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10 Best Puppy Dog Foods 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hill's Science Diet Puppy, Large Breed Puppy Premium Nutrition, Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Brown Rice, 30 lb Bag

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,223
Life Stage
Breed-Specific Formulas

Most important from
2994 reviews

Life Stage
Great science diet food for puppy, and the convenience of Amazon delivery beats going to the pet store.
Breed-Specific Formulas
Good dog food that my German Shepherd loves.

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb & Brown Rice is a dry dog food specifically designed for large breed puppies. It features DHA from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development, which is crucial during the puppy stage. The high-quality protein from lamb helps fuel growing muscles and active play, making it a good choice for energetic puppies.

Additionally, balanced minerals support the development of strong bones and teeth, which is essential for large breeds prone to bone issues. The product is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, and it’s the #1 veterinarian recommended brand, giving it a strong credibility in terms of quality and safety. The kibble size is appropriate for large breed puppies, ensuring it’s easy for them to chew and digest.

It caters specifically to the life stage and dietary needs of large breed puppies, making it a targeted option rather than a generalized one. One potential drawback is that it’s a dry food, so it might not be suitable for puppies that prefer or require wet food due to dental issues or other reasons. Additionally, while lamb and brown rice are generally well-tolerated, some puppies with specific dietary sensitivities might require a different formula. However, for most large breed puppies, Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb & Brown Rice offers a well-rounded, nutritious option that supports growth and development.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,223
Life Stage
Breed-Specific Formulas

Most important from
2994 reviews

Life Stage
Great science diet food for puppy, and the convenience of Amazon delivery beats going to the pet store.
Breed-Specific Formulas
Good dog food that my German Shepherd loves.
#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
16390 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
16390 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
9.1
Nutritional Content
Ingredients
Kibble Size

Most important from
10286 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
9.1
Nutritional Content
Ingredients
Kibble Size

Most important from
10286 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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