Are you looking for the best dry dog food for your large dog? Well, look no further! We have compiled a list of the top 10 large breed dog foods available on the market right now. When it comes to our large breed dogs, we like to know that we are going everything we can to help them develop in the best way that their breed should be. By providing them with the proper nutrition, we can at least ensure that their body can handle the rapid growth and impact these beautiful large breed dogs have to go through. Whether you are looking for grain-free, low carb, high calcium, or anything in between, to ensure a large breed dog is taken care of properly, you need to give them the right kind of large breed sustenance geared around helping bigger dogs to grow. We hope that with this guide and FAQ, we can answer any questions and queries you may have about how to feed large dogs with some of the best high-quality, nutritionally good kibble going.

10 Best Foods for Large Breed Dogs

1 Eagle Pack Chicken & Pork Large Breed Dry Food

Eagle Pack Chicken & Pork Large Breed Dry Food
Key features:
  • Brand: Eagle Pack
  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pork Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Rice.
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken & Pork
  • Calories: 340 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Chicken & Pork
  • Life Stage: Adult

When it comes to the best dry dog food for large breeds, you need to look no further than Eagle Pack. With chicken and pork front and center of their ingredients list, Eagle Pack can boast of being one of the best high-quality, protein-packed, performance sustenance that can keep the busiest of large breed dogs on the move all day long.

Specially formulated to boost large breed dogs in their daily activities, this food is well worth a go.

Ingredients:

Chicken Meal, Pork Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Rice, Dehulled Barley, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Flaxseed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Potassium Chloride, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid], Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate], Taurine, Calcium Carbonate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Inulin, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus licheniformis Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Trichoderma reesei Fermentation Product, Dried Rhizopus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.

What others say about it:
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We’ve used Eagle Pack for 2 years now

We used grain-free before, but the risks led us to go wheat/soy free instead. Eagle Pack is fantastic. Our 6-year-old Lab loves it and her coat is shiny — she’s eaten nothing but Eagle Pack since she was 4. She is a very active dog who retrieves every day, yet she thrives on amounts at the low end of Eagle Pack’s recommendation. Of the super dog foods, EP is consistently less expensive, and yet we find it fully equal in taste and performance to the most expensive brands. We are committed users.

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Dane approved!

This is the only brand we use for our Great Danes. It has everything they need and nothing they don’t. 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! Our vet approves too!

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Great Dane Rescue Loves Eagle Pack

Bosco is a Great Dane rescue. He had Pneumonia when adopted and my vet was able to save him. We were suggested Eagle Pack and he took to it 1st bowl. 2 years later still growing, beautiful coat and vet says he is getting exactly what he needs for a long healthy life.

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2 Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Lamb & Brown Rice

Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Lamb & Brown Rice
Key features:
  • Brand: Nutro
  • First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Brewers Rice, Split Peas, Rice Bran.
  • Primary Protein Source: Lamb & Chicken
  • Calories: 326 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Lamb & Brown Rice
  • Life Stage: Puppy

This is a grain-free, antioxidant stuffed food to help boost your large breed puppy’s immune system. The grain-free recipe guarantees to avoid any grain-related allergy that can sometimes occur in dogs of all breeds.

And with a healthy dose of omega-3 and calcium, you can be sure that your soon-to-be very large dog can grow up with strong bones and healthy eyes. And when the body is taken care of, your pup can thrive on enjoying the simpler things in life, like chewing your shoes!

Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Lamb & Brown Rice Formula is one of 10 recipes included in our review of Nutro Dog Food.

Ingredients:

Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Brewers Rice, Split Peas, Rice Bran, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Potato Protein, Natural Flavor, Lamb Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salt, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin E Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

What others say about it:
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Puppy food!

I just got a Mastiff/Great Dane pup and he loves your food. Only 10 weeks old but loves it I also like the fact that it is delivered to my door so I don’t have to drag it from the store to my home. At 73 I really appreciate that.

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Vet recommended

This kibble was recommended for our 4-month-old standard poodle pup by a vet. We went through several kibbles, she likes this one more than the others. According to the vet, this kibble has balanced nutrients and microelements important for the dog’s joints, especially long term.

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Golden puppy loves this!

We had been feeding our 4-month-old golden Chicken Soup for the Soul but were having problems with him having large soft stools and only eating a little food at a time. We figured he didn’t like it and it was upsetting his stomach. We switched to Nutro lamb and his stools improved and he gobbles up the bowl in one sitting! Would definitely recommend!

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3 Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Key features:
  • Brand: Blue Buffalo
  • First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley.
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken
  • Calories: 352 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Chicken & Brown Rice
  • Life Stage: Adult

The formula for Blue’s Buffalo Life large breed dog food contains an exclusive feature called LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help support your dog’s immune system through all life stages.

It is a grain-free, corn-free food that doesn’t contain artificial additives, preservatives, or colors. With 3,000 very happy customers, it is clear that they can’t resist coming back for more of this proudly tailored food, made to suit a large breed dog perfectly.

If you want to find out more about their company, product lines, and recall history, read our Blue Buffalo Dog Food review.

Ingredients:

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Pea Starch, Peas, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Pea Fiber, Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein, Fish Oil (source of EPA-Eicosapentaenoic Acid), Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Potassium Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, DL-Methionine, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamin E Supplement, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Garlic, L-Carnitine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.

What others say about it:
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Glucosamine and chondroitin for larger dogs

My 4 year old 90 pound Belgian Malinois has been eating Blue Buffalo large breed food for over a year and really enjoys it. It provides more glucosamine and chondroitin than regular adult dog food which is important for joint health for his large frame.

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Ate It Straight from the Bag!

My pit mix has such a sensitive stomach, we have tried SEVERAL dog foods trying to find something that would not upset his tummy. Even though this is not advertised as a gut health dog food, it has made a significant difference in his stool and overall skin health. What’s more, he loves how it tastes! I didn’t get the chance to scoop any into his bowl before he was digging in straight from the bag lol very happy with my purchase.

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My dogs won’t touch it

My dogs really don’t like this food. It’s really expensive and recommended by my vet. I really wish I would have been notified prior to my auto ship because I’ve only had it delivered once and was not expecting this one. My fault, I know. But I have no idea what I’m going to do with this giant bag of food that my dogs won’t eat.

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4 Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula

Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula
Key features:
  • Brand: Purina Pro Plan
  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Poultry By-product Meal (Source Of Glucosamine).
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken
  • Calories: 407 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Chicken & Rice
  • Life Stage: Adult

This is a food that is built around helping your large dog to become strong and healthy. It provides a generous amount of protein in every meal to promote rapid recovery and muscular conditioning following a solid workout.

When coupled with their use of omega-3, glucosamine, and EPA, for healthy joints, it will mean that your large dog can run all day! Every large breed dog requires a solid amount of exercise, and this is the food to back you up in that.

Check out our Purina Pro Plan Dog Food review for more information on the brand.

Ingredients:

Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Poultry By-product Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Whole Grain Wheat, Barley, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-tocopherols, Corn Germ Meal, Fish Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Dried Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Fish Oil, Wheat Bran, Calcium Carbonate, Soybean Oil, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Citrate, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7)], Choline Chloride, Minerals [Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite], Glucosamine Hydrochloride, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (Vitamin C), Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Garlic Oil.

What others say about it:
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Excellent food! Love Purina!

We feed this to our 2.5-year-old greyhound and he thrives on it! His coat is shiny, his stools are great, and he has tons of energy! Plus, he loves it! His foster-fed Kirkland kibble, and when we mixed this in to start transitioning, he picked this out and left the old. The difference in his stools was also night and day – they’re much smaller and firmer now. The only thing I would note is that the kibbles are quite large. This works for us though, since it makes him have to chew his food! Purina is absolutely my go-to brand. They’re one of only a few that fully meet the WSAVA’s guidelines for a great pet food company, and they have a fantastic variety of products. The sheer amount of research that goes into their formulations says so much about their quality. Will absolutely continue to feed my pets Purina!

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dogs love it….to expensive

This was recommended from the breeder I had gotten my GSD from. She’s been on it since she’s been able to chew kibble. They changed the formula she still likes it. However, the price….it jumped up $10 for me. I can completely understand we are dealing with the last effects of the pandemic but, the price jump is ridiculous. I don’t like that I don’t know whether I’m going to get the new formula kibble or the old formula kibble. I hate that I never know when it’s actually going to be shipped or delivered even though I have autoship. I cancelled with Chewy and have searched out other companies that will deliver consistently.

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Flavorful!?!

My headline of Flavorful is a must in our 4 dog family. This dog food is a hit! We have two GSD’s, Lab mix and a Poodle. Finding a food all would enjoy and be a premium food full of nutrients is often difficult to find. Plus, my Vet approves. All four love it. Highly recommend.

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5 Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Lamb Meal & Rice Formula

Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Lamb Meal & Rice Formula
Key features:
  • Brand: Diamond Pet Food
  • First 5 ingredients: Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Oatmeal.
  • Primary Protein Source: Lamb
  • Calories: 350 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Lamb & Rice
  • Life Stage: Adult

Using pasture-raised lamb, which is first on their list of ingredients, you know that your large dog is getting the food they deserve. And with over 5,000 happy customers and a rating of 4.5*, you can’t deny that this is a food that big dogs love.

Their limited ingredient profile and grain-free element will also help avoid any unfortunate food-related allergic reactions that could irritate your dog’s skin. This family-run business shows nothing but care when it comes to feeding large dogs.

Ingredients:

Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Oatmeal, Grain Sorghum, Dried Yeast, Rice Bran, Egg Product, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Dried Chicory Root, L-Carnitine, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Chondroitin Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.

What others say about it:
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amazing dog food! definitely recommend

I switched to this brand because I loved that it was specifically designed for large dogs. I also love it because I no longer have to buy hip and joint supplements for my dogs, because this food has the same amount of glucosamine and chrondition that my dog needs. Super happy with the quality and price!

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Diamond Natural Large Breed Dog Food

I am really impressed by the fast delivery, overnight, of Marley’s food. I placed my order at 9:30 pm and FEDEX delivered the next day at 2:30 pm. I am also impressed by the quality of the dog food. Marley likes her mixed with vegetables and a shot of hot water to make some gravy. High marks for delivery and quality. Harry G

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Could work for your pups but isn’t working for ours.

Unfortunately, our doggies just are not interested in this dog food. We were hopeful to find a dog food that had great ingredients that our pups would love. No matter how hard we try, they prefer dog foods with all the fillers.

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6 Iams Adult Large Breed Real Chicken Dry Food

Iams Adult Large Breed Real Chicken Dry Food
Key features:
  • Brand: Iams
  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Barley, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken By-Product Meal.
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken
  • Calories: 351 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Chicken
  • Life Stage: Adult

The inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate used to treat osteoarthritis in this food helps protect a large breed dog’s joints when it counts. This food falls perfectly within the caloric density required to keep a large breed dog happy, and with chicken as the first ingredient, you know that you are getting the protein they need.

This is our best-priced pick of large kibble dog food for its balanced combination of protein, fat, and fiber, all done to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Here’s a detailed look at Iams Dog Food.

Ingredients:

Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Barley, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken By-Product Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Poultry Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Brewers Yeast, Dried Egg Product, Carrot, Flaxseed, Caramel Color, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Fructooligosaccharides, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (source of Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin, Riboflavin Supplement (source of Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (source of Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Citric Acid, Rosemary Extract.

What others say about it:
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Best food!

I have been feeding my dogs Iam’s for years. Now with the pandemic and not being able to find iam’s, I had to put them on whatever I could find. Unfortunately, it was some holistic stuff (seemed to be the only stuff that was stacked on the shelves). I raise shepherds and food is expensive plus they need solid food to fill them up. Iam’s I hope that your back and stay in stock because your the best for me and my pet family!!!

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Love the service!

I am older now and am the sole shopper now. Buying large bags of dog food was getting harder. I don’t know why I didn’t start ordering from you before this. We have had Mastiffs for many years and find that Iams is an excellent food for them.

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not good not bad

I started feeding this to my 6-year-old german shepherd because his new little sister was fed this brand when I got her, I like to try to keep my dogs on the same brand of food. My 6-year-old has gained weight since, which is making his hip problems worse. He also has gotten more flakey skin since starting. I now switched them both off of Iams.

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7 Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken Meal & Oat Recipe

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken Meal & Oat Recipe
Key features:
  • Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Oats, Whole Grain Sorghum, Corn Gluten Meal.
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken
  • Calories: 394 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Chicken
  • Life Stage: Puppy

Food that comes with an option of chicken or lamb, to give your pup a choice when it comes to flavor, this is a delicious treat for any pup!

And with a higher caloric and calcium content to aid their growth, this food will support your large breed pup through those early life stages of rapid development.

It may not look like it from the ingredients list, but this is a solely plant-based formula, unlike many other dog foods, which will result in easier digestion and better nutrition for your dog.

For a full list of our favorite options, see our round-up of Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food.

Ingredients:

Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Oats, Whole Grain Sorghum, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Whole Grain Corn, Chicken Liver Flavor, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Pork Liver Flavor, Fish Oil, Lactic Acid, Iodized Salt, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Choline Chloride, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, Oat Fiber, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas.

What others say about it:
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Food is okay-Too expensive for what it is

I was recommended by my vet to switch my, at the time, 5-month-old German Shepard to this due to him having really soft stools. He had been on this food for over two months, and the consistency of his stools remained the same. It also made his breath smell horrendous! I thought he had a rotten tooth, but after reading other reviews, it turned out to be the food. I’m not impressed with this brand at all, and for the price, I was expecting a little better quality. I have found that Natural Balance L.I.D. Formula (Duck and Potato) is the perfect fit for my boy. His stools have firmed up and he absolutely devours it! I think the trick was to get him off of processed chicken! Also, Chewy customer service gets 5 out of 5 stars! What a great company!

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Double Doodle Loves

My vet recommended this food for our standard double-doodle puppy. He absolutely loves it. We also recently had to take our older cat to the vet (a different vet than the dog) and they recommended Hills Science for the cat as well.

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Great Food for Large Breed Puppies

After doing research, I found that many large-boned puppy foods had much more calcium than recommended by the Veterinary Council. Science Diet is much stricter about the ingredients. I switched and feel much better about my German Shepherd’s food! My dog loves it!

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8 Eukanuba Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

Eukanuba Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Key features:
  • Brand: Eukanuba
  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Wheat, Ground Grain Sorghum.
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken
  • Calories: 331 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Chicken
  • Life Stage: Adult

Large breed dogs require a certain amount of fuel throughout the day, and Eukanabu is just right for them. Your large breed dog will stay lean and fit with above-average protein and low carbs.

It is an excellent food for an active large breed of dog, such as a husky or labrador, as the low carbs will help them control their weight and stay active for longer.

Ingredients:

Chicken, Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Wheat, Ground Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Egg Product, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Salt, Fructooligosaccharides, Fish Oil, Choline Chloride, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), Biotin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Acetate, Niacin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid], Dl-Methionine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Trace Minerals [Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate], Manganous Oxide, Chondroitin Sulfate, Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid.

What others say about it:
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Breeder recommended

As a Breeder/trainer/exhibitor, for over 30 years, this is my recommendation for puppies and adult large breed dogs. Proven complete nutrition for overall health, longevity, and well-being.

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Not quite the same

The large breed Eukanuba is something I decided to try for my Standard Poodles. They are over 50lbs and so I thought they could handle the larger kibble. We usually get the medium breed Chicken but Chewy doesn’t have it in the 30lb. size… My dogs aren’t thrilled with the change. They are taking a long time to get through a serving and looking at me with disappointment when I fill their bowl. I like the brand. My Vet is satisfied with the health of my dogs and they have eaten Eukanuba since they were puppies.

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much better

I switched to this brand after PP changed their formula & my dog no longer tolerated it. I cold turkey switched to Eukanuba & had zero issues. He loves this food, the coat is shiny. Glad I made the switch.

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9 Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Key features:
  • Brand: Wellness
  • First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Barley, Peas.
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken
  • Calories: 340 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice
  • Life Stage: Adult

Wellness offers a full range of foods to support each large breed dog’s individual needs. This includes offering grained and grain-free options, limited ingredient diets for dogs with food sensitivities, and high protein recipes for dogs that need an extra power boost. This all-American brand prides themselves on tailoring their food to fit your needs, and with a 4.5* rating, it looks like that pride is well placed.

Ingredients:

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Barley, Peas, Oats, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salmon Meal, Tomato Pomace, Oatmeal, Tomatoes, Carrots, Natural Chicken Flavor, Ground Flaxseed, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Chicory Root Extract, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Garlic Powder, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.

What others say about it:
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Dog ABSOLUTELY loves

Murphy was on Royal canine for golden retrievers but was having alot of issues. I think they changed the formula because for 2 years nothing (2018) then in (2019) year wouldn’t eat had loose stools so I changed to wellness after alot of reading this one was the best choice he has been on this food for 2 years and firm stools his coat is sooo very soft and no allergies. The higher the crude fiber the firmer the stools. I am very happy Murphy loves this food we will be a customer for a very long time.

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Great for GS

My 6 yr GS I just rescued wouldn’t eat the first food I bought him .. based upon the reviews and the recommendation from Dog Food Adviser I went with this brand.. Stetson loves it .. his scratching is clearing up.. great on his digestive system..Highly recommended by Stetson!!

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So far so good

My eight-year-old golden retriever has been eating this food for about a month. She seems to like it, and I like that it has glucosamine for her hips. Haven’t noticed any significant changes in her behavior or energy, so too soon to tell if it’s making a difference in how she feels.

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10 Nature’s Recipe Large Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe

Nature's Recipe Large Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe
Key features:
  • Brand: Nature’s Recipe
  • First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Canola Meal.
  • Primary Protein Source: Chicken
  • Calories: 363 kcal/cup
  • Flavor: Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin
  • Life Stage: Adult

An absolutely classic combination of flavors comes together to create this decadent, grain-free large breed dog food.

Large breed dogs can struggle enough with their growth without worrying about their digestion. So by going with Nature’s grain-free, you can eliminate the possibility of difficulty.

With chicken proudly standing atop their list of ingredients, this high-quality food guarantees its protein comes from a good place. Nutrient-rich and high in protein, this food is made with your dog in mind.

Ingredients:

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Canola Meal, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Pumpkin, Natural Flavor, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Canola Oil (preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Taurine, Dl-methionine, Vitamins (vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (source Of Vitamin C), Niacin, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate , D-calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Minerals (ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid (used As A Preservative), L-carnitine, Rosemary Extract.

What others say about it:
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Great food

I converted my lab service dog to a large breed grain-free and he loves it. He had dry skin which made him scratch a lot. He now has a shiny coat and no scratching. This is a little expensive but well worth the price. The recommended amount for him was 3 1/2 cups. I find that 3 cups work better for him as he isn’t really active and this amount keeps him slim and trim.

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Happy dogs

I have two Great Pyrenees and they had gotten to where they wouldn’t eat during the summer, at first thought, it was just hot. I had tried different brands and had no luck, the only way they would eat was if it had people food on top. I was so frustrated. I had always feed them the highest percent of protein, and some that I had tried were less but still in the recommended range for large breed dogs, after trying Natures’s recipe they went to eating without people food and looking better. It is so hard to find what is best for your dogs but I am continuing mine on Nature’s recipe, oh and made in the USA

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Happy PUP!!!

My pup Lady loves this food, she has food and skin allergies and took me quite a few choices before I found a dog food that she could eat and not have any issues!!!

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Best Large Breed Dog Food: Buying Guide & FAQs

Large Dog Nutrition & Dietary Needs

Large Breed dogs require a lower caloric density in their food, and so you ideally want a caloric density of 3,200 to 4,100 kcal/kg, which is the recommended amount and can be found on the packaging of all dog foods. In addition, high Protein content above 25% is a prime amount, the fiber content of between 2% and 4%, and a 9% dry matter basis of fat is perfect for large breed dogs.

Are the nutritional requirements different for a puppy?

Something that a lot of people are unaware of with large breed puppies is that due to their rapid rate of growth in their first year, it is essential that their bodies are fueled correctly and provided with sufficient nutritional density. Large and giant breed dog food needs to contain at least 9% fat and 30% high-quality protein, and between 0.8% to 1.2% calcium to meet their growing needs.

You may also like our review of the Best Large Breed Puppy Food.

Which large breed food should I get my dog?

This again is extremely dependent on the dog in question, as just like humans, they each have their own tastes, tolerances, and allergies. It is not worth going into finding dog foods with the plan of avoiding grains for example, as grain intolerance is specific to the dog, not the breed. So just try something, and if it doesn’t work out, try another. Many dogs tend to change their tastes in food over the course of their life, and you are highly unlikely to find the one for you with the first bag you purchase. In fact, puppies in particular can be extremely fussy as they figure out their tastes, just like human babies!

What to Look for in a Dog Food for Large Breeds

You should be considerate of their joints, as the rapid growth process in their first 2 years takes its toll and can cause joint problems. supplements such as chondroitin, glucosamine, and MSM in their food can help to maintain their joints and keep them moving.

Our Top Pick

Out of the 10 best large breed dog food we managed to rustle up, one, in particular, stood out to us for its all-around excellent quality, balanced nutrition, and fair price.

Eagle Pack Chicken & Pork Large Breed Dry Food

After over 30 years of strong development, this USA-made brand proudly produces a high-protein food that is perfect for fueling your dog for the entire day. Their use of glucosamine, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants provide your pup with all the right nutrients to have the perfect coat, healthy joints, and a good strong immune system. So if your furry pal enjoys exploring the environment on their walks, you know that they’re protected.

Best Dog Food for Large Breeds FAQs

All large breed dogs actually have a slower metabolic rate than their smaller brethren. Thanks to this, they can burn calories slower and power themselves on less fuel. As a result, they don’t require as many calories in their meals, as counterintuitive as that may seem. This doesn’t mean that they need to eat less than a small breed. It is more about the caloric density of their meal, meaning they need to consume fewer calories for each pound that they eat.

As your puppy is growing, certain complications can arise from malnutrition, so as they are growing, you will need lookout for signs of the following possible health problems:

  • Bloat: This is when a dog’s stomach fills with food, fluid, or gas and subsequently twists. It is extremely dangerous, urgent, and fatal if left untreated. Contact your vet immediately if you notice the following symptoms: a distended, painful and swollen abdomen, heaving without vomiting, restlessness, pacing, panting and heavy breathing, excessive drooling, and a general look of distress.
  • Obesity: Severe weight gain can be caused by an incorrect balance in their diet, too many treats, or too much fat that they cannot burn off.
  • Orthopedic disease: There is something known as “knuckling” with large breed puppies, which means that if they are not receiving the correct nutrition, their tendons are unable to keep up with their bone growth resulting in their feet curling under. This can cause them to fall frequently, struggle to rise, be lethargic, become lame or irritable, or even stop them from being able to walk altogether. This is fixable with the proper dog foods.

It isn’t necessarily the end of the world if you occasionally feed your dog food that is not meant for their size. I think we’ve all probably done it! But it is important to know that the large breed dog form has been specifically formulated to suit a larger dog’s needs. So feeding them food formulated for a different dog size would mean that they are potentially not getting the correct nourishment.

There is, however, one exception, and that would be if you have a dog that sits on the borderline between medium and large. If so, then it may be that medium-breed dog food is fine. However, it is always worth quickly checking with your veterinarian if you are unsure.

This entirely depends on the breed in question. Large breed dogs start from 50 pounds in weight and 22 inches in height but can grow as big as 1oo pounds in weight and 60 inches in height. When ensuring that they get as much as they need, always check the feeding chart for the recommended amount.

All dog food you buy should come with a feeding chart on the back. This will advise the correct amount of food according to the size and weight of your particular breed and dog to ensure that you get the maximum benefit for the food.

Eloise Hands

Eloise is the owner of a Malamute/Akita cross, a first-time mum, and an animal enthusiast from England. She comes from a family which has never gone a day without a pet (or 3!), and over the years has learned all the best tips and tricks to raising a difficult pet. A knowledge that she has put to good use, to help others navigate the limitless world of pet care.

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