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6 weeks old great dane puppy eating
ChristopherBernard via iStock

The Best Large-Breed Puppy Foods

Updated November 3, 2023 | Dog > Diet
By Deanna deBara
Updated by Rover Staff, Liz Coleman

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  • This review contains affiliate links. Read more here.
  • Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

You want to do everything you can to take care of your large breed puppy, and giving them an optimal diet is a great place to start. Puppies with an expected adult weight of over 50 pounds need a precise balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to encourage a steady growth rate. The best food for large-breed puppies will have lower energy density and controlled calcium levels. This prevents them from growing too fast, which can put stress on their developing skeletal systems. 

Today’s pet food market is filled with good options for large puppies. But that abundance of choice can also be overwhelming—especially for first-time puppy parents. We’re here to help you understand the benefits of the different foods available and who they might suit best. To that end, we’ve surfaced 12 AAFCO-compliant foods that address the needs of large-breed puppies. But keep in mind that the final decision rests with you and your vet, who will always be your best resource. 

Table of Contents

  1. Kibble
  2. Dehydrated
  3. Wet
  4. Fresh
  5. Raw
  6. Grain Free
  7. For Sensitive Stomachs
  8. Chicken Free
  9. Budget
  10. Subscription
  11. For Picky Eaters
  12. For Giant Breeds

Our picks

Best Kibble

best dog food for large breed puppies
Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy FoodRead our review

Best Dehydrated

spot & tango dehydrated puppy food
Spot & Tango UnkibbleRead our review

Best Wet Food

best large breed puppy wet food
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Canned FoodRead our review

Best Fresh Food

petplate fresh dog food
PetPlateRead our review

Best with Raw Ingredients

stella & chewy raw blend puppy
Stella & Chewy SuperBlends Raw BlendRead our review

Best Grain-Free

orijen grain-free puppy food
Orijen Grain-Free Large Puppy FoodRead our review

Best for Sensitive Stomachs

purina pro plan sensitive stomach puppy food
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Large Breed Puppy FoodRead our review

Best Without Chicken

LID puppy food
Natural Balance L.I.D. Salmon RecipeRead our review

Most Affordable Option

IAMS large breed dry puppy food
IAMS ProActive Health Large Breed Puppy Food Read our review

Best Subscription

jinx organic puppy kibble
Jinx Jr. Organic KibbleRead our review

Best for Picky Eaters

eukanuba wet puppy food
Eukanuba Mixed Grill Chicken & Beef in GravyRead our review

Best for Giant Breed Puppies

giant breed puppy food
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Giant Puppy Dry FoodRead our review

Best Kibble: Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy Food

best dog food for large breed puppies

Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Puppy Food

Created by vets, nutritionists, and scientists, this Hill’s formula has the right balance of minerals and nutrients to keep your large puppy’s growth on track.

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As one of the most reputable brands in the pet food industry, Hill’s has developed this large breed formula with guidance from qualified nutritionists, food scientists, and veterinarians. Formulated for breeds with an expected adult weight of over 55 pounds, this dry puppy food is made with an ideal calcium level for controlled bone growth (1.16%). At 391 kcal per cup and only 12.22% fat, this dry kibble will keep your large puppy’s growth on a safe trajectory. 

This formula comes in two flavors: chicken & oats and lamb & rice. The kibble is sized perfectly for larger puppies: big enough that even big dogs will need to chew it, which slows them down and helps with teeth cleaning.

Key Nutrients: 

  • 391 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 26.67%
  • Fat: 12.22%
  • Carbohydrate: 57.78%
  • Crude Fiber: 3.33%
  • Calcium: 1.16%
  • Phosphorus: 0.95%

Ingredients: Chicken, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat, Pea Protein, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Soybean Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Chicken Liver Flavor, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Dicalcium Phosphate, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Iodized Salt, Dried Citrus Pulp, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Pressed Cranberries, Calcium Carbonate, 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), DL-Methionine, L-Threonine, Taurine, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Tryptophan, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene

Best Dehydrated: Spot & Tango Unkibble

spot & tango dehydrated puppy food

Spot & Tango Unkibble

A unique take on kibble that combines the convenience of dry food with some of the benefits of fresh food.

Find on Spot & Tango

Spot & Tango’s unique “UnKibble” takes fresh ingredients and gently dehydrates them at low temperatures to preserve their natural vitamins and minerals. Each of the four UnKibble recipes features a limited ingredient list and is considered complete and balanced for all life stages and breed sizes, including large-breed puppies.

This subscription service takes your puppy’s weight and breed into account, tailoring meal sizes to their unique needs. To take the guesswork out of portion sizes (and keep your large pup’s weight on track), a customized scoop is included in your order. 

Key Nutrients (Turkey + Sweet Potato Recipe): 

  • 4,367 kcal/kg
  • Protein: 25.77%
  • Fat: 19.59%
  • Carbohydrate: 51.55%
  • Crude Fiber: 3.09%

Ingredients: Turkey, Brown Rice, Turkey Liver, Sweet Potatoes, Turkey Heart, Flax Seeds, Apples, Cranberries, Spinach, Salmon Oil, Ginger, Salt, Dried Kelp, Mixed Tocopherols, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, L-Tryptophan, L-Threonine, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin E, Selenium Yeast, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Riboflavin, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Beets, Blueberries, Broccoli, Carrots, Cherries, Oranges, Pumpkin, Shiitake Mushrooms, Strawberries, Tomatoes, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D, Folic Acid

Best Wet Food: Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Canned Food

best large breed puppy wet food

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Canned Food

Royal Canin’s line of size-specific foods tailors recipes to the needs of bigger breeds.

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Wet food will be a good choice for many large puppies, whether you’re serving it exclusively or using it as a topper to liven up mealtime. This recipe has thin slices with chicken and pork in a savory gravy. 

Royal Canin’s line of size-specific foods addresses the unique needs of larger puppies. This veterinarian-developed recipe is formulated to support the moderate energy needs of larger puppies for up to 15 months. It has a generous protein level for developing muscles, and it features DHA for a healthy brain. You’ll also find a blend of antioxidants, which maintain good digestion and stool quality. 

Key Nutrients: 

  • 866 kcal/kg; 320 kcal/can
  • Protein: 37.16%
  • Fat: 19.13%
  • Carbohydrate: 33.33%
  • Crude Fiber: 10.38%

Ingredients: Water Sufficient For Processing, Chicken, Pork By-Products, Chicken Liver, Brewers Rice Flour, Wheat Gluten, Pork Plasma, Powdered Cellulose, Modified Corn Starch, Fish Oil, Vegetable Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Sodium Aluminosilicate, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Taurine, Carob Bean Gum, Vitamins[L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Niacin Supplement, Biotin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement], Natural Flavors, Choline Chloride, Psyllium Seed Husk, Glycine, Sodium Carbonate, Trace Minerals[Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate], Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Carotene

Best Fresh Food: PetPlate

petplate fresh dog food

PetPlate

Fresh recipes that are high in protein and low in fat are ideal for large-breed puppies.

Find on PetPlate

Fresh food is a relative newcomer to the pet food scene, favored for its limited (and recognizable) ingredients and gentle cooking methods. PetPlate offers four grain-inclusive recipes that can be served to all life stages and breed sizes: turkey, lamb, pork, and venison. 

While fresh foods aren’t known for being low cost, this brand is more affordable than most—a worthwhile consideration if you’re feeding a large puppy who eats a lot. They even offer a topper plan that starts at $0.51 per day. 

PetPlate’s recipes are high in protein and low in fat, which makes them ideal for your large puppy. Our Rover reviewer appreciated the yogurt-style containers that came with resealable lids.

Key Nutrients (Turkey Recipe): 

  • 38 kcal/oz
  • Protein: 30%
  • Fat: 15%
  • Carbohydrate: 52%
  • Crude Fiber: 1.8 %

Ingredients: Turkey, Brown Rice, Turkey Liver, Carrots, Apples, Green Beans, Red Bell Peppers, Vinegar, Potato Starch, Dicalcium Phosphate, Salmon Oil, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Natural Flavor, Minerals (Ferrous Fumarate, Magnesium Oxide, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Sodium Selenite), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Riboflavin [Vitamin B2], Thiamine Mononitrate [Vitamin B1], Pyridoxine Hydrochloride [Vitamin B6]), Mixed Tocopherols (a preservative), Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Choline Bitartrate, L-Threonine

Best with Raw Ingredients: Stella & Chewy SuperBlends Raw Blend

stella & chewy raw blend puppy

Stella & Chewy SuperBlends Raw Blend

Raw-coated kibble is served up alongside freeze-dried chunks of raw protein in this puppy formula from Stella & Chewy.

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There is some evidence that raw protein may be easier for dogs to digest, and it may retain nutrients that would otherwise be lost through the heating process. However, raw food does pose the risk of contamination, and pet parents should always exercise caution when serving it—especially with puppies whose immune systems are still developing. 

Stella & Chewy ensures the safety of their raw products by removing pathogens through high-pressure processing. This method eliminates bacteria while leaving the raw nutrition intact. The company also tests every batch for bacteria and posts the results on its website. 

This dry food is packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients like kale, blueberries, and turmeric. Each piece of kibble is coated with freeze-dried raw protein. Chunks of freeze-dried raw clusters are blended into the mix. Calcium content is well within the healthy range for large-breed puppies, and the protein level is optimal for big puppies.

Key Nutrients:

  • 459  kcal/cup
  • Protein: 31.82%
  • Fat: 16.48%
  • Carbohydrate: 46.02%
  • Crude Fiber: 5.68%
  • Calcium: 1.2%

Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Barley, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salmon, Tomato Pomace, Chicken Liver, Flaxseed, Quinoa, Natural Chicken Flavor, Chicken Gizzard, Organic Blueberries, Organic Broccoli, Organic Beets, Organic Carrots, Organic Spinach, Organic Squash, Organic Cranberries, Salmon Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Chia Seed, Pumpkin Seeds, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root (source of Inulin), L-threonine, Kale, Pumpkin, Ginger, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Rosemary Extract, Chicken Bone Broth, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), L-carnitine, New Zealand Green Mussel, Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Proteinate, Choline Chloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, D-calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Dried Pediococcus Acidilactici fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus, Dried Bifidobacterium Longum fermentation product, Dried Bacillus Coagulans fermentation product

Best Grain-Free: Orijen Grain-Free Large Puppy Food

orijen grain-free puppy food

Orijen Grain-Free Large Puppy Food

For large puppies with a grain allergy, Orijen is a solid remedy.

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Food allergies are rare in dogs—grain allergies even more so. However, for puppies with a known wheat or corn allergy, a grain-free food can provide relief. 

This dry food is formulated specifically for large-breed puppies and contains 85% animal ingredients. The first ten ingredients are protein-based—of those, the first five are fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients. Salmon, herring, and sardines all provide a natural source of omega fatty acids.

Orijen includes fresh muscle meat, organs, and bone in this recipe. Organ meats like kidney, liver, and tripe provide your puppy with iron, copper, magnesium, iodine, and Vitamins A, D, E, and K. This kibble is also coated with freeze-dried raw. Balanced levels of fat and calcium maintain a healthy growth rate for your large-breed pup.

Key Nutrients: 

  • 451 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 43.18%
  • Fat: 18.18%
  • Carbohydrate: 34.09%
  • Crude Fiber: 4.55%
  • Calcium: 1.2%

Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Salmon, Whole Herring, Chicken Liver, Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Turkey, Dehydrated Sardine, Dehydrated Chicken Liver, Dehydrated Egg, Whole Red Lentils, Eggs, Whole Pinto Beans, Whole Navy Beans, Whole Green Lentils, Whole Chickpeas, Whole Peas, Dried Apple Pomace, Turkey Giblets (Liver, Heart, Gizzard), Natural Chicken Flavor, Pollock Oil, Chicken Fat, Dehydrated Pumpkin, Chicken Heart, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Whole Pumpkin, Whole Butternut Squash, Collard Greens, Whole Apples, Whole Pears, Whole Cranberries, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Taurine, Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Dried Chicory Root, Turmeric, Sarsaparilla Root, Althea Root, Rosehips, Juniper Berries, Citric Acid (Preservative), Rosemary Extract

Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Large Breed Puppy Food

purina pro plan sensitive stomach puppy food

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Large Breed Puppy Food

Digestible ingredients, fiber, and probiotics combine to create a tummy-friendly recipe for puppies.

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Developed by a team of scientists, nutritionists, and veterinarians, this Purina Pro Plan recipe is tailored for large-breed puppies with appropriate amounts of fat and calcium. It’s formulated with easily digestible ingredients like salmon, oatmeal, and rice to be gentle on sensitive digestive systems. It’s also fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to aid in digestion, and prebiotic fiber promotes good intestinal bacteria. Salmon and fish oil provide omega-3 fatty acids for brain and vision development, while sunflower oil brings omega-6 to the table. 

Key Nutrients: 

  • 417 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 28%
  • Fat: 13%
  • Carbohydrate: 42.25%
  • Crude Fiber: 4.75%

Ingredients: Salmon, Rice, Barley, Fish Meal, Canola Meal, Oat Meal, Dried Yeast, Pea Protein, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Salmon Meal, Natural Flavor, Pea Fiber, Chicory Root Inulin, Sunflower Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Fish Oil, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Citrate, Taurine, DL-Methionine, MINERALS [Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite], Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, 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), Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Vitamin D-3 Supplement], L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Vitamin C), Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product

Best Without Chicken: Natural Balance L.I.D. Salmon Recipe

LID puppy food

Natural Balance L.I.D. Salmon Recipe

This chicken-free recipe may benefit pups with allergies or stomach sensitivities.

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While rare, some dogs can suffer from food allergies. In most cases, proteins like chicken are the culprit. This chicken-free recipe from Natural Balance is made with ingredient-sensitive puppies in mind. It features a pared-down list of ingredients, and salmon is the sole protein source. Whole-grain brown rice provides fiber for better digestion.

Along with pups with allergies, this food may be a good match for those with sensitive stomachs or irritable skin. As an alternative, the brand also carries a lamb formula for puppies. 

Key Nutrients: 

  • 385 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 26.67%
  • Fat: 13.33%
  • Carbohydrate: 55%
  • Crude Fiber: 5%
  • Calcium: 1.2%

Ingredients: Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Oat Groats, Flaxseed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Natural Flavor, Salt, Salmon Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Dl-Methionine, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin), Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, L-Threonine, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Rosemary Extract

Most Affordable Option: IAMS ProActive Health Large Breed Puppy Food 

IAMS large breed dry puppy food

IAMS ProActive Health Large Breed Puppy Food

IAMS is a reputable brand with a lower price point.

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For pet parents looking to balance quality with affordability, IAMS is a good brand to consider. The company adheres to AAFCO and WSAVA nutritional guidelines. And this large breed puppy food will set you back just $1.54 per pound, making it considerably cheaper than the other recommendations listed here.

This dry food is formulated to support an ideal growth rate in large-breed puppies. Energy density and fat are adjusted appropriately, and the calcium level is balanced. Puppies will receive a healthy amount of protein. There’s also glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support the development of your big breed’s hips and joints.

Key Nutrients:

  • 378 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 30%
  • Fat: 15.56%
  • Carbohydrate: 50%
  • Crude Fiber: 4.44%
  • Calcium: 1.2%

Ingredients: Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Brewers Rice, Soybean Meal, Natural Flavor, Corn Gluten Meal, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Egg Product, Caramel Color, Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Carrots, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Fructooligosaccharides, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Manganous Oxide), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Citric Acid (preservative), Rosemary Extract

Best Subscription: Cage-Free Chicken Puppy Food

jinx organic puppy kibble

Cage-Free Chicken Puppy Food

For pet parents who want to “set it and forget it,” Jinx offers a money-saving option.

Find on Jinx

Nutritionally, this puppy formula from Jinx has a lot of benefits that will speak to the needs of large-breed puppies. First, it contains just 377 kcal per cup and 15.56% fat on a dry matter basis—levels that will encourage optimal growth, not rapid growth. Calcium and protein are also properly balanced for large breeds. 

Your large-breed pup will be energized with whole-grain brown rice, which also supports their digestive system. The right proportions of protein, fat, and fiber help your pup maintain a healthy weight. And real fruits and vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and blueberries bolster your puppy’s immune system.

Jinx offers a “Subscribe and Save” option where you can save 15% on your first two orders and 5% on all subsequent purchases. Subscriptions can be delivered every 3 to 8 weeks.

Key Nutrients: 

  • 377 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 33.33%
  • Fat: 15.56%
  • Carbohydrate: 45.56%
  • Crude Fiber: 5.56%
  • Calcium: 1.2%

Ingredients: Organic Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground Peas, Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Turkey Meal, Brewers Dried Yeast, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Sweet Potato, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Monocalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Fish Oil, Salt, Pumpkin, Cranberry, Coconut Meal, Chia Seeds, Dried Kelp, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Ground Miscanthus Grass, Inulin, Minerals (Zinc Methionine Complex, Zinc Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate), Choline Chloride, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Citric Acid (Preservative), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Blueberry, Spinach, Turmeric, Ginger, Chamomile, Parsley, Apple, Dandelion, Dried Spearmint, Cinnamon, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract

Best for Picky Eaters: Eukanuba Mixed Grill Chicken & Beef in Gravy

eukanuba wet puppy food

Eukanuba Mixed Grill Chicken & Beef in Gravy

A palatable stew that should encourage fussy pups to eat.

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Picky eaters present a special challenge for pet parents. While every puppy will have different tastes, generally speaking, most pets will find wet food to be more palatable. This stew from Eukanuba has visible chunks of veggies and meat in it. Additionally, it has a higher level of fat than most (22.22% on a dry matter basis). An aromatic gravy helps to entice fussy eaters. You can feed this complete and balanced diet alone or serve it as a topper to liven up meals. 

Key Nutrients:

  • 347.6 kcal/can
  • Protein: 50%
  • Fat: 22.22%
  • Carbohydrate: 19.44%
  • Crude Fiber: 8.33%

Ingredients: Water Sufficient For Processing, Chicken, Beef Liver, Tomato, Beef, Carrots, Wheat Flour, Pork Plasma, Peas, Egg Product, Pork Broth, Ground Flaxseed, Powdered Cellulose, Vegetable Oil, Fish Oil, Guar Gum, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Natural Flavors, Xanthan Gum, Magnesium Oxide, Trace Minerals [Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate], Vitamins[Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, Biotin, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement

Best for Giant Breed Puppies: Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Giant Puppy Dry Food

giant breed puppy food

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Giant Puppy Dry Food

Designed for the biggest breeds, this puppy formula helps promote joint health.

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Giant breed puppies like Mastiffs and Great Danes can benefit from a food that prevents orthopedic issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. This dry food from Royal Canin includes glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joint development. A precise balance of minerals like calcium and phosphorus maintain steady growth.

Kibble pieces are appropriately sized for larger jaws: they’ll require your giant breed to chew, which slows down eating to prevent digestive issues like gas and bloat. This food also contains fewer calories than the rest of the dry food options listed here to prevent excess weight gain. 

Key Nutrients: 

  • 338 kcal/cup
  • Protein: 32%
  • Fat: 12%
  • Carbohydrate: 41.6%
  • Crude Fiber: 3.9%
  • Calcium: 1.1%

Ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Wheat Gluten, Brewers Rice Flour, Corn, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Corn Gluten Meal, Sodium Aluminosilicate, Vegetable Oil, Monocalcium Phosphate, Pea Fiber, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Powdered Psyllium Seed Husk, Taurine, Fish Oil, Fructooligosaccharides, Calcium Carbonate, Hydrolyzed Yeast, Choline Chloride, Marine Microalgae Oil, L-Lysine, Dl-Methionine, Vitamins[Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), Biotin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Acetate, Niacin Supplement, Folic Acid, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement], Trace Minerals[Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Copper Proteinate], Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Glucosamine Hydrochloride, L-Carnitine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Chondroitin Sulfate, Carotene, Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid

How We Chose

The foods featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews, and interviews with veterinary experts. We prioritized recipes with high-quality proteins, wholesome grains, and omega fatty acids. Additionally, we included brands with a focus on transparent ingredient sourcing, stringent testing protocols, and balanced nutrient levels for large-breed puppies. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.

Further Reading 

  • The New Puppy Checklist: Essentials for Pet Parents
  • The Best Puppy Treats
  • The Best Dog Foods for Small Breed Puppies in Every Style
  • A Complete Guide To All The Puppy Stages: What to Expect While They Grow
  • The 19 Best Dog Bowls for Durability, Travel, Dog Size, and More
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By Deanna deBara

Updated by Rover Staff, Liz Coleman

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