best dog food for puppy labradoodle
5 Best Dog Foods For Labradoodle Puppies (2024)
How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Labradoodle Puppies
Labradoodle puppies are adorable balls of fluff. With their enthusiasm for life and charming ways, they are very difficult to resist.
Labradoodles are the product of breeding a Labrador Retriever to a Poodle. They are available in several sizes with something to suit every family. Their coat was intended to be low to no-shedding; however, this most often is not the case. This dog breed has high grooming requirements, and owners must be prepared to commit to that to keep the dog healthy and in good condition.
Labradoodle puppies are exceptionally affectionate. They love all people and are always up for an adventure. But the Labradoodle puppy doesnt reserve its attention for just people, the breed also loves animals of all shapes and sizes, making it a breed that does well in a multi-pet home.
A breed with exceptionally high activity requirements, the Labradoodle puppy requires a well-balanced diet comprised of top-tier ingredients to thrive. This active breed rarely gains weight as it needs regular, hearty exercise on a daily basis to remain physically and mentally contented.
Labradoodle puppies should be fed high-quality puppy food, preferably one that is designed to meet the needs of large breed pups. These foods are slightly higher in protein content and contain the correct amount of calcium to phosphorus to prevent too rapid bone growth, a problem that can lead to permanent structural challenges.
The best dog foods for Labradoodle puppies contain a minimum of 22 percent protein and 8 percent fat.
Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for Labradoodle Puppies
Since the Labradoodle puppy is a highly active fellow, the breed requires a diet that can fuel its energy levels adequately. Labradoodles are still a developing breed. Since they are available in several size variants, it can be challenging trying to determine how much of the best dog foods for Labradoodle puppies to feed a dog.
AAFCO requirements insist that all dog foods list suggested serving sizes on their bags. These can be very helpful in determining what the Labradoodle puppys meal portions should be. The puppys weight, age, activity level, and appetite will serve as helpful guides in making adjustments.
Though Labradoodle puppies rarely gain weight due to their high activity levels, monitoring all food intake and measuring meals is still recommended. Free feeding should be avoided.
The correct ratio of calcium to phosphorus to look for in a large breed puppy food for Labradoodle pups is 1.2 parts of calcium for each unit of phosphorus.
The Labradoodle puppy will reach full maturity between 18-24 months. However, at 12 months of age, this pup should be transitioned to appropriate adult food.
Dietary Requirements for Labradoodle Puppy Foods
The Labradoodle puppy thrives on a diet that is based on lean meat. This should be the main ingredient in any diet suited to the breed. Whole meats are the preferred selection; however, meat meals are also perfectly acceptable.
Since meat by-products are made from inferior cuts of the animal that are not approved for human consumption, these are undesirable in food for the Labradoodle puppy. In addition to this, plant-based proteins such as soy, corn, corn gluten meal, and wheat are difficult for puppies to digest and should be avoided.
Likewise, it is best to stay away from any food that relies on chemical additives or preservatives as these can trigger sensitivities in Labradoodle puppies.
Carbohydrates play an important role in the Labradoodle puppys diet. These are best taken from whole grains, fruits, or vegetables that are biologically complete, and contain high levels of both fiber and antioxidants. Most products contain sweet potatoes which are an excellent source of carbohydrates, and they offer a healthy balance of vitamins A, B-complex, and C.
Furthermore, adding salmon oil, chicken fat, or flaxseed oil to your Labradoodles diet is beneficial for its coat and skin, as these are good sources of omega fatty acids.Dogs that have displayed food allergies may do best on grain-free dog food.
Healthy fats help a diet to be well-rounded. They support the Labradoodle puppys energy levels, encourage brain and eye health, and even contribute to good skin and coat. These are best derived from animal sources such as oily fish or chicken fat. Some vegetable oils such as canola and safflower are added to the food for Labradoodles to provide vital essential fatty acids.
According to AAFCO,your Labradoodle puppy should get at least 8% of their calories from fat, while adult dogs should get at least 5%. Fat is important to provide essential fatty acids, which help support your pups development.
Labradoodle puppies can greatly benefit from a diet that includes supplements to support their health. Prebiotics and probiotics promote good digestion and healthy gut flora. For a boost to joint health, it is wise to select a food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin.
When buying dog food for your Labradoodle puppy, you should consider both wet and dry options. Wet dog food can offer a more nutrient-dense meal for your pup, while dry food can offer more convenience. A mix of both wet and dry food options can provide your pup with the best of both worlds.
Things to Look for in the Best Dog Food for Labradoodle Puppies
Here is a basic list of the most important things to look for in the best dog food for a Labradoodle puppy:
Whole proteins heading up the ingredients list
Lean meat should be the first ingredient in any food suited to the Labradoodle puppys needs. Whole meats are the best choice, but meat meals are also highly desirable, contributing concentrated amounts of viable protein.
Prepared without the addition of chemicals, flavorings, fillers, or mystery ingredients
Chemicals, fillers, artificial flavorings and colorings, and mystery ingredients provide no nutritional benefit to a growing Labradoodle puppy. Any foods containing these items are best left on the shelf.
Enriched with probiotics and helpful supplements
Supplements help a diet to be more effective for the Labradoodle puppy. The most beneficial supplements to look for in the best dog foods for Labradoodle puppies include prebiotics, probiotics, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food
All foods appropriate for the Labradoodle puppy should bear the AAFCO seal of approval, indicating it meets the standards for a complete and balanced food.
Best Dog Food For Labradoodles
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Whats the best dog food for Labradoodles?
When choosing the best dog food for Labradoodles, its important to consider their specific nutritional needs.
Labradoodles are a mixed breed of Labrador Retriever and Poodle, and their dietary requirements can vary based on factors such as size, activity level, and any underlying health conditions.
Here are some general guidelines for selecting a suitable dog food for Labradoodles:
Look for a dog food that contains high-quality protein sources as the main ingredient, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid foods that use fillers or meat by-products. Whole food ingredients are generally preferred over processed ones.
Choose a dog food that provides a balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It should meet the nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Labradoodles can be prone to digestive issues, so opt for a dog food that is easily digestible. Look for formulas that contain high-quality sources of carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or brown rice, and dietary fibers for optimal digestion.
Labradoodles often have wavy or curly coats so choosing a dog food that includes omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil or flaxseed, can support their coat health and skin condition.
Labradoodles may have individual sensitivities or allergies to certain grains. Some dogs thrive on grain-free diets, while others do well with grain-inclusive options. Observe your dogs response to different diets and consult with your veterinarian if you suspect any allergies or sensitivities.
Below, you can read our recommendations of the best dog food for Labradoodles.
Youll also learn the answer to each of the most frequently asked questions we get about Labradoodles.
Chicken Dinner for Adult Dogs and Puppies is one of 3 wet recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
Diamond Naturals Chicken Dinner for Adult Dogs and Puppies derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43.2% protein, 31.8% fat and 17% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 74%.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, rice flour, carrots Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43.2 AAFCO Standards Grain-free Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at DiamondPet.com"I bought a can of Diamond Naturals dog food for my dogs as a special treat. As soon as I opened the can, they were jumping for joy! My dogs loved the smell and the taste of the canned food! Both dogs licked their bowl clean and wanted more, so I bought the chicken dinner and next time I plan on buying the lamb dinner for them to try."
Kirkland Signature Natures Domain Turkey Meal and Sweet Potato is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Kirkland Natures Domain product line.
Kirkland Signature Natures Domain Turkey Meal and Sweet Potato derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26.7% protein, 15.6% fat and 49.8% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
Read our review of the full Kirkland Signature Natures Domain Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 26.7 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Costco.com"I've done my research and found that Kirkland dog food has a high rating - up there with Taste of the Wild. We only feed our dogs grain free products. The dogs love it and they thrive. Their coats couldn't be more shiny and beautiful. People comment all the time on how great they look and they are full of energy."
Beef Dish with Sweet Potato is one of 4 fresh recipes included in our review of the Ollies Fresh product line.
Ollies Beef Dish With Sweet Potatoes derives the bulk of its meat protein from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32.1% protein, 25% fat and 34.9% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, carrots, beef kidneys, potatoes, peas Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 32.1 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at MyOllie.com"After years of sensitive stomach issues, we had Stewie on prescription canned food from the vet. I felt awful about the junk that was in it. He was always low energy, had stomach problems, and bad breath. After 1 week on Ollie fresh beef, he became more alert and more active. We are about 4 weeks in, his coat is beautiful, his eyes are clear, and his breath is great!"
Turkey & Sweet Potato Formula is one of 8 wet recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.
Wellness Complete Health Turkey & Sweet Potato Formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36.4% protein, 22.7% fat and 32.9% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey broth, turkey liver, ground barley, turkey hearts Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36.4 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages (except growth of larger size dogs) Best For Puppies and Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WellnessPetFood.com"I used this when my dog was younger. He had a hard time eating hard food. My puppy really liked this food and ate it without complaint. It seemed like a very high quality food and didn't upset my puppy's tummy. I was very satisfied with this product and would recommend it."
High Prairie Canine Recipe With Roasted Bison & Roasted Venison is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Canine Recipe product line.
Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Canine Recipe With Roasted Bison & Roasted Venison derives the bulk of its meat protein from buffalo. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 35.6% protein, 20% fat and 36.4% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Water buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 35.6 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TasteOfTheWildPetFood.com"Yeller has eaten Taste of the Wild from the time he was 12 weeks old. He loves the food and looks forward to every meal. His health is outstanding and he's always ready to play. The ingredients are premium and complete. His coat is always beautiful as is his smile."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Labradoodles are a mixed breed which is not recognized by The American Kennel Club (AKC), but they have grown in popularity due to their teddy-bear looks, friendly nature, and low-shedding coats.
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding Labradoodles:
Frequently Asked Questions
How big are Labradoodles?
Labradoodles vary in size, depending on which type of Labradoodle you own.
- Standard Labradoodles reach over 21 inches at the shoulder and weigh 42 pounds or more.
- Medium Labradoodles are slightly smaller, measuring between 17 and 20 inches at the shoulder and weighing anything between 26 and 45 pounds.
- Miniature Labradoodles are 14 to 16 inches at the shoulder and only weigh between 18 and 28 pounds.
What kind of fur does a Labradoodle have?
Labradoodles have three different coat types:
- Wool curly, very low shedding, hypoallergenic
- Fleece borderline or wavy, low shedding, hypoallergenic
- Hair straight, shedding, not hypoallergenic
What temperament do Labradoodles have?
Labradoodles make great family dogs because they are:
- Friendly
- Relaxed
- Playful and good with children
- Intelligent
- Easy to train
- Happy with other dogs and pets
