The Best Dry Dog Foods for Large Breed Dogs

Like humans, dogs can be picky eaters. They have a wide variety of taste buds, and some like certain flavors while others don’t care for the same food. It can be challenging to find dry dog foods that you know your dog will enjoy.

But if you’re looking for one with large breeds in mind, it should be different from other dogs’ needs.

We’ve compiled a list of what we think are the best dry dog foods for large breeds so that you’ll never worry about finding the perfect food again!

Larger breed dogs need different nutrients from typical smaller dogs.

They need more calcium for healthy teeth, healthy joints, heart, healthy bones, kidney health, or even healthy weight management. Large breeds often have larger appetites, requiring more calories and nutrients than those smaller in size. So what should you be looking for?

What you’ll learn in this article:

Do Large Breed Dogs Need Grain in Their Diet?

Dogs need various nutrients to develop a healthy body, and a large breed dog’s diet can include grain to make up for the extra calories they need.

Grains are unnecessary, but if you decide that your pet needs grains in their diet, they should be of high quality, like oats or brown rice.

The reason is that most dogs lack fiber which causes them discomfort when digesting grains. As responsible dog owners, you should observe your dog’s eating habits and know what brings them discomfort (if anything), and don’t automatically assume that it’s because of the grains in their food.

Most experts recommend only feeding your pet grains if they have a specific need for them in their diet. If you do decide to add grain into the mix, we advise that it is rice or oats as these are low glycemic and higher soluble fiber options than corn which can be difficult on dogs’ stomachs when there isn’t enough water available during digestion.

What is the Best Large Breed Dog Foods?

Large breed adult dogs need specific nutrients, so dog food companies have been formulating recipes intended for their consumption. Here’s a list of dog food brands that you might consider for your next dog food option, especially foods for your large breed dog:

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for Large-Breed Puppies Dog Food Recipe

Formulated from safe ingredients for dogs, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula was created to help dogs reach their optimal health.

This high-quality dog food contains real meat, real grains, real veggies, and fruit, plus LifeSource Bits, which provide abundant vitamins and minerals. Delicious and protein-rich deboned chicken is included in this formula for large and giant breeds.

Puppyhood is a crucial stage in developing an animal, and both the ingredients in puppy food formula support healthy growth and development.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30-lb

• REAL MEAT FIRST: Blue Buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient; High-quality protein from real chicken helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles; Plus they contain wholesome whole grains, garden veggies and fruit
• FOR LARGE BREED PUPPIES: BLUE Life Protection Formula Large Breed Puppy Food supports healthy muscle growth and contains DHA and ARA (important fatty acids found in mother’s milk) to support cognitive function and retinal health
• ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
• A NATURAL DOG FOOD: BLUE dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals; BLUE contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
• Contains one (1) 30 lb. Bag of BLUE Life Protection Formula Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown R

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Blue Buffalo Life Protection Benefits:

• Includes omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat and DHA and ARA for healthy brain and eye development
• This formula contains calcium, phosphorus, essential vitamins, and “puppy-sized” kibble for puppies with smaller jaws. This makes it ideal for removing the tartar.
• Protects your immune system with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• This supplement contains top-quality protein and L-Carnitine to help build lean muscle.
• Neither corn, wheat, soy, nor by-products of poultry or meat are added to these meals.

The first used 10 ingredients are Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Pea Protein, Peas, Chicken Fat, Menhaden Fish Meal (Source of Nutrient: Omega 3 Fatty Acids), and Flaxseed (Source of Nutrient: Omega 6 Fatty Acids).

Holistic Select Natural Large Breed Dog Food Puppy Formula

A recipe formulated for puppies that will grow to 50 pounds and over contains all the appropriate vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to promote good health and healthy development without loading them up with extra calories.

You will have to feed a big puppy, so not just any food will do. The Holistic Select Natural puppy food is specially formulated for large-breed puppies, thus is an ideal choice.

In addition to digestive enzymes, active probiotics, and healthy fiber, the larger kibble pieces make it possible for larger mouths to have a happy tummy. Our special recipe ensures your little guy gets the nutrients he needs to feel great inside and out.

Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food, Large & Giant Breed Puppy Recipe, 30-Pound Bag

• DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Optimal levels of protein plus prebiotics and probiotics, live yogurt cultures, digestive enzymes, and natural fiber in this dog food enhance digestion for your large breed dog throughout their life
• HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT: Omega 3 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed to support healthy skin and coat
• WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
• Made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, we prepare each of our diets in our own state of the art facility; we craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits
• WELLNESS NUTRITION: Created by nutritionists, veterinarians and animal lovers, our recipes provide an ideal balance of natures finest ingredients, carefully selected to sustain your dogs wellbe

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Holistic Select Natural Benefits:

• Supports your dog’s digestive health with multiple ingredients that improve the digestive system.
• Healthy skin and coat from inclusions of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Healthy heart fueled by probiotics, glucosamine, and taurine.
• The recipes are also made to be healthy, nutritious, and pleasing to your pup’s palate.

The first 11 ingredients are Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Barley, Peas, Chicken Fat, Oats, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Salmon Oil, and Flaxseed.

Nutro Ultra Dry Food for Large-Breed Puppies

The nutrient-rich formula contains ingredients that promote complete and balanced nutrition, including glucosamine & chondroitin, sunflower oil, taurine, plus other amino acids.

The Nutro Ultra Holistic Superfood Blend is designed to optimally support your dog’s health and well-being with a tasty and nutritious mix of healthy vegetables, antioxidant-rich fruits, and healthy oils. Natural and high-quality proteins combined with holistic, all-natural supplements give your dog optimal levels of amino acids and great taste.

Growing puppies up to 12 months of age are specifically targeted with Ultra Large Breed Puppy products. Though the food is formulated for puppies, it meets the nutritional needs of dogs at any age, including pregnancy and nursing dogs.

NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Puppy High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins from Chicken, Lamb and Salmon, 30 lb. Bag

• Contains one (1) 30 lb. bag of NUTRO ULTRA Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon
• Features trio of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon—chicken is the #1 ingredient—specially formulated for large breed puppies
• Our premium dog food kibble is made with high-quality, real ingredients and provides complete and balanced nutrition for large breed puppies in every bowl
• This healthy dog food recipe is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies and promotes brain development and healthy growth
• NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with high-quality protein and our blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and other quality ingredients that support healthy digestion
• Made with no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
• NUTRO ULTRA Dry Dog Food is made with quality ingredients, sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppli

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Nutro Ultra Holistic Benefits:

• A combination of farm-raised chicken, pastured lamb, and salmon products is compatible with each other to provide a supple, lean body—a precise blend of high-quality protein and fat for supporting the high energy levels of giant breed puppies. The nutrients in whole grains support a healthy digestive system and allow nutrients to be properly absorbed.
• The nutritional components of healthy cartilage, glucosamine, and chondroitin come from natural sources. In addition, it has antioxidants that aid in keeping your immune system strong, your heart healthy, and your mind active. This formula will provide your dog with natural oils and whole grains to ensure optimum health.
• This product contains Sunflower Oil, which is high in Linoleic Acid. It provides healthy skin and a shiny coat for your dog. Specially formulated to provide all the essential vitamins, minerals, and even taurine. A natural antioxidant, taurine is beneficial for dogs’ eyesight and hearing and prevents the development of diseases.
• The non-artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives make this a healthy puppy meal. The Nutro Ultra Holistic product line consists of high-quality, high-quality products manufactured within the manufacturer’s own manufacturing facilities, ensuring dog safety and quality food.

The first 15 ingredients are Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Oatmeal, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Chicken Fat, Pea Protein, Whole Flaxseed Fish Oil, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Sunflower Oil, and Potato Protein.

Holistic Select Giant Breed Dogs and Large Breed Adult Dog Food

Giants and large breeds, like Great Danes and German Shepherds, have particular needs for protein and calorie content and nutrients that support healthy joint function. This recipe for healthy, tasty chicken and oatmeal with pumpkin and papaya provides for their needs, along with glucosamine for joint health and probiotics for digestive health.

Suitable for those with bigger mouths, Holistic Select Natural has larger pieces of kibble. This combination of probiotics, healthy fiber, and digestive enzymes supports your dog’s immune and digestive health. This combination of vitamins and nutrients will provide tasty, nutritious food your dog will be able to eat all day long.

Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food, Large & Giant Breed Adult Recipe, 30-Pound Bag

• DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Optimal levels of protein plus prebiotics and probiotics, live yogurt cultures, digestive enzymes, and natural fiber in this dog food enhance digestion for your large breed dog
• HEALTHY HIPS AND JOINTS: Calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine and chondroitin maintain bone strength and joint health
• WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
• Made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, we prepare each of our diets in our own state of the art facility; we craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits
• QUALITY NUTRITION: We craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome ingredients that your pup will love, chosen for their nutritional benef

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Holistic Select Natural Benefits:

• This supplement supports your dog’s digestive health by providing a wide range of healthy ingredients.
• Healthy skin and coat result from omega-3 fatty acids.
• Glucosamine, taurine, probiotics, and antioxidants all help the heart stay healthy.
• Healthy and nutritious recipe

Its first 10 ingredients are Chicken Meal, Rice, Oats, Oatmeal, Chicken Fat, Pork Meal, Cranberries, Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, and Pumpkin.

Which Is the Best Dog Food Recommend by Vets?

Wellness Core Grain-Free Large Dog Dry Food

With a substantial kibble size and grain-free recipe, Wellness Core Large Breed formula is made using a high-protein, high-quality recipe. The large dogs also need more glucosamine and chondroitin to support strong bones and joints and promote a healthy balanced diet while keeping your dog’s digestive system running smoothly.

This recipe promotes grain-free diets, and with this formula, your dog will be able to maintain a healthy weight because this recipe contains the right amount of fat and calories. It contains lots of protein and vegetables with lots of vitamins and minerals, such as spinach, kale, and broccoli.

Pet parents should make their big dog’s life better with this Wellness CORE recipe. Designed exclusively for large breed dogs, this grain-free dry food is formulated with natural nutrients, including antioxidants and probiotics, along with vitamins, minerals, glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids.

The kibble shape is designed to allow for easier feeding and support lean body mass and muscle tone and a healthy coat and skin. This dry dog food is nutritiously balanced with quality proteins and nutrient-rich superfoods.

This product has no meat by-products, fillers, grains, soy, wheat gluten, or artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors and promotes optimum whole-body health.

Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Large Breed, 26-Pound Bag

• ADVANCED NATURAL NUTRITION TO FUEL YOUR LARGE BREED DOGS BEST LIFE: Premium protein expertly balanced with nutrient rich superfoods for a complete and balanced dog food, with guaranteed levels of the nutrients your large breed dog needs to thrive
• SAVORY FOOD DOGS LOVE: Wellness CORE is available in grain and grain free recipes, as well as limited ingredient diets for dogs with food sensitivities
• LEANER BODY MASS AND MUSCLE TONE: Wellness CORE dog food is made with a high concentration of protein from fresh meat ingredients
• SUPPORTS HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT with guaranteed levels of omega fatty acids from ingredients such as flaxseed and salmon oil
• WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
• Made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, we prepare each of our diets in our own state of the art facility; we craft delicious natural recipes with wholesome, non GMO ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits
• Manufactured in a facility that also processes gra

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Wellness Core Grain-Free Recipe Benefits:

• Designed to be bigger kibbles for easier eating.
• Promotes skin and coat health while maintaining lean body mass.
• Fortified with glucosamine, chondroitin, vitamins, minerals, as well as antioxidants, and probiotics.
• Formulated with the highest-quality proteins paired with nutrient-rich superfoods.

Its first 10 ingredients are Deboned Chicken, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Dried Ground Potatoes, Lentils, Peas, Pea Fiber, Tomato Pomace, and Ground Flaxseed.