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As a pet owner, you know how important it is to feed your pup the best food possible. Labradors may have an increased risk of developing hip dysplasia and other bone diseases if their diets are too rich in calcium for their larger breed size.
That’s why we’ve researched 10 of the top-rated dog foods available in 2023 and picked out our favorites that are ideal for Labradors – from puppies to adults – so that you can make sure your furry friend stays safe, healthy, and happy!
From CANIDAE All Life Stages Dog Food to Diamond Naturals Puppy Large Breed, there’s something here perfect for every Labrador regardless of age or activity level.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Labradors
- CANIDAE All Life Stages Dog Food
- Wellness CORE Large Breed Dog Food
- Taste Wild High Prairie Dog Food
- Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food
- American Journey Large Breed Adult
- Orijen Grain Free Dog Food
- Gather Free Acres Dog Food
- Eagle Pack Large Breed Adult Dog Food
- Purina Pro Plan Puppy
- Diamond Naturals Puppy Large Breed
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Labradors have an increased risk of developing hip dysplasia and other bone diseases if their diets are too rich in calcium for their larger breed size.
- CANIDAE All Life Stages Dog Food is a good option for Labradors as it contains quality proteins from chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish meals. It is veterinarian-formulated and recommended by a holistic vet.
- Labradors with allergies can try Canidae Pure Grain-Free Dog Food, which is packed with protein and omega fatty acids from salmon.
- Transition Lab puppies from puppy food to adult food gradually over a week or two to avoid digestive upset.
Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Labradors
Finding the best dog food for your Labrador doesn’t have to be a challenge. CANIDAE All Life Stages Dog Food, Wellness CORE Large Breed Dog Food, Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food, Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food, and American Journey Large Breed Adult are all great options for large breed pups.
For those looking for grain-free options, there’s Orijen Grain Free Dog Food, Gather Free Acres Dog Food, Eagle Pack Large Breed Adult Dog Food, Purina Pro Plan Puppy, and Diamond Naturals Puppy Large Breed.
These options provide excellent nutrition with added health benefits such as glucosamine and probiotics.
With so many great choices, you can ensure that your furry friend is getting the best possible nutritional needs met!
CANIDAE All Life Stages Dog Food
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You may want to consider CANIDAE All Life Stages Dog Food, as it contains quality proteins from chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish meals plus HealthPLUS Solutions with probiotics and fatty acids. For example, one owner found this food was successful in helping their Labrador’s coat become shinier after switching from a different brand.
It’s veterinarian-formulated for all breed sizes and ages of canines, making it suitable for transitioning puppies to adult food.
Additionally, the formula does not contain common allergens such as corn, wheat, or soy, making it safe for dogs with sensitivities. However, some customers have reported that their dogs became ill after using this product, so be sure to monitor your Lab closely when introducing them to a new diet just in case any adverse reactions occur.
- Contains high-quality proteins from chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish meals
- Includes HealthPlus Solutions with probiotics, antioxidants, and omega 3/6 fatty acids
- Veterinarian-formulated and recommended by a holistic vet with positive results
- Free of common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy
- Suitable transition puppy food
- Some customers experienced negative effects (e.g., vomiting, nausea, etc.)
- Refunds given upon dissatisfied customer requests
- Can take time before pup accepts the taste
Wellness CORE Large Breed Dog Food
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Experience the difference with Wellness CORE Large Breed Dog Food, a premium formula crafted to provide your large pup with optimum nutrition and energy. With chicken as its #1 ingredient, this grain-free dry food contains balanced minerals, glucosamine for joint health, and natural fiber for digestive health.
The larger kibble size makes it easier to eat, while fortified vitamins and minerals support overall well-being.
Taste Wild High Prairie Dog Food
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Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food is a grain-free, gluten-free option offering real meat as its #1 ingredient, along with vitamins and minerals from natural fruits and superfoods. It also contains added omega fatty acids for skin and coat health. The food includes K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, which help support healthy digestion, immune system health, and overall wellbeing.
This food is made with quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources, without the use of corn or wheat. It is recommended by veterinarians for dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin issues.
It is an ideal choice for pups of all breeds, as it helps maintain proper growth rate while supporting the development of bones, joints, and lean muscles.
- Real meat as the first ingredient
- Contains species-specific probiotics
- Grain-free recipe suitable for all breeds
- Some customers have reported diarrhea in their dogs after switching to this formula
- May be higher priced compared to other dog food brands
- Some dogs may not like the taste
Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food
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Enjoy the benefits of a protein-rich formula with Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food, made using real ingredients for adult dogs. This high-quality food is free from chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, and soy protein.
It provides your pup with 15 superfoods like coconut, chia, and kale to help support their skin health.
Customers have reported that their pets have had improved hair regrowth after eating this food, as well as better overall well-being. However, some reviews also suggested that certain dogs experienced allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in the mix.
If you’re looking for an all-natural dog food option without artificial preservatives, then look no further than Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food.
- Protein-rich formula
- Contains 15 superfoods such as coconut & chia
- Free from chicken by-product meal & artificial preservatives/colors/flavors
- Recent price increase
- Some reports of allergies/sensitivities
American Journey Large Breed Adult
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American Journey Large Breed Adult provides your pup with the necessary levels of protein, minerals, vitamins, and omega fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin while supporting joint health. Crafted to fuel their day and satisfy their primal appetite for protein, this formula has no wheat or corn to irritate sensitive stomachs.
Natural fiber helps keep digestion running smoothly as well as balanced minerals that support bone health. Glucosamine and chondroitin aid in joint maintenance while the bigger kibble offers an enjoyable crunch at mealtime! All without unnecessary extras like poultry by-product meals or artificial preservatives.
- Provides amino acids for lean muscles & energy
- Balanced minerals & glucosamine/chondroitin for joint health
- Natural fiber promotes digestive health
- No unnecessary extras such as corn/wheat/poultry by-products
- Bigger kibble size satisfies pups’ craving for crunchy food
- Produced in a facility that processes grains, so trace amounts may be present
- May need to adjust the amount depending on a specific dog’s needs
- Quality control issues reported (moldy bags)
Orijen Grain Free Dog Food
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If you’re looking for a protein-rich, grain-free dog food that mimics the prey diet of wild canines, Orijen Grain Free Dog Food is an excellent choice. It is made in the USA with fresh ingredients preserved through refrigeration and frozen at peak freshness.
This food contains approximately 85% quality poultry and fish ingredients to provide essential protein, vitamins, and minerals. It also supports immune system health as well as digestive health due to its natural fiber content.
It avoids chicken by-products meal or fillers like corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Highly rated on DogFoodAdvisor, it’s a premium dry kibble made from trusted sources.
However, it may be too fatty for some dogs, causing them to gain weight if free-fed.
- Protein-rich & grain-free
- Contains 85% quality poultry & fish ingredients
- Supports immunity & digestion
- Natural fiber content
- Pricey
- Too fatty – potential weight gain
- May not agree with all pups
Gather Free Acres Dog Food
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Gather Free Acres Dog Food is an all-natural, grain-free option packed with certified organic, free-run chicken and fortified with essential vitamins and minerals for adult dogs. It contains non-GMO vegetables like peas, lentils, blueberries, and cranberries, plus omega fatty acids from sustainably harvested krill to support heart and brain function, as well as healthy skin and coat.
Reviews suggest that some users have experienced positive results in their dog’s coat and overall happiness, while others have reported negative effects such as bad gas, runny stool, and vomiting. One user even mentioned severe health issues in their Golden mix after feeding this food, but symptoms improved upon switching to another organic blend.
Some mention a strong fish odor despite fish being the fourth ingredient on the list, which could be off-putting for picky eaters.
- Certified Organic Chicken is the first Ingredient
- Non-GMO Vegetables including Peas, Lentils, Blueberries, Cranberries
- Omega Fatty Acid Support from Sustainably Harvested Krill
- Fish Odor Despite Being Fourth Ingredient on List
- Bad Gas, Runny Stool, Vomiting Reported By Some Users
- Limited Availability In Stores – May Need To Be Ordered Online
Eagle Pack Large Breed Adult Dog Food
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Eagle Pack Large Breed Adult Dog Food is formulated with a unique blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to keep your furry companion in tip-top shape, like a well-oiled machine. It contains glucosamine for joint health, as well as omega fatty acids that promote skin and coat health.
Antioxidants are also included to strengthen the immune system, while natural fiber helps with digestive issues.
As an added bonus, this formula is made without corn, wheat, meat byproducts, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making it suitable for all breeds over 50 pounds.
- Formulated specifically for large breed dogs
- Glucosamine promotes joint health
- Omega fatty acids promote skin & coat health
- No unnecessary additives such as corn, wheat, soy, etc…
- Some customers have reported stomach problems after a rapid switch from another brand
- Price has increased significantly, causing dissatisfaction among some customers
- Dogs no longer seem to enjoy the taste of food
Purina Pro Plan Puppy
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Purina Pro Plan Puppy is designed to provide your large breed pup with the nutrition they need to grow big and strong, featuring real chicken as the #1 ingredient. It is rich in glucosamine for developing joints and cartilage, and DHA from omega-rich fish oil for brain and vision development.
Additionally, it contains calcium and phosphorus minerals that help build strong bones and teeth.
The crunchy kibble also includes antioxidants to support a healthy immune system. Plus, it’s free of artificial colors or flavors, so you know your pup is getting only natural goodness.
- Wholesome nutrition for large breed puppies
- High-quality protein for an active lifestyle
- Carefully chosen ingredients with no fillers or byproducts
- Expensive compared to other brands
- Packaging changes may cause confusion when ordering
- Some dogs may have sensitivities or preferences
Diamond Naturals Puppy Large Breed
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Diamond Naturals Puppy Large Breed offers a premium blend of quality ingredients and essential nutrients to help your large breed pup thrive. This food is made in the USA by a family-owned company with trusted domestic and global sources for its ingredients, so you can be confident that what you’re feeding your pup is safe and healthy.
The first ingredient is real pasture-raised lamb, which provides protein for muscle growth. Balanced nutrient levels are adjustable to larger growing bodies’ needs. Omega fatty acids keep skin nourished and coat sleek.
Superfood fruits like blueberries provide vitamins and minerals needed for development.
Customers have praised this food’s positive results on their puppies, helping them grow strong muscles with good blood work from the vet even after switching over from other brands! However, there have been reports of soft stools or gas issues after consumption, along with some dogs refusing to eat it due to an unpleasant smell when opening the package.
- Quality Ingredients From Trusted Sources
- 1 Ingredient Is Real Pasture Raised Lamb
- Balanced Nutrient Levels For Larger Growing Bodies
- Omega Fatty Acids Skin And Coat Health
- Vitamins & Minerals From Superfood Fruits Like Blueberries And Oranges
- Includes Species Specific K9 Strain Propriotics
- Antioxidants & Prebiotic Supports Healthy Digestion, Immune System, And Overall Wellness
- No Corn, Wheat, Artificial Flavors, Or Colors
- Some Reported Soft Watery Poop, Gas Issues After Consumption
- Unpleasant Smell Upon Opening Package Causing Dogs To Refuse Eating It
- Excessive Diarrhea Reported In 3-Month-Old Dog
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best type of food for Labs with allergies?
For Labs with allergies, try Canidae Pure Grain-Free Dog Food. This limited ingredient diet is packed with protein and omega fatty acids from salmon to support your pup’s skin health while avoiding common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy.
How often should I feed my Lab?
Feed your Lab two or three meals a day to provide the nutrition and energy they need. Eating multiple smaller meals also helps prevent bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition common in large breed dogs.
Is it necessary to supplement my Lab’s diet with additional vitamins and minerals?
Depending on your Lab’s diet, additional vitamins and minerals may be beneficial. Interesting fact: most pups need around 30% of their daily calories from protein! Speak with your vet to determine if supplements are needed to support a healthy lifestyle for your pup.
Are there any specific dietary requirements for Lab puppies?
Yes, Lab puppies need additional vitamins and minerals. Choose a food that specifically meets their needs with balanced nutrition for muscle growth, cognitive development, joint health, and eye health.
Supplement the diet with omega-3 fatty acids to support immunity and skin health. Avoid processed grains, which can cause allergies or digestive issues in puppies.
How should I transition my Lab from puppy food to adult food?
When transitioning your Lab from puppy food to adult food, gradually introduce the new formula over a week or two. Start by mixing 75% of their old kibble with 25% of the new one and slowly increase the amount of adult food as time goes on.
This will help ensure that they make a smooth transition without any digestive upset.
Conclusion
Choosing the right food for your Labrador can be a daunting task with so many options available on the market. But with a little research and knowledge of what’s best for your pup, you can make the right choice.
CANIDAE All Life Stages Dog Food, Wellness CORE Large Breed Dog Food, Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food, Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food, American Journey Large Breed Adult, Orijen Grain Free Dog Food, Gather Free Acres Dog Food, Eagle Pack Large Breed Adult Dog Food, Purina Pro Plan Puppy, and Diamond Naturals Puppy Large Breed are all great options for Labradors.
Each food offers a unique blend of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids to meet the nutritional needs of your pup.
With the right food and proper care, you can ensure your Labrador stays healthy and happy for years to come.
