what brand of dog food is best for labs

5 Best Dog Foods For Labs (2024)

How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Labs

Canadas Labrador Retriever is a breed that enjoys immense popularity as a cherished family companion.

A dog that traces its roots to a fishermans assistant in the icy waters of the North Atlantic, the Labrador is a versatile and athletic dog that excels at many different pursuits.

The Lab puppies are highly intelligent, making them well-suited to many different sports including field trials, obedience, Rally, agility, scent detection, and more.

A breed that is very friendly and affectionate, the Labrador Retriever is an excellent choice for families with children with whom it is gentle and kindly disposition.

Labrador Retrievers have a lot of energy to expend, so they are best in a family that enjoys an active lifestyle. However, if kept well exercised, this dog breed will not be prone to becoming obese. Exercise is also essential for the dogs healthy joints, helping to maintain healthy joints as it ages.

A hearty eater, the Labrador Retriever will eat far past the point of satiation if free-fed. It is recommended that the best dog foods for Labrador Retrievers be measured and all intake monitored to prevent the dog from becoming overweight.

Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for Labrador Retrievers

Selecting the best dog food for a Labrador Retriever can be a daunting task. Once an owner has decided on the right diet, it is then necessary to determine how much the dog needs for each meal.

The best course of action to ascertain this is to use the suggested serving size printed on the bag as a starting point. These amounts can be adjusted until the proper amount has been found.

Labrador Retrievers can be predisposed to a condition known as bloat. Though experts do not yet know what factors must combine to result in this life-threatening medical condition, it is generally believed that eating too much and too quickly should be avoided.

The ideal diet for an adult Labrador Retriever should consist of a minimum of 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat.

Dietary Requirements for Labrador Retriever Dog Foods

Since the Labrador Retriever is a natural athlete, this dog type requires a high-performance, well-balanced diet to thrive.

The best dog foods for Labrador Retrievers base themselves on lean meat. Whole meats are the preferred option, but meat meals are also an excellent concentrated source suited to this energetic and lively breed.

Corn gluten meal is also an excellent source of protein, as well as being high in fiber.

By-products and plant-based proteins such as soy, corn, and wheat are inferior in nutritional quality and can trigger food sensitivities in some dogs. Diets that include these ingredients should be avoided.

Additionally, additives, chemicals, flavoring agents, and artificial colors offer no benefits to the Labrador Retriever. Foods containing these items are best left on the shelf.

Carbohydrates can come from fruits, vegetables, or whole grains. Dogs that have displayed food sensitivities in the past may do best on a diet that is free. Whole-grain brown rice, sweet potatoes, and oats are suitable for Labrador Retrievers.

The primary importance of any ingredient selected for a diet for the Labrador Retriever is its ease of digestibility and high antioxidant content.

Healthy fats play an important role in the Labrador Retrievers nutritional needs. It is from these ingredients that the dogs energy levels are stoked and coat and skin health are achieved and maintained.

The best sources for these ingredients are animal-based and include such items as fish meal and chicken fat. Canola and safflower oils can also boost the omega fatty acids profile of a food.

Supplements can help excellent quality puppy food to be even more effective for dogs. The ideal supplements to look for in an active Labrador Retriever are prebiotics, probiotics, glucosamine, and chondroitin.

Things to Look for in the Best Dog Food for Labs

Here is a basic list of the most important things to look for in the best dog food for a Labrador Retriever:

• Whole meat-based proteins heading up the ingredients list

The Labrador Retriever needs a diet that takes a lean, meat-based protein as its primary ingredient. Whole meats are the best option, but meat meals are also acceptable.

Among the proteins that are best avoided are soy, corn, wheat, and any meat by-product.

• Prepared without the addition of chemicals, flavorings, fillers, or mystery ingredients

Chemicals, fillers, artificial flavorings and colorings, and mystery ingredients provide no nutritional benefit to the Labrador Retriever. Foods containing these items are not suited for the needs of this breed.

• Enriched with probiotics and helpful supplements

Supplements help a diet to be its most effective. The best supplements to support the Labrador Retrievers health include prebiotics, probiotics, glucosamine, and chondroitin.

• Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food

All foods appropriate for the Labrador Retriever should bear the AAFCO seal of approval, indicating it meets the standards for a complete and balanced food.

24 Best Dog Foods for Labrador Retrievers (Labs)

Labradors, commonly known as labs, are a sight to behold. To maintain those attractive looks, you should serve your lab a diet that meets their breed-specific nutritional requirements. Labs are working dogs involved in sports, farming, therapy, and hunting. They, therefore, need foods rich in proteins and crafted from high complex carbs like oatmeal that are high in soluble fiber.

Labs are also susceptible to obesity hence the best dog food for labs should be crafted with more fats and fewer carbohydrates based on their activity levels to boost their stamina. Labs are also prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis so the best food to serve them should have glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health.

Moreover, labs are vulnerable to eye problems like cataracts, so their best food should have vitamin A and beta-carotene for vision health. In addition, labs are susceptible to heart problems so you should ensure their diet contains taurine, L-carnitine, and omega fatty acids to boost cardiovascular health.

Choosing the right format lowers the risk of stomach upsets and allergic reactions. The right format also helps your dog maintain a healthy weight and stay happy. Taste of the Wild, Royal Canin, Earthborn Holistics, Wellness Core, and Nutro are among the best brands for the leading dog food for labs.

The average price is $35, with the cheapest being $14, and the most pricey is $93. Labs have three major life stages, including puppy, adult, and senior, with each stage needing unique nutrition.

Here are our best five dog food picks for labs. Scroll down further for picks 6-24.

Note: The prices quoted in this article are as of January 30th, 2022.

Midwestern Pet Foods manufactures this tangy meal for large and giant dog breeds.

• High-quality protein from chicken meal
• L-carnitine support lean muscle mass and an active lifestyle
• Glucosamine helps with joint health

The production date of this formula is September 18th, 2013. The main ingredients are Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Tapioca, Oatmeal, and Pearled Barley with a calorie value of 360 Kcal/cup and a fat value of 135 to boost your labs energy levels. The protein, fiber, and moisture values are 26%, 3%, and 10%, respectively.

Consuming this meal gives your dog strong and healthy muscles and bones with high-quality proteins, calcium, and phosphorus. Your labs heart will also benefit from taurine and L-carnitine. Labs are prone to eye problems and hip dysplasia, and this meal is an excellent choice as it has beta-carotene, chondroitin, and glucosamine to boost vision and joint health.

Serving this meal also reduces the bad stool smell as it has yucca schidigera. This diet is crafted with real fruits for antioxidants that protect from cellular damage. Dietary fiber from wholesome sources promotes bowel wellness and ensures your lab maintains a healthy weight.

The daily consumption depends on your dogs age, health condition, activity levels, and environment. Use the guide on the bag and adjust the servings according to your dogs nutritional needs.

Eagle Pack Pet Foods manufactures this nutritious meal for large and giant breeds.

• Rich in antioxidants that promote a healthy immune system
• Proteins sourced from pork meal and chicken meal
• Enhanced with calcium to support bone health

The first production date is July 1st, 2010. The primary ingredients are Chicken Meal, Pork Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Oatmeal, and Rice with a calorie value of 340 Kcal/cup and 12% fat for a healthy weight and improved stamina. The protein value is 25%, while the fiber and moisture values are 4% and 10%.

This formula is crafted with omega fatty acids and glucosamine for skin and joint health. It is also packed with antioxidants and dietary fiber for proper immunity and an ideal digestive environment for the adequate absorption of essential nutrients. The unique combination of ingredients is nutritionally perfect for dogs weighing 50 lbs and above.

The feeding guidelines are given depending on your Labs poundage. Labs weighing 50-60 pounds need 3 to 3 cups daily, while those weighing 70-80 pounds need 4 to 4 cups. For mixed feeding, you should reduce the dry food by cup for every 6 oz of wet food. When introducing a new food, you should transition gradually until your Lab adapts to the new food. This meal is best for dogs with grain allergies and sensitive digestion.

Mars Pet Food Company manufactures this breed-specific recipe, and it was first produced on September 30th, 2004, targeting labs aged 15 months and older.

• Contains precise calorie and fat content for weight management
• Specialized kibble shape helps with slower chewing
• Made for Labrador Retrievers 15 months and older

The first five ingredients are Chicken-By-product Meal, Brown Rice, Oat Groats, Corn Gluten Meal, and Brewers Rice with a caloric value of 275 Kcal/cup. The protein content is 28% for strong muscles, while the fat value is 11%.

It has a fiber value of 5.4% and a moisture value of 10%. It is crafted with DHA, EPA, glucosamine, and chondroitin for cognitive functions, joint health, and mobility. The kibble is customized to help fast eaters slow down and chew properly. The calorie and fat contents are perfect for weight management in Labradors.

It also contains dietary fiber for digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight. The feeding guidelines are based on your dogs weight and activity level. Dogs weighing 57.3 lbs need 3 cups for medium activity, while those who are actively engaged need 4 cups. This die is suitable for large breed labradors. Avoid this meal in labs with grain allergies as it is grain-inclusive, and your lab may react negatively to it.

This is a product of Diamond Pet Foods, a company that uses real meat to mimic wild dog food that appeals to your dogs instincts.

• Contains fruits and vegetables for complete nutrition
• Fiber-rich sweet potatoes and peas help with easy digestion
• Omega fatty acid blend support healthy skin and shiny coat

This recipe was first produced on November 17th, 2018 for all dog breeds. The primary ingredients are Lamb, Lamb Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Egg Product, and Lentils. It has 410 calories per cup with a protein value of 25% and a fat value of 15%.

The fiber and moisture values are 5% and 10%. This diet contains taurine and DHA for heart, vision, and brain health. Omega fatty acids boost the skin and coat appearance, while yucca schidigera reduces the unpleasant fecal odor. It is crafted with real lamb meat for high-quality proteins to boost your dogs muscle and bone strength.

This meal also contains probiotics, prebiotics, and antioxidants for bowel health and improved immunity. In addition, it has chelated minerals that aid in the absorption of essential nutrients. The daily consumption varies depending on your dogs weight. Dogs weighing 3 lbs need to cups depending on their age, while those weighing 5 lbs need to 1 cup. This diet is suitable for dogs with grain allergies and those who cannot tolerate chicken.

Canidae Pet Food Corporations manufactures this formula for all dog breeds and stages.

• Formulated with wholesome grains
• Guaranteed levels of probiotics to help with digestive tract
• Enhanced with vitamins and minerals

The first manufacturing date is July 25th, 2008, and it has gained popularity among pet parents. The major ingredients are Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, and Oatmeal. It contains 506 calories per cup hence a good choice for highly active dogs.

The protein value of 24% boosts muscle power, while the fat value of 10% supplies energy. The fiber and moisture contents are 4.5% and 10% respectively. It has omega fatty acids and taurine for coat and cardiovascular health. Glucosamine and chondroitin boost joint and hip health while antioxidants protect against inflammatory disease.

Probiotics and fiber promote digestive health. This meal is suitable for dogs with stomach sensitivities as it is free from wheat, corn, and soy. The weight of your dog dictates the daily portions. Dogs weighing 2-10 lbs need to cups while those weighing 10-25 lbs require to 1 cups.

Free-feeding is advisable for pregnant and lactating dogs. For puppies, you should double the amount of adults. We recommend a gradual transition of 7-10 days. You should avoid this meal in dogs with grain allergies as it is grain-inclusive.

Wellness Core Large Breed Formula is a product of Wellness Core Pet Foods and the first production date is September 12, 2013, for large and giant breeds.

The primary ingredients are Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lentils, and Peas with a calorie value of 342 kcal/cup and a fat value of 12% to boost your labs energy levels. The protein value is 34% to fuel your dogs muscles, while fiber and moisture values are 6% and 10%.

This meal is good for hip dysplasia because it has glucosamine and chondroitin to lubricate the joints. It also lowers the risks of heart problems with L-carnitine and taurine. Moreover, this meal reduces the risks of cataracts and other eye problems as it has beta-carotene and vitamin A. omega fatty acids keep the skin and coat smooth and shiny while antioxidants protect your Lab from free radicals.

In addition, this formula is crafted with calcium and phosphorus for strong bones. It also has yucca schidigera to lower stool odor. The daily consumption varies depending on your dogs weight with dogs weighing 50-60 lbs requiring 3 to 3 cups while those weighing 61-70 lbs need 3 to 4 cups. This meal is suitable for dogs with sensitivities.

This formula is a product of Mars Pet Foods, with the first production date being June 8th, 2005.

It targets all dog breeds. The primary ingredients are Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Barley, and Whole Grain Oats. This formula has 362 calories per cup and a 15% fat value to keep your dog active throughout the day.

The protein, fiber, and moisture contents are 24%, 4%, and 10%, respectively. Chicken is the first ingredient to power your Labs muscles. Consuming this meal keeps your dogs bones strong with calcium and phosphorus. Beta-carotene and vitamin A promote eye health, while omega fatty acids promote skin and coat health. The calorie and fat values are okay for labs as they lower the risks of obesity.

Your dogs digestive system will thank you as this meal promotes smooth digestion to lower the risks of stomach problems. Consuming this meal also reduces the visits to the vet as it has antioxidants that boost immunity. The feeding instructions are based on your dogs weight, with dogs weighing 15 lbs require one cup while those weighing 25 lbs need 1 cups. This meal is suitable for dogs with sensitive tummies.

This is a product of Champion Pet Foods with a production date of March 15th, 2019.

This formula targets all dog breeds. The main ingredients are Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Whole Mackerel, and Chicken Liver, which contribute to the high protein content of 38% for muscle power. The caloric value is 473 Kcal/cup, while the fat content is 18%. The importance of fiber and moisture are 4% and 12%.

This diet is crafted with DHA, EPA, and omega fatty acids for neural development, mobility, and a healthy physical appearance. Consuming this meal gives your dog thick bones containing calcium and phosphorus. This recipe also boosts joint health with glucosamine and chondroitin. If your Lab is a picky eater, then this is an excellent choice as it is freeze-dried for a burst of irresistible flavors.

Daily feeding depends on your dogs weight and activity levels, with dogs weighing 5-15 lbs requiring to for less active dogs and to 1 cup for active dogs. This formula is suitable for dogs with grain allergies and sensitive stomachs. You should not exceed the recommended portions as it is a high-fat diet and Labs are prone to obesity.

This formula is a product of Wellness Pet Food Company, and the first production date is October 2nd, 2001.

The first five ingredients are Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Ground Brown Rice, and Salmon Meal. The caloric content is 367 Kcal/cup, while the protein value is 29%. The fat, fiber, and moisture values are 13%, 5%, and 10%.

This formula has DHA and taurine for brain, vision, and heart health. Omega fatty acids are essential for healthy skin and coat. This meal suits Labs as it has a moderate fat content to lower the risks of obesity. It is also best for dogs who cannot tolerate wheat and corn. Antioxidants and probiotics are essential for proper immunity and bowel health.

The daily portions depend on the weight and age of your dog. Dogs weighing 10 lbs and are 6-11 weeks old need 2 cups while those aged between 3-4 months need 4 cups. From 5-7 months, they need 1 cup, and those aged between 8-12 months need 1 cup. The heavier your Lab, the more cups are needed per day. For combination feeding, reduce the amount of dry food by cup for every 6 oz of wet food

Blue Buffalo Dog Foods is the producer of this delicacy, with the first production date being May 20th, 2013, targeting large and giant breeds.

The main ingredients are Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Pea Protein, and Tapioca Starch with a 411 Kcal/cup caloric content to boost your Labs energy levels. The protein value is 35% for muscle strength, while the fat, fiber, and moisture values are 14%, 6%, and 10%.

Feeding this meal lowers the risks of heart problems as it contains taurine and L-carnitine. The meal also lowers the unpleasant smell in your dogs stool with yucca schidigera. Labs are well-suited for this meal as it reduces the probability of eye problems since it contains vitamin A, DHA, and beta-carotene.

Calcium, phosphorous, and omega fatty acids promote bone, muscle, and skin health, while antioxidants ensure your Lab is protected against infections. The daily feeding varies depending on the weight and age of your dog with dogs weighing up to 5 lbs and aged between 1-3 months needing to 1 cup while those with the same age but weighing between 6-10 lbs need 1 to 1 cups. This meal is suitable for dogs with sensitivities and grain allergies.

This meal is a product of Brothers Complete Dog Food.

• Recipe made with real turkey and cassava plant
• Contains digestive enzymes increase nutrient absorption
• Live probiotics provide good bacteria for gut health

The main ingredients are Turkey Meal, Whole Eggs, Dried, Pea Starch, Cassava/Tapioca, and Peas. It has 415 calories per cup and a fat value of 16% for energy production. The high-quality proteins boost muscle power and promote strong bones.

Diamond Pet Foods produce this formula, and the main ingredients are Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, and White Rice with a caloric content of 421 and a fat value of 16%.

It has DHA and omega fatty acids for vision, brain, skin, and coat health.

Taste of the Wild is the manufacturer of this formula.

The primary ingredients are Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, and Peas. This meal suits Labs as it contains taurine for heart health. It also boosts immunity with antioxidants and promotes muscle and bone power with high-quality proteins.

This diet is a product of Sport Dog Food, and it has a caloric value of 483 Kcal/cup to boost stamina.

The primary ingredients are Chicken Meal, Whole Ground Sorghum, Dried Sweet Potato, Turkey Meal, and Whole Ground Millet. It is perfect for Labradors as it promotes cardiovascular health with taurine.

This meal is a product of Canidae pet Food Corporation.

The primary ingredients are Lamb, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potato, and Peas. It suits Labs as it has taurine, glucosamine, and chondroitin for heart and joint health. The premium proteins promote thick muscles to keep dogs strong and healthy.

It is a product of I and Love and You Company, with the main ingredients being Lamb, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Garbanzo Beans, and Ground Peas.

Labradors are prone to heart problems, and this meal is an excellent choice as it contains taurine and omega fatty acids that boost heart health.

Big Hearts Pet Brands manufactures this premium meal for all dog breeds.

The main ingredients are Beef, Chicken Meal, Whole Dried potato, Natural Pork Flavor, and Tapioca. This diet promotes taurine, omega fatty acids, and glucosamine to promote cardiovascular, skin, and joint health. High-quality proteins promote the growth of lean muscle mass.

Mars Pet Food Company produces this formula for Labradors.

The primary ingredients are Chicken, Turkey, Maize, Wheat, and Sorghum. It suits Labs as it has L-carnitine and taurine for a healthy heart and contains glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. Omega fatty acids give dogs a smooth skin and shiny coat.

This meal is the product of Nestle Purina Petcare, and it targets all dog breeds.

The primary ingredients are Beef, Whole Grain Corn, Barley, Rice, and Whole Grain Wheat. This high-protein diet suits Labs as it strengthens the muscles and bones. It also contains antioxidants that support the immune system.

Ollie Dog Food manufactures fresh foods that are delivered to your doorstep.

The meals are crafted with fresh ingredients to appeal to your Labs taste buds. Their beef recipe has Beef, Peas, Sweet Potato, Potato, and Carrot. It is packed with antioxidants for immunity. It has lutein for skin, vision, and heart health.

This is a product of True Acre Foods. The main ingredients are Beef, Peas, Pea Starch, Poultry-By-Product Meal, and Canola Meal.

It is packed with omega fatty acids, calcium, and phosphorus for skin and bone health. It suits Labs as it has taurine for a strong heart. Antioxidants protect against inflammation.

Merrick Pt Care manufactures this recipe. The main ingredients are Deboned Beef, Salmon Meal, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, and Dried Egg Products.

It has a caloric value of 391 Kcal/cup and 17% fat to boost your Labs energy levels. It is freeze-dried, adding to the flavor to attract even picky Labs.

Natures Variety Pet Food Company manufactures this classic recipe for senior dogs of all breeds.

The main ingredients are Chicken Meal, Chicken, Tapioca, Chickpeas, and Peas. It is best for Labs as it has glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. It also has DHA and L-carnitine for brain and heart health.

This healthy meal from HiIls Science Pet Food suits Labs as it is crafted for weight control since Labs are prone to obesity.

The primary ingredients are Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Pea Fiber, and Corn Gluten Meal. L-carnitine and taurine support heart health while beta-carotene boosts vision health.

What facts should you know about the best dog foods for Labrador Retrievers (Lab)?

Here are the facts that you should about the best dog food for Labs:

• The best canine food for Labs should come from known meat sources for high-quality protein to boost muscle health
• Labs are prone to heart problems hence the best food for them should have taurine and L-carnitine for a strong heart
• Labs are also susceptible to hip dysplasia, so the best food should contain glucosamine and chondroitin for strong joints and hips.
• The best pet food for Labs should be free from artificial preservatives and additives. The food should be naturally preserved.
• The carbs for energy should come from wholesome sources like oatmeal and sweet potatoes.
• Labs are prone to obesity, so the best food to serve them should have low to moderate fat and fewer carbohydrates.
• The best food for Labs should be crafted from real fruits and vegetables to boost immunity.

What are the Best Dog Foods for Labrador Retrievers according to Sizes?

1. Best Foods for small-sized Labrador Retrievers

Here are the best foods for small-sized Labrador Retrievers:

2. Best food for medium-sized Labrador Retrievers

3. The best food for large Labrador Retrievers

What are the best foods for Labrador Retrievers with different health conditions?

4. The best food for Labrador Retrievers with itchy skin

5. The best food for picky eater Labrador Retrievers

6. The best foods for Labrador Retriever with pancreatitis

7. The best foods for Labrador Retrievers with a sensitive stomach

8. The best foods for Labrador Retrievers with allergies

What are the best dogs with different ingredients for Labrador Retrievers?

What are the best foods with pumpkin for Labrador Retrievers?

Here are the best foods for Labrador Retrievers with pumpkin:

What is the best chicken-free food for Labrador Retrievers?

Below are the best chicken-free foods for Labrador Retrievers:

What Can Different Dog Breeds Eat Labrador Retrievers Food?

1. Best Labrador Retrievers Dog Foods for Chesapeake Bay Retrievers

Both dog breeds need approximately 2 cups daily; however, since they are working dogs, you may need to adjust these amounts according to their activity levels.

2. Best Labrador Retrievers Dog Foods for Curly Coated Retrievers

Both dog breeds are highly active thus need sufficient calories. Both breeds are prone to progressive retinal atrophy and need food containing beta-carotene and vitamin A. However, Curly Retrievers are less prone to obesity and hip dysplasia