Best Dog Food for Puppies of 2026

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 29, 2026

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Dog food for puppies is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing pups. These products are typically higher in protein and fat than adult dog food, as puppies require more of these nutrients to support their development. Some brands also include added vitamins and minerals to support healthy bone growth and immune function. It's important to choose a high-quality puppy food that is appropriate for your pup's breed and size, and to follow feeding guidelines carefully to ensure your puppy gets the nutrition they need without overeating.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover #TOP 1
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover #TOP 2
Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Healthy Growth Formula Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover #TOP 3
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Healthy Growth Formula Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Dog Food for Puppies

#TOP 1

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food

802801
4 Pound (Pack of 1)
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover
Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Natural Dry Food for Puppies, Healthy Growth Formula with DHA, Savory Chicken Recipe, 4-lb Bag

The Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet parents who want to provide their puppies with high-quality, natural ingredients. This dry dog food features real chicken as the first ingredient, which supports healthy muscle development. It also includes wholesome grains, garden veggies, and fruit, making it a nutritious meal for your furry friend. The formula is enriched with DHA and ARA, which supports cognitive function and retinal health. Additionally, it contains LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that supports your puppy's immune system. This natural dog food contains no chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.

What We Like
Real chicken as the first ingredient supports healthy muscle development
Enriched with DHA and ARA, which supports cognitive function and retinal health
Contains LifeSource Bits that support your puppy's immune system
Wholesome grains, garden veggies, and fruit provide a nutritious meal for your puppy
Contains no chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
#TOP 2

Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food

803947
Brown
5 Pound (Pack of 1)
Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Dry Dog Food with DHA and ARA, Made with Natural Ingredients, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 5-lb Bag

Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food, also known as Blue Puppy Dog Food, is specially formulated for puppies. It features real chicken as the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to help your dog build and maintain healthy muscles. The food also contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit. It contains DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother's milk, to support cognitive function and retinal health. The food is made with the finest natural ingredients, enhanced with vitamins and minerals. It does not contain chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Blue Puppy Dog Food also includes antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. Give your puppy the benefits of the True BLUE Effect with Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food.

What We Like
Real meat as first ingredient
Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function and retinal health
Wholesome ingredients with no artificial additives
#TOP 3

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Healthy Growth Formula Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

802804
4 Pound (Pack of 1)
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Healthy Growth Formula Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover
Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Natural Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, Healthy Growth Formula with DHA, Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe, 4-lb Bag

This puppy food features high-quality protein from real chicken to support healthy muscle development, DHA and ARA for cognitive function and retinal health, and LifeSource Bits to support a healthy immune system. It contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit and is formulated to meet the unique energy needs of small breeds. It is made from natural ingredients and contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

What We Like
High-quality protein from real chicken
Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function and retinal health
LifeSource Bits to support a healthy immune system
Wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit
Made from natural ingredients and contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives
#TOP 4

Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula

00017800173834
Other
8 Pound (Pack of 1)
Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula Cover
Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula High Protein Natural Dry Puppy Food with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients - 8 lb. Bag

Purina ONE Puppy Food is designed to give your growing puppy the nutrition they need for a strong, healthy start. The real chicken as the main ingredient provides essential protein to build muscles and support heart health. This formula includes DHA, a special nutrient found in mother’s milk, which helps promote healthy brain and eye development. It also contains antioxidants that help strengthen your puppy’s immune system. Plus, the mix of high-quality ingredients like omega-6 fatty acids supports a shiny coat and healthy skin. You’ll appreciate the tasty crunchy bites and tender pieces made without artificial flavors or preservatives, making mealtime enjoyable for your puppy.

What We Like
Real chicken protein
DHA for brain and vision
Antioxidants for immunity
Omega-6 for coat health
No artificial flavors
#TOP 5

Nutrish Puppy Real Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Food

83248
6 Pound (Pack of 1)
Nutrish Puppy Real Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Food Cover
Nutrish Puppy Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Whole Health Blend Dry Dog Food, 6 lb. Bag, Packaging May Vary (Rachael Ray)

Nutrish Puppy Chicken Food comes in a convenient 6-pound bag, giving you plenty of nutritious meals for your growing puppy. The recipe features real chicken as the top ingredient, providing high-quality protein that supports your puppy’s muscle development and overall organ health. This food is designed specifically to meet the unique needs of puppies, helping them grow strong and healthy during their early months. Plus, it includes natural ingredients along with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to ensure your puppy gets balanced nutrition every day.

What We Like
Real chicken protein
Puppy-specific formula
Added vitamins and minerals
Natural ingredients
#TOP 6

Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food Chicken & Rice

38100142917
6 Pound (Pack of 1)
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food Chicken & Rice Cover
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula - 6 lb. Bag

The Purina Pro Plan Puppy Blend offers a tasty mix of crunchy kibble and soft shredded pieces, making mealtime more enjoyable for your puppy. It includes DHA from fish oil, which helps support healthy brain and eye development, essential for your growing puppy’s learning and vision. The food is also packed with antioxidants that strengthen your puppy’s immune system, helping them stay healthy. With this blend, you get a balanced diet that supports both taste and nutrition, making it easier for you to provide the best start for your puppy’s growth.

What We Like
Crunchy and shredded texture
DHA for brain and vision
Immune system antioxidants
Supports healthy growth

Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food

512103
3 Pound (Pack of 1)
Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food, 3 lb Bag

Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is specially formulated for extra-small breed puppies up to 10 months old with an expected adult weight of no more than 8 lb. It meets the high energy needs of extra-small puppies with key nutrients needed during their short, intense growth period. The exclusive blend of antioxidants and vitamins provides immune support. The specialized extra-small kibble designed for miniature and toy dogs with tiny jaws and picky appetites. The specifically tailored blend of fibers promotes optimal stool quality.

What We Like
Specially formulated for extra-small breed puppies
Meets high energy needs during short, intense growth period
Exclusive blend of antioxidants and vitamins for immune support
Specialized kibble for miniature and toy dogs with tiny jaws and picky appetites
Specifically tailored blend of fibers promotes optimal stool quality
#TOP 8

Royal Canin Small Breed Puppy Dry Food

144755
Original
4 lb
Royal Canin Small Breed Puppy Dry Food Cover
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Puppy Dry Dog Food, 4 lb Bag

The Royal Canin Small Puppy Food is specially designed for puppies of small breeds weighing between 9 and 22 pounds, making it ideal for your growing little dog. The crunchy kibble is easy to serve and pairs well with their wet food, adding variety to your puppy’s meals. This food supports your puppy’s brain development and energy needs, helping them grow strong and healthy. It also contains antioxidants to boost your puppy’s immune system and prebiotics to aid digestion, ensuring your puppy stays healthy and happy during their crucial early months.

What We Like
Small breed puppy formula
Crunchy, easy-to-serve kibble
Supports brain development
Boosts immune health
Promotes digestive wellness
#TOP 9

Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Small-Breed Puppies

7139
White
Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Small-Breed Puppies Cover
Hill's Science Diet Puppy, Puppy Premium Nutrition, Small Kibble, Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 4.5 lb Bag

This dry puppy food is specially designed for small-breed puppies to support their developmental needs with a delicious chicken flavor. The food contains DHA from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development and high-quality protein for building lean muscle. A balanced set of minerals promotes strong bones and teeth. Made with natural ingredients, this dry dog food is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients you can trust. It is also the #1 Veterinarian Recommended puppy food.

What We Like
Specially designed for small-breed puppies
Supports healthy brain and eye development
High-quality protein for building lean muscle
Uses a balanced set of minerals for strong bones and teeth
Made with natural ingredients
#TOP 10

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula

00038100113634
6 Pound (Pack of 1)
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula Cover
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula - 6 lb. Bag

This dry puppy food is made with chicken as the first ingredient, providing high quality protein that helps build lean muscles. Its highly digestible formula delivers optimal nutrients to support a puppy's developing immune system. DHA from omega-rich fish oil nourishes brain and vision development, while antioxidants further support the immune system.

What We Like
Contains chicken as the first ingredient for high quality protein to build lean muscles
DHA from omega-rich fish oil nourishes brain and vision development
Antioxidants support a puppy's developing immune system
Highly digestible formula for optimal nutrient delivery
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Selecting the Best Dog Food for Puppies for Your Pets

Introduction

Choosing the right dog food for your puppy is an important decision that can have a lasting impact on their health and well-being. With so many different options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this article, we will go over some key factors to consider when choosing dog food for your puppy, as well as some tips for making the best decision for your furry friend.

Factors to Consider

When choosing dog food for your puppy, there are a few key factors that you should take into account. These include:

  • The age of your puppy: Puppies have different nutritional needs at different stages of their development, so it's important to choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for puppies. Look for a label that indicates the food is appropriate for puppies, and check the package for information on the recommended age range.

  • The size of your puppy: Puppies also have different nutritional needs depending on their size. Small breed puppies have higher energy requirements and may benefit from a dog food that is higher in calories, while large breed puppies may need a diet that is lower in calories to prevent them from growing too quickly.

  • The ingredients: The ingredients in dog food can have a big impact on your puppy's health. Look for a dog food that is made with high-quality, whole ingredients, such as real meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and artificial colors or flavors.

  • The brand: The brand of dog food you choose can also make a difference. Look for a reputable brand that has a good track record and is known for using high-quality ingredients. You can also check online reviews and ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Tips for Choosing the Right Dog Food

Now that you know what to look for in a dog food, here are some tips to help you make the best decision for your puppy:

  • Start with a puppy-specific formula: As mentioned above, it's important to choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for puppies. This will provide the right balance of nutrients to support your puppy's growth and development.

  • Gradually transition to a new food: If you are switching your puppy to a new dog food, it's important to do it gradually to prevent digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food in with their old food, and gradually increase the amount of new food over the course of a few days.

  • Pay attention to the feeding instructions: The feeding instructions on the dog food package are there for a reason, so make sure to follow them. The amount of food that your puppy needs will depend on their age, size, and activity level, so it's important to feed them the right amount to prevent over- or under-feeding.

  • Monitor your puppy's health: Keep an eye on your puppy's health and pay attention to any changes in their behavior or appearance. If you notice any problems, such as excessive weight gain or loss, diarrhea, or vomiting, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you determine if there is a problem with the dog food you are feeding your puppy and recommend a different option if necessary.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog food for your puppy is an important decision that can have a lasting impact on their health and well-being. By considering factors such as your puppy's age, size, and the ingredients in the dog food, and by following the tips above, you can make the best decision for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I feed my 8 week old puppy?

Once your puppy has been weaned off of their mother's milk (around 8 weeks), you can start feeding them soft foods like canned or dehydrated dog foods (if you aren't sure what that is, read our complete guide here ). You won't want to start feeding your pup any hard foods until they are at least 9-10 weeks old.

2. What do u feed a 4 week old puppy?

"At four weeks, all of the puppies should be able to walk, run, and play." Puppies should begin eating solid food about 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 weeks of age. Initially, make gruel by mixing a milk replacer in puppy food soaked in water and place this mixture in a flat saucer.

3. What can I feed my 2 month old puppy?

Types of People Food Treats for Your PuppyPurina ONE Natural Dry Dog FoodEukanuba Dry Dog FoodMini Puppy Royal CaninNUTRO ULTRA Breed Dry Dog FoodRetriever Puppy Skin & Coat Chicken Blend Recipe Dry Dog FoodPurina Puppy Chow High Protein Dry Puppy FoodVictor Grain Free Active Dog & Puppy Dry Dog FoodRoyal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog FoodACANA PUPPYMerrick Classic Puppy Recipe Dry Dog FoodGo! Solutions Carnivore Grain Free Chicken TurkeyWholehearted Grain Free Chicken and Pea Recipe Dry Puppy Food, 14 lbs.Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Rice RecipeNutriSource Breed Puppy Chicken Rice Dog FoodOpen Farm Recipe Dry Dog FoodDiamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy FoodMerrick Grain Free Real Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Puppy Recipe Dry Dog Food, 22 lbsWellness Complete Health Puppy FoodVictor Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food. Lean meat: Small amounts of turkey, chicken, and lean beef are good, but avoid ham as it may be too rich for a puppy's digestion. ... Vegetables: Cooked or raw veggies such as broccoli, carrots, and asparagus can be great treats.

Editor's Notes

During our dog food for puppies research, we found 24 dog food for puppies products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 329,267 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dog food for puppies list. We found that most customers choose dog food for puppies with an average price of $18.44.

The dog food for puppies are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dog food for puppies, including Blue Buffalo, Purina ONE, Nutrish, Purina Pro Plan, ROYAL CANIN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.