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Best Dog Food for Bloodhounds: 11 Top Picks for Giant Breeds 2025

By: Author Mutasim Sweileh

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best dog food for bloodhoundsWhen choosing the best dog food for bloodhounds, you’ll need formulas designed for giant breeds with high-quality protein and joint support.

Bloodhounds require 26-30% protein to maintain their muscular build and active lifestyle. Look for foods with glucosamine and chondroitin to protect those hardworking joints.

Since these gentle giants can weigh up to 110 pounds, they’ll eat nearly twice as much as average dogs. Premium options like Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin offer specialized large-breed formulas.

Avoid foods with excessive fillers or artificial preservatives. Your bloodhound’s nose might guide them to treats, but choosing the right nutrition keeps them tracking strong for years.

Key Takeaways

  • You’ll need 26-30% protein content from quality sources like chicken, beef, or fish to maintain your bloodhound’s muscular build and support their active tracking lifestyle.
  • Look for glucosamine and chondroitin in your dog’s food since these joint-supporting nutrients are essential for giant breeds that can weigh up to 110 pounds.
  • Feed twice daily instead of one large meal to prevent bloat, a serious condition that affects deep-chested breeds like bloodhounds.
  • You’ll spend more on food costs since bloodhounds eat nearly twice as much as average dogs, so budget for premium large-breed formulas from brands like Blue Buffalo or Royal Canin.

Bloodhound Nutrition Needs

Your bloodhound needs specific nutrition to stay healthy and strong throughout their life. These gentle giants require high-quality protein, healthy fats, and joint-supporting nutrients to thrive as active working dogs.

Protein Requirements

Since protein forms the foundation of your bloodhound’s health, aim for 22-30% protein percentage in their food.

Quality protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish support muscle mass and heart health better than plant proteins.

Your bloodhound diet should feature real meat as the first ingredient, and both raw vs. kibble work if they meet these bloodhound nutrition standards for superior bloodhound food quality.

Owners should also be aware of general feeding guidelines to help avoid bloat.

Healthy Fats and Omega-3s

Your bloodhound needs healthy fats for peak energy levels and coat health.

Fish oil provides omega-3s that support joint support and inflammation reduction. Look for fat sources like salmon oil in the best bloodhound food.

These fats boost bloodhound nutrition while keeping skin healthy. Quality dog nutrition includes 12-18% fat content for ideal canine nutrition.

A balanced diet also provides essential vitamins and minerals for perfect health. Ensuring they get enough omega-6 fatty acids is also vital for their skin and coat.

Carbohydrates and Fiber

Your bloodhound needs easily digestible carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Brown rice, sweet potatoes, and oats provide excellent fiber sources that support healthy digestion.

The grain-free debate continues, but quality matters more than grain presence.

High-quality ingredients improve stool quality and aid weight management.

Fiber helps your dog feel full while supporting colon health and digestibility factors in canine nutrition, which is crucial for healthy digestion.

Joint Health and Supplements

Your bloodhound’s joints need extra support as a giant breed.

Glucosamine benefits include cartilage repair, while chondroitin sources help cushion joints.

Looking at the paragraph about joint support for bloodhounds as giant breed dogs, here’s a short, engaging blockquote in the same tone:

Giant breeds need joint care from day one – prevention beats treatment every time.

Omega-3 dosage should target inflammation reduction.

Start supplement timing early for dysplasia prevention.

Look for dog food for joint health containing these ingredients.

Many owners buy glucosamine for dogs to help with joint support.

Bloodhound health depends on proactive canine health choices supporting long-term mobility.

Top 11 Dog Foods

You’ll find eleven carefully selected dog foods that meet your bloodhound’s unique nutritional needs below.

Each option balances the high protein and quality ingredients essential for your gentle giant’s health and energy.

Instinct Raw Bites Beef Dog Food

Instinct Frozen Raw Bites Grain-Free 170863View On Chewy
Raw Food Benefits shine through in this premium dog food for bloodhounds.

Premium nutrition meets gentle giant needs through carefully crafted raw food blends.

The beef protein source delivers 37% protein content that supports your bloodhound’s muscle mass.

Ingredient Quality remains high with freeze-dried raw pieces mixed into kibble.

Digestibility Factors improve with minimal processing.

Though Cost Comparison shows it’s pricier than standard options, this best dog food for bloodhounds offers excellent nutrition.

Royal Canin Veterinary HP Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed 35621View On Chewy
Royal Canin’s veterinary prescription formula tackles food allergies head-on with hydrolyzed protein technology.

This premium dog food for bloodhounds breaks down proteins into tiny pieces your dog’s immune system won’t recognize as threats.

Veterinary prescription guarantees proper allergen management for sensitive bloodhounds.

  • Hydrolyzed protein prevents allergic reactions in food-sensitive dogs
  • Veterinary oversight required for purchase and monitoring
  • Enhanced palatability factors help picky eaters accept the formula

Blue Buffalo Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula 32041View On Chewy
Blue Buffalo offers multiple recipe varieties with high-quality ingredients for bloodhounds.

Their Life Stage Formulas include puppy, adult, and senior options.

Breed-Specific Options aren’t available, but their large breed formulas work well.

Blue Buffalo Ingredients feature real meat as the first ingredient.

Cost Comparison shows mid-range pricing for premium nutrition.

This best dog food brand provides ideal diet choices for bloodhounds seeking quality nutrition.

Hills Science Diet Dog Food

Hills Science Diet offers veterinary-approved nutrition that countless bloodhound owners trust.

This best dog food brand focuses on precise ingredients analysis to support your giant breed’s unique needs. Their formulas address palatability concerns while maintaining high-quality standards.

Key Features:

  1. Clinically proven antioxidants – Support your bloodhound’s immune system
  2. Balanced calcium and phosphorus – Promote healthy bone development in large breeds
  3. Easy-to-digest proteins – Reduce digestive stress and improve nutrient absorption

Veterinary approval sets Hills apart in dog food recommendations. Their breed suitability research guarantees proper nutrition for bloodhounds’ specific requirements.

Cost comparison shows competitive pricing for premium quality ingredients.

Open Farm Wagyu Dog Food

Open Farm Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Free B0BHFCS57WView On Amazon
Premium nutrition comes at a cost, but Open Farm’s Wagyu beef formula delivers exceptional value for your bloodhound.

This grain-free recipe features 100% grass-fed Wagyu beef from GAP 4-certified ranches, providing 26-30% protein content.

The formula includes prebiotic fibers like chicory root and pumpkin for digestive health, and coconut oil and salmon oil support coat shine and joint health.

Many owners report improved energy levels and reduced sensitivities in their dogs.

Best For: Bloodhounds and other large breeds with food sensitivities, picky appetites, or owners seeking ethically-sourced, high-protein nutrition.

Pros
  • High-quality, ethically sourced Wagyu beef and clean ingredients support sensitive stomachs.
  • Grain-free and free from common allergens like corn, soy, and chicken, ideal for dogs with food allergies.
  • Rich in prebiotics, superfoods, and healthy fats for digestion, coat, and overall vitality.
Cons
  • Premium price may be prohibitive for some dog owners.
  • Large 22-pound bags can be inconvenient for small households or limited storage.
  • Expiry dates may be close to purchase and aren’t always listed in product descriptions.

JustFoodForDogs Chicken Rice

JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Wet Dog B07FPHK7R4View On Amazon
Offering human-grade nutrition, JustFoodForDogs delivers fresh chicken and rice meals that your bloodhound will devour.

This 40% more digestible option supports better nutrient absorption than kibble. The shelf-stable packaging means you can stock up without refrigeration worries.

While pricier than traditional options, many owners notice improved coat shine and energy levels. It’s perfect for picky eaters or bloodhounds with sensitive stomachs needing gentle nutrition.

Best For: Bloodhound owners seeking highly digestible, human-grade food to improve digestion, coat health, and appeal to picky or sensitive eaters.

Pros
  • Clinically proven to be 40% more digestible than kibble, improving nutrient absorption and gut health.
  • Shelf-stable for up to two years, making storage and travel convenient.
  • Notable improvements in skin, coat, and overall energy, especially for dogs with sensitivities.
Cons
  • Higher cost compared to traditional kibble, making regular use expensive for some owners.
  • Some recipes may have higher fat content, which may not suit all dietary needs.
  • Requires refrigeration after opening and must be used within 3–5 days, limiting convenience.

Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food

Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog B006HKBWBIView On Amazon
When your bloodhound needs premium nutrition without breaking the bank, Nutro Ultra delivers.

This vet-recommended formula features real chicken as the first ingredient plus lamb and salmon for complete protein coverage.

You’ll find 14 superfoods like blueberries and chia seeds that support immune health.

The non-GMO recipe skips chicken by-products, corn, wheat, and soy, ensuring a healthy and balanced diet for your pup.

At $60 for thirty pounds, it’s reasonably priced for quality nutrition that keeps coats shiny and digestion smooth.

Nutro Ultra meets high standards for nutritional adequacy, ensuring the food provides the necessary nutrients for a healthy pup, following strict nutrient profiles.

Best For: Bloodhound owners who want premium, balanced nutrition with quality animal proteins and superfoods at a reasonable price.

Pros
  • High-quality protein blend (chicken, lamb, salmon) supports muscle strength and energy.
  • Non-GMO, free from by-products, corn, wheat, soy—great for sensitive dogs.
  • Includes 14 superfoods and omega fatty acids for immune, skin, and coat health.
Cons
  • Pricier than some mainstream kibble options.
  • Picky eaters may need food mixed with toppers or wet food.
  • Some cats may be attracted to it, leading to unintended snacking.

ACANA Lamb Pumpkin Dog Food

ACANA Wholesome Grains Dry Dog B08359KGBNView On Amazon
Why choose single-protein recipes for your bloodhound? ACANA Lamb Pumpkin delivers 27% protein from lamb sources, supporting your dog’s muscle development.

This formula contains 60% quality animal ingredients with wholesome grains like oats and sorghum. The recipe includes prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health, plus omega fatty acids for coat shine.

With glucosamine and chondroitin added, it supports joint health in large breeds. The freeze-dried coating makes mealtime appealing for picky eaters.

Best For: Dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies, especially those needing a single animal protein and wholesome grains.

Pros
  • Supports muscle, joint, and skin health with high-quality lamb protein, glucosamine, and omega fatty acids.
  • Promotes digestion and firm stools with prebiotics, probiotics, pumpkin, and fiber-rich grains.
  • No corn, wheat, soy, chicken, peas, or artificial additives—ideal for picky or sensitive pups.
Cons
  • Higher price point compared to some mainstream dog foods.
  • Not formulated for puppies of large breeds over 70lbs as adults.
  • Some may find the fish oil or freeze-dried coating scent strong.

Portland Pet Food Wet Dog Food

Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade B08BC7GFCSView On Amazon
Five different flavors give your bloodhound variety in every meal.

Portland Pet Food’s wet pouches contain human-grade ingredients sourced entirely from the USA.

Each recipe uses 11 or fewer simple ingredients that you can actually recognize. The shelf-stable packaging means no freezing or thawing required.

You can serve it as a complete meal or mix it with dry food. Most dogs love the taste, though some sensitive stomachs may need gradual introduction to avoid any sensitive stomachs issues.

Best For: Dogs of all sizes and life stages who benefit from fresh, human-grade, easily digestible wet food with simple ingredients.

Pros
  • Contains high-quality, human-grade ingredients with no preservatives or fillers.
  • Convenient shelf-stable packaging that requires no refrigeration or thawing.
  • Appeals to picky eaters and supports skin and digestive health.
Cons
  • Some flavors may cause digestive upset in sensitive dogs.
  • Certain recipes have been reported with inconsistent texture and odor.
  • Price may be considered high for regular, long-term feeding.

Natural Balance Fat Dogs

natural balance fat dogs low b00bvuexz6View On Amazon
When your bloodhound needs to shed pounds, Natural Balance Fat Dogs delivers targeted weight management without sacrificing taste.

This formula contains 25% fewer calories than regular versions while maintaining 26% protein to preserve muscle mass.

The special fiber blend keeps your dog feeling full between meals, making dieting easier, with L-carnitine supporting fat metabolism and wholesome grains aiding digestion.

It’s designed for gradual, healthy weight loss, with your pup won’t even realize they’re on a diet.

Best For: Dogs needing gradual, healthy weight loss without sacrificing muscle mass or taste.

Pros
  • 25% fewer calories with maintained high protein to support muscle.
  • Special fiber blend promotes satiety and supports digestion.
  • Includes L-carnitine to aid fat metabolism and wholesome grains for overall health.
Cons
  • Some dogs may experience increased gas due to high fiber content.
  • Availability issues can make consistent purchase difficult.
  • Price may be a concern given the need for frequent buying and larger bag preferences.

11. ACANA Limited Ingredient Lamb Pumpkin

ACANA Limited Ingredient Lamb Pumpkin offers a simple solution for bloodhounds with food sensitivities.

This premium dog food features lamb nutrition as the single protein source, making it ideal for dogs with allergies.

Pumpkin benefits include digestive support and fiber.

The limited ingredients formula reduces potential allergens while delivering breed-specific nutrition.

This high-quality dog food supports your bloodhound’s health without unnecessary additives or fillers, providing a solution with digestive support.

Bloodhound Feeding Schedule

Your bloodhound’s feeding schedule depends on their age, activity level, and health needs.

Adult bloodhounds typically eat twice daily, while puppies need three to four meals to support their rapid growth.

Age and Dietary Considerations

age and dietary considerations
Your bloodhound’s nutritional requirements shift dramatically across growth stages.

Puppies need high-protein bloodhound puppy food with 28-30% protein for rapid development.

Adult bloodhounds require balanced diet formulas with 24-26% protein for maintenance.

Senior dogs benefit from bloodhound senior food with joint support and reduced calories.

Breed-specific nutrition and proper feeding plans guarantee healthy outcomes throughout each life phase, understanding proper puppy food options is vital for their growth and development.

Activity Level and Caloric Needs

activity level and caloric needs
Active Bloodhounds need careful Daily Caloric Intake planning based on their Energy Requirements.

Most adults require 20-30 calories per pound daily, but Exercise Needs can push this to 2,600-6,500 calories for working dogs.

Use Calorie Calculation tools and Activity Monitoring to adjust portions.

High-energy dog food works best for active giants.

Understanding large breed nutrition is essential for their overall health and development.

Health Conditions and Dietary Requirements

health conditions and dietary requirements
Bloodhounds face unique health risks that affect their nutrient needs.

Their size makes them prone to joint problems, bloat, and heart issues.

Smart diet planning helps manage these conditions and prevents food allergies.

Key Health-Based Dietary Adjustments:

  1. Joint Support – Add glucosamine and omega-3s for hip dysplasia prevention
  2. Bloat Prevention – Feed smaller, frequent meals instead of one large portion
  3. Weight Management – Monitor calories closely to reduce joint stress
  4. Heart Health – Choose low-sodium, high-quality bloodhound food options
  5. Allergy Management – Select hypoallergenic dog food for bloodhounds with sensitivities

Digestive issues often signal the need for specialized nutritional needs for bloodhounds, making proper bloodhound diet plan essential.

Switching Dog Food Safely

switching dog food safely
Switching your bloodhound’s food requires patience and a gradual approach to prevent digestive upset.

Start by mixing 25% new food with 75% current food for three days, then gradually increase the new food ratio over 7-10 days until you’ve completely switched to the new food.

Gradual Transition Methods

Switch your bloodhound’s dog food for bloodhounds slowly over seven days.

Start with 75% old food mixed with 25% new high-quality bloodhound food on day one.

Your bloodhound diet plan should gradually increase new food portions every two days.

This bloodhound feeding guide prevents stomach upset and ensures smart meal planning and feeding strategies make food introduction smooth and safe.

Monitoring Health and Adjusting

Watch your bloodhound closely during food changes.

Health checks help spot problems early. Your dog’s wellness tracking should include these key signs:

  1. Stool quality – firm, well-formed bowel movements
  2. Energy levels – normal activity and playfulness
  3. Skin condition – no itching or redness
  4. Appetite changes – consistent eating habits

Diet adjustments may be needed if you notice digestive issues. Condition monitoring helps guarantee your bloodhound’s nutritional needs stay met throughout the switch.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with careful monitoring, you might face food allergies or digestive issues during your bloodhound’s switch.

Skin problems often signal ingredient sensitivities, while joint pain may worsen with nutrient deficiencies.

Choose high-quality bloodhound food that matches your dog’s weight needs.

If problems persist, consult your vet about bloodhound food recommendations that address specific bloodhound care requirements, including nutrient deficiencies.

Bloodhound Dietary Health

Bloodhounds face unique health challenges that proper nutrition can help manage. The right diet prevents obesity, supports joint health, and keeps their skin and coat in top condition.

Managing Health Conditions

managing health conditions
Your furry friend’s health comes first when selecting dog food for bloodhounds with allergies or sensitive stomachs.

Strategic diet planning helps manage conditions while health monitoring tracks progress through nutrition therapy.

  • Bloat Prevention: Feed smaller, frequent meals and avoid post-meal exercise
  • Joint Support: Choose foods with glucosamine for hip dysplasia management
  • Skin Health: Select natural dog food for bloodhounds with omega-3s for fold infections

Wellness management through high-quality bloodhound food supports disease prevention effectively.

Preventing Obesity and Joint Issues

preventing obesity and joint issues
Preventing bloodhound weight gain requires careful Weight Management through measured portions and quality giant breed dog food.

Adult bloodhounds need 20-30 calories per pound daily, but many owners overfeed. High-quality ingredients with proper Nutrient Balance support Joint Care while preventing Obesity Prevention issues.

Combine breed-specific nutrition with regular bloodhound exercise like swimming or brisk walks. Healthy Feeding schedules and veterinary monitoring guarantee optimal bloodhound weight maintenance.

Regular monitoring of a dog’s body condition score is vital for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity-related issues.

Maintaining Healthy Skin and Coat

maintaining healthy skin and coat
Your Bloodhound’s skin and coat health depends on omega fats and high-quality ingredients.

Look for dog food for allergies or hypoallergenic dog food if your dog shows sensitivities.

Shiny coat dog food with proper nutrition balance controls shedding while supporting skin care.

Organic dog food for bloodhounds often contains fewer irritants, promoting healthier coat health naturally.

For dogs with allergies, using hypoallergenic products can be particularly beneficial in managing their condition with proper nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best food for a Bloodhound?

You’ll want high-protein foods with quality animal sources like chicken, beef, or fish.

Fresh options from Farmer’s Dog or Ollie work great, while Taste of the Wild offers affordable quality with digestive benefits.

How many times a day should you feed a Bloodhound?

You’ll want to feed your adult Bloodhound twice daily.

Split their total food portion between morning and evening meals.

This schedule helps prevent bloat and maintains steady energy levels throughout the day.

How often should Bloodhounds be bathed?

Like a sponge soaking up detective work, you’ll want to bathe your Bloodhound every 4-6 weeks or when they’re smelly.

Their oily coat attracts dirt quickly, so watch for that telltale hound odor between baths.

What homemade treats are safe for bloodhounds?

Safe homemade treats for your bloodhound include plain cooked chicken, sweet potato slices, frozen blueberries, and pumpkin puree. Avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic which are toxic to dogs.

Can bloodhounds eat raw food diets safely?

Despite concerns about bacteria, you can safely feed your bloodhound raw food if you handle it properly and choose quality sources. Raw diets support their high protein needs naturally.

How much water should bloodhounds drink daily?

Your bloodhound needs 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily . A typical adult bloodhound weighing 90-100 pounds should drink about 74-75 ounces or 9-10 cups daily.

Are grain-free diets necessary for bloodhounds?

Choosing grain-free food is like picking a path through a forest – there are options, but you don’t need to take every trail.

Grain-free diets aren’t necessary for most bloodhounds, though some owners prefer them for better stool quality.

What foods are toxic to bloodhounds specifically?

Toxic foods affect all dogs the same way.

You’ll need to avoid grapes, chocolate, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and avocado and alcohol.

These can cause kidney failure or serious poisoning in your pup.

Conclusion

Finding the best dog food for bloodhounds requires careful attention to their unique needs as gentle giants.

Your bloodhound’s health depends on proper nutrition with adequate protein, joint support, and quality ingredients.

These recommendations provide excellent starting points for maintaining your dog’s energy and longevity.

Remember to consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes.

With the right food choice, you’ll keep your bloodhound tracking happily for years ahead.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief with a team of qualified veterinarians, their goal? Simple. Break the jargon and help you make the right decisions for your furry four-legged friends.

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