This is our review of the best dog food for Goldendoodles
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We have carried out extensive and objective research to help you find the best dog food for Goldendoodles
From our research, we concluded that Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant is the best overall dog food for Goldendoodles as it is rich in high-quality proteins, glucosamine, and chondroitin, and antioxidants like vitamin E for strong muscles, healthy joints, and improved immunity levels
However, dogs are unique hence have unique needs; that is why we’ve included reviews of the best brands for each category of dog food for Goldendoodles
Best Food for Puppy Goldendoodles
ORIJEN Puppy Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Turkey Giblets, Flounder, Eggs
- Key feature: Raw Free-run Chicken and Turkey, Wild-caught Fish, Cage-free eggs
- Guaranteed Analysis: 38% Crude Protein, 20% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 475 Kcal/ cup
- Type of Product: Grain-free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten-free
- Life Stage: Puppy
- Best for: Goldendoodles puppies with grain allergies
Orijen Puppy food is carefully selected to meet your Goldendoodle puppy’s nutritional and growth needs.
This premium food contains quality protein and fats essential during the growth and development stages. It is freeze-dried, ensuring it retains all the flavors.
Benefits
- It is an excellent source of quality protein that promotes the growth and maintenance of lean muscles in puppies.
- Grain-free and Gluten-free hence safe for puppies with grain allergies and sensitive tummies
- Raw animal proteins mimic wild dog food, appealing to your puppy’s instincts.
- Freeze-dried to boost the taste making it hard for your baby to resist
Best Food For Adult Goldendoodles
Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Split Peas, Brewers Rice
- Key feature: Non-GMO adult formula for small breeds
- Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 352 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Non-GMO
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Goldendoodles with sensitive stomachs
This classic food is specifically crafted with the nutritional needs of your adult Goldendoodle in mind. It is a powerhouse of quality proteins and antioxidants for lean muscles and protection from diseases.
In addition, this mouth-watering delicacy contains chondroitin and glucosamine that keeps joints strong and healthy. Dogs aged one year and above can safely enjoy a bite of this flavorful food.
Benefits
- High-quality protein for muscle health
- Chondroitin and glucosamine promote joint health
- It contains antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect your dog from free disease-causing radicals.
- Non-GMO and free from wheat, corn, and soy hence safe for dogs with sensitive tummies
- Crunchy texture for dental health
Best Food for Senior Goldendoodles
Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Rice Flour, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Soybean Meal
- Key feature: Chicken is the number one ingredient
- Guaranteed Analysis: 28% Crude Protein, 13% Crude Fat, 4.5% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 363 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Contains corn, wheat, and soy
- Life Stage: Senior
- Best for Goldendoodle Seniors
Your senior Goldendoodle would never get enough of this tasty food as it is packed with essential nutrients and irresistible flavors. The crunchy texture would make your dog beg for more.
Glucosamine and enhanced botanical oils boost joint and brain health, thus improving agility and intelligence. Goldendoodles can safely feast on this crunchy delicacy at age seven years and older.
Benefits
- Rich in protein for muscle growth
- Glucosamine promotes joint health
- Vitamin A and E are responsible for smooth and shiny skin and eye health
- Crunchy texture prevents plaque build-up
- Easily digestible, thus lowering the risks of stomach upsets
Best Budget Dog Food for Goldendoodles
IAMS Adult MiniChunks Small Kibble High Protein Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken By-Product Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp
- Key feature: Chicken is the first ingredient
- Guaranteed Analysis: 25% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 380 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Wholesome Grains
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for Small breeds including Goldendoodles.
Adult MiniChunks is formulated with farm-raised chicken as the number one ingredient for high-quality proteins, which boosts muscle health.
A combination of wholesome fibers and prebiotics promotes bowel health. Introduce it to your dog, and you will never look back.
Benefits
- High protein contents support strong muscles
- Rich in fiber and prebiotics for proper digestion
- Small kibble sizes make it easy to eat
- It contains antioxidants including vitamin E that protect your dog from chronic diseases like cancer
- Richly flavored hence your dog will not resist
Best Premium Food for Goldendoodles
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Whole Mackerel, Chicken Liver
- Key feature: Chicken and Turkey are the first two ingredients
- Guaranteed Analysis: 38% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat,4% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 473 Kcal.cup
- Type of Product: Grain-free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten-free, Raw, Natural
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Goldendoodles with grain allergies and sensitive tummies
Give your fur baby premium nutrition from this delectable dry food crafted with real meat ingredients that appeal to your canine’s sweet tooth.
It features fresh Chicken and Turkey combined with Wild-caught fish and Cage-free Eggs that would leave your baby begging for more.
Benefits
- Freeze-dried ensures it retains full flavors hence attracting even the pickiest eater.
- Quality protein for muscular strength
- Raw or fresh ingredients imitate the wild dog food, thus appealing to your dog’s instincts.
- All ingredients are sourced within the United States hence safe for your dog.
Best Wet Food for Goldendoodles
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Beef Dinner
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, Beef Broth, Beef Liver, Carrots, Peas
- Key feature: High water content for hydration
- Guaranteed Analysis: 8.5% Crude Protein, 6% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 398 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Dogs with stomach sensitivities
Surprise your baby’s senses with this tantalizingly delicious wet food packed with essential nutrients for a well-balanced diet.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Beef Dinner is crafted using natural ingredients and organic fruits and vegetables to protect your dog from adverse effects like stomach upsets. It can be served as a standalone meal, added to other food, or given as a treat during special occasions.
Benefits
- Vitamins from fruits and vegetables work together to give your dog a healthy life.
- High protein content boosts muscle growth and maintenance
- It contains no corn, wheat, or soy hence safe for dogs with stomach sensitivities
Best food for Goldendoodles with Allergies
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Yellow peas, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Brewer’s Rice.
- Key feature: Chicken is the number one ingredient
- Guaranteed Analysis: 20% Crude Protein, 13% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content:394 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Contains Grain and Soy
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Goldendoodle with digestion problems
This premium food comes fortified with prebiotics and fiber that promote bowel health. It is also rich in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, making your dog shiny both outside and inside.
It is carefully prepared by experienced experts who have the needs of adult Goldendoodles in mind.
Benefits
- It contains antibiotics like vitamin E for protection from oxidative damage
- Fiber and prebiotics are essential for regular bowel movement
- Quality protein that boosts the growth of healthy and strong muscles
- Easy to digest, ensuring the nutrients are fully absorbed
- Omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E work together to give your dog a vibrant and lustrous skin
Best Breed-Specific Goldendoodles Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brewer’s Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Soybean Meal, Whole Grain Sorghum
- Key feature: High-quality protein for muscle health
- Guaranteed Analysis: 20% Crude Protein, 12.5% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 0.65% Calcium
- Caloric Content: 371 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Wholesome Grain
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Small, Extra small, and Toy Breeds, including Goldendoodles.
This premium dog food is made with wholesome ingredients that work together to ensure a healthy lifestyle for your fur baby.
It’s explicitly crafted for dogs aged between one and six years; this tasty meal contains essential minerals and vitamins for a well-balanced diet and a happy life.
Benefits
- Rich in calcium for thick bones and healthy muscles
- Omega 6 fatty acids give your pooch a shiny coat and lustrous skin
- It contains vitamin C, which boosts immunity
- Antioxidants, including vitamin E, protect from inflammatory diseases
- Natural ingredients with no additives hence safe for your dog
Best Food for Weight Management
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Pea Fiber, Corn Gluten Meal
- Key feature: Chicken is the first ingredient
- Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 9% Crude Fat, 13% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content:291 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Wholesome Grains
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for Weight management
Help your fur baby maintain a healthy weight or shed those unhealthy pounds by serving him this premium meal. Your dog’s agility levels would go up, and you can both enjoy the evening walks without your companion getting tired quickly.
Benefits
- Vitamin C and E protect your pooch from infections
- Fiber makes dogs feel full quickly, thus consuming less; this translates to the maintenance of a healthy weight
- Quality protein for lean muscle growth
- 100% natural hence safe for your canine
Best Grain-Free Goldendoodle Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Freedom Adult Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Potatoes, Deboned Chicken, Tapioca Starch, Chicken Meal, Peas.
- Key feature: Deboned Chicken is the number one ingredient
- Guaranteed Analysis:24% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content:373 Kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No soy, Grain-free, No wheat, Gluten-free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Goldendoodles with sensitive stomachs or grain allergies
Is your dog allergic to grains or gluten? Then this is the perfect meal to serve him; it is crafted with real chicken as the first ingredient and has no wheat, corn, or soy, making it the best choice for your tummy-sensitive companion.
The heavenly taste is addictive, and your dog will come for more and more.
Benefits
- It contains no grain or gluten hence safe for dogs with grain allergies or sensitive tummies.
- Excellent source of protein for a strong and muscular body
- It contains antioxidants that protect your dog from diseases like cancer
- It contains calcium and vitamin C for thick bones and improves immunity
Our Overall Pick
Our overall pick is Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant, as it contains high-quality proteins, glucosamine, and antioxidants for strong muscles, joint health, and improved immunity.
Guide to Buying Dog Food For Goldendoodles
When buying dog food for Goldendoodles, you should take into consideration the following guiding tips:
Nutritional Requirements of Goldendoodles
To meet the nutritional requirements of your Goldendoodle, you should consider the following :
- Moderate to high protein content: The main diet for Goldendoodles is meat as it is an excellent source of proteins; hence a well-balanced Goledndoodle diet should have crude protein of 20% and above with real meat the first ingredient.
- Moderate fat content: Goldendoodles need fats for energy and proper absorption of essential vitamins. Goldendoodle puppies are very active, and their diet should have a fat content ranging from 10% and 20%.
- Moderate carbs: Goldendoodles are active breeds and require carbohydrates for energy production. However, the carbohydrate contents should not exceed 20% of your dog food as too many carbohydrates lead to unhealthy weight.
- Fiber content: When selecting food for your Goldendoodle, ensure the food has fiber which promotes digestion. Fiber also makes your dog full quickly from eating less, thus maintaining a healthy weight.
- Vitamins and minerals: Goldendoodles require essential nutrients for healthy growth. Look for food with AAFCO-approved nutrient contents. Nutrients like calcium, phosphorous, vitamin A and C are vital for strong muscles, eye health, and improved immunity
Things to Consider When Selecting Dog Food for Goldendoodles
To ensure your Goldendoodle get the best food, this is what you should put into consideration:
Life stage
The type of food to buy for your Goldendoodle would depend on the stage of life.
Puppies require foods that provide lots of energy, aid in bowel movement, and promote growth and development, while adults should be given food that promotes lean muscle development.
On the other hand, seniors need food that promotes joint health as they are prone to joint problems.
Size of your Goldendoodle
There are different categories of dog food depending on the size of your dog.
Large breeds require less attention than small breeds, who need to be fed smaller portions divided into frequent preset mealtimes.
Ingredients
The ingredients of any food type would determine your dog’s reaction to it.
Look for natural or organic ingredients and ensure the food is well-balanced, having a high percentage of proteins, medium fat content, average calories, and carbs.
In addition, a good diet for Goldendoodles should be free from artificial preservatives, colorings, or flavors.
Price
Although high prices are associated with quality, many dog food brands are healthy and inexpensive.
If you have many Goldendoodles, look for a well-balanced recipe that is inexpensive.
Your primary focus would be the ingredients, as you should not compromise quality to save.
Stomach sensitivities and allergic reactions
Goldendoodle puppies are prone to tummy sensitivities, especially with food containing wheat, corn, soy, and grain.
You should consider your dog’s reaction to different foods before buying.
Moreover, when introducing a new food, start with small amounts, then gradually increase the portions after confirming that your Goldendoodle is neither sensitive nor allergic to it.
How Much Should You Feed a Goldendoodle?
The amount depends on size, age, and body weight.
Feeding two times a day is okay with puppies taking ¾ cups and adults not exceeding 2 ¼ cups daily.
How Much Should You Feed a Goldendoodle Puppy
Your puppy’s age will determine the amount to give. The following is a guide on the daily intake for Goldendoodle puppies:
| Age | Frequency | Amount |
| 8-12 Weeks | 3-4 times daily | ⅔ cups daily |
| 4-5 Months | 3 times daily | 1 ½ – 3 cups daily |
| 6-12 Months | 2 times daily | 3-4 cups daily |
How Much Should You Feed an Adult Goldendoodle?
The following is a feeding guide for adult Goldendoodles:
| Weight | Daily Intake |
| 1- 10 lbs | 1 cup |
| 11-20 lbs | 1 ½ cups |
| 21-30 lbs | 1 ¾ cups |
| 31-40 lbs | 2 ¼ cups |
| 41-50 lbs | 2 ⅔ cups |
| 51-60 lbs | 3 cups |
| 61-70 lbs | 3 ¼ cups |
| 71-80 lbs | 3 ½ cups |
| 81-90 lbs | 4 ¼ cups |
| 91-100 lbs | 4 ½ cups |
How Often Should You Feed Goldendoodles?
Feed Goldendoodle puppies two to four times a day, dividing their daily intake into these frequencies.
For adults, two times per day is okay.
Feeding small portions ensures that food is adequately digested to lower the risks of stomach problems.
High levels of physical activities also call for frequent feedings
Health Issues and Dietary Considerations
Goldendoodles are healthier than their parents since they are hybrids. However, they are predisposed to the following health conditions that you can manage through a healthy diet:
Vision problems
As Goldendoodles age, they are prone to cataracts which cause blurry vision.
As a result, you will notice your dog having difficulties with vision at night and becoming highly sensitive to glaring light.
To lower the risks of cataract, go for formulas that contain vitamins E and A, which protects against inflammation and boost eye health.
Cardiovascular problems
Senior Goldendoodles suffer more from heart problems than younger ones.
To protect your fur baby from heart problems, look for dog food rich in Taurine, which promotes cardiovascular functions.
In addition, recipes containing omega-3 fatty acids and L-Carnitine boosts heart health.
Study the labels carefully for ingredients
Bloating
Goldendoodles are susceptible to bloating characterized by gas, enlarged stomach, and flatulence.
An extended stomach needs immediate medical help to cut off the blood supply to major organs.
To prevent bloating, divide your dog’s food into small portions, lowering overeating.
In addition, look for diets with probiotics that boost bowel health.
Allergies
Skin allergies are rampant in Goldendoodle, but you can manage them through a proper diet.
Allergic reactions occur due to your dog’s immune system negatively responding to an allergen.
Look for formulas with limited ingredients that have one protein source. Other allergens to avoid include corn, wheat, soy, gluten, and grains
Hip dysplasia and patella luxation
These are bone and joint problems. They lead to abnormal joint formation and can cause arthritis in the long run.
Giving your dog food containing calcium and phosphorus lowers the risk of these conditions. Starting early is key to preventing them.
Foods containing glucosamine and chondroitin also boost joint health.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
This disease affects the blood clotting process. It is inherited from both the Poodle and Golden Retriever.
Although you can treat it, this disease can be fatal for you Goldendoodle.
To minimize the risk of this problem, serve your dog foods that contain vitamin K, which aids in the blood clotting process.
Food to Avoid Feeding Your Goldendoodles
Some foods are harmful to Goldendoodles, and they include the following:
Grapes or raisins
Grapes are highly toxic to Goldendoodles as they can lead to kidney failure, which can be fatal if not treated early.
The symptoms to look out for include excessive thirst and urination, loss of appetite, dehydration, abdominal pain, lethargy, and kidney failure
Keep your grapes away from your dog’s reach.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains Theobromine which is poisonous for your dog.
The darker the chocolate, the greater the Theobromine levels
Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, elevated heart rate, increased thirst and urination, seizures, and muscle tremors.
If your dog shows any of these after eating chocolate, rush to the vet
Avocado
Avocado contains a toxin known as persin, which can cause death in animals, including dogs.
The toxin is found in the leaves, pits, and the fruit itself. In addition, the avocado seed is a potential choking hazard and can lead to blockage, which can be fatal.
The symptoms to watch out for include diarrhea, vomiting, and myocardial damage
Caffeine
Caffeine is found in tea, cocoa, colas, coffee, and medicines.
Consumption leads to restlessness, elevated heart rate, increased breathing rates, muscle tremors, and bleeding.
Goldendoodle puppies and seniors are adversely affected by caffeine toxicity. Large and healthy adults can absorb the toxicity levels and may not be adversely affected.
How to Introduce New Food to Your Goldendoodle
The following is a guide on how to introduce food to your Goldendoodle:
Day 1-2
Your dog’s digestive system is not used to new food at this stage.
On these first two days, give a ratio of 2:1 in favor of the old food.
Day 3-4
On the third and fourth days, use a 50/ 50 proportion.
Day 5-6
At this point, your Goldendoodle has adapted to the new food.
Use a ratio of 2:1 but in favor of the new food.
DAY 7
During the seventh day, your dog can fully switch to the new food, which then becomes your dog’s regular food.
Dog Food for Goldendoodles F.A.Q.
When Should I Switch My Goldendoodle Puppy to Adult Food?
Size and age are the main determinants of when to switch.
Switch when they are close to toy size, which translates to 7-9 months but gradually introduces adult food.
Why Do Goldendoodles Throw Up?
Goldendoodles are prone to bloating, which makes them vomit or retch.
Bloating leads to an enlarged stomach which can be fatal, thus requiring immediate medical attention as it blocks the blood supply
Why Do Goldendoodles Have Sensitive Stomachs?
Goldendoodles are hybrids from the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. Their sensitive stomachs are mainly a genetic problem they inherit from their parents.
It starts when they are still young
Can Goldendoodles Eat Carrots?
Yes, Goldendoodles can safely eat carrots as they are rich in carotenoids for eye health.
Carrots are also crunchy, thus boosting dental health.
Give as treats or add to food
Is Chicken Good for Goldendoodles?
Yes, chicken is good for Goldendoodles as it is an excellent source of protein for muscle health.
Chicken is also easy to digest hence suitable for sensitive Goldendoodle stomachs’
Final Thoughts
Goldendoodles are fun to be with; they are friendly and entertaining.
Since they are hybrids, they have unique nutritional needs, which call for a special diet with high to moderate proteins, moderate fats and carbs, and average fiber content.
The best dog food is Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant from our review.
Their genetic makeup predisposes them to some health problems that you can easily manage with a proper diet.
When introducing new food to Goldendoodles, start with small portions and increase gradually since this breed is prone to stomach sensitivities.
A vet’s advice on introducing new food to your Goldendoodle is crucial and saves you the headaches of dealing with allergic reactions.
