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10 Best Puppy Dog Foods 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Breed Dry Puppy Food, Supports Brain Development, Immune Support, and Digestive Health, 14 lb Bag

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,336
Nutritional Content
Life Stage

Most important from
12258 reviews

Nutritional Content
The Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Puppy Dry Dog Food has been fantastic for my dog. Since I started feeding him this food, I've noticed he has become stronger and has grown very well.
Life Stage
This is one of the very best dog foods. Our 10-week-old bichon cleans his bowl.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Breed Dry Puppy Food is a well-rounded option for small breed puppies aged 2 to 10 months, with an expected adult weight of 9 to 22 lbs. One of its key strengths is the tailored nutrition it offers, specifically designed to support brain development, immune health, and digestive health, which are crucial for a puppy's growth and development.

The crunchy kibble texture is easy to serve and can be paired with Royal Canin's wet food for variety. Additionally, the food contains antioxidants for immune support and prebiotics along with quality proteins to boost gut health, which is beneficial for a puppy's overall well-being. The attention to detail in its formulation ensures high safety and quality standards, making it a reliable choice for pet owners.

However, it is important to note that this food may not be suitable for medium to large breeds, or for puppies with specific food allergies or intolerances as it is designed specifically for small breeds. The flavor is vegetable-based, which might not appeal to all puppies. This dry puppy food is particularly useful for pet owners of small breed puppies looking for a comprehensive and specialized diet to support their pet's early life stages.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,336
Nutritional Content
Life Stage

Most important from
12258 reviews

Nutritional Content
The Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Puppy Dry Dog Food has been fantastic for my dog. Since I started feeding him this food, I've noticed he has become stronger and has grown very well.
Life Stage
This is one of the very best dog foods. Our 10-week-old bichon cleans his bowl.
#2

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula - 34 lb. Bag

Rating
9.7
Nutritional Content
Life Stage
Special Dietary Needs

Most important from
16429 reviews

Nutritional Content
This food was recommended by my vet, who mentioned Purina spends a lot on research to ensure it meets nutritional needs.
Life Stage
My Alaskan Malamute puppy loved this. As a very active puppy, it kept him full and happy.
Special Dietary Needs
My dogs absolutely love this food, and it doesn't upset their stomachs or cause allergic reactions like licking paws.

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula, is designed to cater to the needs of growing puppies. It features DHA from omega-rich fish oil, which is beneficial for brain and vision development. The primary ingredient is high-quality chicken, providing ample protein for building lean muscles.

Additionally, the formula includes antioxidants to support the developing immune system and minerals like calcium and phosphorus to ensure strong bones and teeth. The food's highly digestible nature ensures optimal nutrient absorption, which is vital for puppies' growth. Despite minor drawbacks, this 34 lb. bag of kibble is a robust option for ensuring the health and development of your puppy.

Rating
9.7
Nutritional Content
Life Stage
Special Dietary Needs

Most important from
16429 reviews

Nutritional Content
This food was recommended by my vet, who mentioned Purina spends a lot on research to ensure it meets nutritional needs.
Life Stage
My Alaskan Malamute puppy loved this. As a very active puppy, it kept him full and happy.
Special Dietary Needs
My dogs absolutely love this food, and it doesn't upset their stomachs or cause allergic reactions like licking paws.
#3

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula - 34 lb. Bag

Rating
9.7
Nutritional Content
Ingredients
Kibble Size

Most important from
10300 reviews

Nutritional Content
This food has been great for my dog's digestive system and overall health. Their coats are shiny, and they don't have that 'doggy' smell anymore.
Ingredients
My Huskies absolutely love Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy Food! The Chicken and Rice Formula keeps them energized, and their stools are firm, which is a huge plus.
Kibble Size
The kibble size is perfect for large breeds like my Husky – not too big, not too small.
Breed-Specific Formulas
Purina Pro Plan works well for my Great Dane.

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula is designed to meet the needs of growing large breed puppies. The high protein formula boasts real chicken as the first ingredient, which helps support muscle growth and maintenance. Additionally, the presence of glucosamine is a plus for developing joints and cartilage, making it beneficial for large breeds prone to joint issues. Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids are included to keep your puppy's skin and coat healthy, while DHA from fish oil supports brain and vision development. This food is also free from artificial colors and flavors, which is great for puppies with sensitivities.

The kibble size is suitable for large breed puppies and helps with dental health by reducing plaque build-up. However, it’s important to note that this formula is specifically tailored for large breeds and may not be suitable for smaller breeds or those with particular health issues. The 34 lb. bag size is convenient for owners with large breed puppies, but it might be a bit bulky for those with limited storage space.

Purina Pro Plan provides a well-rounded dry food option for large breed puppies that supports their growth, development, and overall health.

Rating
9.7
Nutritional Content
Ingredients
Kibble Size

Most important from
10300 reviews

Nutritional Content
This food has been great for my dog's digestive system and overall health. Their coats are shiny, and they don't have that 'doggy' smell anymore.
Ingredients
My Huskies absolutely love Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy Food! The Chicken and Rice Formula keeps them energized, and their stools are firm, which is a huge plus.
Kibble Size
The kibble size is perfect for large breeds like my Husky – not too big, not too small.
Breed-Specific Formulas
Purina Pro Plan works well for my Great Dane.

Buying Guide for the Best Puppy Dog Foods

Choosing the right puppy dog food is crucial for the healthy growth and development of your furry friend. Puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adult dogs, so it's important to select a food that meets those specific requirements. When picking the best puppy food, consider factors such as the breed, size, and any specific health concerns your puppy may have. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional ContentNutritional content refers to the balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in the dog food. This is important because puppies need a higher amount of protein and fat to support their rapid growth and development. Look for foods that have a high protein content (around 22-32%) and fat content (around 10-25%). If your puppy is very active or a larger breed, they may need more protein and fat. Always check the label for a statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) to ensure the food meets the nutritional requirements for growth.
IngredientsThe ingredients list tells you what is actually in the dog food. High-quality puppy foods will list meat as the first ingredient, as it is a primary source of protein. Avoid foods with fillers like corn, soy, and wheat, as these can be harder for puppies to digest and may cause allergies. Look for whole foods and natural ingredients, such as real meat, vegetables, and fruits. If your puppy has specific dietary needs or allergies, choose a food that caters to those requirements.
Kibble SizeKibble size refers to the size of the dry dog food pieces. This is important because puppies, especially small breeds, have smaller mouths and may struggle with larger kibble. Choose a food with smaller kibble pieces for small breed puppies to make it easier for them to chew and digest. Larger breed puppies can handle bigger kibble, but it should still be appropriately sized for their age and mouth size.
Life StageLife stage indicates whether the food is formulated for puppies, adults, or senior dogs. Puppy food is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of growing dogs. It contains higher levels of protein, fat, and certain vitamins and minerals compared to adult dog food. Always choose a food labeled for puppies or 'all life stages' to ensure your puppy gets the right nutrients for their growth.
Breed-Specific FormulasBreed-specific formulas are dog foods tailored to the unique needs of certain breeds. These formulas take into account the typical size, activity level, and common health issues of the breed. For example, large breed puppies may benefit from a formula that supports joint health, while small breed puppies may need a higher calorie content. If your puppy is a purebred, consider a breed-specific formula to address their specific needs.
Wet vs. Dry FoodWet food is canned food that contains higher moisture content, while dry food is kibble. Wet food can be easier for puppies to chew and can help keep them hydrated, but it can be more expensive and less convenient to store. Dry food is more convenient, helps keep teeth clean, and is generally more affordable. Some pet owners choose to mix wet and dry food to provide a balance of benefits. Consider your puppy's preferences, dental health, and your convenience when choosing between wet and dry food.
Special Dietary NeedsSpecial dietary needs refer to any specific health concerns or dietary restrictions your puppy may have, such as food allergies, sensitivities, or medical conditions. If your puppy has any of these issues, look for foods that are formulated to address them, such as grain-free, hypoallergenic, or limited ingredient diets. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your puppy's special dietary needs.

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