Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are definitely one of the larger bred dogs that need a lot of food in order to grow healthily. Feeding options can be a little confusing sometimes and it can be very difficult to find out exactly what the best foods are.
The American Kennel Club describes the Golden Retriever as one of America’s most popular dog breeds. They say it’s friendly, intelligent and devoted. These qualities make it perfect for search and rescue work, as a guide dog and when not working, as your family pet. Keep your Golden Retriever happy and healthy with high-quality food.
Goldens will eat almost anything, so you need to make sure you provide them with the best quality food.
Here are our Top 10 Reviews for the Best Dog Food For Golden Retriever:
1. Canidae Grain-Free Pure Ancestral Red Meat Formula
Description
With CANIDAE Grain-Free Pure Ancestral Red Meat Formula, you don’t have to choose between lamb or venison—now your adult dog can have them both, plus so much more! This tasty, protein-packed recipe contains 14 pounds of 6 regionally sourced red meat ingredients—lamb, goat, wild boar, pork, bison, and venison. Not only is this freeze-dried kibble made without grains, corn, wheat, soy, chicken or fish but it also contains HealthPLUS Solutions—a nutritional trio of probiotics, antioxidants and omega 6 and 3 fatty acids. To top it all off, each batch is raw-coated with freeze-dried raw lamb for an irresistible taste that even the finickiest canines are sure to enjoy!Key Benefits
- Contains 6 regionally sourced red meat ingredients—lamb, goat, wild boar, pork, bison, and venison.
- Crafted for your adult dog with HealthPLUS Solutions—a trio of probiotics, antioxidants and omega fatty acids added after cooking to support healthy digestion, a healthy immune system and healthy skin and lustrous coat.
- Raw coated with freeze-dried raw lamb for great-tasting nutrition that will have your pup’s tail wagging with approval.
- Made free of grains, corn, wheat, soy, chicken and fish for adult dogs with certain food sensitivities.
- This grain-free recipe is proudly made by a family-owned company with uncompromised quality.
Feeding Instructions
| Weight | Daily Feeding (cups) |
|---|---|
| 2 – 10 LBS | 1/10 – 1/2 cup |
| 10 -25 LBS | 1/2 – 1 cup |
| 25 – 50 LBS | 1 – 2 cups |
| 50 -75 LBS | 2 -3 cups |
| 75 – 100 LBS | 3 – 4 cups |
| 100 – 125 LBS | 4 – 4 1/3 cups |
| 125 – 150 LBS | 4 1/3 – 4 1/2 cups |
Senior and less active dogs may be fed a reduced amount, depending on the dog’s weight and activity level. Grain free diets may not be suitable for all dogs. If you have any dietary concerns, please consult with your veterinarian.
2. Chicken Soup for the Soul Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Description
Give your older pup everything he needs to keep him feeling his best with Chicken Soup for the Soul Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. This diet contains real chicken and turkey as the first two ingredients to maintain lean muscles, and glucosamine and chondroitin for optimal joint health. It has omega 3 and 6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat. This food also aids healthy digestion with prebiotic fiber from dried chicory root. With no by-product meals, wheat, corn or soy, Chicken Soup for the Soul Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food promotes lifelong health for years of barking and belly rubs.Key Benefits
- Large breed diet with real chicken and turkey as the first two ingredients.
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin for optimal joint health.
- Contains no wheat, corn or soy for a food you can trust.
- Formulated without artificial colors, preservatives or flavors.
- Made in the USA!
Feeding Instructions
| Weight | Daily Feeding (cup) |
|---|---|
| 40 LBS | 2 1/2 |
| 60 LBS | 3 1/2 |
| 80 LBS | 4 1/3 |
| 100 LBS | 5 |
| 120 LBS | 5 3/4 |
| 140 LBS | 6 1/2 |
| 150 LBS | 6 3/4 |
3. Sport Dog Food Active Series Dock Dog
Description
Give your doggie athlete the complete nutrition he needs with the Sport Dog Food Active Series Dock Dog Buffalo & Oatmeal Formula Dry Dog Food. Formulated with one protein source and a balanced blend of fats and carbohydrates, it produces a complete diet for highly active dogs. Sport Dog Food’s formulas contain complete protein from low-ash animal sources, while keeping carbs low and fiber high. This meal is perfect even for pups with sensitivities since it has no artificial preservatives, flavors, fillers or by-products. Plus, it’s made in the USA, American-sourced ingredients and never any corn, soy, eggs or egg product.Key Benefits
- Features lean buffalo meal first for a high-protein and easily digestible ingredient you and your pup can feel good about.
- 100% free from legumes—you won’t find any peas in here!
- Contains a healthy helping of taurine from natural animal sources.
- USDA-grade kibble made with grains harvested in Texas.
- Nutrient-dense recipe features organic trace minerals to help encourage better absorption and contains 460 calories per cup of power-packed energy.
Feeding Instructions
| Weight | Adult Working Dogs Off-Season Daily Feeding (Cups) | Adult Dogs Exercising 1-2 Times/Week Daily Feeding (Cups) | Adult Dogs Exercising 3-4 Times/Week Daily Feeding (Cups) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 LBS | 1 | 1 1/4 | 1 1/2 |
| 50 LBS | 1 1/2 | 2 1/4 | 2 3/4 |
| 60 LBS | 1 3/4 | 2 3/4 | 3 1/4 |
| 70 LBS | 2 | 3 | 3 1/2 |
| 100 LBS | 2 1/2 | 4 | 4 1/2 |
4. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Description
The taste the big boys crave, the nutrition they need. With just the right amount of calcium, phosphorous, and other minerals that help large dogs maintain strong bones, this unique formula dry food keeps your friend well-fed and in tip-top shape. Four sources of protein maximize nutrient absorption and help him build lean muscle that fights fat. Take great care of Max. He always takes great care of you.Key Benefits
- Mixed tocopherols guard against eye disease
- Moderate fat content and optimal protein levels keep additional weight off
- Promotes healthy joints in dogs
- Chicken is the first ingredient
- Yucca Schidigera extract helps reduce odor in stool
Feeding Instructions
| Weight | Daily Feeding (cup) |
|---|---|
| 50 – 60 LBS | 3 1/4 – 3 2/3 |
| 61 – 70 LBS | 3 2/3 – 4 |
| 71 – 80 LBS | 4 – 4 1/2 |
| 81 – 90 LBS | 4 1/2 – 5 |
| 91 – 100 LBS | 5 – 5 1/3 |
| 101 – 110 LBS | 5 1/3 – 5 3/4 |
| 111 – 120 LBS | 5 3/4 – 6 |
| 121 – 140 LBS | 6 – 6 3/4 |
| 141 – 160 LBS | 6 3/4 – 7 2/3 |
| 161 – 180 LBS | 7 2/3 – 8 1/3 |
|Over 180 lbs|8 1/3 plus 1/3 for every additional 10 lbs|
5. Simply Nourish Large Breed Adult Turkey and Brown Rice Recipe
Description
Feed your best friend the nutrition he deserves with Simply Nourish Healthy Weight Turkey & Brown Rice dry dog food. This weight-management formula contains the right amount of calories, high-quality, lean protein from real deboned turkey and L-carnitine to help support strong, lean muscles while maintaining optimum body weight. With a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin from turkey meal, the large breed formula helps support your pal’s healthy joints. It includes a superfood blend of real fruits and vegetables like carrots, spinach, sweet potato, pumpkin and blueberries for a deliciously complete and balanced meal that’s also filled with antioxidants. Plus, the adult kibble has added vitamins and minerals every dog needs.Key Benefits
- Real deboned turkey and turkey meal for a nutritious source of protein and L-carnitine to help maintain a healthy body weight in overweight or less active dogs.
- Adult kibble for large breeds with a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints.
- Made with brown rice, which provides your dog with those complex carbohydrates that will keep him full for hours.
- Includes real vegetables and fruits for a complete and balanced meal your dog deserves.
- Contains added vitamins and minerals to support your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Feeding Instructions
For adult dogs, feed Simply Nourish either dry or moistened with water. Begin with the recommendations provided above and adjust to maintain body weight. Dogs may be fed once or twice a day. Provide your dog with a clean container of fresh water daily. Always consult your veterinarian with any health question. Wash hands with soap and warm water after handling.
| Weight | Daily Feeding (Weight Maintenance) | Daily Feeding (Weight Reduction) |
|---|---|---|
| 21-50 LBS | 2 – 3 1/4 cups | 1 3/4 – 2 cups |
| 51-90 LBS | 3 1/4 – 5 1/4 cups | 2 – 4 1/2 cups |
| 91-120 LBS | 5 1/4 – 6 1/4 cups | 4 1/2 – 5 1/2 cups |
| OVER 120 LBS | 6 1/4 cups, plus 1/4 cup for every 10 lbs over 120 cups | 5 1/2 cups, plus 1/4 cup for every 10 lbs over 120 cups |
6. Horizon Complete Large Breed Adult
Description
Give your large breed pup a whole, complete meal with Horizon Complete Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. It uses pure, real, whole grains to give pets optimal nutrition when they gobble down their daily meal. In this case, complete nutrition includes quality, whole grains such as barley, rye and flaxseed—no corn, potatoes or tapioca. Each ingredient is chosen carefully and purposefully and sourced locally, so you know you’re feeding your pup the real thing, and a small number on the glycemic index keeps your pet fit and fancy free. Wholesome health is on the horizon!Key Benefits
- Wholesome meal for your pup is made with whole grains and chicken protein to give pets optimal nutrition from their food.
- Includes only high-quality, rich whole grains such as barley, rye and flaxseed—absolutely no corn, potatoes or tapioca fillers.
- Low glycemic index food helps to regulate blood sugar, and may aid in disease prevention and support weight reduction.
- Whole grains offer outstanding dietary fiber to support digestive health, and keep your pup’s tummy as happy as their taste buds.
- Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages.
Feeding Instructions
| Weight | Adult Daily Feeding (cup) |
|---|---|
| 60 LBS | 3 |
| 80 LBS | 3 1/2 |
| 100 LBS | 4 1/4 |
| 120 LBS | 4 3/4 |
| 140 LBS | 5 |
| 160 LBS | 6 |
| 180 LBS | 6 1/2 |
7. Now Fresh Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Description
It’s no surprise that dogs love the freshness of now. With this Now Fresh Large Breed Adult Recipe, your dog gets 100% fresh turkey, salmon and duck, and 100% fresh omega 3 & 6 oils from coconuts and canola. It also features wholesome berries, fruits and veggies such as peas, spinach, cranberries, pumpkin, blackberries, alfalfa sprouts, kelp, lentils and carrots. Yum! It contains zero grains, gluten, wheat, beef, corn, soy, rendered meats, by-products or artificial preservatives. This recipe is suitable for dogs 50+ pounds between 15 months and 5 years of age.Key Benefits
- A grain and gluten-free recipe that has zero rendered meats, by-product meals, wheat, corn and soy
- Omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat health
- Balanced proteins and fats from turkey, salmon and duck support your dog’s active lifestyle
- Added pre and probiotics aid in proper digestive health
- Antioxidants from pure coconut oil support a healthy immune system
Feeding Instructions
| Weight | Less Active Daily Feeding (cup) | Active Daily Feeding (cup) |
|---|---|---|
| 50 – 70 LBS | 2 1/2 – 3 1/3 | 2 3/4 – 3 2/3 |
| 70 – 100 LBS | 3 1/3 – 4 1/8 | 3 2/3 – 4 1/2 |
| 100 – 130 LBS | 4 1/8 – 7 | 4 1/2 – 7 7/8 |
| 130 – 150 LBS | 7 – 7 7/8 | 7 7/8 – 8 3/4 |
8. Health Extension Grain-Free Chicken and Turkey Dog Food
Description
Holistic Health Extension Grain-Free Chicken & Turkey Recipe offers all the health benefits of Health Extension’s Original dog food, but in a grain-free formula. And you won’t find any added hormones or rendered animal fats—just high-quality, organic chicken as the first ingredient, because sensible protein levels are the first step to a healthy life. This pure formula contains no corn, wheat, soy or glutens, so it’s especially beneficial for dogs with allergies or sensitive digestive tracts. Health Extension’s grain-free variety contains a unique blend of nutrients and supplements, like apple cider vinegar and kelp to boost immune systems for improved health. This Health Extension diet is formulated with no BHT; ethoxyquin; added sugar; or artificial flavors, colors, dyes or preservatives. It’s nutritionally complete for all stages of a dog’s life.Key Benefits
- Promotes skin and coat health, joint and bone health, and proper digestive and immune system health
- Made with no grains, gluten, corn, wheat, soy, by-products or rendered animal fats, artificial preservatives, artificial flavors, colors or dyes, and no added sugar
- With a superior blend of ingredients including high-quality chicken, turkey, whole vegetables and fruits, coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, ginger and turmeric, all working together to provide optimal nutrition
- High in omega fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, dietary fiber, and calcium
- A highly digestible, ultra-palatable recipe that’s suitable for all breeds and life stages
Feeding Instructions
Feeding requirements may vary based on your dog’s age, activity level, and environment.
Adults(per day): 2-16 lbs 1/4 – 1 cup; 17-25 lbs 1 – 1 1/4 cup; 23-45 lbs 1 1/4 – 2 cups; 46-85 lbs 2-3 cups; 86-125 lbs 3-4 cups; 126 lbs+ Add 1/4 cup per 10 lbs.
Puppies: Twice the adult amount.
9. Now Fresh Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Description
It’s no surprise that dogs love the freshness of now. With this Now Fresh Large Breed Adult Recipe, your dog gets 100% fresh turkey, salmon and duck, and 100% fresh omega 3 & 6 oils from coconuts and canola. It also features wholesome berries, fruits and veggies such as peas, spinach, cranberries, pumpkin, blackberries, alfalfa sprouts, kelp, lentils and carrots. Yum! It contains zero grains, gluten, wheat, beef, corn, soy, rendered meats, by-products or artificial preservatives. This recipe is suitable for dogs 50+ pounds between 15 months and 5 years of age.Key Benefits
- A grain and gluten-free recipe that has zero rendered meats, by-product meals, wheat, corn and soy
- Omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat health
- Balanced proteins and fats from turkey, salmon and duck support your dog’s active lifestyle
- Added pre and probiotics aid in proper digestive health
- Antioxidants from pure coconut oil support a healthy immune system
Feeding Instructions
| Weight | Less Active Daily Feeding (cup) | Active Daily Feeding (cup) |
|---|---|---|
| 50 – 70 LBS | 2 1/2 – 3 1/3 | 2 3/4 – 3 2/3 |
| 70 – 100 LBS | 3 1/3 – 4 1/8 | 3 2/3 – 4 1/2 |
| 100 – 130 LBS | 4 1/8 – 7 | 4 1/2 – 7 7/8 |
| 130 – 150 LBS | 7 – 7 7/8 | 7 7/8 – 8 3/4 |
The amount of food your dog needs will vary depending on breed, activity level, age and climate. Use our feeding chart as a guide, adjusting the quantity fed to achieve your dog’s ideal weight. We suggest feeding twice a day. Provide fresh, clean water at all times. Regular exercise will help maintain a healthy body weight. Love, attention and tummy rubs should be given freely, as often as possible.
10. Eagle Pack Adult Large and Giant Breed Dog Food
Description
Eagle Pack Large & Giant Breed Adult Formula provides the right balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, combined with health-promoting antioxidant support, omega fatty acids and glucosamine hydrochloride to support the everyday nutritional needs of adult large breed dogs over 50 pounds.Key Benefits
- A delicious recipe that provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs, specifically formulated for the special dietary needs of large-breed dogs
- Delivers the right balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, antioxidants omega fatty acids, and glucosamine hydrochloride to support the everyday needs of dogs weighing over 50 pounds
- Glucosamine hydrochloride helps maintain joint health, with balanced calcium and phosphorus to support strong bones
- A robust vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant blend supports the immune system
- Made in the USA with no corn, wheat, by-products, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Feeding Instructions
Looking at the chart, divide the total cups per day by the total number of times you feed your dog per day. Every dog is different so optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, size, activity level, breed and environment. Please use this information as an initial recommendation only and adjust as needed
| Weight | Daily Feeding (Cups) |
|---|---|
| 50 – 60 LBS | 3 1/3 – 3 3/4 |
| 70 – 80 LBS | 4 1/3 – 4 3/4 |
| 80 – 100 LBS | 4 3/4 – 5 2/3 |
| 100 – 120 LBS | 5 2/3 – 6 1/2 |
| 120 – 140 LBS | 6 1/2 – 7 1/4 |
| 140 – 160 LBS | 7 1/4 – 8 |
Dogs over 160 lbs: Add approximately 1/3 cup for every 10 lbs over 160 lbs
Combination Feeding: If feeding with wet food, reduce dry amount fed by 1/3 cup for every 6.0 oz of wet food.
