Golden Retrievers

The Best Dog Foods for Golden Retrievers in 2022

best Grain Free Food for Golden Retrievers 2022 

Grain FREE 
TEXAS BEEF
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best Quality Food For Golden Retrievers 2022

Purina Pro Plan
Live Probiotics
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best Premium Food For golden Retrievers 2022

Rachael Ray Nutrish
REAL VEGEs
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We embarked on a dog food journey for one of the world's favorite dogs Intelligent, just what is the best dog food brand for golden retrievers? affectionate, gentle, playful, and loyal are the favorite traits that people love about Golden Retrievers. 

These larger sized adult golden retriever dogs are perfect as a companion or additional member of the family with small kids.

Originally, these dogs were discovered in the 19th century that is known to be great in hunting, sniffing, guiding, and rescuing. Their strong bones and large body is the reason why they eat as if there's no tomorrow. 

That's why their diet should be appropriate to their physical needs. Of course, they eat whatever food they find (they are not picky eaters) but it is best to give them the proper nutrition that is suited to their active lifestyle and life stage.

In this article, we will give you a list of the most-recommended dog food products for Golden Retrievers with reviews.
1
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Dog Food
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Blue Buffalo is always seen in any pet store since it is proven to be among the dog's favorites.

This savory recipe contains a high amount of protein because of its main ingredient - chicken. To help your Golden Retriever maintain its strong bones and muscles, you have to make sure that its diet contains vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and real meat.

Also, glucosamine and chondroitin that are found in this recipe are specifically formulated to support joint health and overall mobility of larger dogs.

The Life Protection Formula of Blue Buffalo has exclusive LifeSource Bits, an ingredient that has a precise blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support the immune system, healthy oxidative balance, and life stage requirements. 

This recipe contains no chicken by-product meal, artificial flavors, artificial preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy.
Specifications:
Flavor: Duck
Age range: Adult
2
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Golden Retriever
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Royal Canin has earned its trust from numerous pet owners through the years because of how it supports every dog's needs. This recipe contains tailor-made kibbles for Golden Retrievers for their specific dietary needs. 

It supports positive oral health and heart-related diseases since this breed is very susceptible to such. Plus, the blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 ingredients will ensure your buddy to have a shiny golden coat that it never had.

This recipe has taurine and DHA for your baby's visual and cognitive development, which are essential ingredients since Golden Retrievers are known to be intelligent and trainable. The breed's lifestyle, life stage's needs, and its common health issues are the basic factors for veterinarians and breeders in developing this formula.
Specifications:
Flavor: Chicken
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice
3
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Food for Dogs
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Nutro Wholesome Essentials contains your dog's favorite ingredient - lamb. It contains high-protein that is essential in their growth and development. Aside from having a sumptuous ingredient, it is also very safe for every Golden Retriever because this product ensures a clean, simple, and purposeful meal. 

Note that each ingredient in this recipe is made with real, recognizable non-GMO contents that provide nutrients. Rest assured that it contains no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein.

This natural adult dog food also provides Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to enhance your Goldie's coat and skin. Additionally, it also has natural fiber for healthy digestion and essential antioxidants like Vitamin E, plus vitamins and minerals for a healthy immune system. This is probably the most wholesome and natural dog food recipe that you can get for your buddy.
Specifications:
Flavor: Chicken
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Brewer's Rice
4
Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Perfect Weight for Healthy Weight & Weight Management
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Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food is perfect for your Golden Retriever since it easily helps you in maintaining balanced health and weight. Most of the time, this kind of breed suffers from obesity or being overweight because of how much they overeat. Also, this weight management dry food is clinically proven to lose weight in 70% of adult dogs within 10 weeks.

This dog food from Hill's Science contains chicken as the first ingredient, which is usually preferred for large breeds such as Golden Retrievers. When paired with the right grains and balanced meals for your Golden, this could help you manage their weight to enhance their daily productivity and well-being. Moreover, this dry dog food contains a lot of Omega-6 fatty acids and a blend of antioxidants, as well as vitamin C and vitamin E to improve their immunity.
Specifications:
Flavor: Chicken
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients: Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice
5
Wellness CORE Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
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Wellness CORE is made with a high concentration of protein from fresh meat ingredients. It is also balanced with nutrient-rich superfoods for complete and balanced nutrition to make them thrive throughout the day. It ensures overall health because of its omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine for a healthy heart.

The grain-free formula from this dog food can be perfect for those who have stomach problems or sick days. Also, Goldies seems to love meat, especially turkey and chicken. And lastly, every kibble in this product is coated with digestive benefits such as probiotics. Flaxseed and salmon oil are also present to guarantee healthy skin and coat.
Specifications:
Flavor: Original Turkey and Chicken
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal
6
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food
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This dog food from Rachael Ray Nutrish is one of the few dog foods on the market that actually contains a lot of veggies. So, if your dog's diet requires one, then this could be a good choice for you. 

The 40-pound dog food has simple yet quality ingredients and essential nutrients that your dog will surely love. Also, the US farm-raised chicken is mixed as the number one ingredient to provide high-quality protein to support your Goldie's lean muscle.

Moreover, the veggies add fiber to help support good digestion since Golden Retrievers tend to have constipation all the time. The added vitamins and minerals to this natural dog food were carefully selected to precisely provide the exact nutrients for your buddy.
Specifications:
Flavor: Real Chicken and Veggies
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Chicken, Chicken Meal, Soybean Meal
7
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream
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Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream gives smoked salmon as the number one ingredient for your Goldie. The said ingredient is high in quality and protein-rich for stronger and leaner muscles. 

Aside from that, it has a combination of ancient, whole grains like millet, quinoa, chia seeds, and Grain sorghum which are naturally higher in protein contents, too. So, if your dog doesn't have any problems with whole grains, then you can get this for him.

The formula of this healthy recipe is balanced in terms of nutrition and vitamins. It is formulated to FDA and AAFCO requirements as well as a team of veterinarians and animal nutritionists to ensure the safety and quality of the product. Moreover, the digestive system is enhanced with this dog food because of its species-specific probiotics which are made of 80 million live, active cultures that support healthy digestive and immune systems.
Specifications:
Flavor: Smoked Salmon
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes
8
Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Recipe Dry Dog Food
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The Whole Earth Grain-Free Recipe contains a lot of high-quality protein sources such as real pork, beef, and lamb. These ingredients contain added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to maintain the proper health of your buddy. The natural ingredients were carefully formulated to make digestion easier, to give less shedding, to have a shinier coat, and to increase their energy levels for playtime.

Moreover, it also contains apples, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed to provide your dog a hearty, wholesome meal. Also, safety comes first with this product. It does not contain any grains, corn, wheat, soy, poultry by-products, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Specifications:
Flavor: Pork, Beef, and Lamb
Age range: All Life Stages
Top 3 Ingredients:  Pork Meal, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes
9
Eukanuba Large Breed Adult Dog Food
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This Eukanuba Adult Dog Food for large breeds such as Golden Retrievers gives the exact nutrition that they need everyday. It holds the right balance of proteins, fats, and carb to keep them playful and active throughout their days. 

It also has a 3D DentaDefense anti-tartar agent that makes a good condition of your canine's dental health. The 50% glucosamine supports and maintains lean muscle development and joint health for active dogs.

Moreover, picky eaters will surely love this since it has chicken as the first ingredient, which dogs usually love. The DHA and vitamin E present in this recipe can keep your dog's brain health going, especially for Golden Retrievers that are known to be intellectual and highly trainable.
Specifications:
Flavor: Chicken
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Chicken, Corn Meal, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum
10
Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy Dry Food
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Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy Dog Food is specifically formulated to provide the nutritional needs of your growing buddy of 8 weeks to 15 months old. 

The kibbles were exclusively shaped and designed for a puppy's facial and jaw structures to encourage proper chewing and prevent choking, which is a common case for baby Goldies.

In addition, it has essential nutrients like taurine, EPA, and DHA help support heart health. The stool quality is also supported by the high-quality proteins and prebiotics content in the recipe. 

It also has an exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong as well as maintains their skin barrier to protect the skin and coat.
Specifications:
Flavor: Vegetable
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat gluten
11
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Formula Dry
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Diamond Naturals Puppy Food for Large Breeds is a perfect balanced start to get your dog healthy and fit. This is specifically made for puppies with a formula that meets their nutritional needs.

It contains DHA for proper vision and brain development. It is also mixed with ideal protein and mineral content, along with antioxidants and omega fatty acids, to help your pup's growth and development.

Also, probiotics are added for healthy digestion and prevent tummy troubles, which is common for dogs. The superfoods also make it very beneficial for the immune system, making them extra active and healthy, all thanks to the carbs and pasture-raised lamb, too!
Specifications:
Flavor: Lamb
Age range: Puppy
Top 3 Ingredients:  Lamb, Lamb Meal, Ground White Rice
12
Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
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The real deboned Texas beef as the first ingredient of Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is always a yes for every Golden Retriever. 

Aside from having a great taste, beef provides a high protein content which is essential in their diet. The 60% protein content in this recipe is composed of an animal source combined with healthy fats to maintain their optimal weight and energy.

Also, sweet potatoes are among the top five ingredients. Meaning, your pet can get enough carbs to sustain them all day. Apples, blueberries, and other natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are also present to provide a complete and balanced meal.

 Leading levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in this adult dog food are also present to help support your dog's healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Specifications:
Flavor: Texas Beef
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal
13
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dog Food
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The Purina Pro Plan for large breeds is fortified with live probiotics for the digestive and immune system. It promoted high protein content for muscle conditioning when combined with proper, daily exercises. It also contains glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acid, and EPA for joint health and mobility. It is mixed with 26% protein and 12 fat to maintain an ideal weight and body condition for your gentle giant.

The balanced formula of Purina Pro Plan will also take care of the beautiful and shiny coat of your dog. Also, this highly digestible dog food formula promotes nutrient bioavailability to support optimal nutrient absorption and prevent suffering from digestive issues such as diarrhea.
Specifications:
Flavor: Chicken
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal
14
Purina Pro Plan SPORT 30/20
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Purina Pro Plan SPORT is made specifically for dogs that require a diet that boost their performance. This recipe contains 30% protein and 20% fats, which is higher than the usual requirement for dogs. 

That is why this is not recommended for dogs who love to be laying down all day. Also, this recipe prompts muscle growth and nourishment while amplifying your dog's energy level with fats.

Moreover, it has amino acids that help nourish the muscles, especially during the crucial time after a heavy exercise. It also contains a bunch of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, as well as glucosamine that ensures a complete and holistic diet of your Golden Retrievers.
Specifications:
Flavor: Chicken
Age range: Adult
Top 3 Ingredients:  Chicken, Corn Gluten Meal, Brewer's Rice

FAQs about Golden Retriever's Feeding Guide

To make your Golden Retriever healthier, here are the commonly asked questions that might also help you.

See also our main page for Dog Food Guides By Breed

How often and how much to feed your Golden Retriever?

Is your dog thin? Little fluffy? Or has the average body? You need to look at your dog's size, weight, and activity level to properly determine its feeding guide. Usually, a dog can eat up to 6 times a day until they are 6 months old. Eventually, you need to reduce it as your dog ages until 1 to 2 meals a day for up to 2 bowls of kibbles. Also, as long as they are fed at least once a day, then you're good to go.

What foods are bad for Golden Retrievers?

Just like other dogs, there are some human foods that are actually bad for your Goldies. These are chocolates, raisins, sweets, milk, raw eggs, onions, garlic, too much salt, most nuts, grains, artificial flavors, artificial colors, and fillers.

Do Golden Retrievers need grain in their diet?

Grain-free is always a better option for your buddy. Your dog may not be allergic to it, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Grains usually cause allergic reactions or tummy problems to most dogs.

What are Golden Retrievers most allergic to?

The most common allergy for Golden Retrievers is food allergies. Usually, the cause of this is fillers and additives. Also, milk, eggs, and corns can cause itchiness and bumps in their skin.

What should I look for in a Golden Retriever food?

The most important thing that you should look out for is the number of proteins and fat, as well as the total caloric content per cup. This will determine if it can be too much for your dog or not because other dog food products are made to enhance the weight and nutrition elements, which might not be suitable for your dog. Know that larger breeds, such as Golden Retriever, have a slower metabolism which requires them to have 10 to 15% fat in their diet.

Also, you should get dog food that contains lean meat as the first ingredient. Carbs are also an important element in their meal since it helps them sustain throughout the day, especially for active dogs. Fatty acids from fish is also a good ingredient to look out to for dog foods since it helps improves their coat and skin. Lastly, avoid buying dog foods that have too much filler and additives.

If you can find a dog food that is specifically made for Golden Retrievers, like some products listed above, then go for it. It is surely made to provide the nutrients that every Goldie needs.

How much water does a Golden Retriever need in a day?

Golden Retrievers tend to drink a huge amount of water every day. An estimate would be 1.0 FL oz. for every pound, to make up their activities throughout the day.

Are vegetables good for Golden Retrievers?

Yes. Vegetables provide good nutrition for dogs, especially fiber and carbohydrates. It is better to get nutrients from vegetables and fruits than grains.

What food can help my Golden Retriever gain weight?

Golden Retrievers are part of larger breeds that don't have a problem gaining weight since they naturally eat a lot. But if your dog needs to gain weight, vegetables like yams, sweet potatoes, and potatoes will surely help. Organ meat such as liver is also recommendable.

What food can help my Golden Retriever lose weight?

Food that contains a low amount of fat such as lean chicken meat is a good choice for your dog to lose weight. Also, lessen their carbohydrate intake, especially if they are inactive most of the time. Additives and fillers should also be avoided since they usually contribute to obesity.

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