The Best Dog Food for Great Danes in 2021
- 1. Wellness Natural Core Grain-Free Dry Food
- 2. Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
- 3. Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food For Large Breeds
- 4. Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
- 5. Taste Of The Wild Roasted Lamb High-Protein
- 6. Nulo Senior Dry Dog Food
- 7. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
- 8. Eukanuba Puppy Dry Dog Food Chicken Large Breed
- 9. Eagle Pack Natural Dry Dog Food Large Breed
- 10. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free
- 11. Diamond Naturals Dry Dog Food Lamb Meal And Rice Formula
There are so many reasons why Great Danes are a popular and well-loved dog breed. The term 'gentle giant' immediately springs to mind as they are known to be good-natured, loyal, and affectionate. With their muscular and tall stature in mind, you may be scouting for some information on dog foods for Great Danes or for large dogs in general.
So if you're looking to better your Great Dane's diet or are simply looking to get yourself one of these gentle giants and would like to know more about their dietary needs, we have collated some of the best dog food for Great Danes for you to peruse and consider.
Within this list, you'll find we've also hand-picked some of the best dry dog food for Great Dane puppies as well as adults and seniors. Following our list, you'll find some additional information, as well as answers to some frequently asked questions, that might help you narrow down the best dog foods for your pooch.
1. Wellness Natural Core Grain-Free Dry Food
Key Features
Calories: 342 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 34%
Crude Fat: 12%
Crude Fiber: 6%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal (source of Glucosamine), turkey meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate)
If you’re looking for a grain-free diet alternative to feed your gentle giant Wellness Core has a dry dog food that leaves out the harsh grains but still provides the essential nutrients they will need to be happy and healthy. This protein-rich formula uses globally sourced ingredients and is made right here in the US for quality assurance. Rich in omega fatty acids, Glucosamine, and Chondroitin Sulfate you can be sure that your Great Dane will be taken care of inside and out, as these ingredients will aid the whole body including hip and joint health.
One thing that must be noted regarding Wellness Core’s dry food is that it contains chicken and turkey meal which some sources may class as a filler. However, meals can be beneficial for pets and can also provide dogs with an extra source of protein and minerals. One thing is for sure, Wellness Core want their customers to be happy which is why they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee with their dog food.
Pros
45% High-quality protein
Promotes lean muscle mass and body mass
Available in a wholesome grains option
Free from artificial preservatives and flavors
Cons
Only suitable for adults
Contains chicken and turkey meal
2. Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
Key Features
Calories: 453 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 24%
Crude Fat: 14%
Crude Fiber: 4%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: chicken meal, rice, oatmeal
Holistic Select for large and giant breeds leaves out artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors as well as wheat and wheat gluten to ensure your dog’s diet isn’t hindered. Instead, Holistic packs its recipe with pumpkin, green tea extract, cranberries, and other healthy ingredients and proteins to greatly benefit your Great Dane’s overall health. The presence of prebiotics and probiotics will help nutrients break down and absorb quickly into the system and the use of natural fiber will aid digestion.
Although this formula has some great advantages there are some ingredients that are classified as allergens such as pork, flaxseed, rice, and brewers dried yeast so you may need to reconsider if your Great Dane is sensitive to any of these components.
Pros
Contains live yogurt cultures to increase good bacteria for digestion
Utilizes digestive enzymes for the break down of food and absorption of vitamins
Potato-free recipe
Glucosamine hydrochloride and Chondroitin Sulfate to support hips and joints
Cons
Contains flaxseed, brewers dried yeast, rice, and pork which some may be sensitive to.
Only suitable for adult dogs
Not as much protein as other brands on this list
3. Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food For Large Breeds
Key Features
Calories: New: 451 kcal per cup/ Original: 449 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 38%
Crude Fat: 16%
Crude Fiber: 6%
Moisture (Max): 12%
First three ingredients: chicken, turkey, flounder
Orijen is proud to offer Great Dane puppies a high-protein diet consisting of 85% premium animal ingredients for a wholeprey diet. Using chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, and chicken liver as their first five ingredients, young Great Danes will not only develop a strong immune system but will also gain a healthy and lean muscle mass.
This freeze-dried coated dog food is bursting with flavor and contains no soy, wheat, or corn. However, whereas Orijen offers customers a high-quality diet, if your pup is vulnerable to grains, it’s worth noting that this food is made in a facility that processes grains.
Pros
Perfect Great Dane puppy food
Uses fresh and raw animal ingredients
Uses free-run chicken and turkey as well as wild-caught fish
Grain-free
Cons
Contains eggs and salt which may irritate some sensitive stomachs
Made in a facility that produces grains
4. Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Key Features
Calories: 346 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 23%
Crude Fat: 12%
Crude Fiber: 4%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: chicken, chicken meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), whole brown rice
Nutro utilizes three sources of protein, from trusted and reliable sources, to ensure your Great Dane gets a nutritious and balanced diet that will support every inch of their well-being. Like other dog foods on the list, Nutro leaves out artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives but also combines its recipe with a superfood medley for complete and balanced nutrition. Whereas the lamb and chicken will provide Great Danes with strong muscles the salmon will take care of their skin and coat with its essential fatty acids. You can also guarantee that their teeth, bones, and digestive systems will be looked after by a healthy mix of vitamins and minerals.
Nutro does warn buyers that potential cross-contact may occur during the manufacturing process with trace amounts of genetically modified material. However, the brand offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee for those who are not happy with their purchase. Make sure to always read the label before buying.
Pros
Made with non-GMO ingredients
No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors
100% satisfaction guarantee by Nutro
A trio of proteins including salmon, chicken, and lamb
Cons
Trace amounts of genetically modified material may be present
Contains Brown rice, brewers rice, whole grain oats, flaxseed, egg, and salt which some dogs can be sensitive to.
Ony suitable for adult dogs
5. Taste Of The Wild Roasted Lamb High-Protein
Key Features
Calories: 410 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 25%
Crude Fat: 15%
Crude Fiber: 5%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: lamb, lamb meal, sweet potatoes
Taste of the Wild is a budget-friendly and highly-rated dry dog food that doesn’t skimp on any of the necessary proteins, superfoods, and nutrients to aid your dog’s overall health and well-being. With real lamb as the main ingredient and 25% protein content, your Great Dane’s joints, bones, and muscles are all strongly and safely supported throughout its life no matter what age.
This family-owned, USA-made dry dog food is made with trusted, locally and globally sourced ingredients. Although, be aware that trace amounts of other ingredients may be found as the facility used to produce this option also produces other dog foods that contain other ingredients. Make sure you read the label before purchase to ensure that your Great Dane Pup will get the most of the food you pick.
Pros
Suitable for all life stages
Grain-free
Budget-friendly food
Also free from corn, wheat, artificial colors, and artificial flavors.
Cons
Trace amounts of other ingredients may be present such as grains
Contains potatoes, egg, and fish which some dogs may be sensitive to
6. Nulo Senior Dry Dog Food
Key Features
Calories: 396 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 30%
Crude Fat: 12%
Crude Fiber: 5%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: deboned trout, turkey meal, salmon meal
Like puppies and adult Great Danes, senior dogs also need a high-quality dog food diet that will specifically support their nutritional needs. Nulo senior offers older Great Danes a trout and sweet potato recipe that’s low in calories and carbs but provides plenty of vitamins and protein to keep them fit and healthy. It contains L-Carnitine which is a helpful amino acid to assist the metabolism of fats to provide useable energy for optimal muscle, brain, and heart function and health.
In addition to its animal-based high-protein content, this formula has an ample amount of Chondroitin Sulfate to support joint and hip health as well as BC30 Probiotic to aid your dog’s digestion. Vegetables and fruits are also utilized to provide gentle giants with a healthy amount of vitamins that collate to assist their immune system.
Pros
Perfect dog food for senior Great Danes
Low carb
Grain-free
Contains L-Carnitine
Cons
Contains chicken fat and salt which some dogs may be sensitive to
Not recommended for puppies, adults, or pregnant/nursing dogs.
7. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
Key Features
Calories: 352 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 22%
Crude Fat: 12%
Crude Fiber: 6%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice.
Your Great Dane will thrive with a recipe that prioritizes real meat and Blue Buffalo does just that. Made with real, fresh chicken, this large breed adult recipe also contains wholesome grains, garden vegetables, and fresh fruits to balance nutrition for optimal health. The vital vitamins and chelated minerals will work with antioxidants to support their immune system. Meanwhile, phosphorus and calcium will aid bones and teeth as the omega fatty acids nourish skin and coats.
The lack of heat involved in manufacturing this Great Dane food will ensure that the potency of all of the ingredients is maintained. L-Carnitine is another component relied heavily upon when formulating this recipe as it is beneficial for heart, brain, and muscle health.
Pros
No corn, wheat, or soy
Free from artificial flavors and preservatives
Available in other options depending on life stage (e.g. puppy/senior)
Cold-formed to preserve the potency
Cons
Only suitable for adult dogs
Contains brown rice, flaxseed, grains, fish, and salt which some dogs may be sensitive to
8. Eukanuba Puppy Dry Dog Food Chicken Large Breed
Key Features
Calories: 357 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 26%
Crude Fat: 14%
Crude Fiber: 3.7%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: Chicken, chicken by-product meal, corn
If you’re dreading training your Great Dane in its early life then you’ll be pleased to know that this large breed puppy formula features a suitable level of DHA to improve and enhance brain development as your puppy grows. Whilst the DHA works its magic on your pup’s brain activity and progression, a healthy dose of carbohydrates and fat will ensure that they will have enough energy to sustain their energetic lifestyle. Safe levels of Calcium and phosphorus are also added to the puppy food to ensure that their muscles and bones develop healthily.
Pros
Suitable for puppies up to 24 months of age
Supports growth with suitable levels of fat and protein
Uses DHA to support brain development
Prioritizes chicken as its first ingredient
Cons
Some previous customers have stated that picky pups won’t eat the food
Contains corn, wheat, brewers dried yeast, grain sorghum, fish, egg, and salt which some dogs may be sensitive to
9. Eagle Pack Natural Dry Dog Food Large Breed
Key Features
Calories: 340 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 25%
Crude Fat: 12%
Crude Fiber: 4%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice
With over 25 years of experience, Eagle Pack has formulated a recipe specifically for large breed dogs weighing over 50 lbs. This particular formula uses dual animal protein sources (chicken and pork), to aid the muscles of your adult Great Dane. In addition to this, Eagle Pack includes a number of essential vitamins and minerals such as Glucosamine Hydrochloride, calcium, and phosphorus to support bones, teeth, hips, and joints.
Although there are ingredients that some dogs may be sensitive to, this recipe leaves out corn, wheat, by-products, and artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors to ensure your dog’s health stays in great condition. Furthermore, this formulation doesn’t neglect those essential fatty acids needed to keep your dog’s skin and fur looking and feeling their best.
Pros
Specifically formulated for dogs over 50 lbs
Made in the USA
No corn, wheat, or artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
Contains no meat or poultry by-products
Cons
Only suitable for adult Great Danes
Contains brown rice, barley, flaxseed, and brewers dried yeast which some dogs may be sensitive to
10. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free
Key Features
Calories: 400 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 32%
Crude Fat: 18%
Crude Fiber: 4%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: Bison Meal, peas, pea protein
This is another dog food for Great Danes that doesn’t skimp on healthy fruits and veggies. Earthborn Holistic provides enough nutrients to encourage healthy digestion as well as taurine and methionine to aid heart health. Bison and beef are the two main sources of protein, rich in amino acids, that provide an enduring foundation for your dog’s overall health. These proteins will also make sure that your Great Dane is supplied with everything they need to maintain healthy and lean muscles.
Earthborn Holistic is a well-known and popular brand to dog owners with its facilities also producing other pet food products. As a result, trace amounts of other ingredients may be present in this dog food however the company does offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee to unhappy customers. Always read the label when purchasing new pet food.
Pros
Grain-free recipe
Uses red meat protein
Suitable for dogs and puppies
Superfood blend recipe
Cons
Trace amounts of other ingredients may be found
Contains beef, flaxseed, salt, fish, and egg which some dogs may be sensitive to
11. Diamond Naturals Dry Dog Food Lamb Meal And Rice Formula
Key Features
Calories: 350 kcal per cup
Crude Protein: 18%
Crude Fat: 6%
Crude Fiber: 8%
Moisture (Max): 10%
First three ingredients: Lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearl barley
Finally, we come to Diamond Naturals dry dog food made with real pasture-raised lamb protein to fuel and maintain your Great Dane’s muscles. This dry formula also uses K9 strain probiotics that are specifically and strictly developed for your pooch to help guard their immune system and supply them with the energy they need day-to-day. With the help of other antioxidants and fibers, this food will aid digestion and keep their gut in good health.
Diamond Naturals offers the best dog food for Great Danes that are not especially active or maybe need to shed a few pounds. Rest assured, this option still provides all of the necessary components to ensure your Great Dane lives a healthy life. This is another formula that takes advantage of superfoods with the addition of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and L-Carnitine, the only difference is that the recipe contains 20% fewer calories than other dog food brands’ options.
Pros
Reliable locally and globally sourced ingredients
Specifically designed for overweight/less active dogs (with clear feeding guidelines)
Less fat content and calories
Rich in superfoods and probiotics
Cons
Contains brown rice, grains, sorghum, yeast, egg, chicken, and barley which some dogs may be sensitive to
Only suitable for adult dogs
Buying Guide & FAQS
What To Look For When Buying Dog Food For Great Danes
When looking for the best dog food for your Great Dane you will want to consider the specific type of food. All of the above options are specially formulated to suit the needs of giant breeds which include the Great Dane.
Specific Ingredients
The best dog food for giant dogs will contain specific minerals, vitamins, and proteins to benefit their health. For example, Great Danes are vulnerable to joint problems, therefore dog food containing Glucosamine and Chondroitin will be important to help support joint health. Calcium is also important to help to support and develop bones and teeth.
High-quality animal protein sources are also important to consider when looking for Great Dane dog food. Protein is a valuable ingredient and will go a long way in supporting your dog's muscles, organs, and immune system. Fresh meat and meal is especially important and is often labeled proudly (for example fresh/real farm-raised chicken or free-run chicken etc.) as they are rich in protein.
Energy Levels
When deciding on the right dog food for your Great Dane you will need to consider how active they are. Some dogs are more energetic than others and may need more to help sustain their activity levels however if your pooch is particularly less energetic you will have to ensure that you don't overfeed them.
Age
All dog breeds will have differing needs depending on what age they are. It is especially important to meet these requirements to ensure that they not only have a balanced diet but to ensure their development and overall health are taken care of. This is why brands specifically cater formulas to particular life stages and breed sizes.
It's also important to understand that although puppies will need extra calories to fuel their energy levels you mustn't overfeed a Great Dane puppy and follow any feeding guidelines carefully. This is because large puppy breeds grow quickly so feeding them inadequate kibble not catered to large breeds will hinder their joint and muscle development.
Best food for Great Dane puppy suggestion: Eukanuba's Large breed puppy dry food is especially great for owners that are intent on vigorous training as it contains appropriate levels of DHA to encourage brain development, unlike other puppy foods.
Current Weight
Generally, most dog foods will include feeding guidelines on their packaging to help owners determine how much food their pooch should consume a day. These guidelines are usually based on the weight, and sometimes age, of your dog, so it's worth having your pooch weighed to ensure they're getting what they should.
Food Allergies
Always take into account any allergies that your Great Dane may have when considering a new food. Generally, most picks on our list are intent on using nothing but beneficial fruits, veggies, and proteins. However, we have gone on to list potential allergens within each product to assist owners who are choosing with their dog's sensitive stomach in mind.
Ingredients To Avoid When Feeding A Great Dane
Like most dogs, there are certain ingredients and foods to avoid giving your Great Dane to avoid health complications and issues. Great Danes require complete and balanced nutrition and some seemingly harmless foods can be very harmful to them.
Ingredients To Avoid
When looking at dog foods for Great Danes take a closer look at the ingredients list and try to avoid vague components that may count as fillers and are only included to give the illusion of extra proteins are carbohydrates. For example, corn gluten meal is often perceived as a carbohydrate filler and used in place of healthier alternatives, such as sweet potatoes, when in fact it is not as effective and can even be a harmful allergen to some dogs.
Meat Meals: Meals are generally a very valuable source of extra protein for dogs however most companies will specify what meal they are using (e.g. lamb meal, salmon meal, chicken meal, etc). When brands aren't clear on what kind of meal they are using this can be a red flag. If your dog is allergic to some proteins then there's no guarantee this food will be 100% safe for them to consume since the label is not clearly identifying where the meal comes from.
General Foods To Avoid:
- Raisins
- Grapes
- Any form of chocolate or cocoa product
- Sugary food or drinks (including gum and candies)
- Plums, peaches, and persimmons
- Dairy products (including milk)
- Onions
- Garlic
- Avacado
- Fatty foods
- Seasoned foods
- Macadamia nuts
- Caffeine products
- Alcoholic products
- Salt/salty products
Note: Some dog food may contain products you recognize on this list (e.g. eggs/dairy products/salt/fat) however it's important to note that these ingredients have been adapted to suit the recipe in order for it to benefit your pup. For example, high-quality healthy fats are often used to aid the proteins' mission to fuel muscle and energy levels. It's also worth noting that some things are only harmful in excessive amounts.
Great Danes And Potential Health Problems
Hip Dysplasia/Joint Issues
Adults will often struggle with this issue if they've grown at a rapid rate which is why puppies rely on specific foods that will encourage their bodies to develop slower. Using foods rich in Glucosamine and Chondroitin will aid your dog's hip and joint health in order to prevent them from falling victim to hip dysplasia and other joint conditions.
Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
This condition is caused when Great Danes are fed more than the recommended amount leading to the rapid growth of bones. The unusual and much faster growth rate can cause a lot of pain due to the pressure exerted on bones and muscle tissue.
Gastric Torsion (Bloat)
This condition will require veterinarian care as it is the twisting of the stomach and prevention of blood circulation. Great Danes are at high risk of bloat and the condition can be fatal if left untreated.
Other conditions Great Danes are vulnerable to include:
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy
- Osteosarcoma
- Hypothyroidism
- Arthritis
- Wobbler Syndrome
If you want to learn more about Great Danes take a look at our guide to understand everything you need to know about them including breed facts and temperament.
FAQ
Q: Can Great Danes eat regular dog food?
It is recommended that Great Danes are fed food specifically formulated for larger breeds to help them develop at a rate that won't cause health problems later in life.
Q: What kind of food should I feed my Great Dane puppy?
The best dog food for pups are those that are developed to slow growth down and prevent future joint and hip issues. You can often find healthy canned food for puppies however we recommend the Origen dry food (3rd item on the list above) and Eukanuba's recipe (8th item on the list above) as they have a particular formula to help your pup develop safely.
Q: When should I switch my Great Dane puppy to dog food?
Great Dane pups should make the switch when they reach adulthood which is around 15 months of age. Always make sure to switch food gradually according to feeding guidelines.
Q: How many times a day should a Great Dane puppy eat?
Using the guide above owners should feed their puppy twice a day (three when they are aged between 8-11 weeks) making sure not to go over the recommended amount.
Q: What human food can Great Danes eat?
It is not recommended that you feed Great Danes human food as they are vulnerable to health problems. Instead, stick to the particular best food for Great Danes (and maybe the occasional treat).
Q: Should I feed my Great Dane puppy raw food?
You can feed a Great Dane pup raw food. Dogs commonly love raw food although it can be at risk of contamination