Best Dog Food For French Mastiffs
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French mastiffs are heavy, working dogs with a moderate energy level. So before you start looking out for dog food products for your French Mastiff, you must know certain key factors that closely impact your dog.
This includes factors such as weight, the veterinarian’s recommendations, and digestibility. Each of these is discussed in detail below.
At A Glance: Best Dog Food for French Mastiffs to Buy:
We highly recommend looking at the comparison table we have below, where we have highlighted the features of each product. You’ll also find more detailed information about each product later in the article.
Compare Best Dog Food For French Mastiffs
|
OVERALL BEST
1. Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food |
BEST FOR ALLERGIES
2. Rachael Ray Nutrish Limited Ingredient Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food |
BEST FOR WEIGHT LOSS
3. Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Health Reduced Calorie Chicken, Salmon & Duck Formula Canned Dog Food |
BEST FOR SENIORS
4. Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food |
BEST FOR PUPPIES
5. Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food |
|
Protein
36.5% Min |
Protein
20% Min |
Protein
18% Min |
Protein
29% Min |
Protein
26% Min |
|
Fat
20.5% Min |
Fat
13% Min |
Fat
8% Min |
Fat
14% Min |
Fat
14% Min |
|
Fiber
3.5% Max |
Fiber
4% Max |
Fiber
8% Max |
Fiber
5% Max |
Fiber
3% Max |
|
Calories
524 kcal/cup |
Calories
322 kcal/cup |
Calories
324 kcal/cup |
Calories
420 kcal/cup |
Calories
379 kcal/cup |
Our criteria
Dogs have evolved over 15,000 years to eat a different diet than humans, and their digestive system is different from humans’. Dog food marketing often relies on pet food marketing instead of nutritional facts.
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) guidelines for selecting dog foods include meeting AAFCO approval, having nutritional research, having canine and veterinary nutritionists on staff, and having strong quality control measures. Good nutrition is more important than clever marketing, and choosing the most nutritious dog food is crucial.
Best Dog Food For French Mastiffs Reviewed
Not all French mastiffs are picky eaters, especially if you feed them the right dog food at a young age. Depending on what you have already fed them in the past, they may like or dislike the new dog food. However, these dog food products are sure to appeal to your dog’s taste buds. Also, they contain nutrients that supply your dog with the required nourishment throughout the day.
Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Rabbit Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 36.5% Min
- Fat: 20.5% Min
- Fiber: 3.5% Max
- Calories: 524 kcal/cup
- Animal proteins promote lean muscles
- A performance dog food that’s great for active and working dogs
- Supports healthy hips and joints with glucosamine and chondroitin
- Causes gastric issues in some dogs
Rachael Ray Nutrish Limited Ingredient Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 20% Min
- Fat: 13% Min
- Fiber: 4% Max
- Calories: 322 kcal/cup
- Rich in lean animal protein
- Moderate fat content (13%) for energy
- Affordable
- Kibbles are too big for some dogs
Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Health Reduced Calorie Chicken, Salmon & Duck Formula Canned Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 18% Min
- Fat: 8% Min
- Fiber: 8% Max
- Calories: 324 kcal/cup
- Grain-free and made with complex carbohydrates
- Chicken as the #1 Ingredient
- Good for dogs who have liver problems
- Some dogs do not like the taste
- A little expensive than other brands
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 29% Min
- Fat: 14% Min
- Fiber: 5% Max
- Calories: 420 kcal/cup
- Formulated specifically for large breed dogs
- Has natural prebiotic fiber to promote digestive health
- Meets AAFCO guidelines with animal feeding trials
- More expensive than other formulas of the same brand
Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 26% Min
- Fat: 14% Min
- Fiber: 3% Max
- Calories: 379 kcal/cup
- Formulated to support growth and development in large breed puppies
- Features farm-raised chicken, brown rice, and sweet potatoes
- No GMO ingredients or artificial additives
- Not a grain-free recipe, some puppies may be sensitive
It features farm-raised chicken, brown rice, and sweet potatoes in a nutritionally complete recipe for puppies.
Why is a High-Protein Diet Crucial for Mastiffs?
Mastiffs are a robust and energetic breed, historically accustomed to performing demanding tasks. This rich heritage necessitates a diet abundant in protein to sustain their muscular physique and replenish their energy levels.
Key Reasons for a High Protein Diet:
- Muscle Maintenance: The substantial build of a mastiff requires high-quality protein to support muscle repair and growth. This is essential for maintaining their strength and performance.
- Energy Supply: With their active nature, mastiffs need an efficient source of energy. A protein-rich diet ensures they have the stamina to stay active and healthy.
- Weight Management: Protein aids in feeling satiated, which helps in avoiding overeating—a major concern for Mastiffs prone to gaining weight. Managing weight is crucial to prevent conditions like elbow and hip dysplasia, which are worsened by excess pounds.
Ensuring your Mastiff receives a high-protein diet is vital for their overall well-being, supporting both their physical health and their innate vitality.
How Much Should You Feed your French Mastiff by Age?
A dog typically requires a specific amount of calories per day to maintain its weight. This applies to French mastiffs as well, because eating in excess makes them obese. In order to prevent such a disease, they should eat accordingly. Here is what a typical French mastiff should eat according to their corresponding age:.
- Puppy: Typically, a healthy puppy needs about 2800 calories per day. This is because they have the highest energy levels that are possible for the breed. This amount of calories should be spread into three separate servings. Once your French Mastiff gets older, they will need fewer calories.
- Adult: If your dog has a normal activity level, it will require 2300 calories per day. This is because French mastiffs have a big body that requires such energy to metabolize. Overweight French mastiffs would need about 1800 calories or less per day. On the other hand, very active French mastiffs would need about 2600 calories per day.
- Senior: Due to less activity, they only require 2000 calories per day. If we compare their energy levels to other dog breeds, senior French Mastiffs have a lower energy level. They would need about two servings of food per day. This means that they would need about 1000 calories per serving.
Exploring Dog Food Options for Mastiffs: Dry, Wet, Fresh, and Raw
Choosing the right food for your Mastiff can be a daunting task with options like dry, wet, fresh, and raw diets. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
Dry Dog Food
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Typically less expensive, making it a practical choice for those managing large dogs like Mastiffs.
- Convenience: Easy to store and measure, reducing preparation time.
Cons:
- Bloat Risk: Some experts suggest that dry food may increase the risk of bloat, a serious condition for large breeds.
- Lower Moisture Content: Could contribute to dehydration if your Mastiff doesn’t drink enough water.
Wet Dog Food
Pros:
- Higher Moisture Content: Helps maintain hydration, which is crucial for large dogs.
- Palatability: Often more flavorful and appealing to picky eaters.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: More expensive than dry food, potentially a consideration given the large portion sizes Mastiffs require.
- Fat Content: Generally higher in fat, which may not suit all Mastiffs’ dietary needs.
Fresh Dog Food
Pros:
- Nutritional Quality: Often made with human-grade ingredients and minimally processed, offering superior nutrition.
- Tailored Meals: Some companies offer pre-portioned meals based on your Mastiff’s specific dietary needs.
Cons:
- Pricey: Costs can add up, particularly with a dog as large as a Mastiff.
- Storage Requirements: Fresh food often requires refrigeration or freezing, taking up valuable space.
Raw Dog Food
Pros:
- Natural Diet: Many advocate that raw diets mimic the ancestral eating habits of dogs, potentially improving coat health and energy levels.
- Control Over Ingredients: Allows you to know exactly what your Mastiff is consuming.
Cons:
- Safety Concerns: Raw diets can pose risks of bacterial contamination; strict handling and preparation are essential.
- Imbalance Risks: Requires careful planning to ensure all nutritional needs are met, which can be challenging.
French Mastiff Food Allergies and Food-Related Health Issues
The most common food-related issue that can cause trouble for most French mastiffs is bloat, scientifically known as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This condition is more than just discomfort; it can be potentially fatal. Mastiffs, due to their breed characteristics, are particularly susceptible to this condition. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, leading to severe complications. It’s thought that a diet high in carbohydrates can contribute to excess gas production, elevating the risk of GDV. Therefore, it’s crucial to manage their diet carefully to minimize this risk.
They can also develop skin allergies that are caused by such grains. These allergies can manifest in various ways, including:
- Colitis: Colitis is the inflammation of the colon, which can result from numerous factors. Food allergies can cause colitis as well, which can result in chronic diarrhea. It is also common for French Mastiffs to suffer from sensitive stomachs and colitis due to the allergic reaction caused by gluten. If colitis has resulted from food allergies, it will fade away if the dog is put on elimination diets.
- Elbow Hygroma: This is a common issue faced by French mastiffs if they are overweight. Also, elbow hygroma can reoccur several times in your dog’s life if it constantly remains overweight without reducing the excess food intake. Elbow hygroma is not necessarily troublesome, but it is a cosmetic problem. In some cases, the dogs may get skin infections if the hygroma pops prematurely.
- Vomiting: Dogs that have digestive problems usually puke out the food. Some dogs vomit as a result of food allergies, and that is common in puppies. However, if a dog keeps on vomiting uncontrollably, it can cause dehydration. Dehydration in dogs can be very hard, especially for puppies, because it may require them to get hospitalized.
By understanding these potential health issues and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure that your French Mastiff remains healthy and happy. Managing their diet with care and attention to potential allergens can significantly reduce the risk of these problems.
Why Wet Dog Food Might Be Beneficial for Dogs Prone to Bloat
Bloat is a serious condition that can affect dogs, particularly large breeds like mastiffs. One dietary recommendation often suggested is opting for wet dog food. But why might this choice be helpful?
- Digestibility: Wet dog food tends to be more digestible than dry kibble. Its moist composition makes it easier for a dog’s stomach to process, potentially reducing the risk of digestive issues.
- Hydration: With its higher moisture content, wet food helps keep dogs hydrated. Proper hydration is crucial in managing and preventing bloating, as it ensures that the digestive tract functions smoothly.
- Eating Pace: Switching to wet food can slow down the eating process for many dogs. The texture and consistency require more chewing, which might result in a slower, safer eating pace. Rapid eating is a known risk factor for bloating, so anything that encourages slower consumption can be beneficial.
- Gut Health: Some formulations of wet dog food include natural fibers or probiotics that can aid in gut health, potentially reducing the chances of digestive upsets that contribute to bloating.
Remember, while wet dog food might be beneficial, it’s essential to consider a holistic approach to your pet’s diet and lifestyle. Regular vet check-ups and monitoring of eating habits are crucial in preventing bloating.
Budget-Friendly Dog Food Options for Mastiffs
Feeding a Mastiff can be financially daunting due to their specific dietary needs and sizable appetites. Thankfully, there are budget-friendly options available that don’t compromise on quality.
Top Picks for Affordable Mastiff Nutrition
- High-Quality Protein Sources
Choose dog foods that start with deboned chicken or salmon as the first ingredient. This ensures your Mastiff gets essential proteins without unnecessary fillers. Look for options with at least 24% crude protein for optimal health. - Essential Nutrients
Omega fatty acids are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. Opt for foods that include these alongside vitamins and minerals. This combination supports overall well-being without breaking the bank. - Cost-Effective Choices Some brands offer large-breed formulas at a manageable price per pound, significantly less than premium counterparts. Pricing around $1.30 to $2.00 per pound is considered budget-friendly and a smart option for owners with multiple Mastiffs.
Consider These Factors
- Ingredient Awareness
Choose products free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. This ensures your dog consumes fewer chemicals while saving you money. - Calorie and Nutrient Balance
Check the calorie count per serving to avoid overfeeding, which is particularly important for maintaining a healthy weight in large breeds. - Dietary Restrictions
Be cautious if your Mastiff has food allergies, particularly to poultry, as many budget options may include poultry-derived ingredients. Opt for recipes that align with your dog’s dietary needs.
Additional Considerations
- Dry or Moist Food
While dry kibble is typically more affordable and easier to store, you might consider mixing in some moist food if your dog has dental issues or requires additional hydration. - Age Appropriateness
Ensure the chosen food is suitable for the Mastiff’s life stage. Many budget-friendly dog foods cater specifically to adult dogs, which may not be suitable for puppies or nursing mothers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dog food for your mastiff can be challenging due to the variety available. Ensure your veterinarian approves the product, considering factors like budget, health needs, and meal preparation availability. Each option caters to different aspects of your mastiff’s well-being, so weigh the pros and cons to find the best fit for your pet.
