Talking about pet dogs, a golden retriever is quickly becoming the most friendly go-to breed with people worldwide. They are among the most beautiful and giant breeds in the retriever family. They have long silky coats in many colors, like brown, orange, and mainly golden. Also, they make great family dogs because they are friendly to everyone and are also very easy to train.
Pet lovers will agree that their pets require proper care and attention, and dogs are no exception. Dogs need to be groomed, fed and taken out for walks to get some exercise and to help socialize with other friendly animals. Apart from this, they require an equal amount of healthy and balanced diet to keep them fit and active. So, choosing the best dog food for golden retrievers becomes essential.
A golden retriever weighs around 60-75 pounds when fully grown. They need a healthy diet to be fit, energetic, and active. The nutritional requirement of a golden retriever varies depending on age, gender, body weight, activity level, and body type.
However, to maintain good health, the best diet for golden retrievers is highly protein-rich, i.e., consisting of 19-23% of protein (according to MSD). Human food like fruits, vegetables, and grains are also suitable for them if given in moderation.
One of the crucial things about golden retrievers is that gaining weight may result in many health problems. So, one must check the quality and the quantity of the food their dog consumes.
So, this article will discuss the nutritional requirements of golden retrievers and the types of food that are good for this breed.
Nutritional Requirements of Golden Retriever
As discussed above, the dietary needs of a golden retriever vary depending on variables like your dog’s age, activity level, weight, gender, and so on. According to the MSD vet manual that publishes a profile of dog nutrition, there is a list of vitamins and minerals that golden retrievers need for healthy growth.
Some of them are as follows:
- Proteins
- Fats
- Vitamins & minerals
- Water
Nutrition |
Requirements |
| Proteins |
|
| Fat |
|
| Vitamins |
|
| Minerals |
|
| Water |
|
As you have got a hold of a golden retriever’s various essential nutritional requirements. Now, let’s hop on to the types of retriever dog food that are needed to be incorporated into their diet for healthy growth.
Best Dog Food for Golden Retrievers and Puppies (For International Buyers)
If we talk about the best food for golden retrievers, the answer would depend on various factors like the dog’s age, gender, body type, activity level, weight, and so on, as we saw in the case of nutritional requirements. And I believe the food that suits your dog well and fulfills all the nutritional requirements is best for them.
But still, if you find it challenging to choose the best golden retriever puppy food, you should consult your veterinarian before considering any of the recommendations below.
Now to make it easy for my readers, here are some of the best brands that provide high-quality golden retriever foods.
1. Pedigree Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak and Vegetables Flavour Dog Kibble Adult Dry Dog Food
It provides complete balanced nutrition with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that helps maintain your dog’s healthy lifestyle. It is for adult golden retrievers.
Features
- Contains Omega 6 fatty acid that nourishes the skin and keeps the coat healthy and shiny.
- Crunchy texture helps in cleaning the teeth.
- Contains no high fructose corn syrup and no artificial flavors.
Main ingredients
Ground whole grain corn, meat and bone meal, brewers rice, potassium chloride, soybean meal, dried plain beet pulp, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide is mentioned at the back of the pack and on the link below.
The MRP of this product is $ 13.98, and you can purchase a 16-lb bag at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
2. Purina PRO Plan High Protein Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice formula with probiotic Dry Dog Food
It is formulated with high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. This provides a complete essential meal that helps support your 7-month-old golden retriever and above (adult golden retrievers) to maintain overall health and wellness.
The same product comes for golden retriever puppies, also under the name Purina PRO Plan Puppy Chicken & Rice Formula.
Features
- Hard kibble combined with tender, shredded pieces for taste and texture.
- High protein formula with real chicken.
- Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health.
- Vitamin A and omega 6 for skin and coat.
Main ingredients
Rice, chicken, whole grain wheat, soybean meal, dried egg product, fish oil, soybean oil, calcium carbonate, wheat bran, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide is mentioned at the back of the pack and on the link below.
The MRP of this product is $ 45.68, and you can purchase an 18-lb bag at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
3. Nutro Natural Choice Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
This food for golden retrievers serves as a nutrient-packed meal and is formulated to provide them with both nutrients and flavors. This dry food is specifically for all breeds.
Features
- Contains high-quality chicken and protein sources.
- Made with non-GMO ingredients.
- Formulated with antioxidants to support dogs’ immune system
- Omega 6 and omega three fatty acids maintain healthy skin and coat
Main ingredients
Chicken, brewers rice, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, dried pumpkin, chia seeds, dried spinach, dried coconut, dried egg product, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide is mentioned at the back of the pack and on the link below.
The MRP of this product is $ 53.99, and you can purchase a 30-lb bag at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
4. ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
It provides peak nourishment to your dog, providing them with a complete meal for their healthy growth. Besides being the best food for the golden retriever puppy and adult, it is suitable for all other breeds.
Features
- Crafted with 85% premium animal ingredients, including poultry and fish, for a strong source of vitamins, minerals, and proteins.
- Packed with whole prey nutrition featuring nutrients rich diet.
- Freeze-dried coated for a burst of raw flavor.
Main ingredients
Chicken, turkey, flounder, eggs, whole pumpkin, whole apples, whole chickpeas, lentil fiber, chicken fat, cranberries, whole pears, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide is mentioned at the back of the pack and on the link below.
The MRP of this product is $ 99.99, and you can purchase a 25-lb bag at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
5. BLUE BUFFALO Wilderness Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
It is packed to satisfy the spirit of your dog’s inner wolf. The fruits and veggies provide your adult and fat golden retriever with the energy it needs.
Features
- A high-protein recipe cooked with real chicken.
- Omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.
- Made with 100% natural ingredients
- Contains antioxidants that help in boosting the immune system.
Main ingredients
Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas protein, fish meal, chicken fat, dried tomato pomace, dried egg product, flaxseed, pea starch, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide is mentioned at the back of the pack and on the link below.
The MRP of this product is $ 53.98, and you can purchase a 20-lb bag at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
6. IAMS Adult Golden Retriever(1.5 + years) Premium Dry Dog Food
It is uniquely packed for golden retrievers keeping in mind their body needs. It provides a nutritious complete meal to them for their healthy growth.
Features
- Has L. Carnitine which maintains a healthy weight.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin help maintain healthy joints.
- Omega 6 gives golden retrievers healthy skin and coats.
- Vitamins like calcium and magnesium keep their heart active.
Main ingredients
Wheat, corn, barley, chicken by-product meal, chicken oil, fish oil, beet pulp, maize gluten, etc.
Feeding guide
Dogs’ weight (20-30 kg): 255g-345g/day
Dogs’ weight (40-50 kg): 430g-540g/day
Dogs’ weight ( 50-60 kg): 505g-580g/day
This product will cost about INR 1,440, and you can buy a 3kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
7. Royal Canin Golden Retriever Junior Dry Puppy Food
Growing Golden retrievers require a good amount of nutrient-rich
a diet that contains complex antioxidants. The product also contains nutrients that keep their skin and coat shiny and healthy.
Features
- Best puppy food for golden retrievers (8 weeks to 15 months)
- Ideal for the digestive system.
- Healthy skin and coat management.
- 29% protein content.
Main ingredients
Brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, wheat gluten, fish oil, vegetable oil, potassium chloride, dried plain beet pulp, corn, corn gluten meal, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide is mentioned at the back of the pack. In case one has confusion regarding the amount of food needed to be given to the dog.
The MRP of this product is INR 2,499, and you can buy a 3kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
8. Goofy Tails Veggies and Sweet Potatoes Fresh Food For Dogs and Puppies
It serves as a balanced dog food for golden retrievers of all stages. Goofy fresh is known to improve better skin and coat, support healthier digestion and improve the health of the dog. Fresh ingredients promote stronger muscles and better overall health.
Features
- Contains omega 6 to omega 3 in the ratio of 6:1, which helps maintain healthy skin and coat.
- Power-packed with protein, minerals, and vitamins as it contains all the fresh veggies.
- 100% human-grade that yields a high-quality, healthy diet for dogs
- A balanced and complete meal to both the adult dogs and puppies.
Main ingredients
Paneer, pumpkin seeds, yellow lentils, chia seeds, flax seeds, sweet potatoes, spinach, carrot, fennel seeds, mint leaves, etc.
Feeding guide-
- Small puppies – 200-400g daily
- Medium dogs – 400-600g daily
- Large dogs – 600-1000g daily
The MRP of this product is INR 191.25, and you can purchase a 200g pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
9. Taste of Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food- Smoked Salmon
It contains salmon that provides high-quality protein and omega fatty acids for golden retriever puppies’ skin and coat health. The small kibble size makes it an ideal puppy food for a golden retriever. Also, it is easy to chew well.
Features
- No eggs, making it suitable for dogs sensitive to eggs. Loaded with various vegetables, fruits, and antioxidants that support your dog’s overall well-being.
- Contains protein – 27%, fat – 15%, omega 6 – 2.4%, omega 3 – 0.3%.
- Contains vitamin E, which helps in boosting the immune system.
- Omega-3 fatty acids and salmon oil help in brain development.
Main ingredients
Salmon, sweet potatoes, peas, ocean fish meal, tomatoes, pomace, blueberries, raspberries, etc.
Feeding guide
Just like Royal Canin, the feeding guide of this product is available at the back of the pack, where you can quickly check the amount of food you need to give to your dog.
MRP of this product is INR 1,900, and you can purchase a 2kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
10. Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (All Breeds & Age)
Orijen Original uses its biological approach to cater to the needs of dogs of all stages. It has 38% protein from various types of meat, turkey flounder, Atlantic mackerel, and herring and nest-laid eggs. It has only 20% of carbohydrates for a low-glycemic diet.
Features
- Protein-rich diet
- 85% meat and 15% botanical products
- 0% fast carbs like grains and potatoes
- 85% quality poultry and fish ingredients
Main ingredients
Fresh chicken meat, fresh eggs, fresh whole herring, red and green lentils, chickpeas, carrot, apples, spinach, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide of this product has been mentioned at the back of the pack.
The MRP of this product is INR 2,799, and you can buy a 2kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
11. Acana – Wild Coast – All Dogs Breeds and Life Stages
This product is suitable for all dog breeds and life stages. You can easily feed this to your golden retrievers, as it is a nutritious meal.
Features
- Loaded with protein and omega 3.
- Contains 50% fish and 50% fruits and vegetables.
- Free from high glycemic and carbohydrates.
- Approximately 67% of the meat is dehydrated without preservatives, and the rest is fresh.
Main ingredients
Herring meal, steel-cut oats, oil, green peas, red and green lentils, pumpkin, carrots, spinach, apples, berries, rosehips, etc.
Feeding guide
Daily requirements and a feeding guide for this product are available at the back of the pack.
The MRP of this product is INR 2,199, and you purchase a 2kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
12. American Journey Large Breed Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
This brand is best for golden retrievers of all stages. All the ingredients help increase energy, strengthen bones, improve immunity, and neutralize free radicals.
Features
- Features are small kibble, making it an ideal golden retriever puppy’s food.
- Free of corn, wheat, and soya, making it suitable for food-sensitive dogs.
- Loaded with fruits and vegetables like carrots, blueberries, etc., that help strengthen the immune system.
Main ingredients
Deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, chickpeas, and sweet potatoes.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide of this product has been mentioned at the back of the pack.
The MRP of this product is INR 3,453, and you can buy a 10kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
13. Purina Supercoat Adult Dry Dog Food (Chicken)
This product is for adult golden retrievers. It contains chicken that provides complete and balanced nutrition that keeps your dog happy and healthy.
Features
- A protein-rich diet that builds strong muscles.
- Omega 6 & 3 help build shiny coats and healthy skin.
- Helps strengthen the immune system with minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Keeps dogs’ digestive systems healthy with natural fiber. Also, it contains at least 23% protein and 10% fat.
Main Ingredients
Wheat, rice, corn, chicken, milk solids, dehydrated fish protein, vitamins, minerals, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide of this product has been mentioned at the back of the pack, where you can quickly check on the amount of food you need to give to your dog.
The MRP of this product is INR 2,219, and you can purchase a 10kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
14. Brown Rice and Beans – Vegan Wet Dog Food
This is one of the best vegan foods for golden retrievers, packed to provide a balanced diet. This one is specifically for adult golden retrievers.
Features
- High-protein food contains all amino acids.
- 100% natural ingredients.
- No GMO ingredients.
- No animal-based ingredients.
Primary ingredients
Chickpeas, cranberries, blueberries, pumpkin, spinach, oats, nutritional yeast, etc.
It contains omega 3 & 6, which provide healthy skin, and taurine and L-Carnitine, which help in brain development.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide of this product is available at the back of the pack.
The MRP of this product is INR 1,199, and you can purchase a pack of 3 (500g each) at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
15. Farmina N&D Quinoa( skin & coat) Duck, Coconut & Turmeric All Dry Food, Grain Free, Adult Breed
This dog food provides a complete and balanced meal, suggested for nutrient intolerance and averted allergies. It also helps maintain the hair and skin of your dog.
The product is suitable for all dog breeds, including golden retrievers too. And, as the name suggests, it is mainly for adult dogs. One more product comes in the same brand named Farmina N&D Ocean Pumpkin & Cantaloupe Melon Grain Free, specifically for puppies.
Features
- Contains 92% of protein from animal origin.
- Enriched with fish oil, omega 3, and vitamins that reduce inflammation in various body organs.
- An ingredient like coconut is rich in zinc that protects the skin.
- Turmeric is an antioxidant that helps skin repair.
Primary ingredients
Boneless duck, fish oil, quinoa seed extract, dried coconut, turmeric, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, etc.
Feeding guide
The feeding guide of this product is available at the back of the pack.
The MRP of this product is INR 3,190, and you can purchase a 2.5kg pack at this price.
Quantity and the amount of this product can vary depending on your need. For that, visit the link below.
Buy Now.
Types Of Dog Food For Golden Retrievers
What kind of food should be given to a dog, specifically golden retrievers? The answer is that one should make a diet plan to meet all the necessary nutritional requirements of their dog.
1. Human Food
It is nothing but homemade food or, in other words, food that we humans consume. Human food is good for golden retrievers if given in proper moderation. Most pet holders prefer homemade food for their dogs, and the reasons are:
- First, it gets prepared hygienically.
- It has more nutrients than packed foods.
- Good for trials (what food is best suited for your dog. food allergies, or any food dislikes).
Now, let’s go through some food items readily available at home for golden retrievers.
| Protein Rich Food | Vegetables | Fruits | Dairy products | Grains |
| Chicken | Spinach | Apple | Milk | Oats |
| Beef | Carrot | Banana | Cottage cheeses/low-fat cheese | Rice |
| Salmon | Broccoli | Watermelon | Yogurt | Multigrain Bread (cooked |
| Egg | Green beans | Berries | Ice cream | Wheat Roti |
All the food mentioned above can be given to golden retrievers. Still, the question that might come to your mind is if there is any difference in the diet for male and female dogs. The answer is simple. You could give all types of food to both genders. The only difference that will come here is the quantity of the food as per their nutritional requirements.
One needs to keep some points in mind if they are going for homemade food:
- Give the food in moderation.
- Gradually introduce any new food item.
- Give cooked food because that helps in easy digestion.
- Remove all seeds and stones from the fruits and vegetables.
- No artificial sweetener (Xylitol).
- Do not give any processed food seasoned with salt and spices.
2. Canned Food
It is the packed food you get from the shop for your dog. It can be further divided into two categories:
-
Dry food
Dr food is of two types- Kibble and Cold pressed. Kibble dog food contains meat, grains, and vegetables that are dried, baked under high temperatures, and reshaped in small-sized pellets.
On the other hand, cold-pressed is a high-quality kibble prepared under low temperatures. Dry food is much better than wet food as it has more protein than wet food because of the low moisture level.
Some of the best dry foods readily available for golden retrievers are:
● Taste of the wild southwest canyon( 32% protein, 17%fat)
● Nom nom fresh( 37% protein, 26% fat)
● Royal Canin golden retriever puppy( 30% protein, 16% fat)
-
Wet food
Wet foods are suitable for golden retrievers but contain less protein than dry food because of the high moisture level. They contain almost 65-80% of water. They are generally given to dogs if they are sick or have dental or kidney problems.
Some of the best-wet foods for golden retrievers are
● Pedigree adult wet food- chicken and liver chunks in gravy
● Jerhigh wet food- grilled chicken in gravy.
A question that might pop up here is which one to choose, wet or dry. So to make it easy for my readers, here is a table for comparison:
Dry Dog Food |
Wet Dog Food |
| For medium to large breeds | For small breeds. |
| Easy to store. | Short shelf life. |
| Less expensive | Quite more expensive as compared to dry food. |
| Decreases the chances of plaque building on your dogs’ teeth | Builds plaque on your dog’s teeth. |
| Rich in protein | Contains less protein. |
To balance nutrients in your dog food, one can also go for a combination of wet and dry food in a proportion that can make a proper healthy meal for your dog.
Conclusion
As for humans, food is a primary need for pets and other animals. So, it becomes essential for a pet owner to make the right choice. In the above article, I have mentioned a few of the best dog food for golden retrievers and puppies you can consider.
Planning a well-balanced diet is essential for the healthy growth of a golden retriever. It’s not about which food category is right and which is not; it’s about what suits your pet best. And this depends on various factors like the gender of your dog, activity level, age, body type, and so on.
The main goal of pet owners is to keep their pet fit and active by introducing them to a diet that can give their pets all the required nutrients for healthy growth.
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