Best Dry Dog Food for Puppies of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Dry dog food for puppies is an essential part of their diet as it helps them grow and develop properly. There are many different brands and types of dry dog food for puppies on the market, each with their own unique formulas and ingredients. Some are specifically designed for certain breeds or sizes of puppies, while others cater to puppies with specific dietary needs such as allergies or sensitive stomachs. It is important to choose a high-quality dry dog food for puppies that contains all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support their growth and development.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover #TOP 1
Blue Buffalo Puppy Dry Dog Food
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pedigree Puppy Food, Grilled Steak Flavor Cover #TOP 2
Pedigree Puppy Food, Grilled Steak Flavor
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food Cover #TOP 3
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Dry Dog Food for Puppies

#TOP 1

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

Pedigree Puppy Food, Grilled Steak Flavor

10190164
Pedigree Puppy Food, Grilled Steak Flavor Cover
Pedigree Puppy Dry Puppy Food, Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor, 3.5 lb. Bag

Pedigree Puppy Food offers high-quality protein to support your puppy's muscle growth, ensuring they develop strong and healthy. Packed with 36 essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, this food provides the nutrition necessary for your puppy's overall vitality. Additionally, it is fortified with vitamins and minerals that promote a healthy immune system, helping your furry friend stay active and protected. Designed specifically for puppies, this complete and balanced meal guarantees that your pet receives all the nutrients they need for a happy, healthy life.

What We Like
High-quality protein source
Rich in essential vitamins
Supports immune health
Complete and balanced nutrition
#TOP 3

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 4

Purina ONE Natural High-Protein Dry Puppy Food

14935
Purina ONE Natural High-Protein Dry Puppy Food Cover
Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula High Protein Natural Dry Puppy Food with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients - 16.5 lb. Bag

Keep your puppy healthy and happy with Purina ONE SmartBlend Natural Healthy Puppy Formula dry puppy food. Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, this high-protein puppy food supports strong muscles and a healthy heart. It also includes DHA for vision and brain development, calcium and phosphorus for growing bones, and an antioxidant blend for a strong immune system. The easily digestible formula contains a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, plus omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a shiny coat and healthy skin. With no artificial flavors or preservatives, this formula is 100% nutrition and 0% fillers.

What We Like
Real chicken as the #1 ingredient
DHA for vision and brain development
Antioxidant blend for a strong immune system
SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a shiny coat and healthy skin
No artificial flavors or preservatives
#TOP 5

Hill's Science Diet Small Paws Puppy Dry Food

Hill's
9094
White
Hill's Science Diet Small Paws Puppy Dry Food Cover
Hill's Science Diet Puppy, Puppy, Small & Mini Breeds Puppy Premium Nutrition, Dry Dog Food, Chicken, Brown Rice, & Barley, 4.5 lb Bag

Give your small breed puppy a healthy start with Hill's Science Diet Small Paws Puppy Dry Food. This premium pet food uses natural ingredients to support your pup's brain and eye development, build lean muscles, and promote strong bones and teeth. A proprietary antioxidant blend also provides lifelong immune support for toy and miniature dogs, while a convenient single-serve tray option allows for mealtime variety. Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, this dry puppy food is veterinarian recommended and tailored to the developmental needs of small breed dogs 1 year and younger.

What We Like
Promotes healthy brain and eye development with DHA from fish oil
High-quality protein supports building lean, strong muscles
Balance of minerals promotes strong bones and healthy teeth
Antioxidant blend provides lifelong immune support for toy and miniature dogs
Convenient single-serve tray option allows for mealtime variety
#TOP 6

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 7

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
#TOP 8

Rachael Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Food

Nutrish
B001F2KB4C-PARENT
6 Pound (Pack of 1)
Rachael Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Food Cover
Rachael Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 6 Pounds (Packaging May Vary)

Nutrish Bright Puppy Food is designed to provide your puppy with a nutritious and tasty meal. It features real chicken as its primary ingredient, ensuring your dog gets high-quality protein for growth and development. The recipe is enhanced with added vitamins and minerals to support overall health. Additionally, it includes Nutrish's Whole Health Blend, which promotes a healthy mind, body, and energy level for your playful pup. With this food, you can feel good knowing that a portion of the proceeds goes to The Rachael Ray Foundation, helping animals in need.

What We Like
Real chicken as main ingredient
Supports overall health and energy
Includes added vitamins and minerals
Contributes to animal welfare
#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 ONE Large Breed Puppy Food

00017800149259
Brown
Purina ONE Large Breed Puppy Food Cover
Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Puppy Food Dry Formula - 31.1 lb. Bag

Purina ONE Puppy Food is designed specifically for large breed puppies, ensuring they receive essential nutrients for healthy growth. The primary ingredient is real chicken, providing the protein necessary for developing strong muscles and a healthy heart. It also includes DHA, which supports brain and vision development, making it ideal for your growing puppy. Additionally, this formula contains glucosamine to promote joint health and maintain a steady growth rate. With crunchy bites and tender morsels, your puppy will enjoy every meal without any artificial flavors or preservatives.

What We Like
High protein content
Supports joint health
Promotes brain development
No artificial flavors
Great taste
Buying Guide Image

Decide Which Dry Dog Food for Puppies Are Best for Your Pets

Choosing the Best Dry Dog Food for Your Puppy

As a new puppy owner, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right food for your furry friend. Dry dog food, also known as kibble, is a convenient and cost-effective option that can provide your puppy with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. However, with so many brands and formulas available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is best for your puppy.

To help you make an informed decision, here are some tips for choosing the best dry dog food for your puppy.

Consider Your Puppy's Age and Breed

Puppies have different nutritional needs depending on their age and breed. Large-breed puppies, for example, require a different type of food than small-breed puppies. They need a formula that is rich in protein and calories to support their rapid growth, but low in calories and fat to prevent them from gaining too much weight.

Small-breed puppies, on the other hand, need a formula that is high in protein and calories, but also easy to digest. Their small stomachs can't handle large amounts of food, so they need a formula that is nutrient-dense to provide them with the energy they need.

Look for High-Quality Ingredients

When choosing a dry dog food for your puppy, it's important to look for high-quality ingredients. Avoid formulas that contain fillers, such as corn, wheat, and soy, which can be difficult for puppies to digest and can cause allergic reactions. Instead, look for formulas that are made with real meat, such as chicken, lamb, or beef, as the first ingredient.

In addition to protein, puppies also need a balance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support their growing bodies. Look for formulas that contain fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, blueberries, and spinach, which can provide these important nutrients.

Choose a Formula with the Appropriate Nutritional Profile

Puppies need a balanced diet that provides them with the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support their growth and development. When choosing a dry dog food for your puppy, look for a formula that meets the nutritional requirements established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

The AAFCO sets standards for the nutritional content of pet food, so choosing a formula that meets their requirements can help ensure that your puppy is getting the nutrients they need. Look for a label that says "complete and balanced" or "formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO."

Ask Your Veterinarian for Recommendations

If you're still unsure which dry dog food is best for your puppy, don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian for recommendations. They can provide guidance on the best formulas for your puppy's age, breed, and any special dietary needs they may have.

In conclusion, choosing the best dry dog food for your puppy is an important decision that can have a big impact on their health and well-being. By considering your puppy's age and breed, looking for high-quality ingredients, choosing a formula with the appropriate nutritional profile, and asking your veterinarian for recommendations, you can find a dry dog food that will provide your puppy with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can puppies eat dry dog food?

Usually 8 weeks. At this point, puppies should have developed a full set of teeth and be able to eat dry food without any additional liquid. As ever, it's important to reiterate that no two dogs are the same. If you're nine weeks into your puppy's transition to dry food, and they're still on mush, don't panic.

2. Which Dry food is good for puppy?

Top 20 Best Dry Puppy Foods April 2022. Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Dry Puppy Formula.Wellness Complete Health Dry Puppy Food.Go! ... Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Chicken and Brown Rice.Orijen Dry Puppy Food.Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy Chicken, Turkey and Brown Rice.

3. What age do you introduce dry dog food to puppies?

At four weeks, all of the puppies should be able to walk, run, and play. "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.

4. Is dry dog food better than wet for puppies?

Generally speaking, wet food is better for dogs than dry food. Wet food has fewer carbohydrates, which are difficult for dogs to digest, and more water, which keeps dogs hydrated.

Editor's Notes

During our dry dog food for puppies research, we found 24 dry dog food for puppies products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 362,316 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dry dog food for puppies list. We found that most customers choose dry dog food for puppies with an average price of $24.49.

The dry dog food for puppies are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dry dog food for puppies, including Blue Buffalo, Pedigree, Purina ONE, Hill's, Purina Pro Plan. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 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.