Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles

To find the best dog food for Goldendoodles, we need to consider their specific nutritional needs, common health concerns, and the general characteristics of the breed. Goldendoodles, a delightful mix between Golden Retrievers and Poodles, are known for their intelligence, friendly nature, and hypoallergenic coats.

Given their unique blend of traits and potential health considerations, such as sensitivities and joint issues, finding the right diet is paramount. We’ll explore various dietary options, from high-quality commercial foods to specialized diets catering to specific health needs, ensuring your furry friend receives the balanced, nutritious diet they deserve.

Goldendoodles are a hybrid breed, combining the gentle nature of the Golden Retriever with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle, resulting in a dog that is not only a joy to have around but also relatively easy to care for in terms of grooming. Typically, they fall into three size categories—miniature, medium, and standard—reflecting the size of the Poodle parent. This range in size directly impacts their dietary needs, as smaller dogs have faster metabolisms and thus different calorie requirements than their larger counterparts.

What to Look For in the Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles

Key ingredients to prioritize include whole meats or meat meals (such as chicken, beef, fish, or lamb) as the primary protein sources to support muscle maintenance and energy levels.

Complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats are essential for providing sustained energy without spiking blood sugar levels. Fats from sources like fish oil or flaxseed are vital for maintaining a healthy coat and skin, and they offer the added benefit of supporting joint health, which is particularly important for this breed prone to hip dysplasia.

Additionally, a blend of fruits and vegetables can supply necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, aiding in digestion and boosting the immune system. Look for dog foods that include ingredients like blueberries, spinach, and carrots.

• Energy Needs: High energy levels require diets rich in proteins and fats to support their active lifestyle.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: Prone to certain food sensitivities and allergies, such as grains or specific proteins, making natural, grain-free options preferable.
• Coat Health: Beneficial to have ingredients that support skin and coat health, given their curly or wavy fur, which is a blend of Poodle and Golden Retriever traits. Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can be beneficial.
• Size Consideration: Being medium to large dogs, they need a diet that supports bone and joint health.

Ingredients to Avoid in Goldendoodle Dog Food

First and foremost, steer clear of dog foods containing artificial preservatives, colours , and flavours , as these can be harmful to your pet’s health over time. Ingredients like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin, used as preservatives, have been linked to health issues in dogs.

Meat by-products should also be avoided; these are often lower quality protein sources that can vary greatly in nutritional value.

Our Top Picks

Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles- Overall

Solid Gold Complete & Balanced Beef Recipe Air-Dried Dog Food

Best Freeze Dried Dog Food

Fur Valley Absolute Beef Recipe Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Best Canned Dog Food

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Starter Mother & Babydog Dry Dog Food

Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles

Freshpet Vital Benefits Joint Health & Mobility Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 9%, Crude Fat (min) 7%, Crude Fiber (max) 1.5%, Moisture (max) 78%

This fresh food option is particularly beneficial for Goldendoodles due to its high moisture content and balanced protein and fat levels, supporting an active lifestyle.

The inclusion of chicken provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance. At the same time, the formulation for joint health and mobility supports the breed’s needs, especially for larger Goldendoodles prone to joint issues.

The fresh ingredients ensure a diet close to natural eating habits, promoting overall health and vitality.

Pros:

Supports joint health and mobility

Fresh, natural ingredients

High in moisture, supporting hydration

Cons:

Requires refrigeration

Higher price point compared to dry food options

Grandma Lucy’s Top It Beef Stew Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 28%, Crude Fat (min) 14%, Crude Fiber (max) 8%, Moisture (max) 8.5%

Grandma Lucy’s offers a grain-free, high-protein diet that’s ideal for Goldendoodles, especially those with sensitivities or allergies to grains.

The beef stew recipe provides a palatable and nutritious meal with high levels of protein for muscle development and maintenance.

The freeze-dried process retains the nutritional integrity of the ingredients, ensuring a diet rich in natural vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of vegetables and fruits supports overall health with antioxidants and fibres.

Pros:

High-quality beef as the primary protein source

Grain-free, suitable for dogs with sensitivities

Rich in natural vitamins and antioxidants

Cons:

Requires rehydration before feeding

May be less convenient than ready-to-eat options

Regal Pet Foods Country Classics Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 26%, Crude Fat (min) 16%, Crude Fiber (max) 5%, Moisture (max) 10%

Regal Pet Foods’ grain-free recipe caters to Goldendoodles with its high protein content, supporting an active lifestyle.

The formula is designed to be easily digestible and free from grains, reducing the risk of food sensitivities. It includes a balance of fats and fibres to promote a healthy digestive system and maintain energy levels. The kibble is formulated to support overall health, including skin and coat health, which is important for Goldendoodles.

Pros:

Grain-free for sensitive dogs

Balanced nutrition for overall health

Supports skin and coat health

Cons:

Dry food form may require additional water intake

Some dogs may prefer wet food formats

Ketogenic Pet Food Beef Heart & Liver Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 45%, Crude Fat (min) 36%, Crude Fiber (max) 2%, Moisture (max) 5%

This high-protein, high-fat diet aligns with the ketogenic principles, providing energy through fats rather than carbohydrates, which can be beneficial for weight management and energy levels in Goldendoodles.

The use of beef heart and liver ensures nutrient-dense sources of protein and essential vitamins, supporting cardiovascular health and overall well-being. The freeze-dried form maintains the raw nutritional value while offering convenience.

Pros:

High in protein and fat for energy

Nutrient-dense ingredients

Convenient freeze-dried form

Cons:

Ketogenic diet may not suit all dogs

Premium price point

HOLI Topper Variety Pack Beef Liver, Wild Caught Salmon Recipe Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 50%, Crude Fat (min) 22%, Crude Fiber (max) 2%, Moisture (max) 5%

HOLI’s variety pack offers a mix of high-quality protein sources, including beef liver and wild-caught salmon, which are excellent for Goldendoodles’ muscle development and skin and coat health.

The freeze-dried format locks in nutrients and flavour, making it an appealing topper to enhance the palatability and nutritional content of regular meals. The high protein and fat content supports active dogs, while the inclusion of fish provides omega fatty acids for coat health.

Pros:

Variety of protein sources

Rich in omega fatty acids for coat health

Enhances taste and nutrition of meals

Cons:

Intended as a supplement, not a complete meal

Requires additional main food source

Birdie & Louie Chicken & Salmon Canned Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 8%, Crude Fat (min) 4%, Crude Fiber (max) 1.2%, Moisture (max) 82%

This canned food offers a combination of chicken and salmon, providing a balanced blend of protein sources for muscle maintenance and omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, which are essential for Goldendoodles.

The high moisture content aids in hydration, and the soft texture is suitable for dogs of all ages. This formula is easy to digest, making it a good choice for sensitive stomachs. It’s suitable for low-protein diets.

Pros:

Soft, palatable texture

Combination of protein sources

High moisture content for hydration

Cons:

Lower protein content compared to dry foods

Canned food requires proper storage after opening

Solid Gold Complete & Balanced Beef Recipe Air-Dried Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 31%, Crude Fat (min) 25%, Crude Fiber (max) 5%, Moisture (max) 14%

Solid Gold’s air-dried dog food combines the convenience of dry food with the nutritional benefits of raw, offering high protein and fat levels to support the energy needs of Goldendoodles. It’s our best choice for Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles.

The beef recipe provides a rich source of protein, while the air-drying process preserves nutrients and flavors, enhancing palatability. This formula is also balanced with fruits and vegetables, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants for overall health.

Pros:

High in protein and fat

Convenient air-dried form

Includes fruits and vegetables for antioxidants

Cons:

Some dogs may need time to adjust to air-dried texture

Higher cost compared to traditional dry kibble

Fera Pet Organics Multivitamin Goat Milk Topper Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 35%, Crude Fat (min) 1%, Crude Fiber (max) 0.5%, Moisture (max) 10%

Fera Pet Organics’ goat milk topper is an excellent supplement for Goldendoodles, providing additional vitamins and minerals to support overall health. The freeze-dried goat milk is rich in digestive enzymes, aiding in gut health and digestion.

This topper can enhance the nutritional value of any meal, making it versatile for use with other foods. It’s especially beneficial for dogs needing extra support for their digestive system or those with sensitivities.

Pros:

Rich in vitamins and digestive enzymes

Supports gut health

Versatile topper for any diet

Cons:

Not a complete food source

Additional cost to the regular diet

Fur Valley Absolute Beef Recipe Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 41%, Crude Fat (min) 30%, Crude Fiber (max) 4%, Moisture (max) 5%

Fur Valley’s freeze-dried dog food offers a high-protein, high-fat beef recipe that’s ideal for active Goldendoodles.

The freeze-drying process preserves the raw nutrients, offering a diet close to natural prey. The high protein and fat content support energy levels and muscle maintenance, while the inclusion of beef provides essential amino acids for health.

This option is grain-free, reducing the risk of sensitivities.

Pros:

High in protein and fat

Preserves raw nutrients

Grain-free for sensitivities

Cons:

Requires rehydration before serving

Premium price point

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Starter Mother & Babydog Dry Dog Food

Crude Protein (min) 30%, Crude Fat (min) 22%, Crude Fiber (max) 3.3%, Moisture (max) 8%

While not specifically targeted at Goldendoodles, Royal Canin’s formula supports early development and is suitable for mothers and puppies, offering a balanced diet rich in protein and fat for growth and energy.

The kibble is designed for easy rehydration, making it softer for puppies to eat. This food can provide a good start for Goldendoodle puppies, supporting their development with a balanced nutritional profile.

Pros:

Supports early growth and development

High in protein and fat

Kibble can be easily rehydrated

Cons:

Specific to starter nutrition, may require transition to adult food

Higher price point compared to standard dog foods

FAQ

Do Goldendoodles eat a lot?

Goldendoodles’ appetite can vary based on their size, age, and activity level, but generally, they have a moderate appetite compared to some other breeds.

What Goldendoodles don’t eat?

Goldendoodles should not eat chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (found in sugar-free products), alcohol, caffeine, avocado, and bones or foods that are too fatty, spicy or contain artificial sweeteners.

Should Goldendoodles not eat chicken?

Goldendoodles can safely eat chicken as it is a common protein source in many dog foods, providing essential nutrients. However, some may develop an allergy or sensitivity to chicken; in such cases, alternative protein sources should be considered.