Best Dog Food for Bernese Mountain Dogs – Top 10 Choices (2024)

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Are you searching for the best dog food to feed your Bernese mountain dog? After all, these gentle giants require special care when it comes to their diet.

We’ll also go over the health problems associated with this breed and explain why choosing high-quality ingredients can benefit them nutritionally.

Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Bernese Mountain Dogs

When considering the best dog food for Bernese Mountain Dogs, Taste of Wild Sierra Mountain Dog Food stands out as an excellent option. It has a grain-free formula with 25% protein and added vitamins and minerals from real fruits and superfoods.

Iams Adult Large Breed Chicken is also a great choice, providing farm-raised chicken as its first ingredient along with tailored blends of fibers to promote healthy digestion.

Lastly, Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food offers deboned chicken plus DHA ARA Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids for brain & eye development in puppies.

With all these top options at hand, you’ll be sure to find the perfect fit for your canine companion!

1. Taste Wild Sierra Mountain Dog Food

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With its real lamb as the #1 ingredient, Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Dog Food is a grain-free option that packs in essential vitamins and minerals for your pup’s health, giving them all they need to thrive.

This formula contains 25% protein along with added omega fatty acids and K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics for skin and coat health. It also includes antioxidants and prebiotics for healthy digestion and immune system support.

Customers report that their dogs enjoy this food, even picky eaters, while experiencing improved coat condition due to the high-quality ingredients contained within.

2. Iams Adult Large Breed Chicken

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Iams Adult Large Breed Chicken is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breeds, with real farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient and tailored fibers for digestive health.

For example, one customer reported their dog’s waxy coat clearing up after switching back to their old food.

Many customers have found this product suitable for large breed dogs, providing them with essential nutrients while promoting healthy digestion and immune system support.

While some customers have noted weight gain in their dogs or gassiness issues, others report no problems at all – even picky eaters seem to enjoy it!

3. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

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Blue Buffalo’s Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is a nutritious and natural formula tailored to the needs of larger breed puppies. It contains real meat, whole grains, veggies, and fruit for balanced nutrition – plus DHA, ARA omega 3 & 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

This food also has added calcium & phosphorus for strong bones; essential vitamins like L-Carnitine; plus LifeSource Bits with antioxidants to support brain development.

Customers report that their pups love its flavor, even picky eaters, while enjoying all these benefits too! The kibble size helps with tartar removal while providing the calorie density large breeds need as they grow older – perfect if you’re looking to keep your pup fit into adulthood! And since it’s made in the USA without any artificial colors or flavors, it will help ensure your pup enjoys only high-quality nutrition from puppyhood through their adult years.

Pros:

i) Real meat as the primary ingredient

ii) No corn, wheat, soy filler

iii) High-calorie density

iv) Balanced nutrients

v) Added vitamins/minerals

vi) Tailored specifically towards large breed puppies

vii) Kibble size aids in tartar removal

Cons:

i) Expensive compared to other brands

ii) Not suitable for all life stages

iii) Some reports of digestive issues

4. CANIDAE Bison Lentil Carrot Dog Food

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CANIDAE Bison Lentil Carrot Dog Food is a grain-free recipe made with 10 real food ingredients, including bison as the first ingredient. With its HealthPLUS blend of probiotics for digestive health and positive impact on skin and coat, this food has received mixed reviews from customers who have experienced both success stories and negative reactions in their dogs.

Many owners report that their Bernese mountain dog loves the taste of CANIDAE Bison Lentil Carrot Dog Food, while others find it difficult to get them to switch over due to picky eating habits or allergies.

Some found that it helped improve digestion issues or skin conditions in their pet while others reported bloating or lethargy after switching over.

While CANIDAE Bison Lentil Carrot Dog Food does have some pros – like being free from corn, wheat, soy, fillers, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives – there are also cons associated with this particular brand.

For example, the hard kibble may not be suitable for small breeds. Additionally, some dogs experienced diarrhea, bloating, or lethargy after consuming this food.

5. Instinct Raw Boost Chicken Dog Food

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Instinct Raw Boost Chicken Dog Food offers boosted nutrition with its high-protein kibble plus freeze-dried raw option to help keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s muscles strong and lean. It also contains probiotics for digestive health, higher levels of omegas for healthy skin and coat, more antioxidants for immune health, and no artificial additives.

Made in the USA with global ingredients, it’s suitable for all breeds and life stages. Many customers have reported positive experiences with their dogs enjoying the taste of this food without any issues or weight gain after switching from other brands’ products due to its nutrient content.

However, there are mixed reviews concerning picky eaters as well as reports of diarrhea from some users who switched over from Purina Pro Plan or Blue Buffalo foods. This could mean a need to transition gradually when changing diets so that digestion can adjust accordingly before fully committing to using Instinct RAW Boost Chicken dog food exclusively.

6. Diamond Naturals Dog Food

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Diamond Naturals Dog Food is packed with real cage-free chicken, omega fatty acids, and K9 strain proprietary probiotics for a nutritionally balanced meal your Bernese Mountain pup will love. It’s made in the USA by a family-owned company from trusted domestic and global sources, free of corn, wheat, artificial flavors, and colors.

All life stages can benefit from this food thanks to its 26% protein content as well as vitamins and minerals sourced from superfoods like blueberries or oranges. The small kibble size helps reduce plaque buildup while promoting digestive health through beneficial bacteria present in the included probiotics blend.

Despite being highly nutritious for pups of all ages, some users have experienced issues with Diamond Naturals Dog Food. Some dogs became finicky eaters or lost weight after eating it. Others developed diarrhea, excessive shedding, and skin problems like allergies or rashes, possibly linked to changes in formula ingredients over time.

There are also reports of vomiting episodes accompanied by stomach troubles that may be due to an intolerance issue towards certain components making up the recipe’s composition. However, there isn’t any scientific evidence confirming this yet, so further research needs to be done on these cases before drawing definite conclusions about them.

7. Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed

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Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed is a high-quality option that nourishes your pup with real chicken for strong muscles and healthy digestion. It’s made in the USA from globally sourced ingredients to provide balanced nutrition.

Omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals are included, along with K9 strain proprietary probiotics, to support skin and coat health, as well as digestive system wellness. Furthermore, this food is human-grade, non-GMO, and natural, so you can be sure it meets all quality standards.

While Nutro Natural Choice has generally received positive customer reviews regarding improved dog health and weight management on their large breeds, there have been recent complaints of diarrhea or vomiting, possibly linked to formula changes over time.

Some customers have also noted price increases, which may not make it an affordable choice for everyone’s budget.

8. Hills Science Diet Large Breed Dog Food

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Hills Science Diet Large Breed Dog Food is a complete and balanced nutrition formula designed to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog healthy. Jake’s coat became shinier and his energy levels increased after switching to this food.

Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing a high-quality protein source. Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin are included to support joint health. Additionally, an antioxidant blend with vitamins C & E helps boost the immune system.

The food also contains omega-6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and coat.

One of the benefits of this dog food is that it contains real chicken as the first ingredient. This ensures that your dog is getting a high-quality protein source. Another advantage is the inclusion of natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, which are important for maintaining joint health in large breed dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs.

The antioxidant blend with vitamins C & E is also beneficial for supporting the immune system.

Furthermore, the omega-6 fatty acids in this dog food help promote healthy skin and coat. This is especially important for large breed dogs, as they are prone to skin issues. The kibble size of this food also helps promote tartar removal, reducing the risk of dental issues commonly associated with larger breeds.

It’s worth noting that some customers have reported a price increase with this dog food. Additionally, a few dogs have experienced digestive issues after consuming it. Lastly, picky eaters may not enjoy this particular brand.

Overall, Hills Science Diet Large Breed Dog Food offers several nutritional benefits for your Bernese Mountain Dog. With real chicken as the first ingredient, natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, an antioxidant blend for immunity, and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin, it is a great choice for large breed dogs.

Plus, it does not contain any artificial colors or flavors, ensuring that your pup is getting a safe and nutritious meal.

9. American Journey Large Breed Chicken

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American Journey Large Breed Chicken is a nutrient-packed food specifically tailored to meet the needs of large breeds, providing your pup with essential vitamins and minerals for healthy skin and coat.

This formula contains real deboned chicken as its first ingredient, along with a blend of antioxidants and nutrient-rich vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, apples, and blueberries.

It also features easily digestible fiber-rich grains that help support your dog’s immune system, while balanced levels of Omega 3s and 6s ensure their skin remains lustrously healthy.

American Journey doesn’t contain any wheat or corn, which could be hard on sensitive stomachs.

10. Merrick Backcountry Large Breed Freeze-Dried Dog Food

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Experience the power of Merrick Backcountry Large Breed Freeze-Dried Dog Food, packed with real deboned chicken and freeze-dried raw bites that burst with flavor. This specially formulated blend ensures large breed dogs get all the protein, omega fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and glucosamine & chondroitin they need to stay healthy and active.

It’s also grain-free, as well as free from corn, wheat, soy, or other fillers, so it’s suitable for even sensitive digestion.

Health Problems Affecting Bernese Mountain Dogs

Given their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to a variety of health conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cancer, and epilepsy.

• Hip Dysplasia can cause pain and lameness if left untreated. It’s important for owners to monitor their pet’s activity level and exercise needs to maintain a healthy weight.
• Regular check-ups are recommended for early detection of any potential problems as cancer risks increase with age.
• In some cases, epilepsy management requires medication along with diet changes that may include certain supplements or vitamins depending on the individual case.

Digestive health also plays an important role since large breed dogs require higher levels of protein than other breeds due to their larger size and increased energy demands from daily activities like walking or running around the yard during playtime!

The best dog food for Bernese Mountain Dogs should contain high-quality ingredients that meet all nutritional requirements while providing delicious flavor without harmful additives like BHA/BHT preservatives or fillers such as wheat gluten & corn meal.

These additives can be difficult for them to digest properly over time, leading to more severe digestive issues down the line.

Owners should carefully research products before making purchase decisions based on reviews from trusted sources to help ensure proper nutrition has been provided throughout the life cycle, maintaining optimal overall well-being long term!

What Are the Top Health Benefits of the Best Dry Dog Food for Bernese Mountain Dogs?

Given their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs require a special diet to meet their energy needs and support healthy growth. Optimal nutrition for this breed includes joint-supporting supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, protein levels of 24-25% minimum crude protein content for strong muscles, bones, and teeth development, as well as high caloric density food to maintain energy levels.

Finding the best dry dog food that meets all these requirements can ensure your Bernese Mountain Dog stays happy and healthy throughout its lifespan.

Importance of Joint Support

Providing joint support is essential for Bernese Mountain Dogs, as they’re prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. The right diet with a healthy balance of nutrients, such as high-quality proteins and fats, can help prevent orthopedic diseases.

Dietary supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may also be beneficial in providing further joint health protection.

Exercise is key too. Regular activity helps keep the joints flexible while strengthening bones at the same time.

Protein for Growth

You want to ensure your Bernese Mountain Dog is getting the protein they need for strong, healthy growth – around 24-25% minimum crude protein should do the trick.

To achieve this nutritional balance, look for dog food with high-quality animal proteins as their primary ingredient.

For large breed puppies specifically, consider size-specific formulas with U.S.-sourced ingredients. Alternatively, you can try wet/dry mixes of premium kibble and freeze-dried raw bits to help support healthy teeth development.

Also, be on the lookout for foods containing glucosamine and chondroitin. These dietary recommendations will provide your BMD pup with all they need to grow into a happy adult dog!

Caloric Density for Energy

Caloric density is essential for large breed dogs to meet their higher energy needs. Bernese mountain dogs need a diet with appropriate caloric density and nutritional balance to keep up with their activity levels, exercise regimen, and maintain healthy weight management.

The best dry dog food should contain enough calories per cup or serving size in order to meet the specific dietary requirements of these canines. High-quality ingredients are also necessary for optimal health benefits, such as improved digestion and immune system functioning.

To ensure your Bernese Mountain Dog gets the right amount of energy from its diet, consult your veterinarian about an appropriate portion size based on its individual needs!

Choose the Best Dry Dog Food for Your Bernese Mountain Dog

If you are looking for the best dry dog food for your Bernese Mountain Dog, it is important to consider their specific needs. Protein requirements should be around 24-25% minimum crude protein, and grain-free diets can also be suitable, but check with a vet first.

Protein requirements for Bernese.

When selecting dry dog food for your Bernese, protein should be at least 24-25% minimum crude protein to meet their growth needs. Nutritional guidelines recommend high-quality natural ingredients and low-moderate fat levels in the diet.

Unexpected additives such as BHA and BHT should also be avoided. Instead, opt for brands that make their own food with higher quality standards like Wellness Pet or Redbarn. The dietary considerations of large breeds require caloric density, while joint support supplements are crucial to prevent joint issues from occurring later on in life.

Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Grain Free is an excellent choice!

Grain-free diets suitability.

Grain-free diets are often a good option for Bernese mountain dogs, providing up to 45% more calories per cup than those containing grains. Health concerns such as bloat or gastric torsion should be taken into consideration when selecting the right diet.

Nutritional considerations like digestible carbohydrates and healthy fat levels must also be factored in, while ingredients like BHA, BHT, and wheat gluten should be avoided at all costs.

Alternative diet options include wet food with U.S.-sourced ingredients or freeze-dried raw formulas that meet AAFCO guidelines. Veterinary recommendations may vary based on weight management needs of large breeds too.

Grain-free diets can help maximize nutrition for Bernese mountain dogs while avoiding health risks – just ensure you consult your vet first!

Recommended dog food brands

With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which brand of dog food is best for your Bernese Mountain Dog. Wellness Pet offers digestive health recipes with high-quality animal proteins, and Redbarn sources responsibly.

Muenster provides minimally processed, nutrient-dense options using organ meat, while Dr Marty’s Nature’s Blend has human-grade ingredients for balanced nutrition. Honest Kitchen makes clusters with 100% human-grade ingredients, and A Pup Above uses fresh or dry food offerings sourced sustainably.

Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula caters to different life stages, while Castor & Pollux Organix uses organic components raised ethically.