Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting journey, filled with joy and responsibility. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make as a pet owner is selecting the right food to support your puppy’s growth and development. Proper nutrition lays the foundation for a healthy, active, and well-adjusted adult dog.

Why Early Nutrition Matters

Just like early training, early nutrition plays a pivotal role in shaping your puppy’s future health. Puppies have unique dietary needs that differ from adult dogs. Providing them with the right balance of nutrients during their formative months supports their physical development, immune system, and cognitive function. A well-nourished puppy is more likely to grow into a confident and well-behaved adult dog.

Our Top Puppy Food Recommendations

For the best overall nutrition, we recommend Farmina as our number one choice. It's a premium European formula with high-quality proteins and balanced nutrients that support health growth and development. Our top pick? Farmina Grain-Free Pumpkin Lamb & Blueberry Puppy Food—a premium, European grain-free formula with grass-fed lamb. It’s the one we carry in our retail section and the one we trust most.

Other excellent options include Orijen, which offers high-protein, grain-inclusive formulas rich in animal ingredients; Fromm, a premium balanced puppy food made in Wisconsin with high-quality proteins and added probiotics; and NutriSource, a budget-friendly option that still focuses on quality nutrition, gut health, and heart support. 

How to Read the Label Like a Pro

Skip the marketing claims on the front—those terms aren’t regulated. Always check the back of the bag where the ingredient list and guaranteed analysis offer transparency.

What to look for in ingredients (listed in order):

• Deboned or whole animal protein (e.g., lamb, beef, venison)

• Named organ meats or meat meals

• Animal fats or oils

What to avoid:

• By-products and vague “meals” (like poultry or bone meal)

• Anonymous meats (e.g., “dehydrated fish”)

• Plant protein fillers (like corn or pea protein)

• Artificial dyes

Why Protein, Fat, and Fillers Matter

Protein is essential—ensure it’s listed in the top ingredients, and avoid formulas where carbs fill the void. Use this calculation to estimate carb content:

Aim for 30% or less carbs. Fat is vital for energy; look for healthy animal fats in the top ingredients.

Choose the Right Protein Source

Hooved meats like lamb, beef, venison, or elk are ideal. Chicken can trigger sensitivities, so consider alternatives if your puppy shows signs of food intolerance. Fish can also offer useful omega-3s.

Grain-Free: Not a Must

There’s no clear scientific benefit to grain-free diets. In fact, the FDA has looked into potential links between some grain-free diets and heart issues in dogs. We prefer a balance—grain-inclusive or grain-free—combined with fresh, raw nutrition when training ends.

Kibble Size Matters

Select kibble that’s large enough for your puppy to track easily—think roughly the size of your pinky fingernail for medium to large breeds. Small kibble that falls on the ground can distract them during training. We often start with mini kibble, then transition to a larger size as they grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I choose the best puppy food for my breed?

A: Consider your puppy’s size, age, activity level, and any breed-specific needs. Large breeds benefit from formulas that support joint health, while small breeds need smaller kibble for easier chewing.

Q: Can I switch my puppy’s food frequently?

A: Puppies do best on a consistent, high-quality diet. Gradual transitions over 7–10 days are recommended if switching foods to prevent digestive upset.

Q: How often should I feed my puppy?

A: Puppies under six months typically eat 3–4 small meals per day. After six months, you can usually transition to 2 meals per day.

Conclusion

Choosing the best puppy food sets the foundation for a healthy, happy life. Our top recommendation is Farmina Grain-Free Puppy Food, with Orijen, Merrick, and NutriSource also excellent options depending on your puppy’s needs and your budget. Focus on high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and the right portion sizes to support your puppy’s growth, energy, and overall wellness. With the right food, you’ll be giving your puppy the best start possible.

Written by Amy Pishner

About the Author: 

Amy Pishner is the head trainer for Valor K9 Academy and the co-founder of Valor K9 Academy Online. She has been training dogs for nearly two decades, specializing in German Shepherds and working dogs, and is passionate about helping pet owners with all aspects of dog training and care.