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10 Best Puppy Food 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,432
Nutritional Content
Kibble Size

Most important from
11225 reviews

Nutritional Content
The Chicken and Rice Formula keeps Huskies energized and they can't get enough of it.
Kibble Size
The kibble size is perfect for large breeds, making it easy for them to chew and digest.

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula, offers a range of beneficial features for large breed puppies. It includes high-quality ingredients, with real chicken as the first component, ensuring a high protein content to support muscle development. Essential nutrients like DHA from fish oil promote brain and vision development, while glucosamine supports joint and cartilage health, which is vital for large breed puppies' growth. The inclusion of vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids helps maintain a healthy skin and coat.

The kibble size is designed to suit large breed puppies, making it easier for them to chew and digest, and the product is free from artificial colors and flavors, which is a plus for health-conscious pet owners. Purina's established reputation as a reliable brand adds to the product's credibility. However, it is important to monitor your puppy’s growth to avoid overfeeding, as large breed puppies have specific nutritional needs that require careful management.

Additionally, the 34 lb. bag might be bulky and less convenient for storage in smaller spaces. This food is particularly well-suited for owners of large breed puppies looking for a nutritionally balanced option from a reputable brand.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,432
Nutritional Content
Kibble Size

Most important from
11225 reviews

Nutritional Content
The Chicken and Rice Formula keeps Huskies energized and they can't get enough of it.
Kibble Size
The kibble size is perfect for large breeds, making it easy for them to chew and digest.
#2

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

Rating
9.1
Nutritional Content
Life Stage Formulation
Brand Reputation

Most important from
12390 reviews

Nutritional Content
Since I started feeding my puppy this food, he has become stronger and grown very well. His coat looks healthy and shiny.
Life Stage Formulation
Our 10-week-old bichon cleans his bowl every time; he loves the taste.
Brand Reputation
This is a great product, although it is pretty expensive for the weight of the bag. Despite the price, I will continue to buy it due to the company's integrity and the product's quality.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Breed Dry Puppy Food is tailored for small breed puppies aged 2 to 10 months with an adult weight of 9 to 22 lbs. It offers robust nutritional content that supports brain development, immune system health, and digestive well-being. The kibble size is small and crunchy, making it easy for small breed puppies to chew and digest.

The formulation is specifically designed to meet the energy needs of growing puppies, ensuring they receive proper nourishment during their critical development stage. The quality of ingredients and the reputation of the Royal Canin brand add to the product's credibility, providing pet owners with confidence in their purchase.

With prebiotics for gut health and antioxidants for immune support, it addresses multiple health concerns in one feed. Additionally, it can be mixed with Royal Canin Small Puppy Thin Slices in Gravy for a varied texture and taste, enhancing the feeding experience for puppies. However, it is worth noting that the product is relatively more expensive compared to some other puppy foods on the market. Some pet owners might prefer more natural or organic ingredient lists. If you are looking for a reliable and scientifically formulated puppy food for small breeds, this product is a strong contender with its proven benefits.

Rating
9.1
Nutritional Content
Life Stage Formulation
Brand Reputation

Most important from
12390 reviews

Nutritional Content
Since I started feeding my puppy this food, he has become stronger and grown very well. His coat looks healthy and shiny.
Life Stage Formulation
Our 10-week-old bichon cleans his bowl every time; he loves the taste.
Brand Reputation
This is a great product, although it is pretty expensive for the weight of the bag. Despite the price, I will continue to buy it due to the company's integrity and the product's quality.
#3

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

Rating
9.1
Nutritional Content

Most important from
3078 reviews

Nutritional Content
My Weimaraner puppy loves this food. He has a lot of energy and his coat looks great! Good value, great taste, will keep buying!

Hill's Science Diet Puppy food for large breeds offers a well-rounded nutritional profile designed specifically for growing puppies. The inclusion of DHA from fish oil supports healthy brain and eye development, which is crucial for young dogs. High-quality protein sources help fuel muscle growth and support active play, making it apt for energetic puppies. The balanced minerals are beneficial for the development of bones and teeth, ensuring your puppy grows up strong and healthy.

The kibble size is appropriate for large breed puppies, making it easier for them to eat and digest. Made in the USA with globally trusted ingredients, the product boasts a solid brand reputation, being the #1 veterinarian recommended option. The flavor of lamb and brown rice is a plus for dogs that may have poultry sensitivities or prefer a different taste. However, it's worth noting that this product might be on the pricier side compared to other brands.

Additionally, the 30-pound bag may be cumbersome for some pet owners to handle. For new users, transitioning to this food over a 7-day period is recommended to avoid digestive upsets. This product is particularly suited for owners of large breed puppies who prioritize high-quality nutrition and have the budget for premium pet food.

Rating
9.1
Nutritional Content

Most important from
3078 reviews

Nutritional Content
My Weimaraner puppy loves this food. He has a lot of energy and his coat looks great! Good value, great taste, will keep buying!

Buying Guide for the Best Puppy Food

Choosing the right puppy food is crucial for the healthy growth and development of your new furry friend. Puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adult dogs, so it's important to select a food that is specifically formulated for them. When picking puppy food, consider factors such as the breed, size, and any specific health concerns your puppy may have. Here are some key specifications to look for and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your puppy.
Nutritional ContentNutritional content refers to the balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in the puppy food. This is important because puppies need a higher amount of protein and fat to support their rapid growth and energy needs. Look for foods that list high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish as the first ingredient. For small breeds, ensure the food has a higher calorie content per cup, while large breeds may need food with controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to support healthy bone development.
Kibble SizeKibble size is the size of the dry food pieces. This is important because puppies have smaller mouths and teeth, and the right kibble size can make eating easier and more enjoyable for them. Small breed puppies will benefit from smaller kibble that they can easily chew, while larger breed puppies can handle bigger pieces. Choose a kibble size that matches your puppy's breed size to ensure they can eat comfortably and safely.
Life Stage FormulationLife stage formulation means the food is specifically designed for a particular stage of a dog's life, such as puppyhood, adulthood, or senior years. This is important because puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs. Always choose a food labeled for puppies or 'growth' to ensure it meets the higher nutritional needs of your growing puppy. Avoid foods labeled for 'all life stages' as they may not provide the specific nutrients needed for optimal puppy development.
Ingredients QualityIngredients quality refers to the source and type of ingredients used in the puppy food. High-quality ingredients are important for providing the essential nutrients your puppy needs without unnecessary fillers or artificial additives. Look for foods with whole, recognizable ingredients and avoid those with by-products, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. If your puppy has any food sensitivities or allergies, choose a food with limited ingredients or a novel protein source to avoid triggering any reactions.
Brand ReputationBrand reputation involves the trustworthiness and reliability of the company that produces the puppy food. This is important because reputable brands are more likely to follow strict quality control measures and provide consistent, high-quality products. Research brands that have a good track record, positive reviews from other pet owners, and recommendations from veterinarians. Choosing a well-known and respected brand can give you peace of mind that you are feeding your puppy a safe and nutritious diet.

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