best dog food for high energy puppies

Help your hyperactive dog thrive: 7 tips to choose the right food

Choosing the right food for hyperactive dogs can be a daunting task.

With countless options available in the market, making informed decisions that prioritize your dogs health and well-being is crucial.

This post provides expert tips and guidelines to help you navigate the overwhelming world of pet food selection, ensuring your furry friend receives the best nutrition possible.

Understand your hyperactive dogs nutritional needs

Hyperactive dogs burn a lot of energy with their constant playfulness and vigorous activity. Therefore, their diet should be carefully tailored to support their high energy demands and unique nutritional requirements.

If youre not sure how to plan the diet, a pet food guide can be extremely useful to understand your dogs nutritional needs and then you can consult your vet. They can provide invaluable insights into your dogs specific needs and recommend appropriate dietary guidelines.

In this way, you can ensure they have the right balance of nutrients to support their overall health and vitality. Whether its selecting the right protein sources for muscle development or incorporating essential fatty acids for cognitive function, your vet will be able to offer tailored advice to keep your dog at their very best.

Furthermore, hyperactive dogs might have a tendency to overeat or exhibit erratic eating patterns due to their restless nature.

Your veterinarian can also guide you on portion control and meal frequency to prevent excessive weight gain to help maintain your hyperactive dogs ideal body condition.

Remember, a well-balanced and suitable diet not only supports their physical well-being but can also have a positive impact on their behavior.

Read the labels

When selecting dog food, reading and understanding the labels is essential. Look for key information such as the ingredients list, nutritional content, and feeding guidelines.

High-quality pet foods typically have real meat or protein sources as the primary ingredients, avoiding fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.

Consider life stage and specific needs

Just like any other dogs, hyperactive dogs have different nutritional requirements at various stages of life.

When they are puppies, its essential to provide them with specially formulated puppy food that supports their rapid growth and development.

This helps ensure they get the right balance of nutrients for their energetic lifestyle.

As hyperactive dogs age, they may encounter specific issues associated with seniority, such as behavioral issues or bone issues. In such cases, diets designed to address age-related concerns can be beneficial.

These specialized senior pet foods can provide the necessary nutrients to support their aging bodies and maintain their vitality.

Hyperactive dogs can also have unique dietary needs, such as allergies or sensitivities.

In these situations, its crucial to explore specialized formulas that cater to these specific requirements.

These diets are formulated to avoid common allergens and are gentle on sensitive digestive systems, promoting overall health and comfort.

Choose between commercial and homemade diets

Commercial pet foods undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet nutritional standards.

It offers convenience and balanced nutrition and is available in various options.

However, some pet owners prefer homemade diets to have greater control over ingredients.

If considering a homemade diet, its crucial to consult a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it meets your pets requirements.

Evaluate the brands reputation

Look for reputable pet food brands with a history of producing high-quality products.

Brands that invest in research, have a team of veterinary nutritionists, and conduct feeding trials are more likely to provide reliable and nutritious options for your pet.

Seek recommendations from your veterinarian or trusted pet professionals to help narrow down your choices.

Consider your budget

While providing your pet with the best nutrition is important, its also essential to consider your budget.

High-quality pet foods can vary significantly in price.

Strike a balance between quality and affordability, ensuring you can sustain the chosen diet in the long run without compromising your pets well-being.

Monitor your pets response

Once you have chosen a pet food, monitor your pets response to the diet. Look for improved energy, healthy skin and coat, and appropriate weight management.

If you notice any adverse reactions or concerns, consult your veterinarian to determine if adjustments to the diet are necessary.

Final thoughts on choosing the right dog food for hyperactive dogs

Selecting the right pet food is a vital aspect of responsible pet ownership.

You can make an informed decision by understanding your pets nutritional needs, reading labels, considering life stage and specific requirements, and evaluating brand reputation.

Always prioritize your pets health and well-being when choosing commercial or homemade diets.

Arslan Hassan is an electrical engineer passionate about writing, designing, and anything tech-related. His educational background in the technical field has given him the edge to write on many topics. He occasionally writes blog articles forDynamologic Solutions.

The 14 Best Dog Foods for Active Dogs

This (updated) guide lists the best dog foods for active dogs this year.

Puppies usually become less active as they grow up.

ButNOTall breedsFrom short-legged Corgis to muscular Shepherds, some breeds are generally more active than others and they will stay that way throughout their life if provided the right dog food.

Finding the best dog food for active dogs isnot an easy feat. You need to find the perfect balance of proteins and fats,plus all the essential nutrients to strengthen their skeletal structure. Ofcourse, you cant ignore their digestive or immune systems either.

A lot of pet parents believe that it is impossible to find this kind of balance in commercial dog food and resort to homemade recipes. But if you read the labels carefully and know what to look for, I believe you can find commercially prepared foods that hit the mark consistently without the guesswork and labor involved in homemade recipes.Weve found not just one, but fifteen options that are proper fuel for your active dog. Lets have a look at my top five best dog food for active dogs.

The Best Dog Foods for Active Dogs

How to Switch Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick

Best Active Dog Food Reviews

1. Purina Pro Plan Sport All Life Stages Performance 30/20 Formula

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Corn Gluten Meal, 3. Brewers Rice, 4. Animal Fat Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols, 5. Poultry By-Product Meal

Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 Formula is hands down one of the finest high energy formulas with the perfect balance of quality proteins and healthy fats. A recipe specifically created with the most active dogs in mind.

What I love about this formula is that itfocuses just as much on bone and joints as it does on the muscles and energylevel of your dogs. It has a good amount of DHA, EPA, glucosamine, and Omega-3and Omega-6 fatty acids all these ingredients ensure better mobility and keepjoint issues at bay.

2. Solid Gold Leaping Waters Sensitive Stomach Cold Water Salmon & Vegetable Recipe Grain-Free

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Ocean Fish Meal, 3. Chickpeas, 4. Lentils, 5. Peas

Its not just couch potatoes that can have sensitive stomachs; active dogs can have them too. And this can make choosing their diet a little difficult. One of the safest options is Solid Golds Leaping Waters recipe. Its sole source of protein is salmon. Other key ingredients include chickpeas and tapioca.

Thats not all! Solid Gold Leaping Waters hasa powerful blend of 20 superfoods that strengthen the immune system of yourfurry friend, making them less susceptible to sickness. The added strain ofprobiotics aids the digestion process to prevent tummy troubles.

3. Eukanuba Premium Performance 30/20 Adult Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken By-Product Meal , 3. Corn Meal, 4. Brewers Rice, 5. Ground Whole Grain Sorghum

With a perfect 30/20 balance, this dog food is on the top of my list for good reasons. It is perfectly suitable for athletic breeds and active dogs. The proteins in this dog food come from chicken meat and chicken meal. Chicken by-product meal isnt always a recommended ingredient, but when it comes to the high energy needs of highly active dogs, it isnt a bad bargain.

Besides proteins, chicken by-product meal addsenough fat to keep your baby going, and italso contains the level of calcium needed to support healthy bones. Additionally,this dog food features the 3D DentaDefense System to keep your babys teethstrong, healthy, and tartar-free.

4. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Buffalo, 2. Lamb Meal, 3. Chicken Meal, 4. Sweet Potatoes, 5. Peas

This offering from Taste of the Wild is on many of the Best Food lists we create. It has a perfect balance of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients. With proteins from buffalo, lamb, and chicken, Taste of the Wild High Prairie will help your active friend stay fit and energetic throughout the day.

Aside from containing essential nutrients,High Prairie is formulated to ensure proper absorption of all these nutrients.Plus, it is a grain-free recipe that doesnt contain any common allergens. Itcontains a canine strain probiotic blend, which makes it a good option for dogswith sensitive stomachs.

5. AvoDerm Natural Triple Protein Meal Formula All Life Stages

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Ground Brown Rice, 3. Lamb Meal, 4. Turkey Meal, 5. Ground White Rice

AvoDerm contains animal protein from three sources: chicken, lamb, and turkey meal. While it may not have as much protein and fat as other options so far, I choose it because the formula ensures better absorption of nutrients than most commercial dog foods.

Moreover, fats come from quality ingredientssuch as avocado oil, a good fat that will provide your active one energythroughout the day. Whats more: This balanced formula is suitable for all lifestages.

6. VICTOR Performance Formula Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Beef Meal, 2. Grain Sorghum, 3. Whole Grain Millet, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Blood Meal

Victor Performance is another good choice for sporty and active dogs. 80 percent of the content is meat but the formula isnt just rich in fat and protein, it also contains a number of essential nutrients that ensure healthy bones and mobility. This glucosamine and chondroitin rich formula ensures a trouble-free transition from adulthood to senior years. It is highly recommended for large muscular yet active breeds that are susceptible to joint issues.

7. Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete Formula Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Chicken, 3. Ground White Rice, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Cracked Pearled Barley

As the name suggests, this formula by Diamond Naturals is meant for highly active breeds. With more than four thousand calories per kg, this dog food is a suitable choice for dogs that are into sports. What I like about this product is that aside from proteins and fats, it is also rich in healthy carbs. So, for a dog that doesnt have a sensitive stomach, this can be a perfect option. And in case you are wondering, the proteins come from cage-free chicken raised in a healthy environment

8. Dr. Tims Active Dog Pursuit Formula Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Brown Rice, 3. Chicken Fat, 4. Whole Oat Groats, 5. Dried Beet Pulp

This dog food has a lot of expertise backing the recipe. Created by veterinary experts and canine nutritionist, Dr. Tims Active Dog Pursuit Formula Dry Dog Food has a beautifully balanced recipe that can give your baby the right amount of fats and proteins in every meal. The recipe is prepared through a slow-cooking method to retain taste and nutrients of the ingredients. Nearly 86 percent of the content in this can is meat. If you think this can cause tummy troubles, it actually has patented probiotic and fiber blend to aid digestion.

9. Sport Dog Food Elite Series Working Dog Turkey Formula Grain-Free

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Turkey Meal, 2. Dried Sweet Potato, 3. Chicken Fat , 4. Coconut Meal, 5. Cassava Root

This is another formula created for athletes and working dogs. The Elite Series by Sport Dog Food contains Turkey meat sourced from US based farms. This novel source combined with healthy fats give your baby lean strong muscles and a powerful boost of energy. What I like about it is the fact that it is a great option for sensitive tummies. There are no grains and legumes to worry about. Plus, you get perfectly balanced nutrients in every bowl, with no filler ingredient. While it is great for large and medium sized breeds, it may not be the best option for smaller breeds.

The Best Food for Active Puppies

Almost all puppies are active, but if you have an active breed, it is going to be a lot more active than the rest. There are some really good puppy foods out there that can meet the extra high calorie requirement of your pup without causing any trouble.

10. Kinetic Performance Puppy 28K Formula Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Chicken By-Product Meal, 3. Brewers Rice, 4. Ground Sorghum, 5. Chicken Fat

With almost flawless customer ratings on all channels, Kinetic Performance Puppy 28K Formula is my top recommendation for little ones who just cant sit in a place. Since puppies are usually more active than adult dogs, this recipe contains chicken meal and chicken by-product meal, both of which tend to have more fat and protein than chicken. Besides physical health, this dog food also takes care of your pups brain and vision development. Not to mention, this product gets extra points because of its taste as well.

11. VICTOR Select Nutra Pro Active Dog & Puppy Formula

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Blood Meal, 3. Whole Grain Millet, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Yeast Culture

This is the second Victor on my list; this one is for the little ones though. Like the adult recipe, this too is a nutrient-dense option that contains lots of proteins and fats and just the right amount of carbs to keep their energy level high throughout the day. It is a good option for pups training to be athletes. You get 92 percent meat proteins and healthy balance of minerals, vitamins, and fatty acids. The best part is: this recipe is created with sensitive tummies in mind.

12. FirstMate Endurance/Puppy Pacific Ocean Fish Meal Formula Limited Ingredient Diet

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Potato, 2. Pacific Ocean Fish Meal, 3. Tomato Pomace, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Fish Oil

Another great option for active puppies with sensitive tummies, FirstMate Ocean Fish Meal Formula is a delicious puppy food packed with essential nutrients. Your pup gets the right amount of protein for lean muscle development and healthy fats to fuel their activities. All the proteins come from a single source in this limited ingredient recipe. One of the main ingredient is potato that add optimal level of carbs in your babys diet. I recommend this formula as a good option for active pups who are recovering from illness.

The Best Dog Food for Active Senior Dogs

It is not uncommon for the activity level of your dogs to drop as they grow into seniors. Many still manage to indulge in regular play and exercise. I have picked dog foods that can not only keep your pals energy levels high but also support healthy joint function and mobility.

1. Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken By-Product Meal, 3. Ground Whole Grain Barley, 4. Ground Whole Grain Corn, 5. Ground Whole Grain Sorghum

Your old pal may not be as active as it was in its days of youth, but it still has a unique set of requirements. Iams Proactive Health does the job quite nicely. While it is a high protein formula, the amount fat is lowered to match the changing lifestyle and activity level of your older dog. Aside from healthy bones and muscles, the formula also has L-carnitine, Vitamin E and Beta-Carotene to take care of their heart and mind.

2. Merrick Lil Plates Grain-Free Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Senior Dry Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Peas, 5. Potatoes

This one is an option suitable for smaller breeds, which are sometimes more active than larger ones. Merrick Little Plates has animal protein sourced from deboned chicken and chicken meal. The latter is a good source of glucosamine, the compound essential for healthy bones in later years. Chondroitin is also there to support healthy joint and hips. Since dogs can become less active with age, this recipe has lower fat and carbs to meet their new needs. Moreover, this grain-free formula contains fiber and probiotics to ease digestion.

3. CANIDAEGrain-Free PURE Senior Real Chicken, Sweet Potato & Garbanzo Bean Recipe

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Turkey Meal, 4. Sweet Potatoes, 5. Garbanzo Beans

CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Senior is another regular on my senior dog food list. I really like how balanced this formula is for almost every breed. It is a limited ingredient recipe for sensitive tummies but wont cut down on the amount of proteins and nutrients your dog needs at this age. It is free of filler ingredients and only contains high quality meat and vegetables loaded with nutrients. Whats more: It is extremely delicious. So, if your pal has become picky with age, this can be a great food for it.

FAQs: Best Dog Foods for Active Dogs

Before we move on to more food options, lets try and answer some questions you may have up to this point.

Do active dogs need more food?

Not necessarily. How much your dog eats depends largely on its breed and size. A dogs activity level can affect their appetite to an extent, but it has more to do with their desire to eat than nutritional needs. The nutritional needs of an active dog have more to do with the nutrients and calories of their food.

How much should I feed my active dog?

On average, an adult dog needs to eat twice a day, while puppies can eat around four to five times. Two meals a day are okay for an active dog but it should be high-calorie premium food with more proteins and fats. For athletic dogs, however, some vets recommend feeding smaller but more frequent meals throughout the day.

What should I look for in dog food for my active dog?

The first thing you need to look for in food for active dogs is protein and fats. Their metabolism processes fats differently. Protein is what keeps their muscle strong enough to support an active lifestyle, and fat is what converts into energy.

Do active dogs needs more carbohydrates?

As far as your dogs nutritional requirements are concerned, they do not need dietary carbohydrates. Carbs do not convert into energy for them. Its fat that gives them energy. Breakdown of protein and fat oxidation is what converts into energy.

Why do active dogs need more fat?

Fat, for the dog, isthe fuelthey need to stay active and agile. Their bodies convert fat, not carbs, into energy. It is their endurance fuel. That said, a dog that is not too active will gain weight if fed dog food that is high in fat. So, you need to adjust the amount of fat you feed according to your pets activity level.

Why do active dogs need more proteins?

For dogs, proteins and fats go hand in hand. Protein builds muscles strong enough to support their activity. When muscles arent strong enough, all the strain of their activity falls on bones and joints. Muscles that arent strong enough can lead to mobility issues and joint-related problems.

Should a dog eat right before or after exercise?

No. You should never feed a dog right before or after exercise or strenuous activity. It can put too much pressure on the intestines, which sometimes causes bloating. Give them at least an hour before and after intense activity.

How many calories do active dogs need?

According to experts, this canvary from dog to dog. On average, a medium-sized adult dog that needs around 30 calories per pound of its body weight per day. However, for an active breed, it shouldnt be less than 40 calories per pound of its weight every day.

Can I feed whey protein to my active dog?

Yes, whey protein is a good option for active dogs, especially if their favorite dog food is unable to fulfill their nutritional needs, and they are too picky eaters. Whey protein has a better rate of absorption than regular food protein and contains plenty of amino acids.

Should active dogs be on a raw diet?

A raw diet is a good option for active dogs; it mimics their ancestral diet. The diet they used to enjoy in the wild. More importantly, its a diet tailored to meet their lifestyle demands. Since the demands of active and athletic dogs are quite similar, a raw diet makes complete sense for them.

Are grains good for active dogs?

Grains arent particularly bad for dogs but are sometimes avoided because some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to them. However, grains arent just rich in carbs; they are great sources of proteins and fiber as well. So, for a dog that doesnt have a sensitive tummy or any other allergy, grains are good for them.

Which grains are good for active dogs?

While grains are safe for most dogs, it is best to avoid ones that are most likely to cause allergies or indigestion. Regular grains such as wheat and white rice arent particularly safe bets. You can opt for whole grains such as brown rice or oatmeal.

Which dog breeds are active dog breeds?

Working and hunting breeds are most likely to be active. Some good examples include Dalmation, German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, Siberian Husky, and Beagles. Active dogs dont necessarily belong to one specific size category. From toy breeds to giant breeds, the dogs size has little to do with their activity level

Buyer Guide: Best Dog Food for Active Dogs

I always emphasize knowing your dogs breed and its needs before you can go on your hunt for the best dog food. There is a lot to know about your dog. The first thing being: Is it an active dog?

So, lets start with what exactly is an active dog and whether your baby fits in that category.

An active dog is a term that most perfectly defines working and hunting dogs. In urban areas, you may not find a lot of working and hunting dogs, but there are active dogs that engage in exercise and similar activities. For instance, a dog that enjoys morning jogs with its partner, multiple times a day,

The point being, while breed plays an important role, lifestyle and training also play their part. Your dogs energy level can change due to numerous external factors, including weather.

More Energy, More Food

Now, this is a myth.

Active dogs arent always hungry for more food and they dont need to eat more than they want to Again, its not unusual to find an active dog that will demand more food, but as a pet parent, you should know where to draw a line. What they do need is the right amount of calories from dog food that has the best ingredients that can provide a balanced diet while preventing allergies and similar problems.

An active dog needs more calories, but that doesnt always mean more food.

To cut it short, you need a quality product with the right amount of proteins and fats.

Proteins and Fats

There is a reason your dog needs both proteins and fats together; the former is for muscle development while the latter converts into energy.

According toveterinarians, the ideal ratio of protein and fat in dog food is 30:20 i.e. 30 percent proteins and 20 percent fat. However, you can also go for dog food at a ratio of 28:7. With lower proteins, the muscles wont be strong enough to endure the strain of activity. This will further put a strain on joints and bones.

Similarly, for fat, one thing leads to another. Fat converts in energy and with a lack of fat, your baby may never feel energetic enough to enjoy the activities it wants to enjoy.

Did you know not being able to play as much as it wants can make your baby sad and depressed?

Just make sure your baby has enough fats to enjoy all the activities it wants.

Beyond Protein and Fats

Aside from protein and fats, your baby will need several other nutrients to live a healthy and happy life. I always recommend foods that have fruits and vegetables because they are loaded with vitamins and minerals. Plus, they are also known antioxidants to keep the immune system running without fail.

Grains are also a good source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and even proteins. I am never completely against grains but if your pup has a sensitive tummy, then it is best to avoid them

Caution

Besides grains, there are a few more things you need to avoid.

• Never feed your dog right before or right after exercise. Wait at least an hour.
• Dont feed them table scraps. It may be full of fat but its not the right kind or amount of fat for your pal.
• Dont switch to a different dog food immediately. Your dog will take time to adjust to a new high-protein, high-fat recipe. Give it around 3 weeks and follow the proper transition method.

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