Keep that golden coat shining with the best dog food for a Golden Retriever puppy. This loveable breed is known for its sunshiny coat, loyal companionship and calm, intelligent temperament. They're a great family dog and a top choice for first-time dog owners. So, if you've just brought your fluffy little bundle home and it's weaning time, read on to discover the best dog food for your puppy's needs.
As a large breed, Golden Retrievers need a balanced diet to offset potential health concerns. As they get older, orthopaedic issues and obesity are potential problems. With the right nutrition during puppyhood, conditions such as hip dysplasia can be prevented. Complete and balanced dog food will ensure that Golden Retriever puppies don't put on too much weight too fast, as this will put a strain on their joints. In particular, dry dog food for large-breed puppies has tailored calcium levels to ensure a puppy's bones don't develop too fast. Golden Retrievers are a large breed that takes longer to mature and reach adulthood. Steady growth in large-breed puppies is key to avoiding future issues.
Best dog food for Golden Retriever puppies at a glance:
Whether wet or dry food is better for your Golden Retriever puppy depends on their preference. Wet dog food tends to be more palatable, hydrating and easier to chew, making it a good option for puppies with developing teeth or dental concerns. Dry food is more cost-effective, especially when bought in bulk, and can support dental health by reducing tartar build-up due to its crunchy texture. If you're introducing a puppy to solid food, you can moisten it with warm water to make it easier for them to eat. On balance, combining dry and wet food gives the best of both worlds by giving your puppy variety and meeting their nutritional needs.
It can be a pickle to know how much to feed a puppy. So, it's best to keep it simple and opt for a commercial dog food or dog food subscription service. Large-breed puppies can be prone to overeating, which can lead to excessive weight gain and put stress on their developing joints and bones. Following the feeding guide on their food packaging and ensuring treats account for no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake is essential. Establishing regular mealtimes early on helps promote healthy eating habits and makes it easier to monitor their portion sizes and overall intake.
Best dog food for a Golden Retriever puppy
TESTED
Best overall dog food for a Golden Retriever puppy
ROYAL CANIN®www.viovet.co.uk
ROYAL CANIN® Golden Retriever Puppy Dry Food is specially designed to give your Golden Retriever puppy the perfect start in life. This complete and balanced kibble is formulated with the essential nutrients that growing Golden Retrievers need, including vitamin E and antioxidants to support their developing immune system. Backed by science, the kibble’s unique shape and size are tailored to fit a Golden Retriever puppy’s mouth, encouraging them to chew rather than gulp down their food.
Suitable for Golden Retriever puppies aged between two and 15 months, this dry food provides targeted nutrition during their crucial growth stages. Once your pup reaches 15 months, you can transition them to Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult to continue meeting their nutritional needs. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids and borage oil supports a healthy heart, brain function, skin and coat, helping your puppy look and feel their best.
Digestive health is another focus of this kibble, as it contains highly digestible proteins paired with prebiotics to balance the gut biome. This combination promotes overall digestive wellbeing, resulting in good stool quality and a happy, healthy puppy. To ensure your pup gets the right amount of food, follow the feeding guide provided.
Customer reviews highlight the benefits of this Royal Canin formula, with many praising it as an excellent commercial option for maintaining a balanced weight and promoting vitality. Puppies on this food often display glossy coats, stable digestion and vitality. However, some critics note that the product contains a high proportion of cereals, which may not appeal to owners seeking a diet that prioritises high-quality meat-based proteins as the primary ingredient. Whilst it is fine for dogs to have a proportion of grains in their diet, for these individuals, consider exploring alternative foods such as a fresh food diet.
Read our full review of Royal Canin dog food.
Pros
- Specially designed for Golden Retriever puppies, with tailored kibble size and shape
- Complete and balanced formula with essential nutrients like vitamin E and antioxidants
- Supports heart, brain, skin and coat health with omega-3 fatty acids and borage oil
- Promotes good digestive health with highly digestible proteins and prebiotics
- Backed by science, provides targeted nutrition for puppies
Cons
- Contains a high proportion of cereals, which may not appeal to some pet owners
| Quantity: | 12kg (3kg also available) |
| Flavour: | Poultry |
| Ingredients: | Dehydrated poultry protein, rice, maize, vegetable protein isolate*, wheat, animal fats, vegetable fibres, hydrolysed animal proteins, beet pulp, fish oil, minerals, soya oil, fructo-oligo-saccharides (0.34%), psyllium husks and seeds, hydrolysed yeast (source of manno-oligo-saccharides), hydrolysed crustaceans (source of glucosamine), borage oil (0.1%), yeasts extracts (source of betaglucans), marigold extract (source of lutein), hydrolysed cartilage (source of chondroitin) |
Best wholesome dog food for Golden Retriever puppies
Burnsburnspet.co.uk
Give your puppy a healthy foundation for the future with Burns Puppy Original Chicken & Rice. It's a wholesome and natural diet that supports steady growth and development. Made with simple, recognisable ingredients, this nutritionally complete food is designed for puppies aged six months to juniors up to nine months.
The chunky kibble size is perfect for puppies, encouraging them to chew properly while enjoying a variety of delicious flavours. The controlled protein and fat levels help maintain gradual growth. Highly digestible rice and oats offer sustained energy to fuel your puppy’s playful zoomies.
This vet-developed recipe, originated by Veterinary Surgeon John Burns, avoids common allergens like beef, wheat, soya, and dairy. It also contains no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, making it a great option for sensitive tummies.
With added benefits like promoting healthy joints, supporting a calm temperament and maintaining a shiny coat and healthy skin, Burns Puppy Original is a complete and natural choice for your growing pup. Plus, its low daily feeding cost (if you stick to the feeding guide) makes it as practical as it is nutritious.
Laura Crotch-Harvey, Nutrition Manager at Burns Pet Nutrition, recommends this puppy food and says: "Golden Retriever puppies require high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs without being excessively high in protein and fat. A good option is our Puppy Original Chicken & Rice formula. This approach promotes slow and steady growth, which is essential for the healthy development of their joints."
Pros
- Wholesome, natural ingredients
- Designed to support steady, healthy growth
- Highly digestible rice and oats provide sustained energy
- Avoids common allergens, making it suitable for sensitive tummies
- Vet-developed recipe
- Chunky kibble size encourages proper chewing
- Promotes healthy joints, calm temperament and a shiny coat
- Range of flavours to choose from
Cons
- It's important to stick to the feeding guide as this is nutritionally-dense food
| Quantity: | 2kg (also available 6kg and 12kg) |
| Flavour: | Chicken & Rice |
| Ingredients: | Chicken Meal (30%); Brown Rice (22%); White Rice (22%); Oats; Peas; Chicken Oil; Sunflower Oil; Seaweed; Minerals |
3.
Beta Puppy Large Breed Turkey Dry Dog Food, 14kg
Best large breed dry dog food for greedy eaters
PurinaBETA Puppy Large Breed Dry Food Turkey is a great choice for your growing puppy. With turkey as the main ingredient, it's a quality source of protein. It also includes natural ingredients like carrots, wholegrain cereals, parsley and spinach. These ingredients provide antioxidants to help support your puppy's natural defences. DHA (omega-3) aids brain and vision development, while essential vitamins and minerals promote healthy bone growth.
The dual-sized kibble encourages slower eating, preventing overeager pups from gobbling too quickly. Packed with protein, essential fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, this kibble offers your large-breed puppy a complete and balanced diet. In addition, the added prebiotic supports healthy digestion.
Pet owners appreciate the great value and affordability of this kibble. It's gentle on sensitive stomachs, and puppies enjoy plenty of energy and vitality on this nutritious diet. Please note that this kibble contains wheat. Always check the ingredients to ensure there are no ingredients your dog may be sensitive to.
Pros
- Turkey is the main ingredient and a quality protein source
- Contains natural ingredients like carrots, wholegrain cereals, parsley, chicory, and spinach
- Dual-sized kibble to slow down eating
- DHA for brain and vision development
- Essential vitamins and minerals for bone growth
- Prebiotic to support digestion and gentle on sensitive stomachs
Cons
- Contains wheat, which may not be suitable for dogs with sensitivities
| Quantity: | 14kg |
| Flavour: | Turkey (Chicken, Salmon and Turkey & Lamb) |
| Ingredients: | Turkey meal (25%), Wheat<em>, Corn</em>, Soya meal, Rice<em>, Animal fats, Wheat middlings</em>, Dried beet pulp, Digest, Minerals, Dried chicory root<em>1 (1%), Fish oil, Dried carrot</em> (0.07%), Dried spinach* (0.07%), Dried parsley* (0.07%). *Natural ingredients, 1natural prebiotic |
Best complete dog food for Golden Retriever puppies
AVAwww.petsathome.com
Give your pup morsels of goodness with AVA Optimum Health Large Breed Puppy Chicken. This hypoallergenic kibble is an excellent choice for large breed puppies, offering a well-thought-out blend of nutrition and health benefits. Its standout feature is the proportion of meat-based protein to complex carbohydrates, providing a stable release of energy and fibre thanks to its slow-release carbs. This kibble is gentle on sensitive tummies and highly digestible.
The formula also includes glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints and mobility, as well as breed-specific levels of calcium and phosphorus to grow and maintain strong bones and teeth. Tailored to large breed puppies, the kibble is just the right size for their mouths.
What truly sets this product apart is the inclusion of AVA’s +Imuvita formula, a unique blend of botanical extracts, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. With ingredients like cranberry, pomegranate and green tea, it helps protect against free radicals that can disrupt cells and lead to illness. Beta-glucans, a beneficial fibre, further enhance the immune system. Plus, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids support a shiny coat and healthy skin, while prebiotics promote good gut health. The addition of yucca extract helps to minimise unpleasant odours from stinky poos.
Many reviews praise the food for helping puppies thrive, gain weight and grow strong. However, one reviewer noted that their dog seemed to tire of the flavour, wishing there were more options. Another small downside is that the bag isn’t resealable, so an airtight container is recommended to keep the food fresh.
Overall, this veterinary-approved balanced and complete dog food packs some powerful super ingredients to support your puppy’s development and wellbeing. If you're looking for a trusted option for your large-breed puppy, this kibble is an excellent choice.
Pros
- High proportion of meat-based protein to complex carbs for stable energy release
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs and highly digestible
- Tailored calcium and phosphorus levels for strong bones and teeth
- Kibble size is especially for large-breed puppies
- Veterinary-approved and praised in reviews for helping puppies thrive
Cons
- Limited flavour options so consider supplementing with other foods for variety
- Bag isn’t resealable, requiring an airtight container for storage
| Quantity: | 15kg |
| Flavour: | Chicken |
| Ingredients: | Chicken (51%) (Chicken Meal 24.5%, Fresh Chicken 17.5%, Chicken Fat 6.5%, Chicken Gravy (2.5%), Brown Rice (22.5%), Maize (13.5%), Beet Pulp (5%), Whole Dried Egg, Salmon Oil, Brewers Yeast, Minerals, Chicory Root Extract (as a source of Pre-biotic Fructooligosaccharide) 0.16%, Yeasts (as a source of Beta-glucans, Pre-biotic Mannanoligosaccharides) 0.11%, Glucosamine 0.04%, Chondroitin 0.03%, Yucca Extract 0.02%, Cranberry Extract 0.01%, Green Tea Extract 0.005%, Pomegranate Extract 0.005% |
Best hypoallergenic wet dog food for Golden Retrievers
James WellbelovedJames Wellbeloved dog wet food pouches offer a thoughtful, nutritious solution for your pet. Crafted with a handful of simple, natural ingredients, this product features turkey meal as a highly digestible, single source of animal protein. The hypoallergenic recipe avoids common allergens like beef, pork, soya, eggs, wheat, and dairy, making it ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or intolerances. Enriched with seaweed for its beneficial iodine and trace elements, it also contains balanced minerals to support bone development and overall health.
Designed to be gentle on your dog’s digestive system, this wet food is complete and balanced, providing essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health. It's tasty and wholesome, making James Wellbeloved a clean, healthy choice for your dog.
Many customers praise this wet food for its convenience, especially the easy-to-use pouches, which are more practical than tins. The natural aroma of real ingredients and the presence of visible vegetable pieces make it a favourite among dogs and owners alike. For even more benefits, it can be supplemented with kibble, plus it makes the pouches go further. Overall, James Wellbeloved delivers nutritious, gentle and tasty food that supports your dog’s wellbeing.
Pros
- Made with simple, natural ingredients
- Single source of highly digestible turkey
- Hypoallergenic, free from common allergens
- Complete and balanced with essential vitamins and minerals
- Suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or intolerances
Cons
- May not be enough for a standalone meal without supplementing with kibble
- Pouches can be an expensive way to feed
| Quantity: | 10 x 150g (1.5kg also available) |
| Flavour: | Turkey (or Lamb) |
| Ingredients: | Turkey (28.5%), rice (4.75%), dried carrots (including 1% dried carrots, equivalent to 8.1% carrots), dried peas (including 1% dried peas, equivalent to 3.8% peas), minerals, dextrose, dried beet pulp, sunflower oil, linseed oil, alfalfa, seaweed (0.11%), fish oil, tomato powder |
6.
PRO PLAN® Large Robust Puppy Healthy Start, 12kg
Best dog food for Golden Retriever puppies for a strong start
PurinaPRO PLAN Large Robust Puppy Dry Dog Food is designed to support the growth and development of large breed puppies, ensuring they grow into strong, healthy dogs. Packed with chicken for optimal protein, this food also contains a small amount of colostrum, the first milk from the mother, to help strengthen your puppy's natural defences and support a healthy immune system.
Formulated with Purina's advanced OPTINutrition, this kibble provides a balanced mix of key nutrients that support joint health, essential for an active puppy lifestyle. It also includes a special formula for dental maintenance, promoting strong teeth and gums.
Developed by vets and nutritionists, this premium food helps puppies build a strong immune system and provides long-term health support. Many owners appreciate the quality of this food, with some even mixing it with wet food or moistening it with water for younger puppies. However, it's important to follow the feeding guide, as this kibble is higher in carbs and contains wheat and cereals, which may not suit puppies with sensitivities.
Pros
- Formulated for large breed puppies
- Supports healthy growth and immune development
- Promotes healthy joints and dental care
- Rich in chicken
Cons
- Contains wheat and cereals, which may not be suitable for puppies with sensitivities
- Higher in carbohydrates
| Quantity: | 12kg (3kg also available) |
| Flavour: | Chicken |
| Ingredients: | Chicken (18%), Wheat, Dehydrated poultry protein, Maize, Soya meal, Rice (7%), Animal fat, Wheat fibre, Digest, Dried beet pulp, Maize gluten meal, Wheat gluten meal, Minerals, Dried egg, Fish oil, Dried colostrum (0.1%) |
TESTED
Best Custom Dog Food Subscription
Butternut Boxbutternutbox.com
Butternut Box delivers high-quality, fresh dog food made from human-grade meat and vegetables, gently cooked to preserve nutrients. With a range of recipes to choose from, it offers variety and is perfect for picky eaters. The meals are tailored to your dog's breed, age and activity level, ensuring they get the right balance of vitamins and minerals.
The service is customisable, with pricing based on your dog’s needs and a convenient bulk delivery every few weeks. Meals arrive frozen and can be easily stored in your freezer. However, it may be pricier than traditional dog food and requires extra freezer space.
Customers report improved health and happiness in their dogs after switching to Butternut Box, making it a great choice for pet owners looking for fresh, nutritious food.
Read our full review of Butternut Box.
Pros
- High-quality, human-grade ingredients
- Variety of recipes to please even the fussiest of eaters
- Tailored meals based on breed, age and activity level
- Convenient bulk delivery every few weeks
- Positive customer feedback on dog health improvements
Cons
- More expensive than traditional dog food
- Requires extra freezer space for storage
| Quantity: | Tailored to your dog |
| Flavour: | Chicken You Out (example) |
| Ingredients: | Human-Quality Chicken 60% (Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Heart), Carrots (15%), Sweet Potatoes (4%), Peas (4%), Cauliflower (4%), Split Red Lentils (4%), Whole Red Lentils (4%), Broccoli (2%), Brewer’s Yeast, Minerals, Ground Flaxseed, Dried Sage |
8.
WINALOT Meaty Chunks Puppy Mixed in Gravy, 12 x 100g
Best tasty dog food for Golden Retrievers
WINALOTWinalot Wet Dog Food for Puppies (0-12 months) is a tasty choice for your growing Golden Retriever. Made with rich, meaty chunks of chicken and lamb in a delicious gravy, this specially formulated recipe is designed for smaller mouths. Developed by pet nutrition experts, it’s crafted with natural ingredients to ensure a 100% complete and balanced diet for your puppy.
This formula supports healthy digestion, a shiny coat and nourished skin, helping your pup look and feel their best. It contains no added artificial flavours, preservatives or colours, making it a wholesome and nutritious meal. The high-protein recipe provides essential nutrients for your puppy’s growth and vitality.
Winalot has been a trusted brand since 1927, and customer reviews highlight how even fussy pups love the flavour, with no strong odour or mess, as it comes in convenient pouches. For the best results, it’s recommended to supplement this wet food with a dry dog food that includes fibre, creating a balanced diet that’s both nutritious and cost-effective.
Pros
- Made with rich, meaty chunks of chicken and lamb in gravy
- Formulated for puppies (0-12 months), specially designed for smaller mouths
- Supports healthy digestion, shiny coat and nourished skin
- High-protein recipe for growth and vitality
- Even fussy puppies enjoy the flavour
Cons
- It is more affordable when combined with kibble as the main diet
- Best supplemented with dry dog food that contains fibre
| Quantity: | 12 x 100g |
| Flavour: | Chicken, Lamb |
| Ingredients: | Chunks Rich in Chicken with Peas in Gravy: Meat and animal derivatives (of which chicken 14% in the chunks), cereals, fish and fish derivatives, vegetables (1% dehydrated peas, equivalent to 9% peas), minerals, various sugars |
| Chunks Rich in Lamb with Carrots in Gravy: Meat and animal derivatives (of which lamb 14% in the chunks), cereals, fish and fish derivatives, vegetables (0.8% dehydrated carrots, equivalent to 7.2% carrots), minerals, various sugars |
9.
Eukanuba Complete for Puppy Large and Giant Breeds, 15kg
Best Golden Retriever dry dog food for variety
EukanubaEukanuba Complete Dry Dog Food for Puppy Large and Giant Breeds is specially developed to support the growth and development of large breed puppies, such as Golden Retrievers. Tailored nutrition for this crucial life stage promotes optimal body condition and health as puppies grow into adulthood. The formula includes DHA omega-3 from oily fish to support brain development, antioxidants like vitamins E and C to strengthen the immune system and calibrated calcium levels to foster healthy, stable bone growth. A blend of beet pulp and prebiotic FOS supports gut and intestinal health, while the uniquely designed hexagon-shaped kibble helps reduce tartar and plaque build-up, promoting good dental hygiene.
This complete and well-balanced food is made from high-quality proteins, grains and fats exclusively from Europe. Eukanuba’s commitment to quality is evident, with over 120 rigorous quality controls and formulas developed by nutritionists and veterinarians. Produced in a factory that generates at least 25 per cent of its energy from a wind turbine, this eco-conscious pet food aligns with sustainable practices. While fresh and dried chicken and turkey are the primary ingredients, some pet owners may find the inclusion of maize and wheat less appealing. Despite this, Eukanuba is widely praised for its meat content, value for money and positive customer feedback. There are comments saying it is gentle on digestion and popular with dogs. The range includes grain-free options and flavours for added variety and transitions seamlessly to a Junior version for large breeds aged 12 to 18 months.
Pros
- Tailored nutrition specifically for large breed puppies
- Kibble design supports dental hygiene and controlled eating
- Widely available and offers good value for money
- Developed with input from nutritionists and veterinarians
- Includes grain-free options and transition to Junior food for older puppies
Cons
- Contains maize and wheat, which may not suit all preferences
| Quantity: | 15kg, (2.5kg, 3kg and 12kg also available) |
| Flavour: | Chicken (Grain Free Chicken, Grain Free Fish, Grain Free Lamb, and Lamb & Rice) |
| Ingredients: | Dried Chicken And Turkey (25%, A Natural Source Of Glucosamine And Chondroitin Sulphate), Maize, Wheat, Sorghum, Animal Fat, Rice, Dried Whole Egg, Dried Beet Pulp (3%), Chicken Digest, Fish Oil, Brewer's Dried Yeast, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Chloride, Fructooligosaccharides (015%), Calcium Carbonate, Marigold Extract |
Best large breed puppy food for joint support
Arden Grangewww.viovet.co.uk
Established in 1996, Arden Grange has become a trusted name in pet nutrition, known for its naturally hypoallergenic food for dogs and cats. Their Large Breed Puppy formula is specially designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of large breed puppies and adolescent dogs. Packed with wholesome, natural ingredients and high meat content, it offers a nutritionally complete diet.
This kibble is formulated with an emphasis on joint health, containing enhanced levels of joint supplements to support large-breed dogs' growth. In addition, the larger kibble size is tailored to encourage proper chewing. Prebiotics aid digestion, essential fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat, and cranberries support urinary tract health. Additionally, the formula includes antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to strengthen immunity.
Arden Grange Large Breed Puppy with Chicken & Rice is hypoallergenic and free from other common allergens, artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, making it an excellent choice for puppies with dietary sensitivities. However, it does contain maize, which some pet owners may prefer to avoid.
Customers consistently praise the food for its excellent quality and nutritional value, noting that puppies thrive on it. Many have reported noticeable improvements in their pups’ growth, coat condition and overall wellbeing. Made in the UK, this dog food is also regarded as offering great value for money. One reviewer comments that their puppies have "always done very well" on this formula.
If you're seeking a complete, high-quality diet for your large breed puppy, Arden Grange Puppy/Junior Large Breed is a fantastic option. With its careful blend of natural ingredients, joint health support and hypoallergenic formula, it provides everything your growing Golden Retriever needs to thrive.
Pros
- High-quality, hypoallergenic formula that covers the majority of dietary sensitivities
- Enhanced levels of joint supplements to support growth in large-breed puppies
- Large kibble size encourages proper chewing
- Packed with natural, nutrient-rich ingredients
- Made in the UK and praised for its quality and nutritional value
Cons
- Contains maize, which some pet owners may prefer to avoid
| Quantity: | 12kg, (2kg and 6kg also available) |
| Flavour: | Chicken and Rice |
| Ingredients: | Chicken (chicken meat meal 30%, fresh chicken 5%), rice (19%), maize, refined chicken oil, beet pulp, chicken digest, krill, minerals, yeast, whole dried egg, whole linseed, prebiotic FOS, prebiotic MOS, glucosamine (370 mg/ kg), MSM (370mg/kg), chondroitin (260mg/kg), yucca extract, cranberries, nucleotides |
Best dog food for Golden Retrievers for growth
Hill's Sciencewww.petsathome.com
Give your fluff-tailed friend the nutrition they need to thrive! Specially formulated for puppies under 18 months, Hill's Science Plan Large Puppy Dry Dog Food supports healthy growth and development, helping your pup get the best start in life. Packed with high-quality protein from chicken, turkey and eggs, it promotes lean muscle growth, while DHA from fish oil aids brain and eye development. Balanced minerals – including a tailored calcium level – ensure strong bones and teeth grow at a healthy, controlled rate.
This vet-approved formula is ideal for puppies with sensitive stomachs, helping regulate digestion for a happier, healthier pup. Full of wholesome ingredients and nutrition, it ticks all the boxes. Plus, the practical resealable top keeps the food fresh for longer.
While it’s a shame there aren’t more flavour varieties, this kibble is highly recommended for large-breed puppies with big appetites and even bigger personalities. Give your golden buddy the best start with Hill's Science Plan!
Pros
- High-quality protein from chicken, turkey and eggs promotes lean muscle growth
- DHA from fish oil supports brain and eye development
- Tailored calcium levels ensure controlled bone growth
- Vet-approved formula
- Practical resealable top keeps food fresh longer
- Supports regulated digestion
Cons
- Limited flavours, may need supplementing with other foods for variety
| Quantity: | 12kg |
| Flavour: | Chicken |
| Ingredients: | With Chicken: Maize, chicken and turkey meal (chicken 19%; total poultry 29%), brewers and rice, digest, animal fat, dried whole eggs, cellulose, dried beet pulp, minerals, flaxseed, fish oil (1.3%), soybean oil, with a natural antioxidant (mixed tocopherols) |
How we chose the best dog food for Golden Retriever puppies
All of these dog foods have been hand-selected by our team of Take A Break Pets shopping experts. We carefully considered quality, nutrition and value for money in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching dog food for Golden Retriever puppies to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
With pets big and small on our team, where possible, we'll share the best products that have been tried and tested by our own furry friends who have given their paw of approval. And, with help from veterinary experts, we share their knowledge to ensure everything we choose is paw-fect for your pet.
Laura Crotch-Harvey, Nutrition Manager at Burns Pet Nutrition answers our frequently asked questions about the best dog food for Golden Retriever puppies.
Best dog food for Golden Retriever puppy FAQs (Answered by Laura Crotch-Harvey)
What specific nutrients are essential for a Golden Retriever puppy's growth and development?
Like all puppies, there are several essential nutrients for growth and development, including protein, fat, minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, and vitamins like the B vitamins. All of the Burns' puppy foods are complete, and selecting a puppy food that is labelled as "complete" will ensure that your puppy receives all the necessary nutrients. It's also important to note that adding extra ingredients can upset the nutritional balance and may do more harm than good.
How much protein and fat should their diet include for healthy weight and muscle development?
For growing puppies, we adhere to the FEDIAF guidelines, which recommend a minimum of 20% protein and 8.5%. While there are no maximum levels specified, the recommended protein levels include guidelines for individual amino acids we need to achieve and these levels can vary depending on the type of meat used. Additionally, within the fat content, it is important to ensure sufficient levels of linoleic acid, a type of fat that is essential for skin and brain health.
Do Golden Retriever puppies have unique dietary needs compared to other breeds?
There are no specific dietary needs for Golden Retrievers but every dog is different and will encounter different issues that we need to bear in mind. Some problems are greedy dogs so looking for a food that is high in fibre such as [Burns'] Weight Control Chicken & Oats can help to ensure that they stay fuller for longer.
Golden Retrievers are also prone to joint problems so it is important to keep them nice and lean by feeding a low fat diet. All of our standard adult diets are low in fat. Adding in a joint supplement can also be beneficial as they age, some diets such as our Large & Giant Breed Chicken & Brown Rice include joint supplements in the recipe.
What ingredients or supplements should I look for to support joint health in Golden Retriever puppies?
Omega fatty acids are beneficial for reducing inflammation and are commonly found in ingredients like salmon oil. Many joint supplements also include glucosamine or chondroitin, and there are various joint supplements available for dogs, so you can have a chat with your local pet shop. Unfortunately, there is limited scientific research to determine which one is the best. However, through trial and error, you can identify the most suitable option for your dog by trying different supplements. Adding your own supplement rather than feeding it as part of their food can be advantageous, as it allows you to control the dosage given.
Are Golden Retrievers prone to food allergies or sensitivities?
Allergies in dogs are increasingly common, and Golden Retrievers are no exception. They are particularly prone to skin issues, such as itchy skin and hot spots. Feeding them a simple diet can help eliminate potential allergens. It is advisable to avoid ingredients like wheat and dairy, ingredients we avoid in all of the Burns diets. Additionally, it's important to remember that not all allergies are food-related; some may arise from pollen and environmental allergens.
Is dry kibble, wet food, or a mix of both better for Golden Retriever puppies?
They’re both as good as each other, but what matters most is choosing high-quality ingredients for your puppy's food. The feeding amounts will vary between wet and dry food because wet food contains more water, so you'll need to offer a larger quantity. You can also feed a combination of both types, just be sure to adjust the amounts accordingly.
How often should Golden Retriever puppies be fed, and what portion sizes are appropriate?
It is ideal to feed them three times a day until they reach six months old. From six months to nine months, we typically recommend feeding them twice a day. When using Burns food, the feeding amounts should be adjusted based on their current weight, and we gradually increase the amounts as they grow. Additionally, you can soften the dry food with warm water if they prefer that texture.
What signs indicate that my puppy’s current diet may not be suitable for them?
This can range from loose stools to excessive hunger. In some cases you’ll notice if the puppy is being fussy when eating, potentially not wanting to eat at all. Other symptoms may include itchy skin, recurring ear infections, anal glands filling, dull coat, bad breath and even a lack of vitality.
Are there specific health conditions Golden Retrievers are prone to that I should consider when choosing their food?
Every dog is different so it is important to take into account their individual needs. Feeding a high quality natural diet will give you the best start for your dog and if they develop any issues we can adjust their diet accordingly.
How can I ensure my Golden Retriever maintains a healthy weight as they grow?
• Regularly monitor their weight.
• Regular vet checks.
• Body condition scoring is a good way to keep track if you’re not able to weigh them. You should be able to easily feel their ribs.
This article includes expert commentary from Laura Crotch-Harvey MSc BSc (Hons), Nutrition Manager at Burns Pet Nutrition.
Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things cats and dogs. In her other life Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.