We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Large Breed Puppy Foods 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula - 34 lb. Bag

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,141
Protein Content
Kibble Size

Most important from
6195 reviews

Protein Content
High-quality proteins and essential nutrients support growth and energy, making it a solid choice for various breeds.
Kibble Size
The kibble size is perfect for easier chewing and digestion, even for smaller mouths within large breeds.

The Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula offers a balanced diet for large-breed puppies. It boasts a high protein content which is vital for muscle development, and includes DHA from fish oil to support brain and vision development. Calcium and phosphorus are present to aid in building strong bones and teeth, making it a good fit for growing puppies. The crunchy kibble combined with tender, shredded pieces provides a texture that many puppies find appealing. Additionally, antioxidants help support the immune system, which is crucial for young dogs.

Although the product claims to be suitable for all breed sizes, the kibble size is designed with large breeds in mind, ensuring that it is easy for them to chew and digest. However, the lack of specific joint support ingredients might be a drawback for some, as large-breed puppies are prone to joint issues. The food's digestibility is enhanced by the presence of live probiotics, making it gentle on the stomach. With a 34-pound bag, it offers good value for money but might be a bit cumbersome to handle. In conclusion, while it excels in many areas, those specifically concerned about joint health may need to look for additional supplements.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,141
Protein Content
Kibble Size

Most important from
6195 reviews

Protein Content
High-quality proteins and essential nutrients support growth and energy, making it a solid choice for various breeds.
Kibble Size
The kibble size is perfect for easier chewing and digestion, even for smaller mouths within large breeds.
#2

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food, 27.5 lb. Bag

Rating
10.0
Digestibility

Most important from
5242 reviews

Digestibility
Puppies transition well from wet to dry food, enjoying the lamb flavor with no problems.

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Food is formulated to support the needs of growing large-breed puppies. It features DHA from fish oil, which is essential for brain and eye development in puppies. The high-quality protein sourced from chicken is beneficial for muscle growth and active play, which is crucial for your puppy's development.

Additionally, the food includes balanced minerals to aid in the development of strong bones and teeth, a significant factor for large-breed puppies prone to skeletal issues. The product's kibble size is designed for puppies, making it easier for them to chew and digest.

The food is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, providing a level of trust in quality. It is dry food, which is convenient for feeding and storage. Additionally, it is veterinarian recommended, indicating it meets certain standards of quality and nutrition.

Rating
10.0
Digestibility

Most important from
5242 reviews

Digestibility
Puppies transition well from wet to dry food, enjoying the lamb flavor with no problems.
#3

Hill's Science Diet Puppy, Puppy Premium Nutrition, Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 15.5 lb Bag

Rating
9.9
Protein Content
Digestibility

Most important from
5242 reviews

Protein Content
Hill's Science Diet Puppy food offers balanced nutrition packed with essentials for growth, including high-quality protein for lean muscle development.
Digestibility
The food is gentle on a puppy's stomach and easy to digest, thanks to real chicken and brown rice.

Hill's Science Diet Puppy, Chicken & Brown Rice formula is a dry dog food created specifically for large-breed puppies. One of the stand-out features is the DHA from fish oil, which supports healthy brain and eye development. It offers high-quality protein essential for growing muscles and active play. The balanced minerals contribute to healthy bone and teeth development, which is crucial for large breeds prone to joint and bone issues.

The digestibility of the food seems well-regarded, but some puppies might need time to adjust, as advised by the gradual feeding instructions. The kibble size is designed to be manageable for puppies, but it’s always important to monitor your pet to ensure ease of eating. Being veterinarian-recommended, it appears to be a reliable choice.

Despite lacking detailed macronutrient breakdowns directly in the brief, its reputation and ingredients suggest it meets the nutritional needs of large-breed puppies. Being made in the USA with globally trusted ingredients adds to its credibility. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing balanced, developmental nutrition for their young large-breed dogs.

Rating
9.9
Protein Content
Digestibility

Most important from
5242 reviews

Protein Content
Hill's Science Diet Puppy food offers balanced nutrition packed with essentials for growth, including high-quality protein for lean muscle development.
Digestibility
The food is gentle on a puppy's stomach and easy to digest, thanks to real chicken and brown rice.

Buying Guide for the Best Large Breed Puppy Foods

Choosing the right food for your large-breed puppy is crucial for their growth and overall health. Large-breed puppies have different nutritional needs compared to smaller breeds, and selecting the right food can help prevent health issues such as joint problems and obesity. When picking the best food for your large-breed puppy, consider the following key specifications to ensure you are providing the best nutrition for your furry friend.
Protein ContentProtein is essential for the growth and development of your puppy's muscles and tissues. For large-breed puppies, a protein content of around 22-30% is ideal. Higher protein levels support muscle development, but too much can lead to excessive growth, which may strain developing joints. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish. If your puppy is very active, you might lean towards the higher end of the protein spectrum, while less active puppies may do well with moderate protein levels.
Calcium and Phosphorus LevelsCalcium and phosphorus are vital for bone development, but large-breed puppies need these minerals in the right balance to avoid skeletal issues. The ideal ratio of calcium to phosphorus is about 1.2:1. Too much calcium can cause bone abnormalities, while too little can lead to weak bones. Check the food label to ensure it meets the recommended levels. If your puppy is growing rapidly, it's even more important to monitor these levels closely.
Fat ContentFat provides energy and supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. For large-breed puppies, a fat content of around 8-15% is suitable. Higher fat content can lead to rapid weight gain, which can stress developing joints. Choose a food with moderate fat levels to support steady growth. If your puppy is very active, you might opt for the higher end of the fat range, while less active puppies should stick to the lower end.
Kibble SizeKibble size is important for large-breed puppies as it encourages proper chewing and digestion. Larger kibble pieces can help prevent gulping and reduce the risk of bloat, a serious condition in large breeds. Look for foods specifically designed for large-breed puppies, as these will have appropriately sized kibble. If your puppy struggles with smaller kibble, it might be a sign to switch to a larger size.
Joint Support IngredientsLarge-breed puppies are prone to joint issues, so foods with added joint support ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin can be beneficial. These ingredients help support healthy joint development and can prevent future problems. If your puppy is a breed known for joint issues, such as a German Shepherd or Labrador, choosing a food with these added supplements can be particularly important.
DigestibilityHighly digestible foods ensure that your puppy is absorbing the maximum amount of nutrients from their food. Look for foods with high-quality ingredients and minimal fillers like corn or soy. Ingredients like rice, oats, and sweet potatoes are good sources of digestible carbohydrates. If your puppy has a sensitive stomach or frequent digestive issues, prioritizing highly digestible food can help maintain their overall health.

FAQ