If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what is the best dog food for Great Danes? Then we recommend the Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food as the best one.
If you’ve just welcomed your first Great Dane pup, or are thinking about adopting an adult dog, you’re no doubt wondering about how best to feed your giant pet.
As you’d expect from one of the world’s biggest dog breeds, Great Danes have BIG appetites, and keeping them full of healthy, nutritious food is no easy task.
To help discover the optimal diet for your pooch, here’s my guide to the best dog food for Great Danes.
In this article, we’re going to review the following foods for Great Dane:
- Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food Large Breed
- Eukanuba Large Breed Adult Dog Formula- Chicken
- Nutro Wholesome Essentials Food For Large Breed Puppies & Adult
- Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- Hill’s Science Diet Food, Adult, Large Breeds, Chicken & Barley Recipe
- Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Maxi Aging 8+
- Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Wet Pate Dog Food
- NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Adult Dry Dog Food- Large Breed Kibble
- Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
- Natural Balance Food – Large Breed Bites L.I.D. Lamb Meal & Brown Rice
- Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Dry Food Breed Size Specific
- Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy Chicken Meal & Oats Recipe
- Wellness Complete Health Large Puppy Food, Chicken, Salmon & Rice
- Merrick Grain Free Wet Dog Food
Best Dog Food for Adult Great Danes: Dry & Canned
#1 Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Large Breed
Renowned for their high quality, impeccably sourced ingredients, Wellness formulas contain only whole foods and are free from corn, wheat, preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors.
Designed with the specific needs of large breeds in mind, Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Large Breed Dog Food makes a great option if you’re looking to keep your Great Dane on a grain-free diet.
Pros
- Made with wholesome, natural ingredients with no wheat, corn, soy, or meat by-products
- Grain-free: great for dogs with gluten sensitivities
- Contain flaxseed for a healthy coat and skin
- Includes fibrous apples, sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach to support optimal digestion
- Properly balanced calcium: phosphorus ratio
- Contains supplementary Glucosamine and Chondroitin to aid mobility
- Uniquely sized kibble to prevent bloat
- Added Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E for a healthy coat and skin
- Controlled calories to support an ideal body weight
- Excellent source of protein from chicken and turkey
- Made in the USA and backed by the Wellness Guarantee
- Specially formulated with prebiotics and 80 plus million CFU probiotics to support the digestive health needs of larger breeds
- Free from additives, artificial preservatives, and flavorings.
Cons
- The formula contains chicken. Although rare, some dogs can experience an allergic reaction to poultry
#2 Eukanuba Large Breed Adult Dog Formula- Chicken
Eukanuba is a leading pet food manufacturer known for its high-quality formulas.
Eukanuba Large Breed Adult Dog Formula- Chicken delivers excellent nutrition for large-sized breeds, with a high protein recipe and additional supplements to support the overall health and well-being of your Great Dane.
Pros
- Chicken is the number 1 ingredient, making this a great source of easily digestible protein
- Rich in Fiber: natural Beet pulp and Prebiotic Fos helps nutrient absorption and aid digestion
- Contains Glucosamine and Chondroitin for healthy joints and mobility
- Omega-6 and -3 Fatty acids promote a glossy coat and healthy skin
- No artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, or synthetic nasties of any kind
- Good for dental health: EUKANUBA 3D DENTADEFENSE System has been proven to reduce tartar build-up in 28 days, making it great for dogs that hate having their teeth brushed
- Complete vitamin and mineral profile for a healthy immune system and overall well-being
- Complete, balanced nutritional profile with healthy amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
Cons
- Eukanuba is not a brand that makes an effort to avoid gluten. If your dog has digestive problems, the prominence of grains in the ingredients list (including corn as the number 1 ingredient) may pose a challenge
#3 Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies & Adult
Nutro makes nutritious, high-quality formulas designed to ensure the optimal levels of antioxidants, lean proteins, and healthy fats for a complete, balanced diet.
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Dog Food for Large Breed Puppies & Adult is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of large breeds and is packed with all the necessary ingredients to ensure the health and well-being of your Great Dane.
Pros
- The number 1 ingredient is farm-raised lamb, an excellent source of high-quality protein
- Includes naturally sourced Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support muscle and joint health
- Packed with Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids to maintain healthy skin and a silky coat
- Formulated with antioxidants and vitamins to provide exceptional immune support and help reduce the risk of heart problems
- No chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, wheat, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
- Made with Non- GMO ingredients
- Formulated prebiotic fiber from beet pulp for improved digestive health
- Provides a carefully combined ratio of proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins, and minerals to ensure the perfect balance of nutrients.
Cons
- The recipe includes several sources of grain and gluten, which could pose an allergen risk in pets with a predisposition to digestive issues such as IBS, leaky gut, and bowel problems
#4 Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo is renowned for its high-quality, impeccably sourced ingredients.
Its recipes are made with real meat (no animal by-products of any kind) and are designed to offer optimal nutrition at all stages of a dog’s life.
Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is specially formulated to meet the specific needs of large breeds and is a great option if you want to keep your pet on a grain-free diet.
Pros
- High-quality protein from real chicken to support lean muscle mass
- Contains wholesome veggies and fruit for a hefty dose of gut-friendly fiber
- 100% grain-free for dogs who struggle to digest gluten
- Contains an expert blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support a strong immune system, optimal oxidative balance, and a healthy cardiovascular system
- Made only with whole ingredients: the recipe is free from corn, wheat, soy, by-products, artificial flavors, and preservatives
- Formulated with naturally sourced glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and mobility
- L-Carnitine to develop and maintain healthy muscles
- Balanced Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids for healthy skin, a silky coat, and improved heart health
- Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.
Cons
- Contains poultry, which may pose a small allergen risk to some dogs
#5 Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Large Breeds, Chicken & Barley Recipe
Hill’s Science is a leading brand known for its high-quality, reliable formulas.
As well as being popular amongst pet owners, the brand can also boast of being the number 1 recommended pet food brand of vets.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of adult dogs who weigh more than 55 lbs, making it a great choice for your Great Dane.
Pros
- High in Protein: lamb meal (a great source of easily digestible animal protein) is the number one ingredient
- Made in the USA
- Rich in Vitamins: the formula contains a clinically proven antioxidant blend with vitamins C And E, both of which are proven to support a healthy immune system and healthy heart
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Contains Omega-6 Fatty Acids, vitamin E, and other nutrients to nourish and promote a healthy coat in just 30 days
- Good source of fiber: apples, broccoli, carrots, cranberries, and green peas help support digestive and colonic health
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to maintain healthy joints and mobility
- Calorie controlled to prevent the health problems associated with weight gain and obesity.
Cons
- The high quantity of grains and gluten in the recipe (including corn, whole grain wheat, whole grain sorghum, cracked pearled barley, and brown rice) make it unsuitable for dogs who suffer IBS, itchy skin, digestive upsets, and other food allergy symptoms
#6 Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Maxi Aging 8+
Royal Canin is a household name that’s famed for both the quality of its products and its breed-specific formulas.
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Maxi Aging 8+ Dry Dog Food has been carefully formulated to offer precise nutrition for large dogs aged 8+ and weighing 56–100 lbs.
If you’re looking to cater to the specific needs of an aging Dane, this carefully balanced recipe will do the job marvelously.
Pros
- Nourishes skin and coat with EPA And DHA Fatty Acids
- Supports healthy aging with an exclusive blend of immune-supporting, heart-protecting antioxidants
- Provides a specialized blend of minerals and vitamins to support bone and joint health in large breed seniors
- Contains a highly digestible blend of fiber to support digestion and gut health
- Highly palatable, rehydratable kibble made in a larger size to prevent bloat and make for easy chewing- ideal for senior dogs that suffer dental problems
- Contains the optimal amount of protein to maintain lean muscle mass while preventing weight gain
- Calcium chelators to reduce tartar formation
- Specially formulated to meet the calories needs of large breeds
- Formulated with prebiotics to promote optimal gut health and stool quality
- Comes with Royal Canin’s 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Cons
- The high percentage of wheat and rice could be challenging for dogs with food allergies, or who struggle to digest gluten
- Royal Canin is relatively expensive compared to other leading brands
#7 Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Canned Wet Pate Dog Food
Pet owners seeking an ethical, natural solution to their Great Dane’s dietary requirements would do well to consider Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Canned Wet Pate Dog Food.
Diamond Natural foods are becoming an increasingly popular brand among pet owners thanks to their high quality, ethically sourced ingredients, as well as their advanced range of specialized formulas.
Pros
- Rich in real beef protein to promote lean, strong muscles
- Supplemented with Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support healthy cartilage and joints
- Made in the US to strict quality control guidelines
- Made with scientifically advanced food safety protocols
- Contains dried beet pulp to support colonic health
- Highly digestible thanks to the addition of pumpkin, cranberries, quinoa, and blueberries
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Contains proprietary probiotics to maintain a healthy gut and digestion
- Rich in superfoods to provide optimal levels of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Contains supplementary L-Carnitine to help convert protein and fat into energy
- Omega-6 and -3 Fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin
- Meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages
- Can be used as a complete, balanced meal on its own, or as a palatable kibble topper.
Cons
- Contains a source of vegetable oil (sunflower oil), which some experts believe can trigger inflammation
#8 NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Adult Dry Dog Food- Large Breed Kibble
Nutro dog food formulas are made onsite at Nutro’s U.S. facilities.
Made from only the highest quality, freshest ingredients, Nutro’s recipes are designed to provide all the vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats your dog needs for a healthy, balanced diet.
NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Adult Dry Dog Food makes a great choice for Great Danes with food sensitivities, or who struggle to digest grain.
Pros
- Made with only a select few ingredients to reduce the risk of allergies
- Packed with easily digestible lamb protein
- 100% grain-free
- Includes a carefully blended mix of antioxidants and vitamins to support a healthy immune system
- Rich in sweet potatoes, an excellent source of easily digestible carbohydrate
- No chicken by-product, corn, soy, or wheat
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
- Contains Vitamin E, which can reduce inflammation and maintain a healthy coat and skin
- Specially formulated with larger sized kibble to suit the jaws of large breeds
- Made with Non- GMO ingredients
- Complete, balanced diet: Nutro carefully combines proteins, fats, carbs and vitamins, and minerals to ensure the perfect balance of nutrients
- Includes prebiotic fiber from beet pulp for improved digestive health and regular bowel movements.
Cons
- Contains both canola and sunflower oils, which are linked to inflammation
#9 Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
Whether you prefer to feed your dog on an exclusively wet diet or are just looking for a tasty topping for their kibble, Blue Buffalo Blue’s Stew Natural Adult Wet Dog Food offers an excellent, high protein alternative to dried food.
Pros
- Packed with protein-rich, easily digestible chicken to promote healthy lean muscle mass
- Made without wheat for gluten-sensitive dogs
- Packed with heart-healthy vegetables and antioxidants to support a strong immune system and overall well-being
- Contains chicken liver, a nutrient-rich superfood packed with essential vitamins and minerals
- Rich in collagen-rich broth to support healthy joints and mobility
- Free from corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives
- Rich in fiber (sources include peas, carrots, and potatoes) to support good digestion and bowel health
- Balanced Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids for healthy skin, a silky coat, and good heart health
- Free from poultry by-products
- High moisture content to support good kidney function in reluctant drinkers.
Cons
- Although it won’t be an issue for most dogs, the presence of chicken could pose an allergen risk in susceptible dogs
#10 Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food – Large Breed Bites L.I.D. Lamb Meal & Brown Rice
If a food allergy is at the root of your dog’s poor health, you may want to consider Natural Balance’s Limited Ingredient range.
Made with only a select few ingredients, the formula aims to reduce the number of allergens your dog is exposed to by keeping ingredients to a minimum.
Formulated to meet the exact requirements of larger breeds, this is a fabulous option for pet owners wanting nutritionally complete, allergen-free dog food.
Pros
- Made with only a select few ingredients to reduce the risk of allergies
- Packed with easily digestible lamb protein
- Fortified with essential nutrients, like niacin, vitamin A, beta-carotene, and biotin to maintain optimal health
- Free from artificial colors, flavors, colors, and preservatives
- Uniquely sized kibble helps support good dental health and proper chewing habits in larger breeds
- No animal by-products
- Contains added taurine to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system
- Made in the USA to vigorous quality standards
- Supports healthy skin and a shiny coat with balanced Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids
- Quality controlled: Natural Balance products are thoroughly tested for contaminants through the company’s Buy With Confidence programs.
Cons
- Contains grains, which some pet owners may wish to avoid, and canola oil, which has been linked to inflammation
Best Dog Food for Great Danes Puppies: Dry & Canned
#1 Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food Breed Size Specific
Catering to the dietary needs of a puppy is hard enough; catering to the needs of a large breed pup is even trickier.
Fortunately, Diamond Naturals have come up with a solution; a specially formulated kibble designed specifically for large breed pups.
Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food Breed Size Specific will provide everything your pup needs for healthy growth and development.
Pros
- Packed with healthy protein from lamb and lamb meal to support healthy muscular development
- Guaranteed levels of Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support cartilage and joint health
- Ethically sourced ingredients from pasture-raised lamb
- Made in the USA to strict food safety protocols
- Free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Supports a healthy gut and good digestion with proprietary probiotics
- Small kibble to prevent a choking risk in puppies
- Formulated with DHA to support brain and vision
- Rich in superfoods to provide the optimal quantity of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals needed for strong immune function, healthy digestion, and overall well-being
- Contains supplementary L-Carnitine to help convert protein and fat into energy
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Cons
- Contains rice and cracked pearled barley. If your pup struggles with digestive problems, they may prefer to avoid formulas containing grain
#2 Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Large Breed, Chicken Meal & Oats Recipe
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Large Breed, Chicken Meal & Oats Recipe
is formulated to meet the exact requirements of large breed puppies up to 1-year old that will be over 55lb when fully grown.
As an internationally recognized, highly reputable brand, Hill’s Science is considered one of the best food manufactures on the market; a claim that’s backed up by their status as the number 1 recommended brand among vets.
Pros
- High in Protein to support the energy demands of pups
- Meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages
- Formulated with the optimal calcium: phosphorous ratio to support controlled bone growth in large breeds
- Packed with natural, high quality, easy- to digest ingredients
- Naturally sourced Glucosamine and Chondroitin for muscle and joint health
- Contains prebiotic fiber from beet pulp for improved digestive health and regular bowel movements
- Fortified with a clinically proven antioxidant blend with vitamins C And E, both of which are highly beneficial to a healthy immune system.
- Free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Number 1 recommended veterinarian brand
- Contains taurine to support heart health
- Contains flaxseed, an excellent source of Omega-3’s.
Cons
- Grains, such as corn, whole wheat, whole sorghum, cracked pearled barley, and brown rice, feature heavily on the ingredients list, which may be a problem for dogs who suffer digestive issues such as IBS, skin allergies, or fatigue
#3 Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Large Breed Puppy Food, Chicken, Salmon & Rice
Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Large Breed Puppy Food is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a protein-packed, nutritionally complete dry food to keep their pup healthy and happy.
Wellness formulas are rich in high-quality, impeccably sourced ingredients, and are free from corn, wheat, preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors.
Pros
- Contains premium, all-natural ingredients with no wheat, corn, soy, or meat by-products
- Supports a luxurious coat and healthy skin with omega-3 rich flaxseed
- Includes fibrous apples, sweet potatoes carrots, and spinach to support healthy bowel function
- Optimal calcium: phosphorus ratio for proper bone development
- Contains supplementary Glucosamine and Chondroitin for healthy joint development
- Added DHA for a healthy brain, retinal, and bone development
- Larger kibble size to prevent bloat
- Controlled calories and 20% less fat than the brand’s other formulas to support ideal body weight and paced, steady growth
- Made in the USA and backed by the Wellness Guarantee
- Specially formulated to support the digestive health needs of larger breed pups
- No additives, artificial preservatives, and flavorings.
Cons
- The formula contains chicken. Although rare, some dogs can experience allergic reactions to poultry
- Contains rice and barley, which could pose a challenge to dogs with sensitive tummies.
#4 Merrick Grain Free Wet Dog Food
If your dog struggles to digest grain or gluten, they’re sure to love Merrick Grain-Free Wet Dog Food. Available in a range of flavors, including “Puppy Plate Chicken”, Puppy Plate Beef” and “Venison Holiday Stew”, all the recipes are 100% grain and gluten-free, making it an ideal choice if you suspect your pup has sensitive digestion.
Pros
- Made in the USA to rigorous quality standards
- Complete nutrition for your pup’s first year
- #1 ingredient is easy- to digest, protein-rich deboned chocked
- Grain and gluten-free nutrition for puppies who struggle to digest corn, wheat, or gluten
- Contains DHA for healthy brain development
- Pure ingredients: no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- No animal by-products of any kind
- Rich in sweet potatoes, peas, apples, and carrots; all excellent, easily digestible sources of carbohydrate and gut-friendly fiber
- Contains supplementary probiotics and prebiotics to help support nutrient absorption, along with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint function
- Rich in chicken broth, an easily digestible protein that offers excellent joint and cartilage benefits
- Meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages.
Cons
- Expensive
- Contains poultry, a potential allergen trigger for some dogs
Proper Nutrition Is Vital to Good Health
Large and giant breeds are susceptible to certain health conditions that smaller breeds are not, and Great Danes are no exception.
While certain diseases are inherited (and unavoidable), many are triggered by poor nutrition.
Feeding your pooch an optimal diet, therefore, plays a vital role in protecting them from such musculoskeletal and bone problems as OCD, hip and elbow dysplasia, HOD, and osteoarthritis.
Learn How To: Make Dog-friendly Hummus For Your Pup
Moderate Protein
According to the AAFCO, an adult dog’s diet should consist of a minimum of 18% protein, while pups need at least 22%.
Bear in mind this is the minimum requirement; most breeds can stand higher levels of protein unless they suffer from pre-existing kidney problems.
To keep your Great Dane in the best of health, aim for around 24% protein. This will be enough to ensure the right amount of lean muscle mass, without making them pack on the pounds.
Low Fat
Large breed pups are prone to rapid growth, which can result in long-term bone and joint problems. Keep your pup’s growth slow and steady by paying careful attention to their calorie consumption.
Fat is essential for health but as a concentrated source of calories, you should aim to keep it to between 12% and 20% of your pooch’s daily diet.
Controlled Calories
Looking at a Great Dane’s giant size, you’d be forgiven for thinking they need a massive number of calories to sustain them.
In fact, a Great Dane’s calorie needs are relatively low: despite being bred as hunting dogs, Great Dane’s are naturally lazy and expend as little energy as they can get away with.
To avoid weight gain and problems such as hyperglycemia and diabetes, keep portion sizes under control, and avoid indulging your pet with too many treats.
For more information, check out FeedingMyDogBreed.com
Check: High Caloric Dog Foods To Gain Weight And Muscles
What Food Options Are Available to Great Danes?
Go to any pet store and you’ll be greeted with row after row of dog food options. Choosing which is the best for your pet can be overwhelming.
Do you go with dry food or wet? High in carbs or grain-free? High in protein or low in fat?
And that’s just the commercial options… the question becomes even more complicated when we consider the potential minefield of home cooking, let’s take a look at some of the most popular options.
Raw Food Diet
In recent years, raw food diets have become increasingly popular among pet owners. Reported benefits of “going raw” include improved digestion, higher energy, enhanced immunity, and healthier skin and coat.
However, after the emergence of reports showing a higher level of harmful bacteria in raw food than cooked, both the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association have officially recommended against a raw meat diet.
If you’re interested in feeding your dog a raw food diet, be sure to speak to your vet about the best, and safest, way to proceed.
Canned/ Wet Food
Given the chance, most dogs would be very happy to live on a diet of wet food, but unfortunately, they’re not always the best judge of what’s good for them!
Canned or pouched food has some undoubted benefits (palatability, convenience, and high moisture content).
However, wet food also comes with a high fat and calorie content, making it a less than ideal choice for the calorie-conscious Great Dane.
Try to keep wet food to an occasional treat or kibble topper to avoid unwelcome weight gain. If you want to check out the pros and cons of wet food vs dry for yourself, take a look at
Dry Food
In recent years, pet food manufactures have abandoned their “one size fits all” approach to dry food, and in its place, have flooded the market with enough varieties of kibble to suit every breed, size, weight, and condition of dog imaginable.
Kibble is a great, economical option for your pet, and will ensure they receive a complete, balanced diet.
However, be aware that not all formulas are created equal; be sure to check the ingredients list and research the reputation of the manufacturer before buying.
Learn More: What Makes Large Breed Dog Food Different?
How Much Food Should I Feed My Great Dane?
No two dogs are the same, and you should remember to consider activity levels, age, and condition when deciding how much to feed your pet.
However, there are some general guidelines you can use to establish a base requirement. Mypetneedsthat.com recommends the following:
Puppies (use the lower limit for females, and the higher for males)
- 8- 11 weeks old: 2- 4 cups daily over 3 meals
- 12-15 weeks old: 3-5 cups daily over 2 meals
- 16-19 weeks old: 4-6 cups daily over 2 meals
- 20- 23 weeks old: 6- 8 cups daily over 2 meals
- 24- 27 weeks old: 6-8 cups daily over 2 meals
- 9 months to 1 year- 7-10 cups daily over 2 meals
Adults
- Males: 8- 14 cups daily over 2 meals
- Females: 6-9 cups daily over 2 meals
Key Ingredients to Consider
Nutrition is a vital stepping stone to a long and healthy life. Choosing the right diet may seem tricky at first, but the basics of nutrition are surprisingly easy to grasp.
Learn a few simple hints and tips, and your pet’s health will be sure to thank you!
Digestible Proteins
Protein is crucial to healthy muscle development and growth.
However, choose your protein source carefully… large breeds have surprisingly sensitive digestions and can struggle to process certain foods.
To avoid bloat and stomach upsets, look for foods that contain easily digestible proteins like chicken or turkey.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals may be vital to health, but it’s important to note that large breeds need lower levels of certain nutrients than other breeds.
An excess of calcium, for example, can trigger bone problems such as osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) and other developmental diseases (for more info, take a look at vcahospitals.com).
Ensuring the proper ratio of nutrients can be tricky, but fortunately, most manufacturers offer large breed-specific formulas that take the guesswork out of your calculations.
As a bonus, most large breed formulas have added Glucosamine and Chondroitin; vital ingredients in developing and maintaining healthy joints.
Related Reading: What Are Some Nutrients Facts Of Rice For Dogs?
Antioxidants
Great Danes are predisposed to cardiomyopathy, a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle.
Ensuring an adequate supply of antioxidants in your pet’s diet will minimize the risk of disease, while also reducing inflammation and supporting their immune system and digestive health.
Fruit and vegetables are great sources of antioxidants, but also look out for formulas containing green tea extract.
Probiotics
To keep your dog’s gut as healthy and happy as possible, make sure they get an adequate supply of probiotics.
American Kennel Club veterinary expert, Jerry Klein, DVM, explains the benefits of probiotics thus: “They are believed to help treat and/or prevent a variety of illnesses and diseases, especially those related to the gastrointestinal system.
They inhibit the growth and activity of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Clostridium perfringens, as well as provide other advantages to the intestines”.
Digestible Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide a great source of energy, can help improve digestion, and deliver a hefty helping of vitamins and minerals.
If your dog is prone to bloat (a common problem for Great Danes), avoid hard-to-digest carbohydrates like glutens and grains, and stick to wholesome vegetables and fruits. For more on the benefits of carbohydrates, check out petmd.com
Supplements
Avoid supplementing your dog’s diet without proper advice. Most commercial dog foods contain all the vitamins and minerals your dog needs.
Supplementing their diet with additional nutrients can impact the ratio of important minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which need to be precisely balanced to avoid serious health complications.
If you think your dog would benefit from additional supplementation, be sure to consult your vet first.
Meat Meal
Although some pet owners are reluctant to feed their pets anything but whole meat, a meat meal is actually a great alternative. Unlike whole meats, which have a high moisture content, a meat meal is a dehydrated (and therefore concentrated) form of protein.
Because of this difference in moisture content, a formula that lists meat meal as its top ingredient will typically have a higher protein content than a formula that’s made mainly with whole meat.
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And the Winner Is….
Of all the options we’ve looked at Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food comes out on top.
Its breed-specific formula guarantees optimal nutrition for Great Danes, while the absence of grain from its recipe makes it suitable for even the most sensitive digestions.
With the perfect balance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants required to support a healthy immune system and protect against breed-specific health conditions like heart disease and joint problems, your Great Dane couldn’t ask for better.
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