None we can find
Dr. Hockaday recommends protein sources that remain whole and “unaltered,” such as chicken meal, which is code for entire chicken or “whole grains,” etc. “Most animal proteins provide the range of amino acids that a large-breed dog needs to thrive.”
Rich in fiber, this 6-pound bag of kibble provides essential nutrients to promote a healthy coat and skin.
Best Value: Purina ONE Natural Large-Breed +Plus Formula Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Great value
- Lots of variety and size options
Cons:
- None we can find
If you need everything packed into one, Purina One might be for you. It promotes a strong immune system, gives energy, and provides a radiant coat, all at an excellent value. The 16-pound bag supports healthy joints and has research-based results.
If you’re wondering if your dog qualifies as a “large breed,” Dr. Hockaday gave us a helpful metric, “a dog that is over 24 inches in height and at least 55 pounds” qualifies as a “full-grown adult.” She added, “The biggest difference with large dog and small dog nutritional needs is the slower metabolic rates with large-breed dogs.”
Purina One also provides adult high-protein options along with chicken & rice or lamb & rice alternatives.
Best for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Great choice for large-breed puppies
Cons:
- Not for adults
This 15-pound bag of kibble contains high-quality protein, ideal for growing pups. It includes a blend of prebiotic fibers to promote gut health and plenty of DHA fish oil to support brain development.
When it’s time to graduate to adult dog food, Dr. Hockaday suggests using the same protein source during the transition as long as it is well received (good growth, no upset stomach, and enjoyment). So choose wisely and if in doubt, consult your veterinarian.
Best for Seniors: Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Created for senior dogs and their decreased energy
- Promotes a strong immune and healthy digestive system
Cons:
- None we can add
Joint health is crucial for your dear aged pup. “In general, [senior dogs] will have lower energy requirements, lower dietary phosphorus needs, we want to restrict dietary sodium, quality protein source (lower if kidney disease is an issue) and increase in fiber,” said Dr. Hockaday.
This 16-pound bag has omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics to strengthen its immune and healthy digestive system and focuses on mineral complexes to regulate the metabolism. Dr. Hockaday said that “the prebiotic effects of grains in both diets are very beneficial to maintain healthy gut flora in large-breed dogs.”
Best for Sensitive Stomach: Purina Pro Plan Puppy Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Top choice for sensitive skin and stomach
- Combines both meat and grains
Cons:
- Only three sizes to choose from
This 16-pound bag, which comes in three sizes, is packed with probiotics and is filled with rich protein, salmon, and rice.
“Alternative protein sources for some dogs can be plant-based beans, corn, whole grains, but very dog dependent and occasionally palatability can be an issue. Nutritionists often recommend diets with both animal and plant protein sources to maximize overall protein quality,” said Dr. Hockaday.
It’s a best-seller at Chewey for a reason: it’s created for sensitive stomachs that can’t process corn, wheat, or soy, yet it’s still high in protein.
Best for Allergies: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Vegetarian Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Vegetarian option
Cons:
- No animal protein included
- Price may be a barrier to entry for some
“A good quality plant-based protein is superior to a poor-quality animal protein,” said Dr. Hockaday. She emphasized the need for finding “whole grains” (as opposed to processed grains) to “ensure the quality of the protein as well as the availability of the protein when consumed by your dog.”
This 16.5-pound dog comes in three sizes and two alternative flavors, chicken and salmon, if you want to avoid committing to a vegetarian diet.
“Food allergies in dogs are most commonly found to be from chicken, beef, dairy, and eggs. These ingredients can be found in most pet foods over the last few decades,” Dr. Hockaday explained.
However, she added that many pet parents mistakenly attribute their dog’s itchiness to food allergies, when in fact, the most common allergies for large-breed dogs are often fleas and environmental factors such as dust mites, grasses, and seasonal pollen.
Best for Overweight Dogs: Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Large Weight Care Adult Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Helps keep your dog lean
Cons:
- Only one portion size to choose from
According to Dr. Hockaday, roughly 20-60% of dogs in America are obese. “For large-breed dogs, a healthy weight and avoiding obesity in all life stages needs to be one of the most important goals to keep your dog healthy,” she said.
Although plenty of exercise and portion control contribute to an ideal weight, food can help.
This kibble will help give your dog a boost in the right direction. Of course, if you can’t seem to say no to your pup, consider buying healthier, low-calorie treats.
FAQ for large-breed dogs
Dr. Hockaday shared her wealth of knowledge with us with several years of experience in the field. She has broken down the answers to our most frequently asked questions below.
What specific nutritional needs do large-breed dogs have compared to smaller breeds?
Large-breed dogs have slower metabolic rates, requiring fewer calories per pound of body weight than smaller breeds. The recommended caloric intake for large-breed dogs is around 22.5 calories per pound, whereas small dogs may need around 40 calories per pound.
How important is protein content in large-breed dog food? What sources of protein are recommended?
Protein is essential for large-breed dogs at every life stage. Animal-based proteins like beef, poultry, fish, lamb, and eggs are often recommended due to their complete amino acid profile. When choosing dog food, look for whole protein sources like chicken meal or whole grains to ensure quality.
What are your thoughts on the benefits or drawbacks of grain-free versus grain-inclusive diets for large-breed dogs?
While grain-inclusive diets have gained popularity amid concerns over grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), the issue is still under investigation. Consult your vet to determine the best option for your dog’s specific needs. Both grain-free and grain-inclusive diets can be suitable if balanced appropriately.
How do a large-breed dog’s dietary needs change as it moves through different life stages?
Large-breed dogs require specific nutrition tailored to their life stage. Puppy food should meet large-breed standards with proper fat and calcium ratios. Adult formulas provide lower calorie density to prevent overindulgence. Senior diets focus on maintaining optimal body condition with adjusted energy and nutrient levels.
How can owners identify if their large-breed dog has food allergies or sensitivities, and what dietary adjustments might be necessary?
Common signs of food allergies in dogs include itching, scratching, ear or skin infections, and digestive issues. Work with your vet to identify potential allergens through an elimination diet. Adjustments may involve switching protein sources, using sensitive diets, or prescription foods based on your dog’s needs.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by Emma Sutton-Williams, New York Post Commerce Reporter. Proud dog mom to a Mini Sheepadoodle named Lucy, Emma routinely tests top-rated pet products with her pup to find the best recommendations for fellow pet owners. In search of the best dog food brands, leashes, harnesses and more, Emma taps veterinarians and experts like Cesar Millan, better known as the “Dog Whisperer,” for pet health advice, FAQs and training secrets. In addition to her work at the Post, Emma’s byline has appeared in Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Parents, InStyle, StyleCaster and more.
Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.