The 5 Best Dog Food For Golden Retrievers
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Affectionate, playful, and super intelligent, the beautiful Golden Retriever is popular all over the world. Their gentle nature and eagerness to please make them an outstanding family dog.
Weighing in at around 55–75 pounds, these big dogs do require lots of daily activity.
They are perfect for any home where they can have some room to run or an owner who is dedicated to providing them with plenty of exercise.
At A Glance: Best Dog Food for Golden Retrievers:
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 Golden Retrievers
BEST FOR BUDGET  3. Purina Pro Plan Sport All Life Stages Active 26/16 Formula Dry Dog Food | BEST FOR ALLERGIES  5. Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Lamb & Blueberry Medium & Maxi Adult Dry Dog Food | |||
Protein 23% Min | Protein 23% Min | Protein 26% Min | Protein 23% Min | Protein 28% Min |
Fat 11% Min | Fat 13% Min | Fat 16% Min | Fat 15% Min | Fat 18% Min |
Fiber 5.3% Max | Fiber 5% Max | Fiber 3% Max | Fiber 4% Max | Fiber 2.9% Max |
Calories 276 kcal/cup | Calories 306 kcal/cup | Calories 439 kcal/cup | Calories 331 kcal/cup | Calories 430 kcal/cup |
Our Criteria
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about grain-free dog foods containing peas, legumes, lentils, and root vegetables. A high number of dogs eating these foods have been reported to have dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart problem, and low levels of the amino acid taurine.
DCM is a genetic condition in some breeds but is now being identified as a possibly diet-related problem in others. Golden Retrievers, in particular, are being diagnosed more often with DCM.
To select dog food for Golden Retrievers, criteria include research-backed formulas, qualified veterinary nutritionists formulating their foods, rigorous quality control, and avoiding exotic ingredients. Measuring food portions and limiting treats to about 15% of daily calories can help prevent overeating and promote healthy eating habits.
Special Considerations For Feeding Golden Retrievers
Dogs need high-quality, digestible protein from animal sources like meat, fish, and poultry. Adult dogs need a minimum of 18 percent protein, while puppies and pregnant/lactating females need a minimum of 22 percent. Golden Retrievers, while not as active as Labrador Retrievers, still enjoy food.
As they age, their weight needs to be monitored, with a young adult Golden Retriever weighing 75 pounds needing about 1778 calories per day.
Neutered or sedentary dogs may require slightly fewer calories. Extremely active or hunting dogs may need more calories. Regular exercise is beneficial for Golden Retrievers, even in their senior years. Inactivity and weight gain can worsen hip and elbow dysplasia or arthritis, which can be worsened by extra weight.
Maintaining active and trim can help older dogs feel better and prolong their lives. It is estimated that 18.7% of Golden Retrievers die from hemangiosarcoma, a cancer, usually when they are 10 years old or older.
How Can I Manage My Golden Retriever’s Weight?
Golden Retrievers are not the worst breed for obesity, but it is crucial to keep them slim throughout their lives. Slowly growing puppies and keeping them trim as adults can reduce cancer rates and lead to a longer life span. Food-restricted dogs have lower rates of osteoarthritis, liver disease, and false pregnancies.
Overweight dogs are more likely to suffer from diabetes, joint/orthopedic problems, respiratory problems, heart problems, and other health issues. Spayed or neutered dogs typically need slightly fewer calories to avoid excessive weight gain.
Adult dogs need a minimum of 5% fat in their diet, but most dog foods today have a much higher fat percentage. Measuring food portions is crucial to preventing overeating and limiting treats to about 15% of daily calories.
Top 5 Best Rated Dog Foods For Golden Retrievers Reviewed
All of the foods suggested here have been producing good results in dogs that have had their taurine levels tested and had echocardiograms done for dilated cardiomyopathy.
They are made by larger companies that have veterinary nutritionists on staff and do rigorous quality control.
These foods are grain-inclusive.
Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 23% Min
- Fat: 11% Min
- Fiber: 5.3% Max
- Calories: 276 kcal/cup
- Specifically formulated for Golden Retrievers
- Support healthy cardiac function
- Contains EPA and DHA
- Contains By-Products
Goldens are one of the breeds that have been particularly sensitive to taurine in dog food and to ingredients in some grain free foods that might be blocking the absorption of taurine in the dog’s body.
Veterinarians have reported seeing many Golden Retrievers with heart problems, especially dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
Changing the dog’s diet to a food such as Royal Canin Golden Retriever Adult dry dog food has been recommended by many veterinary cardiologists with good results (though results depend on many factors). This food is designed for Golden Retrievers over 15 months of age.
The kibble size, shape, and texture are formulated to encourage your Golden to chew the food better. It helps maintains the dog’s healthy skin and coat with EPA and DHA.
It also contains nutrients, such as taurine, to support healthy cardiac function. This is not a grain free food so it doesn’t contain the ingredients which have been suspected of blocking taurine absorption. If you think that your Golden Retriever could have any heart problems, we recommend that you talk to your veterinarian about testing.
Eukanuba Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 23% Min
- Fat: 13% Min
- Fiber: 5% Max
- Calories: 306 kcal/cup
- High levels of protein for lean muscles.
- Added calcium for strong bones.
- Omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- No artificial colors or flavors added.
- This food contains maize and wheat which some people won’t like.
And it contributes to a healthy skin and radiant coat with omega 6 and 3 fatty acids.
Eukanuba works with vets and top breeders to design foods so dogs will have long, healthy lives.
This food also has prebiotics for optimal digestion and antioxidants for a strong immune system. DentaDefense keeps teeth clean and healthy. Dried chicken and turkey are the first ingredients.
Purina Pro Plan Sport All Life Stages Active 26/16 Formula Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 26% Min
- Fat: 16% Min
- Fiber: 3% Max
- Calories: 439 kcal/cup
- Purina employs veterinary nutritionists to formulate their foods.
- The company has outstanding quality control measures.
- Affordable price tag
- This food contains wheat, corn, and animal ingredients that some people will not like.
- Some people do not like the Purina company or any of its products.
It has high quality protein with chicken as the first ingredient to maintain lean muscle and keep your dog in ideal condition.
High quality sources of carbohydrates provide good energy. Rich antioxidants support a healthy immune system. The formula is easily digestible so your dog gets all of the nutrients. Suitable for growing puppies, adults, and senior dogs.
Eukanuba Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 23% Min
- Fat: 15% Min
- Fiber: 4% Max
- Calories: 331 kcal/cup
- Eukanuba foods are formulated by veterinary nutritionists.
- The company’s facilities have superior quality control.
- Made in the USA.
- This food contains corn and chicken by-product meal which some people will not like.
(You can find Eukanuba’s research into dog dental care online.) The food also has a specialized fiber system made from natural beet pulp and prebiotic FOS (a natural sugar) that promotes nutrient absorption and healthy digestion. It also contains naturally sourced glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. This food has no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or added gluten.
Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Lamb & Blueberry Medium & Maxi Adult Dry Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 28% Min
- Fat: 18% Min
- Fiber: 2.9% Max
- Calories: 430 kcal/cup
- 92 percent of the protein comes from animal sources
- 60 percent animal ingredients
- Farmina makes foods with quinoa if your dog has allergies or food sensitivities
- The fish formulas have a very strong odor
- Farmina uses spelt in their foods which is a sub-species of wheat; this could be a problem for dogs with wheat allergies
- The low-grain formulas have been difficult to get recently but the company says they are increasing production.
We particularly like the cod formula but all of the low grain formulas are very good. This food is made in Italy and the company works with the Chair of Animal Nutrition at the University of Naples to formulate the food.
It is comprised of 60 percent high quality animal ingredients, 20 percent organic spelt and organic oats, and 20 percent vegetables, fruits, vitamins, and minerals.
Farmina has become in demand in the United States recently because of the warning from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration about the possible link between grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs.
Farmina ancestral low grain dog foods are one of the brands that have been performing very well when dog taurine levels were tested.
Understanding The Dietary Needs Of Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers are active, requiring ample calories for activities like agility, rallying, and hiking. As they age, they may slow down, so if they appear pudgy, reduce their portions or switch to mature adult dog food. Regular walks and runs are essential for maintaining their overall health.
Large-size dogs, under 70 pounds, need less calcium to avoid musculoskeletal problems later in life. Large-size puppy food has slightly fewer calories per ounce and less fat, encouraging slower growth and preventing premature growth. Regular puppy food is recommended for puppies not considered “large-size.”
When Should I Transition My Golden Puppy to Adult Dog Food?
When choosing puppy food, consider the size of your puppy. Large-breed food is recommended for larger puppies, while regular food is suitable for smaller ones. Female Golden Retrievers are typically smaller.
Golden Retrievers transition from puppy to adult food around 12 months due to slow growth and nutrient needs. Gradually transitioning to new foods over a week or two helps avoid digestive upset. Large breed food can be continued until 14–15 months old, while regular food transitions to adult food by 12 months old.
Keep your puppy slim and encourage slow growth, regardless of food, without supplements or nutrients.
How Much Should You Feed Your Golden?
Adult Golden Retrievers require 20–30 calories per day, per pound, so if your dog weighs 70 pounds, you should feed them about 1750 calories per day. Divide these calories into two meals, one in the morning and one in the evening. Kibble varies in calories, with most having around 350 calories per cup.
Calories can be found on the bag or on the company website. Some pet food manufacturers are slow to comply with calorie information requirements.
Many people prefer following the feeding suggestions provided on the dog food bag, which can be adjusted based on weight gain or loss.
A healthy Golden Retriever should have a “tuck up” or waist behind their ribs, good energy, clear eyes, and good skin and coat. When changing foods, make gradual changes to avoid upset stomachs.
Keep fresh water available at all times. Golden Retrievers are easy to maintain, but if they are losing weight and haven’t been changed, consult a veterinarian.
Do Goldens Have Food Allergies or Food Sensitivities?
Food allergies and sensitivities can occur in any dog, but Golden Retrievers are not more prone to them than other dogs. It is recommended to work with a veterinarian to identify food triggers, which can be faster and less expensive than trying to figure it out by trial and error.
An elimination diet can help identify trigger ingredients, and a hypoallergenic or prescription dog food can be selected. Alternatively, you can buy the necessary food online or in a pet store. Golden Retrievers can also have a skin condition called ichthyosis, which is rarely severe and looks like fish scales.
It’s specific to Golden Retrievers and can occur in adult dogs, but it’s not an allergy and is not contagious.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, keeping your Golden Retriever slim throughout their lifetime is essential for their overall health and well-being. By limiting food intake and ensuring that your dog has access to healthy treats, you can help them live longer and healthier lives.
