Choosing the right puppy food is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your new furry family member. The best puppy foods provide complete and balanced nutrition to support healthy growth and development.
When selecting a puppy food, you want to look for high-quality ingredients, proper calcium and phosphorus levels, omega fatty acids for brain and vision development, and probiotics for digestive and immune health. It’s also important to consider your puppy’s unique nutritional needs based on breed size, activity level, and any health conditions.
This comprehensive guide reviews the top 10 best puppy food brands of 2023. We evaluated over 50 different formulas based on ingredient quality, guaranteed analysis, expertise and transparency from the manufacturer, nutritional adequacy, and real customer reviews.
How We Chose the Best Puppy Food Brands
Our puppy food brand recommendations are based on the following criteria:
- Quality of Ingredients: We looked for natural, whole food ingredients including high-quality animal proteins, digestible carbohydrates, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables. We avoided artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
- Nutritional Adequacy: We analyzed the guaranteed analysis to ensure the right balance of protein, fat, carbs, and optimal calcium and phosphorus levels for healthy growth and development. Foods meeting AAFCO standards for growth were preferred.
- Manufacturing Standards: We favored brands owning their own facilities with stringent quality control and food safety standards. Made in the USA was a plus.
- Expertise & Transparency: Brands with on-staff veterinary nutritionists who formulate recipes earned more points. We also valued brand transparency with informative websites andcustomer service.
- Customer Satisfaction: Real reviews from verified purchasers provided insights into puppy food palatability, digestibility, and benefits. We checked ratings on Chewy, Amazon, and retailer sites.
- Special Needs Formulas: Brands with puppy food tailored to breed size, sensitive stomachs, allergies or other conditions stood out from the pack.
Based on this comprehensive criteria, we are confident recommending the following top 10 puppy food brands for 2023.
1. Royal Canin Puppy Food
Key Benefits: Tailored nutrition for breed size, Digestive health support, Highly palatable
Royal Canin uses science-backed nutrition to formulate puppy foods precisely customized to breed size and age. This French company partners with veterinary schools and canine research centers to continually advance their expertise in pet nutrition.
All Royal Canin puppy foods feature easily digestible proteins and prebiotic fiber for soft stools. Kibble shape, texture and coatings encourage chewing and make food highly palatable. Antioxidants support a healthy immune system during the critical growth phase.
Royal Canin offers specialized puppy formulas for small, medium and large/giant breed puppies up to 12 months old. This ensures your pup receives precise nutritional ratios for healthy development. Royal Canin also has hydrolyzed protein formulas for food sensitivities.
Ingredient Quality: A
Nutritional Adequacy: A+
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: A+
Customer Satisfaction: A
Royal Canin Puppy Food Reviews
The vast majority of customers report their puppies eagerly devour Royal Canin and have less stool volume and better digestion compared to other brands. Pups maintain a healthy weight on the kibble and coats stay soft and shiny. Many veterinarians recommend and sell Royal Canin puppy foods.
Negative reviews are very rare but a few puppies showed disinterest in the proprietary kibble shapes. Check with your breeder if they fed Royal Canin to ease the transition.
Pros:
- Customized nutrition by breed size
- Kibble adapted to puppy chewing skills
- Supports healthy digestion
- Palatable taste
- Veterinary recommended
Cons:
- Expensive
- Some picky eaters dislike kibble shapes
2. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula
Key Benefits: Grain-free, Novel proteins, Probiotics and antioxidants
This grain-free dry puppy food from Taste of the Wild provides puppies with easy-to-digest proteins and superfoods to nourish growth and development. Made by family-owned Diamond Pet Foods, this high protein puppy formula delivers natural nutrition inspired by what canines ate in the wild.
The first ingredients are pasture-raised buffalo and lamb meal along with sweet potatoes for vitamin-rich carbohydrates. It has guaranteed levels of DHA for brain development and calcium for strong bones and teeth. Antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies provide immune and digestive support.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie puppy formula has optimal protein-to-fat ratios for small and large breed puppies. It’s also great for sensitive stomachs. This nutrient-dense food is made in the USA and free of corn, wheat, fillers, artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
Ingredient Quality: A
Nutritional Adequacy: A+
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: B+
Customer Satisfaction: A
Taste of the Wild Puppy Formula Reviews
Many praise how well their puppies take to the natural flavors and protein-rich nutrition. Owners report nice firm stools, healthy energetic pups, and soft fur and skin. Negative reviews stem from a few reports of diarrhea or upset stomachs when transitioning.
Pros:
- Grain-free formula
- Novel proteins like bison, salmon and venison
- Natural fruits and vegetables
- Prebiotics for digestion
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Can cause looser stools in some pups
- Only one puppy formula
3. Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Food
Key Benefits: Precise nutrition for growth, Veterinarian recommended, Tailored to breed size
Developed by 80 veterinarians and PhD nutritionists, Hill’s Science Diet crafts their puppy foods to precisely fuel the unique nutritional needs from 8 weeks to 1 year. This brand partners with vet clinics to research health and nutrition.
Hill’s Science Diet puppy foods feature chicken as the first ingredient along with wholesome grains, veggies and fruit. There are formulas specifically for toy/small breed puppies, medium breeds and large breeds with the optimal calcium and calories. It’s 100% complete nutrition free of artificial preservatives or additives.
Their strict quality control standards ensure optimal nutrient levels in every bag. This is a top choice to feed puppies recommended by vets for optimal growth and development. Made in the USA.
Ingredient Quality: A
Nutritional Adequacy: A+
Manufacturing Standards: A+
Expertise & Transparency: A+
Customer Satisfaction: A
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Food Reviews
The majority of pet parents say Hill’s Science Diet puppy food helped their puppy grow up happy and healthy with great energy levels. The kibble texture and size works well for puppies and picky eaters seem to enjoy the taste. A few noted some mild gas or stool issues.
Pros:
- Research-backed precise nutrition
- Tailored calories and minerals by breed size
- Recommended by veterinarians
- Improves energy, digestion and coat
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Contains corn and soy (GMOs)
- Higher price point
- Stools a bit loose for some pups
4. Wellness Complete Health Puppy
Key Benefits: All natural grain-free, Optimized calories for growth, DHA for brain development
This all-natural puppy formula from Wellness Pet Food provides holistic nutrition free from corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors or preservatives. Deboned chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients. It’s protein-rich to nourish growing muscles with the perfect fat and carb balance.
Carefully calibrated calories and minerals like calcium ensure a healthy growth trajectory for small and large breed puppies. It also supplies DHA from fish oil for healthy brain, eye and vision development. Natural fiber aids digestion.
Made in the USA, this puppy food is backed by animal nutrition experts and quality control specialists to ensure safety and nutritional adequacy. Wellness is a health-focused brand.
Ingredient Quality: A+
Nutritional Adequacy: A
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: A-
Customer Satisfaction: A-
Wellness Puppy Food Reviews
According to most owners, puppies love the taste and maintain healthy weights on the kibble. Many report it helped firm up stool, improve coat softness, provide steady energy, and ease digestive issues compared to other brands. Some puppies experienced gassiness or did not like the small kibble size.
Pros:
- All natural, grain-free ingredients
- Made in the USA
- Provides balanced nutrition for growth
- Enhances coat, energy and digestion
- Free of fillers or artificial additives
Cons:
- Caused gas for some pups
- Kibble size too small for large breeds
- Only one puppy formula
5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Formula
Key Benefits: Made with real meat first, DHA for brain development, Antioxidant-rich
This chicken and brown rice recipe from Blue Buffalo features real meat as the first ingredient. It provides puppies with protein-rich nutrition to build muscle along with whole grains, garden veggies and fruit.
Their proprietary LifeSource Bits blend includes antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune health, growth and development. It also contains DHA and ARA fatty acids to nourish the brain, eyes and vision in growing puppies.
Blue Buffalo controls the entire manufacturing process in their own facilities to assure quality and safety. This puppy formula is made in the USA with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors or preservatives.
Ingredient Quality: A
Nutritional Adequacy: A
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: B+
Customer Satisfaction: A
Blue Buffalo Puppy Food Reviews
Most pet parents say their puppy eagerly devours every meal and maintains a healthy weight. Many report an improvement in energy levels, coat softness and shedding. Some pups experienced digestive upset from the richer formula.
Pros:
- Features real meat first
- Made in the USA facilities
- LifeSource Bits provide antioxidant boost
- Improves energy and coat health
- Free of corn, wheat, soy and by-products
Cons:
- Can cause loose stools
- Only one puppy formula
- Contains peas and potatoes
6. Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food
Key Benefits: Veterinarian recommended, Formulated for sensitive stomachs, Optimized nutrition for each life stage
Purina Pro Plan focuses extensively on animal nutrition research to create puppy foods that precisely deliver complete balanced nutrition tailored by age and breed size. These formulas feature easily digestible rice and oatmeal.
Purina optimizes the protein-to-fat ratio to build strong muscles and fuel brain development in puppies. Natural sources of glucosamine support joint health. Antioxidant blend with vitamin E and A strengthens the immune system.
This brand also has sensitive skin and stomach options to reduce digestive and skin issues caused by food sensitivities. Made in Purina-owned US facilities.
Ingredient Quality: B+
Nutritional Adequacy: A+
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: A+
Customer Satisfaction: A-
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food Reviews
The majority of buyers say Purina Pro Plan helped their puppies grow and thrive with great energy and skin and coat health. Puppies seem to love the taste. Some dogs had mild diarrhea, gas or itchiness on this formula.
Pros:
- Recommended by veterinarians
- Precisely formulated for each life stage
- Improves energy, digestion, skin and coat
- Made in the USA
- Sensitive skin and stomach options
Cons:
- Contains some corn, soy and artificial colors used as preservatives
- Caused mild gas or stool issues for some pups
- Kibble has strong odor
7. Merrick Grain Free Puppy Recipe
Key Benefits: Grain-free, Deboned meat first, Hip and joint support, Made in the USA
Merrick uses quality deboned meat as the first ingredient in this grain-free puppy recipe. It features leading levels of protein from real chicken and chicken meal to build lean muscle.
It derives carbohydrates from wholesome fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, apples, blueberries and peas. Natural DHA and ARA oils support brain and eye development. Glucosamine provides joint support for growing puppies.
Merrick controls all food production from their organically certified Texas facility. This puppy food delivers premium nutrition free from grains, gluten, fillers or artificial preservatives.
Ingredient Quality: A+
Nutritional Adequacy: A-
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: B+
Customer Satisfaction: B+
Merrick Puppy Food Reviews
According to most owners, puppies love the tasty deboned chicken and soft texture of the kibble. Many report healthy stool, growth rate, energy levels and coat condition. Some puppies experienced digestive upset or weight loss on the high protein formula.
Pros:
- Deboned chicken is first ingredient
- Grain-free recipe
- Supports brain development and joint health
- Made in USA
- Natural fruits and vegetables
Cons:
- Only one puppy formula
- Too high protein for some pups
- Can cause loose stools
- Expensive
8. CANIDAE Premium Puppy Formula
Key Benefits: Limited ingredients, Probiotics for digestion, Made in family-owned facilities
This affordable puppy formula features simple whole food ingredients to provide gentle digestion and nutrition for growth. Chicken meal and rice deliver protein and carbohydrates. There are no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
CANIDAE includes probiotics to support healthy digestion and antioxidants for immune health. The omega fatty acids DHA and EPA nourish the brain, eyes and skin. Calcium and phosphorus ratios build strong teeth and bones.
Made in Texas by family-owned company, this premium puppy food offers quality nutrition without excess fillers or additives that cause sensitivities. It’s tailored for all puppies up to 12 months old.
Ingredient Quality: A-
Nutritional Adequacy: A-
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: B
Customer Satisfaction: A
CANIDAE Puppy Food Reviews
This puppy formula receives consistently positive reviews. Pet parents say it provides easy digestion, healthy firm stools, no gas, great energy and keeps puppies satisfied between meals. Puppies seem to love the taste and kibble size.
Pros:
- Limited ingredients
- Probiotics for digestion
- Affordable price
- Made in Texas by family company
- Calcium for bone growth
Cons:
- Contains some filler ingredients like brown rice
- Only one puppy formula
9. Diamond Naturals Puppy Formula
Key Benefits: Budget-friendly, Made in the USA, DHA for brain support, L-carnitine for metabolism
This affordably priced puppy food from Diamond Naturals provides complete holistic nutrition. Pasture-raised lamb is the first ingredient, providing protein rich in amino acids. The formula supports lean muscle growth and brain development with DHA and optimal protein and fat levels.
Superfoods like kale, chia seeds, pumpkin, quinoa, coconut and spinach provide antioxidants as well as vitamin and mineral nutrition. Guaranteed probiotics aid digestion.
Made in Diamond-owned US facilities, this puppy formula delivers quality nutrition
at a budget-friendly price point. Diamond Naturals is a good option for pet parents looking for an affordable natural puppy food made in the USA.
Ingredient Quality: B+
Nutritional Adequacy: A-
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: B
Customer Satisfaction: B+
Diamond Naturals Puppy Food Reviews
Most buyers say their puppy thrived on this food with great energy, healthy coat and firm stools. Puppies seem to love the taste. A few dogs showed sensitivity with digestive upset or itchy skin. For the price, pet parents say it delivers quality.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price
- Made in the USA
- Natural superfood ingredients
- Supports brain development
- Probiotics for digestion
Cons:
- Some dogs showed sensitivities
- Potential quality control issues
- Limited puppy info from brand
- Contains peas and potatoes
10. Nulo Puppy Food With Probiotics
Key Benefits: Limited ingredient, Grain-free, Probiotics and DHA
Nulo Freestyle puppy food delivers nutrition free of allergens like corn, wheat and soy. Real deboned trout and turkey meat are the first ingredients, providing amino acids for muscle growth and puppy energy levels.
The unique patented probiotic strain supports healthy digestion and immunity for sensitive puppy tummies. It also contains leading levels of DHA for brain and vision development. Made in the USA facilities.
Nulo offers grain-free turkey, trout, lamb and salmon recipes specifically formulated for the growing nutritional needs of puppies under 12 months old. This is a great limited ingredient diet for digestive issues.
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Ingredient Quality: A+
Nutritional Adequacy: A-
Manufacturing Standards: A
Expertise & Transparency: B
Customer Satisfaction: A
Nulo Puppy Food Reviews
According to most buyers, picky puppies love the taste and digest this food well with smaller, firmer stools. It helps puppies with food sensitivities and allergies. Some dogs showed less interest after formula changes.
Pros:
- Limited ingredients, grain-free
- Made in the USA facilities
- Probiotics ease digestive issues
- DHA for brain development
- Real high-quality animal proteins
Cons:
- Expensive
- Recipes frequently change
- Only four puppy formulas
Puppy Food Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right puppy food sets the foundation for your dog’s lifelong health and happiness. Here are some key factors to consider:
Ingredients
Look for whole food ingredients like quality animal proteins, digestible carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. Avoid artificial preservatives, colors and flavors.
Nutritional Adequacy
Ensure the food meets AAFCO standards for growth and developmental nutrition levels. The right ratios of protein, fat, carbs, vitamins and minerals ensure balanced nutrition.
Manufacturing Standards
Premium brands own their own manufacturing facilities with rigorous quality control standards and food safety testing protocols. Made in the USA formulas are ideal.
Special Needs Formulas
Choose brands with puppy recipes tailored to breed size, digestive issues, food sensitivities, allergies, joint support or other special needs.
Price
While premium brands cost more, they typically deliver better nutrition and results. Look for the best food you can afford in your budget.
By selecting the right puppy food brand for your new fur baby, you help ensure the healthy, happy puppy years that lead to a lifetime of memories with your canine companion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Puppy Food
What are the signs my puppy needs a new food?
Indications your puppy may need a diet change include loose stools, gas, lack of energy, unstable growth rate, dull coat, excessive shedding or signs of food sensitivities like itchiness and hot spots.
When should I switch from puppy to adult dog food?
Transition your puppy to adult dog food formulated for their size and activity level between 12-24 months old. Large breed puppies can transition earlier around 8-12 months.
How much should I feed my puppy?
Follow the feeding guidelines on your puppy food bag based on your puppy’s projected adult weight and daily activity. Puppies should eat three meals per day until 6-12 months old when you can switch to two meals.
Are grain-free diets better for puppies?
Not necessarily. Whole grains like rice, barley and oatmeal provide energy. Avoid corn, wheat and soy. Stick to your puppy’s normal diet in the first year unless issues arise. Consult your vet before switching.
Should I give puppy food or adult food to pregnant and nursing dogs?
Feed puppy food to provide the extra nutrition and calories needed for healthy fetal development and milk production. You can transition back to adult food after weaning.
Is it okay to feed my puppy a combination of wet and dry food?
It’s perfectly fine to mix wet and dry puppy foods to add palatability and moisture. Just ensure you calculate the total calories from both foods stay within recommendations.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the perfect puppy food involves getting the right protein sources, carbs, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to meet your puppy’s unique nutritional needs for healthy growth and development in the first year.
We recommend starting with the high-quality puppy formulas from reputable brands like Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, Hill’s Science Diet or Taste of the Wild which offeroptimized nutrition based on puppy age, breed size and special needs.
Of course, every pup is different so monitor how they do on a particular food and adjust accordingly. Your veterinarian can provide tailored dietary recommendations.
Feeding the right food in these precious puppy months helps set the foundation for a long, active life with your happy, healthy canine companion!
