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10 Best Puppy Dog Foods 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Fresh or Raw Ingredients, 4.5lb

The ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food is a high-quality choice for growing puppies, providing a protein-rich diet made from 85% fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients. The inclusion of whole prey elements like organs mirrors the natural diet of dogs' wild ancestors, ensuring comprehensive nutrition. One of the main selling points is the absence of common allergens like soy, corn, tapioca, and wheat, making it suitable for puppies with grain sensitivities. Additionally, it is made in the USA, which can assure some buyers of its quality and safety standards.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Nutritional Content
Orijen replicates the natural diet of wild carnivores, offering higher quality than most commercial dog foods.
Ingredients
The food's quality justifies its higher price, with human-grade ingredients and no by-products.
Kibble Size
Dogs are very eager eaters and enjoy Orijen kibble even as treats.
Special Dietary Needs
Orijen is the better choice for picky eaters, with no allergic reactions or digestive issues.
#2
10.0 score

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula - 34 Pound (Pack of 1)

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula, is designed to cater to the needs of growing puppies. It features DHA from omega-rich fish oil, which is beneficial for brain and vision development. The primary ingredient is high-quality chicken, providing ample protein for building lean muscles.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Nutritional Content
This food was recommended by my vet, who mentioned Purina spends a lot on research to ensure it meets nutritional needs.
Life Stage
My Alaskan Malamute puppy loved this. As a very active puppy, it kept him full and happy.
Special Dietary Needs
My dogs absolutely love this food, and it doesn't upset their stomachs or cause allergic reactions like licking paws.
#3
9.9 score

ORIJEN Amazing Grains Puppy Dry Dog Food, High Protein Dog Food for Puppies, Fresh or Raw Ingredients, 22.5lb

ORIJEN Amazing Grains Puppy Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies. The high protein content, comprising 90% poultry and fish ingredients, ensures that your puppy receives essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals necessary for healthy development. The inclusion of ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients like poultry and organs aims to mimic the ancestral diet of dogs, which is beneficial for health. The first five ingredients being fresh or raw provides confidence in the quality of the food.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Nutritional Content
My picky eater loves this food, and his digestive health has improved significantly.
Ingredients
Very healthy ingredients and our dogs love it.
Kibble Size
Small bites for little dogs is also a plus!

Top 10 Best Puppy Dog Foods 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Fresh or Raw Ingredients, 4.5lb

Nutritional Content: 85% fresh or raw poultry, fish
Ingredients: chicken, turkey, chicken liver, salmon
Kibble Size: designed for puppies
Life Stage: Puppy
Breed-Specific Formulas: suitable for all breeds
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry Food
Special Dietary Needs: no soy, corn, tapioca, wheat

Chosen by 1113 this week

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula - 34 Pound (Pack of 1)

Nutritional Content: DHA, antioxidants, calcium, phosphorus
Ingredients: Chicken, Rice
Life Stage: Puppy
Breed-Specific Formulas: All Breed Sizes
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry
Special Dietary Needs: Immune Support, Bone Health

ORIJEN Amazing Grains Puppy Dry Dog Food, High Protein Dog Food for Puppies, Fresh or Raw Ingredients, 22.5lb

Nutritional Content: 90% poultry and fish
Ingredients: poultry, fish, WholePrey ingredients
Kibble Size: suitable for puppies
Life Stage: Puppy
Breed-Specific Formulas: All Breed Sizes
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry Food
Special Dietary Needs: Digestive Health

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula - 34 lb. Bag

Nutritional Content: High protein, glucosamine, Vitamin A, omega-6
Ingredients: Chicken, rice, fish oil
Kibble Size: Large breed puppies
Life Stage: Puppy
Breed-Specific Formulas: Large breeds
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry
Special Dietary Needs: No artificial colors, flavors

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula - 34 lb. Bag

Nutritional Content: DHA, calcium, phosphorus, antioxidants
Ingredients: Chicken & Rice
Kibble Size: Crunchy kibble and shredded pieces
Life Stage: Puppy
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Breed Dry Puppy Food, Supports Brain Development, Immune Support, and Digestive Health, 14 lb Bag

Nutritional Content: antioxidants, prebiotics, quality proteins
Kibble Size: crunchy texture
Life Stage: Puppy
Breed-Specific Formulas: Small Breeds
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry
Special Dietary Needs: immune support, brain development, digestive health

IAMS Smart Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 30.6 lb. Bag

Nutritional Content: 22 key nutrients, omega-3 DHA, protein
Life Stage: Puppy
Breed-Specific Formulas: Large Breeds
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry
Special Dietary Needs: Digestive Health, Brain Health

Hill's Science Diet Puppy, Large Breed Puppy Premium Nutrition, Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Brown Rice, 30 lb Bag

Nutritional Content: DHA from fish oil, lamb protein, balanced minerals
Ingredients: Lamb & Brown Rice
Kibble Size: For large breed puppies
Life Stage: Puppy
Breed-Specific Formulas: Large Breed
Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry Food
Special Dietary Needs: Supports brain, eye, bones, teeth
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Buying Guide for the Best Puppy Dog Foods

Choosing the right puppy dog food is crucial for the healthy growth and development of your furry friend. Puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adult dogs, so it's important to select a food that meets those specific requirements. When picking the best puppy food, consider factors such as the breed, size, and any specific health concerns your puppy may have. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional ContentNutritional content refers to the balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in the dog food. This is important because puppies need a higher amount of protein and fat to support their rapid growth and development. Look for foods that have a high protein content (around 22-32%) and fat content (around 10-25%). If your puppy is very active or a larger breed, they may need more protein and fat. Always check the label for a statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) to ensure the food meets the nutritional requirements for growth.
IngredientsThe ingredients list tells you what is actually in the dog food. High-quality puppy foods will list meat as the first ingredient, as it is a primary source of protein. Avoid foods with fillers like corn, soy, and wheat, as these can be harder for puppies to digest and may cause allergies. Look for whole foods and natural ingredients, such as real meat, vegetables, and fruits. If your puppy has specific dietary needs or allergies, choose a food that caters to those requirements.
Kibble SizeKibble size refers to the size of the dry dog food pieces. This is important because puppies, especially small breeds, have smaller mouths and may struggle with larger kibble. Choose a food with smaller kibble pieces for small breed puppies to make it easier for them to chew and digest. Larger breed puppies can handle bigger kibble, but it should still be appropriately sized for their age and mouth size.
Life StageLife stage indicates whether the food is formulated for puppies, adults, or senior dogs. Puppy food is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of growing dogs. It contains higher levels of protein, fat, and certain vitamins and minerals compared to adult dog food. Always choose a food labeled for puppies or 'all life stages' to ensure your puppy gets the right nutrients for their growth.
Breed-Specific FormulasBreed-specific formulas are dog foods tailored to the unique needs of certain breeds. These formulas take into account the typical size, activity level, and common health issues of the breed. For example, large breed puppies may benefit from a formula that supports joint health, while small breed puppies may need a higher calorie content. If your puppy is a purebred, consider a breed-specific formula to address their specific needs.
Wet vs. Dry FoodWet food is canned food that contains higher moisture content, while dry food is kibble. Wet food can be easier for puppies to chew and can help keep them hydrated, but it can be more expensive and less convenient to store. Dry food is more convenient, helps keep teeth clean, and is generally more affordable. Some pet owners choose to mix wet and dry food to provide a balance of benefits. Consider your puppy's preferences, dental health, and your convenience when choosing between wet and dry food.
Special Dietary NeedsSpecial dietary needs refer to any specific health concerns or dietary restrictions your puppy may have, such as food allergies, sensitivities, or medical conditions. If your puppy has any of these issues, look for foods that are formulated to address them, such as grain-free, hypoallergenic, or limited ingredient diets. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your puppy's special dietary needs.

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