13 Best Labrador Retriever Food Brands

I. Introduction

Labs are amazing dogs! They’re playful, smart, and so loving. They deserve the best to stay healthy and happy, and that starts with what’s in their bowl.

Picking the wrong food can lead to problems down the road. Don’t worry, that’s why we wrote this guide. We will share the best foods for Labrador Retrievers, and what makes them so good.

Top best labrador retriever food

Choosing the best labrador retriever food: It Doesn’t Have to Be Hard! With so many dog foods out there, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! Here are some top-quality and best dog food brands for labrador retrievers:

1. Canidae All Life Stages
2. Wellness CORE Grain-Free
3. Bluebird Provisions Dog Bone Broth
4. Taste of the Wild High Prairie
5. Merrick Real Chicken Dinner
6. Nutro Ultra Adult
7. Orijen Original
8. Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult
9. Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Beef
10. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Chicken and Rice Large Breed Puppy
11. Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy
12. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
13. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Puppy

13 best labrador retriever food Reviewed 

These dog foods meet AAFCO guidelines. Always talk to your vet before changing your Dog’s diet.

01- Canidae All Life Stages _{(Best Labrador Retriever Food)}

Canidae’s goal is to be the one food for all your dogs. But does it fit a Labrador’s needs?

The Good:

• Covers all ages: Good if you have a puppy and adult Lab at home.
• Simple protein sources: Chicken, turkey, and lamb are easy for most Labs to digest.
• Won’t break the bank: Often cheaper than formulas made just for Labradors.

The Not-So-Good:

• Includes grains: Can be harder for some Labs to digest, and don’t meet their main needs.
• Protein is just okay: Active Labs might do better with a higher protein food.
• Taste may be bland: Some dogs don’t get very excited about this one.

Ideal For:

• Owners with a limited food budget.
• Multi-dog homes where everyone eats the same thing.
• Labs who do well on grains and aren’t fussy eaters.

Not Ideal For:

• Labs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
• Very active Labs who need a high-performance diet.

Ideal For:

• Lab owners on a tighter budget.
• Households with dogs of multiple ages who don’t have health issues.
• Labs who aren’t picky eaters and tolerate grain-based formulas well.

Not Ideal For:

• Labs prone to allergies or sensitive stomachs.
• Performance or highly active Labs who need a performance-focused food.

02- Wellness CORE Grain-Free

Wellness CORE emphasizes high protein and grain-free formulas. Does this food deliver for Labrador Retrievers? Let’s take a closer look.

The Good

• Protein-Packed: Deboned turkey and chicken meal are the stars, which Labs need to build muscle.
• Grain-Free: Good option for Labs with sensitive stomachs or grain allergies.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with extra vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Supports Joints: Includes glucosamine and chondroitin, important for big breeds like Labs.

The Not-So-Good

• Pricey: Wellness CORE is generally on the higher end of dog food cost.
• Richness Might Be Too Much: Some Labs may get loose stools from a very high-protein diet.
• Might Need Flavor Boost: Picky eaters could find this plain – adding some broth can help.

Ideal For:

• Labs with food sensitivities or allergies.
• Active Labs who need the extra protein for energy and muscle support.
• Owners prioritizing a nutrient-dense formula for overall health.

Not Ideal For:

• Budget-conscious owners.
• Labs who do best on a moderate protein diet.

03- Bluebird Provisions Dog Bone Broth

Bone broth is trendy, but is it actually good for your Labrador? Let’s look at Bluebird Provisions’ Beef Bone Broth.

The Good

• Hydration Boost: Great for Labs who don’t drink enough, or hot weather.
• Joint Support: Contains collagen and other nutrients beneficial for joints, a plus for Labs.
• Tasty Topper: Can make even boring kibble more exciting, especially for picky eaters.
• Simple Ingredients: Just beef bones and water, no mystery additives.

The Not-So-Good

• Not a Meal Replacement: Low in calories, this is a supplement, not their main food.
• May Need Warming: Some dogs like it better warm rather than straight from the fridge.
• Availability: May not be in every pet store, so online ordering could be necessary.

Ideal For:

• Labs needing extra joint support, especially older dogs.
• Picky eaters to encourage them to finish their food.
• Supplementing a dehydrated or raw diet.
• Owners looking for a simple, natural treat for their Lab.

Not Ideal For:

• Dogs needing major weight loss (talk to your vet about diet changes).
• Owners on a very tight budget, as broths can add up.

04- Taste of the Wild High Prairie

Taste of the Wild emphasizes ingredients inspired by a dog’s ancestral diet. But is their High Prairie formula a good fit for Labrador Retrievers?

The Good

• Real Meat First: Bison and roasted venison provide high-quality protein.
• Grain-Free: Good choice for Labs with sensitivities or allergies.
• Added Benefits: Probiotics and antioxidants support a healthy gut and immune system.
• Flavor Variety: Can help prevent boredom for picky Labs.

The Not-So-Good

• Some Formulas Are Rich: Choose carefully if your Lab has a sensitive stomach.
• May Need a Topper: Some dogs find the kibble a little bland on its own.
• Price Varies: Cost can fluctuate depending on the specific formula you choose.

Ideal For:

• Labs who thrive on a grain-free diet.
• Active Labs needing the energy boost from high protein.
• Owners who want a natural-focused food with unique protein sources.

Not Ideal For:

• Owners on a very strict budget.
• Labs who do best on a lower protein diet.

05- Merrick Real Chicken Dinner

Canned food can be a great addition to a Lab’s diet. consider this as a best dog food for senior labrador retrievers. Does Merrick’s offering tick all the boxes?

The Good

• Real Chicken Focus: Deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing quality protein.
• Grain-Free Formula: Ideal for Labs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Added nutrients for a balanced, complete meal.
• Soft Texture: Easy on the teeth, great for senior Labs or picky eaters.

The Not-So-Good

• Pricey: Wet food is generally more expensive than kibble.
• Not for Weight Loss: High moisture content means lower calories – not ideal for chubby Labs.
• May Need Mixing: Some dogs won’t eat this as a standalone meal, but it’s a great kibble topper.

Ideal For:

• Senior Labs who might have dental issues.
• Picky eaters (when mixed with kibble for more excitement).
• Supplementing a mainly dry food diet for extra hydration.
• Owners who want the convenience of easy-to-serve wet food.

Not Ideal For:

• Labs who need to lose weight (unless specifically directed by a vet).
• Owners on a very strict budget.

06- Nutro Ultra Adult

Nutro Ultra emphasizes quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. Let’s see if their adult formula is a good match for your Labrador Retriever.

The Good

• Protein Powerhouse: Chicken, lamb, and salmon provide the building blocks for strong muscles.
• Superfood Blend: Fruits and veggies pack in extra nutrients and antioxidants.
• Size Matters: Kibble size is suitable for Labradors.
• Reputable Brand: Nutro has a long history of making quality pet food.

The Not-So-Good

• Contains Some Grains: While nutritious, they may not be the best for Labs with sensitivities.
• May Lack Excitement: Some Labs find the taste a bit plain compared to richer formulas.
• Pricey: Premium ingredients often mean a higher price tag.

Ideal For:

• Active Labs who need lots of protein to keep them going.
• Labrador owners who want a well-balanced food from a trusted brand.
• Labs who do well on a formula with some grains.

Not Ideal For

• Labs prone to allergies or stomach upset from grains.
• Budget-conscious owners.
• Very picky eaters seeking maximum flavor.

07- Orijen Original

ORIJEN is known for its high-meat, biologically appropriate formulas. But do their claims match the reality for a Labrador?

The Good

• Meat Lovers Rejoice: 85% of ingredients are from animal sources, ideal for active Labs.
• WholePrey Approach: Uses multiple parts of the animal for wider nutrition.
• No Mystery Ingredients: Easy to see exactly what your Lab is eating.
• May Aid Digestion: High protein, limited fillers can be good for sensitive Labs.

The Not-So-Good

• Very Expensive: One of the priciest dog foods on the market.
• Richness Can Be an Issue: Some Labs may get loose stools if transitioned too quickly.
• Overkill for Some: Casual pet Labs may not need this level of protein.

Ideal For:

• Owners committed to top-of-the-line nutrition, regardless of cost.
• Performance or working Labs with very high energy needs.
• Labs with sensitivities who thrive on a meat-centric diet.

Not Ideal For:

• Budget-conscious owners.
• Labs needing lower protein levels.
• Labradors who do best with some plant-based ingredients.

08- Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult

Eagle Pack aims for balanced nutrition made specifically for big dogs. Does their Chicken & Pork formula deliver for Labradors?

The Good

• Designed for Large Breeds: Nutrient levels and kibble size are tailored to a Lab’s needs.
• Real Meat Focus: Chicken and pork meal are the main protein sources.
• Added Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin help keep your Lab’s joints healthy.
• Mid-Range Price: More affordable than some premium brands, but still good quality.

The Not-So-Good

• Contains Some Grains: May not be the best for Labs with sensitivities, though brown rice is generally well-tolerated.
• Flavor May Be Unremarkable: Some picky eaters might need toppers added for excitement.

Ideal For:

• Labs who do well with a moderate protein diet that includes some grains.
• Owners seeking good nutrition without breaking the bank.
• Labradors needing extra support for their joints.

Not Ideal For:

• Labs with food allergies or significant sensitivities.
• Very picky eaters who demand maximum flavor.
• Owners seeking the absolute highest protein levels.

09- Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Beef

The Honest Kitchen prioritizes human-grade, whole food ingredients. But is their dehydrated formula worth trying for your Labrador?

The Good

• Real Beef First: Provides the protein Labs need to stay strong and active.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Includes fruits, veggies, and whole grains for added nutrients.
• Human-Grade Promise: Offers peace of mind about the quality of what’s in your Lab’s bowl.

The Not-So-Good

• Grain-Inclusive: Oats and barley could upset the digestion of sensitive Labs.
• Prep Required: Dehydrated food needs to be rehydrated, adding a step compared to kibble.
• Pricey: Often considered a higher-cost dog food.

Ideal For:

• Labs who thrive on a diet with whole, recognizable ingredients.
• Owners willing to spend more for the human-grade quality.
• Owners who don’t mind the extra step of rehydrating the food.

Not Ideal For

• Labs with grain sensitivities or allergies.
• Owners on a very strict budget.
• Owners seeking the absolute easiest feeding routine.

10- Purina Pro Plan High Protein Chicken and Rice Large Breed Puppy

Purina Pro Plan is a well-known brand with a wide variety of formulas. This is a best puppy food for labrador retrievers. Let’s see how their high-protein puppy food stacks up for Labrador Retrievers.

The Good

• Protein Power: Real chicken as the first ingredient helps build strong muscles for a growing Lab puppy.
• DHA for Smarts: Supports healthy brain and vision development, important in young dogs.
• Size Matters: Kibble size is suitable for Labrador puppies.
• Easy to Find: Purina Pro Plan is readily available in most pet stores.

The Not-So-Good

• Contains Some Fillers: Includes corn and wheat, not ideal for sensitive pups.
• May Lack Excitement: Some puppies find the taste a bit plain.
• Mid-Range Price: Not the cheapest puppy food, but not the most expensive either.

Ideal For:

• Labrador puppies needing a good source of protein for healthy growth.
• Owners who want a well-known, easily accessible puppy food.
• Labs without grain sensitivities.

Not Ideal For

• Puppies with allergies or sensitive tummies.
• Owners seeking the absolute highest quality ingredients.
• Very picky eaters who need extra flavorful food.

11- Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy

Diamond Naturals markets their formula as both affordable and nutritious. Does it deliver for a large breed puppy like a Labrador?

The Good

• Lamb First: Real lamb provides the protein a Lab needs to build muscle and bone.
• Size Matters: Kibble is designed for a bigger puppy mouth.
• Budget-Friendly: Often a great value for the price point.
• Added Extras: Probiotics and antioxidants can benefit a developing puppy.

The Not-So-Good

• Grain-Inclusive: Rice is the main source of carbohydrates, which some Labs may find irritating.
• May Lack “Wow Factor”: Picky eaters might not be thrilled by the taste alone.
• Ingredients Vary: Diamond Naturals has many formulas, so double-check the lamb one specifically.

Ideal For:

• Labrador puppies on a slightly tighter food budget.
• Growing Labs needing a specifically large breed formula.
• Labs who thrive on lamb-based foods and do well with rice.

Not Ideal For

• Puppies with allergies or sensitivities to grains.
• Extremely picky eaters – flavor enhancers might be needed.
• Owners seeking the highest-tier ingredient list.

12- Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy

Wellness Complete Health emphasizes whole-body wellness. Let’s see how their large breed puppy formula measures up for a Labrador.

The Good

• Large Breed Focus: Designed for healthy bone and joint development, crucial in Labs.
• Real Meat First: Chicken and salmon provide quality protein for growing muscles.
• Added Benefits: DHA for brain health, plus probiotics and antioxidants for immunity.
• Reputable Brand: Wellness Complete Health has a positive track record with many dog owners.

The Not-So-Good

• Contains Grains: May not be ideal for Lab puppies with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
• May Need a Flavor Boost: Some picky puppies find this a bit bland compared to richer formulas.
• Pricey: Wellness Complete Health is typically on the higher end of puppy food costs.

Ideal For:

• Labrador puppies who do well on a grain-inclusive diet.
• Owners seeking the reassurance of a well-known brand.
• Lab puppies needing specific support for healthy growth and development

Not Ideal For

• Puppies with allergies or grain sensitivities.
• Owners on a very tight budget.
• Very picky eaters who demand the tastiest food.

13- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Puppy

Blue Buffalo Wilderness aims to mimic a dog’s ancestral diet. Does this high-protein formula work for Labrador puppies?

The Good

• Meat Focused: Deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing protein for strong growth.
• Large Breed Blend: Includes ingredients for joint support, important in rapidly growing Labs.
• LifeSource Bits: Added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants may offer extra puppy protection.
• Grain-Inclusive: Provides additional carbs for energy, well-tolerated by some Labs.

The Not-So-Good

• Richness May Be an Issue: Some pups get loose stools when starting on high-protein formulas.
• Some Fillers: Not the absolute highest quality ingredient list.
• May Need Flavor Boosting: Picky Lab pups might find this a little boring on its own.

Ideal For:

• Lab puppies needing a higher protein diet (as recommended by a vet).
• Owners seeking grain-inclusive food from a well-known brand.
• Lab puppies without major food sensitivities.

Not Ideal For

• Puppies with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
• Owners prioritizing limited-ingredient diets.
• Very picky eaters seeking the tastiest puppy food possible.

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II. Understanding Labrador Retrievers’ Nutritional Needs

• What Does a Labrador Retriever Need To Eat?
• Labs need a mix of things in their diet, just like we do! Here’s the breakdown:
• Protein: Builds muscles and keeps them strong. Look for food where meat is the FIRST ingredient.
• Fat: Gives them energy! Too much makes them gain weight though, so balance matters.
• Carbohydrates: These are also for energy, but too many can be unhealthy. Whole grains are better than processed ones.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Keep everything working right, from shiny coats to strong bones.
• Eating Right = A Healthier Lab
• When Labradors don’t get the balance above, bad things can happen:
• Obesity: Labs LOVE to eat, and it’s easy for them to gain too much weight. This puts stress on their joints.
• Joint Problems: Big dogs like Labs are prone to these anyway, and extra weight makes them worse.
• Skin Allergies: Some foods can cause itchy skin, rashes, even ear infections.
• The best diet for a Labrador Retriever helps them avoid all these problems!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Labrador Retriever Food

It’s not one-size-fits-all! The best food for your Labrador depends on a few things:

Puppy Needs vs. Adult

Puppies are growing fast! They need more of certain nutrients to build strong bones and muscles. Puppy food usually has higher calories too, but be careful not to overfeed. Finding Best dog food for adult labrador retrievers is not easy.

Adults have different needs. Their food should help them maintain a healthy weight and give them the energy they need.

Active Labs vs. Seniors

Is your Lab a couch potato, or do they run for miles every day? Active dogs burn more calories, so they might need a slightly different type of food than a mellow older Labrador.

Senior dogs often have slower metabolisms and may need fewer calories to avoid getting chubby.

Health Status

Does your Lab have allergies, joint pain, or other health problems? There are special foods that can help! It’s always best to talk to your vet for advice about these.

VI. Tips for Transitioning to a New Labrador Retriever Food

Even the best food can cause problems if you switch too fast. Labs can have sensitive stomachs! Here’s how to make it easier:

• Go Slow: Start by mixing a little of the new food with their old food. Over about a week, gradually add more of the new and less of the old.
• Watch for Upset: Keep an eye out for loose poop, vomiting, or your Lab refusing to eat. If things seem off, slow the transition or talk to your vet.
• Patience is Key: It might take a while for your Lab to fully get used to the new taste and texture. Don’t give up if they aren’t super excited at first!

Transition Chart Example

Transition Schedule	Old Food	New Food
Day 1	75%	25%
Day 2	50%	50%
Day 3	25%	75%
Day 4	0%	100%

Important Note: This is just an example. Some Labs may need to transition even slower. Monitor your dog closely and adjust as needed.

VII. Additional Considerations for Labrador Retriever Food

Sometimes, the basics aren’t enough. Here are some other factors to keep in mind:

Best Food for Labrador Retrievers with Allergies

Food allergies are sadly common in Labs. Symptoms can include:

• Itchy skin and constant scratching
• Ear infections
• Upset stomach or diarrhea

If you suspect allergies, talk to your vet. They can help identify the problem ingredient and recommend a food designed to avoid it. There are foods made without chicken, grains, and other common allergens.

Specialized Formulas

Labs are at risk of certain health problems. Luckily, some foods are designed to help:

• Joint Support: Often contains glucosamine and other ingredients to keep joints strong, especially in older Labs.
• Weight Management: These are lower in calories to help keep a Lab’s weight in a healthy range.
• Sensitive Stomach: Opt for easily digestible ingredients for Labs with touchy tummies.

Always Consult Your Vet

If you think your Labrador needs a special formula, it’s best to get a recommendation from your veterinarian. They can make sure the food is right for your dog’s individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Labrador Retriever Food

The best food for your Labrador depends on their individual needs, like their age and health. Always look for high-quality food with real meat as the main ingredient.

Choose food made for large breeds, since Labs have unique needs. It should be balanced in protein, fat, and other nutrients.

Start with the amount suggested on the food bag, but watch your Lab’s weight. You may need to adjust it up or down a bit to keep them at a healthy size.

Yes, but make sure it’s a good brand that gives them all the nutrients they need. If your Lab has allergies, grain-free might be a good option.

Older Labs may need fewer calories to stay trim. Some senior foods have extra things to help with their joints, too.

Talk to your vet before switching to raw. There are benefits, but also some risks, so it’s important to do it right.

If you see things like vomiting, diarrhea, itchy skin, or not wanting to eat, the food might be the problem. Always consult your vet if you’re concerned.

Puppies need smaller meals more often! Until they’re about 6 months old, feed them 3-4 times a day.

It’s best to avoid this. Most human food isn’t good for dogs, and some can even make them sick. Stick to healthy dog treats instead!

Final Words:

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