Best Dog Food Brands for Large Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Health and Nutrition

Large dogs have different nutritional needs than smaller breeds, requiring a diet that is rich in protein, fat, and calories. Choosing the right dog food brand for your large furry friend can be a daunting task, with so many options available in the market. In this article, we will be discussing the best dog food brands for large dogs and what factors to consider when making a purchase.

When looking for the best dog food brand for your large dog, it is essential to consider the ingredients in the food. Look for brands that use high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, lamb, or fish, and avoid brands that use meat by-products or fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. Additionally, large dogs need a diet rich in healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and coat.

Another factor to consider when choosing the best dog food brand for your large dog is the size of the kibble. Large dogs have larger jaws and teeth, and they require larger kibble to prevent choking and promote dental health. Some dog food brands offer kibble specifically designed for large breeds, which can be a good option.

After researching and testing various dog food brands, we have identified the top five best dog food brands for large dogs. In the following sections, we will discuss each brand in detail, highlighting their unique features and benefits. Whether you have a Great Dane or a Mastiff, our list of the best dog food brands will help you make an informed decision and keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Best Dog Food Brands for Large Dogs

As pet owners, we know that our furry friends deserve the best nutrition possible. When it comes to large dogs, finding a high-quality dog food brand that meets their unique nutritional needs can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dog food brands for large dogs. Our top picks are based on ingredients, nutritional value, and overall customer satisfaction. Whether you have a Great Dane or a Mastiff, we’ve got you covered with our top recommendations.

1. WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog

We highly recommend purchasing WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog food for your large dog.

We’ve been using WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog food for our large dog for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in his coat and overall health. The real meat as the first ingredient is a huge plus, and we appreciate that it contains no by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The added calcium and phosphorus, as well as guaranteed glucosamine for joints, make this a great choice for larger dogs who may need extra support.

While the packaging is transitioning and may vary from the picture, we haven’t noticed any changes in the actual product itself. The higher price point may be a turn-off for some, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Some dogs may not like the taste, but we haven’t had any issues with our dog not wanting to eat it.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog food for large dogs who need high-quality ingredients and extra support for their joints and immune system.

2. WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon & Sweet Potato

We highly recommend the WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon & Sweet Potato to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is both grain-free and made with sustainably-raised salmon.

We have been using WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon & Sweet Potato for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s health and energy levels. The high-quality ingredients, including sustainably-raised salmon, provide a great source of protein that keeps our dog healthy and happy. We also appreciate that the dog food is grain-free and made with no added artificial colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives, which is important for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

The dog food is made in a family-owned facility in California, USA, which gives us peace of mind knowing that the ingredients and manufacturing process meet the highest standards. While the price may be a bit higher compared to other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and manufacturing process justify the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG Dry Dog Food Salmon & Sweet Potato to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is both grain-free and made with sustainably-raised salmon.

3. Wag Large Breed Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty food option for your large dog, then the Wag Large Breed Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

We recently tried this food for our large dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken as the first ingredient gave us peace of mind knowing that we were feeding our dog a protein-rich diet. Additionally, the probiotics and fiber in the food helped our dog maintain healthy digestion and a strong immune system.

One downside we noticed was that some users have reported finding bugs and webs in the food. While we didn’t experience this ourselves, it’s worth noting for potential buyers. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it’s important to gradually transition them to this new diet.

Overall, we would recommend the Wag Large Breed Dry Dog Food for its quality ingredients and health benefits for large dogs. Just be aware of the potential for bugs and webs and the higher price point compared to other brands.

4. Wag Wet Canned Dog Food

We highly recommend the Wag Wet Canned Dog Food for large dogs who need a grain-free diet.

Our experience with the Wag Wet Canned Dog Food has been positive. Our large dog enjoys the taste and we appreciate that it is made with real meat and vegetables. We also like that it is grain-free and does not contain any artificial additives.

The transition guidance provided by the manufacturer is also helpful. We followed the recommended gradual transition and did not experience any dietary upsets.

Overall, we believe that the Wag Wet Canned Dog Food is a great option for large dogs who need a grain-free diet. It can be served by itself or mixed in with kibble for added variety.

Note: Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

5. WAG Dog Dry Puppy Food

If you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality dog food brand for your large puppy, WAG Dog Dry Puppy Food is definitely worth considering.

We’ve been using WAG Dog Dry Puppy Food for a few months now and have been impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The cage-free American chicken as the #1 ingredient is a big plus, and we appreciate that there are no added chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy.

Our puppy seems to enjoy the taste and has had no issues with digestion. We also like that this brand is formulated with the help of veterinarians and a pet nutritionist, so we feel confident that we’re giving our puppy the best possible nutrition.

One thing to keep in mind is that gradual transitioning is important to help avoid dietary upsets. Please see instructions below or on the bag.

Overall, we would definitely recommend WAG Dog Dry Puppy Food for large puppies who need a high-quality, affordable dog food brand.

6. WAG Wet Canned Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality canned dog food for your large dog, WAG Wet Canned Dog Food is a great option.

We recently tried WAG Wet Canned Dog Food for our large dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The beef and chicken recipe includes real meat as the #1 ingredient, and there are no added grains, corn, wheat, or soy. Plus, there are no added artificial colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives.

One thing to note is that some cans may arrive dented, so be sure to check each can before feeding it to your dog. Additionally, not all ingredients are sourced from the USA, if that is a concern for you.

Overall, we think that WAG Wet Canned Dog Food is a great option for large dogs who need a high-quality, grain-free canned food option.

7. Wag Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack

We highly recommend the Wag Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack for large dogs who love wet food and are looking for a high-quality option.

We love that the Wag Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack is made with real lamb and chicken, providing a high-quality source of protein for our furry friends. The absence of wheat, corn, and soy, as well as artificial colors and flavors, make it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions.

We appreciate that the ingredients are sourced from around the world but made in the USA, ensuring a high level of quality and safety. The variety pack also includes two different flavors, allowing for some variety in your dog’s diet.

However, it’s important to note that some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the food topper, and it may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty opening or storing the pouches.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wet food option for your large dog, the Wag Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack is definitely worth considering.

8. WAG Wet Dog Food Cups

We highly recommend WAG Wet Dog Food Cups for large dogs who need a tasty and healthy meal.

We have tried many dog food brands, and WAG Wet Dog Food Cups stand out for their quality ingredients and delicious taste. The real meat as the #1 ingredient ensures that your dog gets the protein they need, and the absence of wheat, corn, and soy makes it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

One downside is that the cups can be messy when opening, so be prepared to clean up a bit. Additionally, delivery can take a while if USPS is used. Lastly, some dogs may not like the beef flavor as much as the chicken.

Overall, we believe that WAG Wet Dog Food Cups are a great choice for large dogs who need a nutritious and tasty meal. Give it a try and see how your furry friend likes it!

9. WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice, 5 lb Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small breed dog, WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

We’ve been using WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food for a few months now and have been impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The fact that cage-free American chicken is the #1 ingredient gives us peace of mind that we’re feeding our dog high-quality protein. Additionally, the probiotics and fiber in the food have helped support our dog’s digestion and overall health.

One downside we’ve noticed is that our dog does occasionally experience gas after eating this food. However, this hasn’t been a major issue for us. Another potential drawback is that the price of WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food may be higher than other brands. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price.

Overall, we would recommend WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food to other small breed dog owners who are looking for a high-quality food option. Just be sure to check the ingredients list to make sure it’s suitable for your dog’s dietary needs.

10. WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe

We highly recommend the WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe for large dogs due to its nutritional value and quality ingredients.

We have used the WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe for our large dog and have seen positive results. The real Australian lamb provides a high-quality protein source for muscle development, while the lentils and peas offer essential nutrients for overall health. We appreciate that it contains no added grain, corn, or wheat, making it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

One downside is that the 4 LB bag may not last long for larger dogs and may require frequent purchases. Additionally, the transition period may take longer than 7-10 days for some sensitive dogs. However, overall, we highly recommend the WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe for its quality ingredients and nutritional value.

11. WAG Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Chicken & Lentil Recipe

If you’re looking for a grain-free option for your puppy, WAG Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Chicken & Lentil Recipe is a great choice.

We have been using WAG Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Chicken & Lentil Recipe for a few months now and have seen a noticeable difference in our puppy’s coat and energy levels. The real chicken and nutritious vegetables provide a tasty and healthy blend that our puppy loves. We appreciate that there are no added grains, corn, or wheat, and that there are no artificial colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives.

One thing to note is that some puppies may need a longer transition period to get used to the new food, so it’s important to gradually transition them over a period of 7-10 days. Additionally, the kibble size may be too small for larger puppies, so it’s important to monitor their eating habits. Lastly, the bag size may not be sufficient for larger puppies or multiple puppies, so keep that in mind when purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Chicken & Lentil Recipe for its high-quality ingredients and great taste.

12. Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag Rabbit 20 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is both grain-free and packed with nutritious ingredients, then Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Natural Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

We’ve been using Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Natural Dry Dog Food for several months now, and we’re very happy with the results. Our large dog has a sensitive stomach and has had issues with other dog food brands in the past, but he has had no problems with this food.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is made with real animal ingredients and nutritious oils. We feel good knowing that our dog is getting the protein and nutrients he needs to stay healthy.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it is high in protein and contains probiotics to support healthy digestion. Our dog has had fewer digestive issues since we switched to this food, and his coat looks healthier and shinier.

Finally, we love that every piece of kibble is coated in freeze-dried raw for added nutrition and taste. Our dog seems to really enjoy the taste of this food, and we’re happy to give him something that is both healthy and delicious.

While this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, we feel that it is worth the extra cost for the quality ingredients and the benefits it provides. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Instinct Original Grain Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Natural Dry Dog Food for large dogs. It’s a high-quality, nutritious dog food that is sure to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying dog food for your large breed dog, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you are choosing the best product. Here are some features to consider when selecting a dog food brand:

Protein Content

Large breed dogs require a higher protein content in their diet to maintain their muscle mass and support their active lifestyle. Look for dog food brands that contain high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish.

Nutrient Balance

It’s essential to choose a dog food brand that has a balanced nutrient profile. Look for products that contain a healthy balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of the ingredients used in dog food is crucial. Look for brands that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoid those that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

Caloric Density

Large breed dogs have a slower metabolism than smaller dogs, so it’s important to choose a dog food brand that has a lower caloric density to prevent obesity and other health problems.

Joint Health

Large breed dogs are prone to joint problems, so it’s important to choose a dog food brand that contains joint-supporting ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Serving Size

Make sure to follow the recommended serving size on the dog food packaging. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition.

By keeping these features in mind, you can choose the best dog food brand for your large breed dog that meets their nutritional needs and supports their overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some highly rated dog food brands for large breeds?

There are several highly rated dog food brands for large breeds, including Blue Buffalo, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Hill’s Science Diet. These brands offer a variety of formulas that cater to the specific nutritional needs of large dogs.

Is there a difference between large breed dog food and regular dog food?

Yes, there is a difference between large breed dog food and regular dog food. Large breed dog food is formulated with a lower calorie density and a higher calcium to phosphorus ratio to promote healthy bone growth. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.

What are some reviews of large breed dog food?

Reviews of large breed dog food vary depending on the brand and formula. However, many pet owners report positive results with brands such as Blue Buffalo, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands have received high ratings for their quality ingredients and nutritional value.

Are there any specific large kibble dog food brands recommended for large dogs?

Yes, there are several specific large kibble dog food brands recommended for large dogs, including Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Hill’s Science Diet. These brands offer larger kibble sizes to promote slower eating and better digestion in large dogs.

What are some popular brands of dog food for large breeds recommended by veterinarians?

Some popular brands of dog food for large breeds recommended by veterinarians include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition to support the health and well-being of large dogs.

What is the healthiest dog food for large breeds?

The healthiest dog food for large breeds is one that provides balanced nutrition and meets the specific needs of the individual dog. Brands such as Blue Buffalo, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Hill’s Science Diet offer a variety of formulas that cater to the nutritional needs of large dogs. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your specific dog.