Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time, filled with thoughts of playtime, training, and endless cuddles. Among the initial flurry of puppy preparations – from choosing the perfect dog toys to deciding on crate training – one question stands out as paramount: What Is The Best Puppy Food to nourish your growing companion? This decision is crucial, setting the foundation for their health, development, and well-being.
To guide new puppy parents through this important choice, we consulted with experienced veterinarians to understand the nuances of puppy nutrition. We delve into the differences between puppy and adult dog food, highlighting key ingredients and portion considerations. Our guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to determine the most nutritious food for your specific puppy, regardless of breed or size. Furthermore, we present expert-backed recommendations for the best puppy food options available, including selections favored by our own NBC Select staff for their puppies.
SKIP AHEAD How to Choose the Best Puppy Food | Top Puppy Food Picks for 2024 | Puppy Food vs. Adult Dog Food: Key Differences | Puppy Feeding Guide: Essential Tips for New Owners
How to Choose the Best Puppy Food {#anchor-HowtoChoosetheBestPuppyFood}
Establishing a consistent mealtime routine is one of the first steps in welcoming a puppy into your life. “Choose a schedule that is convenient for you and your family so that you can stick to the routine — if you create a routine, the puppies will follow,” advises Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a veterinarian and veterinary advisor at Figo Pet Insurance.
When selecting high-quality puppy food, experts recommend focusing on several key factors:
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Consult with Your Veterinarian
Your veterinarian is your puppy’s primary healthcare provider and a valuable resource for nutritional advice. They can assess your puppy’s breed, size, health status, and activity level to recommend the most appropriate type of food. Don’t hesitate to discuss your puppy food options with your vet during your initial puppy wellness visits.
Check the AAFCO Statement
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutritional standards for pet food. Look for the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement on the puppy food packaging. It should state that the food is “complete and balanced” for “growth” or “all life stages,” ensuring it meets the nutritional needs of a growing puppy. This statement is usually found in small print on the back label.
Consider Ingredients
High-quality puppy food prioritizes real, whole-food ingredients. Essential ingredients include:
- Protein: Meat sources like chicken, beef, lamb, or fish should be primary ingredients, crucial for muscle development and overall growth.
- Grains and Carbohydrates: Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and barley provide energy and fiber. Some formulas may use grain-free alternatives like sweet potatoes or peas.
- Healthy Fats: Fats, particularly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are vital for brain development, healthy skin, and a shiny coat. Look for sources like fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat.
- Vitamins and Minerals: These micronutrients are essential for various bodily functions and immune system support.
Conversely, be mindful of ingredients to potentially limit or avoid:
- Excessive Fillers: While grains can be healthy, excessive amounts of fillers like corn, soy, and wheat middlings may indicate lower nutritional value.
- Artificial Additives: Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives offer no nutritional benefit and may cause sensitivities in some puppies.
Understand Nutritional Balance and Portion Size
Puppy food packaging should provide feeding guidelines based on your puppy’s weight and age. Pay attention to the calorie density (kcal per cup) to ensure you are feeding the correct portion sizes. Puppies require more calories per pound of body weight than adult dogs to support their rapid growth.
Breed Size Matters
Breed size plays a significant role in puppy food selection, especially for large and giant breeds. These breeds require formulas specifically designed to control their growth rate. Rapid growth in large breed puppies can lead to orthopedic problems later in life. Large breed puppy foods typically have:
- Controlled Calcium and Phosphorus Levels: To support healthy bone development without promoting excessive growth.
- Moderate Calorie Density: To prevent overly rapid weight gain.
Top Puppy Food Picks for 2024 {#anchor-BestPuppyFoodPicks}
Based on veterinarian recommendations, high ratings, and NBC Select staff favorites, here are some of the best puppy food options in various categories:
Best Overall: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food is highly recommended by experts for overall puppy health.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Price: $19.99 – $21.99
What we like:
- Source of essential vitamins and minerals
- Easy to digest formula
- Small kibble size, ideal for puppies
Something to note:
- Nothing significant to note at this time.
Hill’s Science Diet is a consistently top-rated brand among veterinarians for both adult dogs and puppies. This puppy-specific formula features small, easy-to-digest kibble and is enriched with natural omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development. It also includes a blend of vitamin E and vitamin C to bolster a puppy’s developing immune system. Available in dry and canned versions, Hill’s Science Diet provides a balanced and veterinarian-backed option for your puppy’s nutritional needs.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 120 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 393 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, brown rice, whole grain wheat
Best Budget-Friendly: IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food
IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food is a budget-conscious choice that doesn’t compromise on quality.
IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food
Price: $29.98
What we like:
- Affordable price point
- Supports brain and visual health with omega-3s
Something to note:
- Kibble size may be larger compared to some other brands.
For budget-conscious puppy owners, Iams Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food offers a highly-rated and nutritious option. This formula, made with chicken and whole grains, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids to support cognitive and visual development. With a 4.7-star average rating from over 5,500 reviews on Amazon, it’s a popular choice for puppies and their owners.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 50 lbs | Calorie content: 380 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain corn
Best Wet Food: Purina Pro Plan Development Puppy Chicken & Rice Canned Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Development Puppy Chicken & Rice Canned Dog Food is a top wet food choice for providing hydration and essential nutrients.
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Pate, Chicken and Brown Rice Entree
Price: $32.40 – $35.78
Purina Pro Plan is another veterinarian-recommended brand, and their Chicken & Rice canned puppy food is an excellent wet food option. This formula is designed for puppies with an expected adult weight of up to 100 pounds and provides essential vitamins and minerals to support a healthy coat and immune system. Wet food can be particularly appealing to picky eaters and helps ensure adequate hydration.
Food type: wet/canned | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: 2-100 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 475 kcal per can | Top ingredients: Chicken, liver, water, salmon, rice
Best for Small Breeds: Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is formulated specifically for the unique needs of small breed puppies.
Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
Price: $23.99
What we like:
- Small kibble size perfect for tiny mouths
- Promotes healthy coat and skin
- Palatable and long-lasting
Something to note:
- Specifically for small breeds; not suitable for larger breeds.
- Can be a pricier option.
Royal Canin is a highly favored brand among veterinarians and NBC Select staff. Their Small Puppy formula is tailored to the specific needs of small breed puppies (up to 22 pounds). The kibble is bite-sized and crunchy, making it easy for small mouths to manage. It’s enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins C and E to support healthy growth and energy levels. Many owners find Royal Canin to be highly palatable, even for picky eaters.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: 2-10 months | Recommended weight: 9-22 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 349 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, corn
Best for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food is designed to meet the unique nutritional demands of large breed puppies.
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food
Price: $52.98
What we like:
- Formulated for large breed puppies
- Supports healthy development rate
- Contains fish oil for brain and vision
Something to note:
- Specifically for large breeds (over 50 lbs adult weight).
Purina Pro Plan’s Large Breed formula is veterinarian-recommended for its tailored approach to puppy nutrition. Designed for puppies expected to exceed 50 pounds in adulthood, this food helps maintain a healthy growth rate, crucial for preventing joint issues in larger breeds. It also includes fish oil to support brain and visual development. Purina Pro Plan offers a range of puppy formulas catering to various needs, including toy breeds and sensitive skin.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: Up to 2 years old | Expected adult weight: Over 50 lbs | Calorie content: 419 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn
Best for Giant Breeds: Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food is expertly crafted for the specific nutritional needs of giant breed puppies.
Royal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food
Price: $109.99
What we like:
- Specifically formulated for giant breeds (100+ lbs adult weight)
- Optimal nutrient and mineral ratio for controlled growth
Something to note:
- Formula transitions to Royal Canin Giant Junior for older giant breed puppies.
- Higher price point.
Giant breed puppies, like Great Danes and Saint Bernards, have unique nutritional requirements to prevent overly rapid growth, which can lead to orthopedic problems. Royal Canin’s Giant Puppy formula is specifically designed for puppies up to 8 months old that will exceed 100 pounds as adults. It provides a precise balance of nutrients and minerals to support healthy, controlled growth. After 8 months, transitioning to Royal Canin Giant Junior is recommended to support muscle development until 24 months.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: 2-8 months | Recommended weight: Over 100 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: 338 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, wheat gluten
Best Subscription: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog offers a convenient subscription service delivering personalized, fresh puppy food.
The Farmer’s Dog
Price: Starting at $21.26 – $39.06 for the first box
What we like:
- Convenient subscription service with home delivery
- Personalized meal plans based on puppy’s needs
- Fresh, ready-to-eat meals
Something to note:
- Higher price point compared to traditional kibble.
- May require a gradual transition for puppies used to kibble.
The Farmer’s Dog is a subscription service delivering fresh, human-grade dog food directly to your door. They create personalized meal plans based on your puppy’s age, breed, weight, activity level, and build, ensuring they receive precisely portioned, nutritionally balanced meals. NBC Select staff members have reported great success with The Farmer’s Dog, especially for picky eaters. Meals are developed by veterinary nutritionists and meet AAFCO standards.
Food type: fresh | Recommended age: N/A (personalized plan) | Recommended weight: N/A (personalized plan) | Calorie content: N/A (personalized plan) | Top ingredients: Human-grade (personalized plan)
Best Fresh Food: Just Food for Dogs Puppy Variety Pack
Just Food for Dogs Puppy Variety Pack provides pre-cooked, fresh meals that are convenient and nutritious.
Just Food for Dogs Puppy Variety Pack
Price: $38.50 – $76.99
What we like:
- Fresh, pre-cooked, human-grade ingredients
- Long freezer shelf life (up to 18 months)
- Autoship option available
Something to note:
- May require a gradual transition for puppies accustomed to kibble.
Just Food for Dogs offers fresh, gently cooked puppy meals made with whole food ingredients. Veterinarians recommend this brand for growing puppies and even pregnant or lactating dogs. Meals are formulated for all life stages and come with clear feeding guidelines. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 18 months and offer a convenient way to feed your puppy a fresh, nutritious diet.
Food type: fresh | Recommended age: All life stages | Recommended weight: Up to 60 lbs | Calorie content: N/A | Top ingredients: Chicken thighs, long-grain white rice, spinach, carrots
Best No-Frills: Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food
Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food is a reliable, no-frills option that provides essential nutrition.
Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food
Price: $37.98
What we like:
- Supports healthy coat and skin
- Easy to digest formula
- Good value for the price
Something to note:
- Kibble size may be larger than some other puppy foods.
Nutro Natural Choice is a trusted brand favored by NBC Select staff. Their puppy formula is a reliable, no-frills option that provides essential nutrition for growing puppies. The high-protein recipe supports a healthy coat, skin, and bones, and promotes healthy digestion and immune system development. It’s a solid choice for puppy owners seeking a balance of quality and affordability.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 60 lbs | Calorie content: 386 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, brewers rice, whole grain barley, whole grain brown rice
Best High-Protein: Open Farm Ancient Grains High-Protein Puppy Food
Open Farm Ancient Grains High-Protein Puppy Food is rich in protein and made with fresh, ethically sourced ingredients.
Open Farm Ancient Grains High-Protein Puppy Food
Price: $84.99
What we like:
- Excellent source of high-quality protein
- Formulated by veterinary nutritionists
- Autoship option available
Something to note:
- Higher price point.
Open Farm is recommended by veterinarians for its fresh ingredients and high-protein formulas. Their Ancient Grains High-Protein Puppy Food features a blend of fresh chicken, salmon, and pork to support healthy brain development. It also includes ancient grains like steel-cut oats, millet, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds. Open Farm prioritizes ethically sourced ingredients and formulates their foods with the guidance of veterinary nutritionists.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old (small breed puppies), up to 2 years old (large breed puppies) | Recommended weight: Up to 100 lbs (expected adult weight) | Calorie content: N/A | Top ingredients: Chicken, whitefish meal, oats, salmon, millet, brown rice
Best Tasting: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food is known for its palatability and puppy appeal.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
Price: $64.98 – $71.99
What we like:
- Supports immune system health
- Small kibble size
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
Something to note:
- Nothing significant to note at this time.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy is known for its palatability and appeal to puppies. NBC Select staff members have used this food and report that puppies readily consume it. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, this formula supports immune system health and comes in puppy-sized kibble that is easy to eat. It is often well-tolerated by puppies with sensitive stomachs.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: Up to 1 year old | Recommended weight: Up to 60 lbs | Calorie content: 401 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice
Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Adult & Puppy Dog Food is formulated to support puppies with digestive sensitivities.
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Adult & Puppy Dog Food
Price: $53.99
What we like:
- Helps regulate gut bacteria with ActiveBiome+ technology
- Supports digestive health and resolves digestive issues
- Promotes regular bowel movements
Something to note:
- Requires veterinarian approval for purchase.
For puppies with sensitive stomachs, Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Dry Dog Food is a specialized formula designed to support digestive health. It contains Hill’s proprietary ActiveBiome+ ingredient technology to help regulate gut bacteria and a prebiotic blend to promote regular bowel movements. It also includes vitamin B and antioxidants to replenish nutrients lost during digestive upset. This food requires veterinarian approval for purchase.
Food type: dry | Recommended age: All life stages | Recommended weight: Up to 120 lbs | Calorie content: 367 kcal per cup | Top ingredients: Brewers rice, whole grain corn, chicken meal, pea protein
Puppy Food vs. Adult Dog Food: Key Differences {#anchor-PuppyFoodvsAdultDogFood}
Puppy food is specifically formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of growing dogs. The key distinctions between puppy and adult dog food lie in their nutritional composition:
Nutritional Needs
“Puppy food tends to have higher fat and protein content, which also means it is typically more calorie dense,” explains Dr. Ostermeier. Compared to adult dog food, puppy food generally contains higher levels of:
- Protein: Essential for muscle development and tissue repair during rapid growth.
- Fat: Provides concentrated energy for growth and development, and supports brain function.
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): An omega-3 fatty acid crucial for brain and eye development.
- Calcium and Phosphorus: Minerals vital for bone and teeth development, in carefully balanced ratios.
Calorie Density
Puppy food is typically more calorie-dense than adult food to fuel their high energy needs and rapid metabolism. However, it’s important to follow feeding guidelines to prevent overfeeding and excessive weight gain, especially in large breed puppies.
Breed-Specific Formulas
Large and giant breed puppies benefit from specialized formulas designed to control their growth rate. These formulas have slightly different mineral content and lower energy density to prevent orthopedic problems associated with rapid growth. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best food and feeding duration for giant breed puppies.
Puppy Feeding Guide: Essential Tips for New Owners {#anchor-PuppyFeedingGuide}
Proper feeding practices are crucial for your puppy’s health and well-being. Here are essential tips for feeding your new puppy:
Feeding Frequency
- 6-12 Weeks Old: Feed at least three times per day to maintain energy levels and support their fast metabolism.
- 4-6 Months Old: Transition to twice-a-day feedings.
- Large and Giant Breeds: Feed three meals per day until around 6 months old.
Puppies, especially those under 6 months, can experience rapid growth spurts and may appear hungry even after meals. It is generally acceptable to offer a small amount of extra food if your puppy shows signs of hunger, such as sniffing, whining, or pawing at you.
Portion Control
Consult the feeding guidelines on your chosen puppy food packaging. These guidelines provide recommendations based on your puppy’s weight and age. Use a measuring cup to ensure accurate portion sizes. Avoid free-feeding, where food is available at all times, as this can lead to overeating and weight gain.
When to Switch to Adult Food
The appropriate time to transition to adult dog food varies depending on breed size:
- Small to Medium Breeds: Generally between 6 to 12 months of age.
- Large and Giant Breeds: Later transition, typically after 1 year, and potentially up to 2 years for giant breeds.
Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on when to switch your puppy to adult food, particularly for large and giant breeds.
Dry vs. Wet Food: Combination Feeding
Both dry and wet puppy food offer nutritional benefits.
- Dry Kibble: Economical, convenient, and helps promote dental health.
- Wet Canned Food: Highly palatable, provides hydration, and can be beneficial for picky eaters.
Many experts recommend a combination feeding approach, incorporating both dry and wet food into your puppy’s diet. Adding wet food to dry kibble can increase palatability and hydration. Moist food options like fresh or gently cooked food can also enhance hydration and offer minimally processed nutrients.
Supplements and Toppers
Generally, puppies on a balanced puppy food diet do not require supplements. However, underweight puppies or those with specific health conditions may benefit from supplementation under veterinary guidance.
Consider adding healthy, dog-safe toppers to your puppy’s kibble in moderation (no more than 15% of the meal). Good options include:
- Pumpkin (plain, unsweetened): Provides fiber for digestive health.
- Eggs (cooked): Excellent source of protein and nutrients.
- Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants.
Probiotic supplements may be beneficial during times of stress, such as weaning or transitioning to a new home, to support gut health.
Raw Diets: Avoid
Veterinarians strongly advise against feeding puppies raw diets. Raw food carries a risk of bacterial contamination (Salmonella, E. coli) that can be particularly dangerous for puppies with developing immune systems. Raw diets can also pose a risk of nutritional imbalances and parasite transmission.
Grain-Free Diets: Not Always Better
Grain-free diets are not inherently superior for puppies unless specifically recommended by your veterinarian for a diagnosed grain intolerance. In fact, grain-free diets have been linked to certain heart conditions in dogs if not carefully formulated. Unless medically necessary, grains can be a healthy source of carbohydrates and fiber for puppies.
Puppy Food Allergies: Rare but Possible
True food allergies are uncommon in puppies. Allergies typically develop over time with prolonged exposure to certain ingredients, most often proteins like chicken or beef. Common signs of allergies in dogs include itching, paw licking, and ear infections. However, these symptoms are more often related to environmental allergies than food. Gastrointestinal upset in puppies is more frequently caused by factors like parasites rather than food allergies.
Meet Our Experts
At NBC Select, we are committed to providing expert-backed information. We consult with professionals who possess specialized knowledge and experience in their respective fields. Our experts ensure that our advice and recommendations are independent and free from undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Why Trust NBC Select?
I am Mili Godio, an updates editor at NBC Select with expertise in pet products, including dog food, beds, treats, and toys. For this guide on what is the best puppy food, I consulted with three experienced veterinarians to gather their insights and recommendations on the best puppy food brands and essential considerations for puppy nutrition. Our recommendations are based on expert guidance and thorough research of available puppy food options.
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