Labradoodles, like Maltipoos and Goldendoodles, are a mixed dog breed from poodles and Labrador retrievers. They are cuties that can work as assistance, therapy ad guide dogs due to their gentleness and friendliness.
Furthermore, they make a great family companion, and such a playful family member deserves only the best Labradoodle puppy food for a healthy and happy life. As a Labradoodle owner, you may find it difficult to choose the best food for your new furry friend.
Our team has put together this great guide to assist you with choosing the best Labradoodle puppy food, along with some crucial concepts related to feeding your new canine friend.
What Foods Are Bad for Labradoodles?
Although your doggie is part of the family, not everything that the family eats is good for the little one. Before going into what type of Labradoodle puppy food you should give to your furry ball of love, let’s see what food you shouldn’t give.
Say “no” to Alcohol
Alcohol causes damage to a human’s liver, so you can imagine what it can do to your furry companion. No matter what small amount is ingested, alcohol can damage your pup’s liver and brain, and it can trigger diarrhea, breathing challenges, vomiting, and it can be fatal.
Garlic and Onions Are Not for Your Puppy
We usually put garlic and onion in most of our meals, and they add flavor to home-cooked dishes. But, these two ingredients can cause anemia and are quite toxic to pups.
Avocados, Stay Away
Avocados have become quite popular, but persin (a substance in the fruit, bark, and seed) can be toxic to your doggie.
Raisins, Grapes, and Some Macadamia Nuts
No, these are not ingredients for a delicious dessert. These can make your pooch very sick. Macadamia nuts can even cause paralysis of the hind legs, so be vigilant and avoid putting these in places where your pup can reach them.
Sugar, Salt, and Caffeine
Well, sugar from candies is not good for us either, but it can be quite hazardous for your Labradoodle. Foods that are labeled as “sugar-free” or similar usually contain xylitol which can be deadly to canines, so read food labels before giving anything to your pup. Caffeine from anything should be avoided completely because it can cause symptoms like bleeding, restlessness, and breathing problems. Too much salt can be extremely dangerous for your pet. Thirst and extreme urination are just some symptoms, others include vomiting, depression, and diarrhea.
And Others…
Whenever you are feeding your pooch animal protein, ensure that is cooked. Raw meat contains parasites that can be lethal to your dog. It goes without saying that you should avoid giving your Labradoodle medications you may use for a similar condition without consulting with your veterinarian first.
What Food Should a Labradoodle Puppy Eat?
Just like other dog breeds, Labradoodles need well-balanced nutrition rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber, carbohydrates, and fat.
High-Quality Protein for Strong Muscles
Proteins are essential amino acids that are crucial for the healthy growth and repair of damaged tissue. Provide your puppy with a high-quality source of protein and it will have strong, lean muscles and a lot of energy to play with you.
The best Labradoodle puppy food will consist of mostly good protein from meat, fish, or poultry, and it should be on top of the ingredient list.
Carbohydrates for Healthy Digestion, and Energy
Carbohydrates are a primary source of fiber which is essential for a healthy digestive system and healthy stools. However, it is important that you opt for whole-grain sources rather than processed grains.
Some Labradoodle owners decide to go for food that is grain-free because their pup may suffer from certain food allergies.
Nevertheless, carbohydrates are an important part of your dog’s nutrition as it provides energy which it will need for its walks in the park. But, puppy food doesn’t need to be loaded with carbohydrates.
Healthy Fats for Overall Wellness
Yes, fat is a crucial macronutrient, and a small, healthy quantity will give your Labradoodle extra energy as well as assist in its overall wellness. The essential fatty acids improve the taste of the puppy food, and as their name suggests, they are essential for several physiological processes.
Furthermore, this important ingredient will support your puppy’s skin, hair, eyes, and organ health.
Fiber, Vitamins, Minerals, and More
As mentioned above, fiber is crucial for your dog’s digestive health. It helps with constipation and diarrhea, as well as with the overall health of your furry ball of love.
Just as humans need vitamins and minerals for optimal health, your Labradoodle needs a variety of them to keep it strong and healthy. Your duty as a Labradoodle parent is to ensure that your furry companion gets all essential nutrients in the appropriate amount depending on your pup’s individual needs.
So, What Is the Best Labradoodle Puppy Food
The Labradoodle puppy food you choose needs to have all mentioned ingredients in the right amount for your pup to be healthy and strong. It needs to be formulated and suitable for the age and size of your pooch.
If your Labradoodle’s diet isn’t balanced, it can trigger numerous health issues such as diabetes, obesity, etc.
How Much Should Labradoodle Puppies Eat?
The amount of food you give your Labradoodle puppy will change as your pooch grows. At different stages of its life, it will need a different type of food and different quantity. It will depend on your Labradoodle’s activity level, size or weight, and age.
Labradoodles are quite energetic dogs and they should be frequently physically and mentally engaged. This requires proper nutrition, and they should be fed with balanced puppy food until they are fully grown and they reach their adult size which is around one year to sixteen months of age.
Generally speaking, puppies that are eight to twelve weeks old should eat three to four times a day, and as they grow the number of meals should be decreased to twice a day.
However, it is best that you refer to a Labradoodle feeding calculator to determine how much and how often you should feed your pup. But, keep in mind that you should take into consideration its activity level and certain individual nutrition needs your doggie may have due to some health condition.
How Much Should a 4 Month Old Labradoodle Puppy Eat?
Typically, a four-month-old Labradoodle puppy should be fed three times a day with puppy food. At this stage, it should be able to eat dry, kibble food. Still, the right amount will depend on its size and activity level.
Also, avoid food for dogs that is labeled as appropriate for all dog sizes or all ages, as they don’t contain the necessary nutritional requirements to meet your pup’s daily caloric intake.
Is Chicken Bad for Labradoodles?
Chicken is a good quality source of protein. And, twenty-two percent of your dog’s diet should be made of protein. Your Labradoodle will enjoy eating chicken, as well as almost any other type of meat. Puppy food made with chicken is another great option for your little ball of fur.
However, as mentioned in the previous section, raw meat isn’t recommended due to the presence of parasites. Also, whenever you feed your canine friend chicken, ensure there are no bones left in it. Although pups enjoy munching on bones, they can be a choking hazard.
Dry or Canned Food- What Should I Give to My Labradoodle Puppy?
Until your puppy is eight or nine weeks it should be nursing from its mother. Afterward, start with wet food, but ensure it has all nutrients a puppy of its size and age needs.
Once your Labradoodle is twelve weeks old, you can gradually introduce dry food. It will strengthen its teeth and prevent plaque and tartar build-up.
Furthermore, wet canned food may be preferred by your furry ball of love because it has a more intense flavor and smell. Also, since it has a high water percentage, it will provide hydration to your puppy.
The choice will greatly depend on your pup’s preference and its nutritional needs.
Changing Your Labradoodle’s Puppy Food
As your puppy grows, its dietary needs will change. It may develop some health conditions that require you to change its puppy food or add some supplements.
Whatever the reason is for changing your Labradoodle’s puppy food, do it gradually. The transition from one food to another needs to be smooth to avoid irritating your pup’s tummy and to ensure your little ball of love accepts it.
Each day add a bit to the new type of food. Start by mixing twenty-five percent of the new food, and seventy-five percent of the old food. The next day switch to half of each, and the third day reduce the old food to twenty-five percent.
If you notice your Laradoodle having diarrhea, stop feeding it the new food, and after twelve hours of rest, give it some boiled chicken and white rice.
All in all, allow for five to seven days for the transition to the new food, so that the stomach of your pooch gets used to it.
Labradoodles and Their General Health Problems
Even though they are energetic and active dog breeds, Labradoodles are at risk of developing certain health problems.
These furry bundles of joy have sensitive tummies and can develop symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, vomiting stomach cramps, and mucus in the stool. Although you should always consult with a veterinarian whenever you notice something may be wrong with your puppy, food rich in fiber supports a healthy digestive system. If your puppy food contains too much fat, it may irritate your dog’s stomach even more.
Allergic reactions in Labradoodles may be more common than you thought. Both of its parents, Poodles and Labrador Retrievers, are quite prone to allergies. Consult with your veterinarian if you suspect that your furry companion is allergic to something, and once you determine the trigger, adjust its nutrition accordingly.
Other hereditary health issues your Labradoodle may face are cataracts, retinal dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. It is crucial that you treat these issues on time because they can lead to blindness.
Joint problems can appear due to being overweight, too much exercise or not enough, excessive growth rate, and inadequate nutrition plan. Monitor your puppy’s movement, and if you notice that it is at risk of developing joint issues, make sure you take it for a checkup and adjust its diet to meet the needs of its condition.
Your Labradoodle Puppy Won’t Eat – Should You Worry?
Puppies should eat more frequently than adult Labradoodles. However, if the little one misses one or two meals, it is not a reason to get concerned. It may be excited to be in its new home with its new family, and it is normal for its appetite to decrease.
However, if you notice that your new family member hasn’t eaten in twelve hours or more, you should consult with a veterinarian and take it for a checkup, especially if you notice that it has some other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea.
The Best Labradoodle Puppy Food – Our Top Recommendations
Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Chicken and Rice Formula by Purina Pro Plan
Purina Pro Plan offers products that consist of complete essential nutrients, as well as specialized nutrition for various dietary needs.
If you are looking for a chicken-based puppy food for Labradoodle, this is a great choice. It consists of twenty-eight percent of protein for strong muscles, and it has carbohydrates and fats for additional energy and health support.
Furthermore, it is packed with DHA-filled fish oil to help with cognitive and vision development. Your pup’s digestive and immune system will be supported by the live probiotics and antioxidants in the formula of this dry dog food.
Your Labradoodle will have strong and healthy bones and teeth thanks to the added minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and others.
Pros
- It consists of high-quality protein from chicken
- It has all essential macronutrients
- Its formula includes added vitamins and minerals for a healthy immune system, bones, and teeth
- It has omega-rich fish oil to support your pup’s brain and vision health
- It comes in different packaging sizes
- It has whole grain wheat as a fiber source for digestive health
Cons
- Its formula includes soybean oil which may cause digestion difficulties, bloating, gas, or trigger allergic reactions
- It has quite a lot of corn fillers and other by-products
- Some puppies may not enjoy this food
Dry Dog Food with Chicken Meal and Oat for Large Breed Puppies by Hill’s Science Diet
Hill’s Pet Nutrition has been caring for our beloved pets since 1939. With their specialized foods, they are extremely dedicated to helping cats and dogs get quality nutrition and healthcare.
This dry dog food’s main ingredient is a chicken meal with which provides a high quantity of good protein to support muscle building and development.
It contains fiber from whole grains to support your pup’s digestive system and promote healthy bowel movement.
The vitamins E and C together with the antioxidants work to support a healthy immune system, whereas the dog’s bone growth is maintained with controlled levels of calcium.
The DHA from fish oil helps your Labradoodle to develop healthy vision and cognition.
Pros
- It is a great source of chicken protein for building strong, lean muscles
- It contains fiber from whole grains for digestive health
- It has all essential macronutrients needed for healthy growth
- It has added vitamins and minerals to support the immune system and bone growth
- It supports your dog’s vision and brain development
- It comes in two packaging sizes
Cons
- The kibbles may be too big for a small puppy
- It may not be liked by some puppies
SmartBlend Dry Dog Food with Puppy Formula for Large Breeds by Purina ONE
The formulas of Purina ONE SmartBlend contain nutrition to support your pet’s health inside and out.
This particular product is made with chicken as a primary source of protein to support the growth and development of your Labradoodle’s muscles.
Furthermore, the whole grains used in the formula provide fiber to help with digestion and healthy stool.
The addition of vitamins (including vitamin A and E), antioxidants, and minerals further support the immune system of your puppy, as well as promote healthy and strong bones, joints, and teeth.
Skin and coat health is supported by the omega-6 fatty acids, while your Labradoodle’s vision and brain are maintained by the DHA.
Pros
- Its formula has high-quality protein from chicken and fiber from whole grains
- It contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids for overall health and growth
- It comes in two packaging sizes
Cons
- It has soybean meal which can cause digestion issues
- It has by-products and fillers
Dry Dog Food for Labrador Retriever Puppies by Royal Canin
Royal Canin is a leading pet food brand that continues to adapt to popular trends and demands while maintaining its core mission, providing pets with healthy and balanced nutrition.
If you are looking for dry dog food for a Labradoodle puppy that has a high quantity of protein, this is the one. It has thirty-one percent proteins mainly from chicken, which is essential for your pup to develop strong, lean muscles.
The kibbles are shaped like donuts to help your pup properly chew and eat slower.
Your dog will develop a strong immune system with a mix of antioxidants and vitamin E, and its bones and joints will be supported by the calcium and phosphorus in the formula.
Furthermore, prebiotics help to promote healthy digestion and bowel movement.
Pros
- It contains a high quantity of protein for optimal muscles strength and energy
- It has prebiotics for digestion and healthy stool
- It provides vitamins and minerals for a strong immune system, bones, and joints
Cons
- It has corn gluten meal and wheat gluten which may trigger allergic reactions
- Your pup may develop skin irritation because the food’s formula contains sodium tripolyphosphate
Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, High in Protein with Fresh and Raw Animal Ingredients by Orijen
Orijen offers premium pet products built from whole ingredients for optimal nutrition and fuel.
The grain-free dry food for puppies by Orijen contains high-quality protein from chicken, turkey, and wild-caught fish. It consists of thirty-eight percent protein, essential for muscle building and strength. Your Labradoodle will find this very tasty because it is coated with freeze-dried liver.
The formula includes omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as DHA and EPA for optimal skin, coat, cognitive and vision health.
The digestive system of your puppy will be supported by probiotics, and its bones and teeth will be strong thanks to the calcium and phosphorus present in the food.
Pros
- It has all essential macronutrients, including high quantity protein from fresh ingredients
- It supports healthy digestion with its probiotics
- It doesn’t contain grains, yet it has fiber from lentils
- Its formula doesn’t contain fillers or by-products
- It contains essential fatty acids, DHA, EPA, minerals, and vitamins crucial for healthy puppy growth
Cons
- It may not be liked by all puppies
- It is not recommended by all vets
- It may cause diarrhea to some pups
Dry Puppy Food for Large Breed with Lamb Flavor by Diamond Naturals
The number one ingredient in the formula of this dry puppy food by Diamond is pasture-raised lamb. It is customized for the nutritional needs of large breed puppies and provides a good quality protein.
Furthermore, it is enhanced by the addition of superfoods like blueberries and oranges, and probiotics for optimal digestive health and balanced nutrition.
Your puppy’s growth and development are further supported by the minerals, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants, which promote healthy skin and coat as well.
Pros
- It is made of pasture-raised lamb as a primary source of protein
- It has added probiotics for digestive health
- It promotes a strong immune system and overall health with antioxidants, essential fatty acids, superfoods, and prebiotics
Cons
- It may not be liked by some puppies
- It may trigger diarrhea if not introduced gradually
Natural Choice Dry Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies with Chicken and Brown Rice by Nutro
The dry dog food for large breed puppies by Nutro promotes healthy brain and eye development with the DHA from fish oil.
Its formula contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints and boosts your pup’s immune system with essential antioxidants.
Furthermore, the main ingredient is high-quality protein from chicken and brown rice to support your Labradoodle’s muscle growth and development.
Pros
- Its formula is rich with ingredients that support your puppy’s overall health and wellbeing
- It contains a good quantity of protein, fats, and fiber
- It doesn’t contain by-products or soy-based ingredients
Cons
- It may not be liked by all puppies
- It comes in only in bags of thirty pounds
In Conclusion
Labradoodle puppies are fun to have around and will fill your life with enormous joy and playfulness. The best thing you can do for your new family member is to understand its feeding requirements and individual nutrition needs so that you can create a healthy diet plan. Choosing the best Labradoodle puppy food that fits its needs and health condition will ensure your pooch has a healthy life filled with enjoyable moments.