This article contains affiliate links, we may receive a commission on any sales we generate from it to re-invest in the site. This does not affect our recommendations.
Reveal the Secrets of Best Working Dogs Puppy Food for Peak Performance!
Introduction: Fuelling the Success of Your Active Pup
If you are similar to me, you most likely cherish every moment spent with your dog, especially when engaging in sports or outdoor activities together. As an experienced dog owner, I have first-hand knowledge of the significance of proper nutrition in ensuring that our four-legged athletes perform at their best. So, grab a treat for your puppy and let's explore the realm of fuelling your active pup's success!
Understanding the Significance of Nutrition
Just like us, our active puppies require a balanced and nutritious diet to flourish. Whether they are chasing a Frisbee, excelling in agility courses, or joining us on long hikes, their bodies need the correct fuel to maintain their strength. As I have witnessed with my puppy, what we provide them with significantly impacts their overall health, energy levels, and performance.
The Necessity of Top-Quality Ingredients
Selecting the right food for your active puppy mandates prioritising top-quality ingredients. Seek out options that showcase real meat as the primary protein source, along with nutritious grains, fruits, and vegetables. Steer clear of fillers, synthetic preservatives, and excessive additives, as these can be detrimental in the long term.
Choosing the Ideal Fuel for Your Dog
With the abundance of choices in the market, deciding on the perfect food for your active puppy can be overwhelming. Hence, it is crucial to factor in your puppy’s age, breed, activity level, and any specific dietary requirements or preferences they may have. Stay tuned as we present some exceptional options guaranteed to energise your pup's success on the field!
Understanding Why Quality Matters
Consider your pup's food as the foundational blocks for their overall well-being. Just as we strive to consume nourishing, wholesome foods for our health, our furry companions deserve the same. Premium ingredients offer essential nutrients that boost your pup's growth, development, and energy levels.
What to Seek in Puppy Food
So, what constitutes quality ingredients in puppy food? Keep an eye out for options that have real meat listed as the primary ingredient, like chicken, beef, or salmon. Whole grains such as brown rice or oats supply vital carbohydrates for lasting energy, while fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Avoiding Dangerous Additives
Stay away from harmful additives. Be cautious of fillers, by-products, artificial colours, and preservatives. These elements offer minimal to no nutritional value and might even contribute to health problems over time. Opt for natural, minimally processed foods that prioritise your puppy's health and well-being.
Conclusion: Investing in Your Puppy's Health
Opting for top-quality ingredients is not only about providing your puppy with a delightful meal – it is investing in their long-term health and vitality. By offering your puppy the best possible nutrition, you are laying the groundwork for a lifetime of joy and success by your side. Below we have listed several exceptional puppy foods that check all the boxes for quality ingredients!
Considerations When Selecting the Ideal Food for Your Puppy
Making the right choice with regards to your puppy's food can be intimidating with the myriad of options available. However, fret not, as I have stepped in to guide you through the process. Let's delve deeper into some essential considerations when choosing the perfect fuel for your fluffy friend.
Age and Size
One of the initial aspects to think about is your puppy's age and size. Young puppies have varying nutritional requirements compared to adult dogs, so it is vital to go for a food specifically designed for their growth and development stage. Furthermore, larger breeds might need a diet customised to promote healthy bone and joint growth.
Activity Level
Next, factor in your puppy's activity level. Sporting puppies engaging in high-intensity activities may require a diet richer in protein and calories to sustain their energy requirements. Conversely, less active puppies may benefit from a formula with moderate protein and fat levels to prevent excessive weight gain.
Specific Dietary Needs
Just like us, dogs can have specific dietary needs or sensitivities that necessitate attention. Whether your puppy has food allergies, sensitivities, or particular health conditions, there are numerous specialised formulas available to cater to these requirements. Look for options devoid of common allergens like grains, soy, and artificial additives.
Ingredients and Nutritional Content
Naturally, the ingredients and nutritional content of the food are paramount. Aim for choices featuring high-quality proteins, whole grains, and a blend of vitamins and minerals. Avoid fillers, by-products, and artificial additives, as they can detract from the food's overall nutritional value.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Fit
By factoring in aspects such as age, size, activity level, and specific dietary needs, you can streamline your options and find the ideal food for your puppy. Do not hesitate to experiment and discover what works best for your fluffy companion – in the end, prioritising their health and well-being is what truly matters!"
As always, consult your veterinarian on any changes to your dog’s diet.
You may wish to read our review on Best Wet Puppy Food & Best Dog Food, too.
Top 3 Best Working Puppy Food at a Glance.
RATING # | PRODUCT NAME | KEY DETAILS | PRICE |
Orijen Puppy Grain Free |  |
|  |
Edgard & Cooper Puppy Tins |  |
| |
 |
| |
10 Dog Foods That Will Keep Your Working Puppy Breed Healthy and Happy
Top 10 Best Working Puppy Food
It's no surprise that Orijen is still the best working dog puppy food in the UK since it also ranked highly in our reviews of adult dogs, but it comes with a price tag. Although expensive, it is worth every penny and gives puppies the best start in life. Packed with nutrients and quality ingredients your dog is getting the very best diet.
For peak growth and development, puppies need a diet rich in protein and fat from whole animal ingredients. In comparison to other puppy foods, 2/3 of ORIJEN meats are either FRESH (refrigerated, without preservatives) or RAW (flash-frozen, without preservatives), including the top 10 ingredients as shown below.
Air dried at 90°C, 1/3 of the meats are fresh chicken, turkey and fish to provide your puppy with richly nourishing protein. Fresh meat, organs, cartilage, whole fish and whole eggs provide a natural source of virtually all the nutrients your puppy needs.
This puppy food is delicious even for the fussiest of eaters and excellent food for pups with sensitive tummies.
Key Ingredients - Fresh chicken (23%), raw turkey (10%), fresh chicken giblets (liver, heart) (8%), raw whole herring (6%), raw whole hake (5%), fresh eggs (5%), dehydrated chicken (4%), dehydrated turkey (4%), dehydrated mackerel (4%), dehydrated sardine (4%), dehydrated herring (4%), chicken fat (4%), whole red lentils, whole peas, whole green lentils, whole chickpeas, lentil fibre, whole pinto beans, whole navy beans, raw turkey liver (2%), pollock oil (2%), pea starch, dried kelp, fresh whole pumpkin, fresh whole butternut squash, fresh whole zucchini, fresh whole carrots, fresh whole apples, fresh whole pears, dried chicory root, fresh kale, fresh spinach, fresh beet greens, fresh turnip greens, whole cranberries, whole blueberries, whole saskatoon berries, turmeric, milk thistle, burdock root, lavender, marshmallow root, rosehips.
Type - Grain & Soya free.
Suitable For - All sizes of dogs from weaning to 12 months
Edgard & Copper puppy tins recipe contains 53% fresh chicken, and 14% tasty duck, a great source of protein that helps build and maintain muscle mass. In addition, it is packed with natural ingredients. It has a high nutritional value of 84%.
This grain-free and gluten-free recipe is carefully designed to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies and is perfect for sensitive stomachs. Its high-quality protein builds muscles and strengthens the body's immune system. Also, the recipe features a healthy mix of fruit and vegetables, plus nutritional herbs and botanicals. To seal in the flavour and goodness, it is gently steamed.
Key Ingredients - Chicken 53%, Duck 14%, Pumpkin 2%, Peas 2%, Minerals, Carrot 0.5%, Salmon Oil 0.45%, Cowberries 0.3%, Mannan-Oligosaccharides, Fructo-Oligosaccharides, Banana 0.1%, Mango 0.1%, Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulphate, Dried Nettle, Dried Fennel, Dried Caraway, Dried Yarrow, Dried Blackberry Leaves, Dried Mistle, Dried Chamomile Blossoms, Dried Gentianroot, Dried Centaury.
Type - Grain and Gluten-free.
Suitable For - All breed sizes, from weaning to 12 months old.
AATU for Puppies is meticulously crafted in small batches to ensure each serving is perfected. Their commitment to natural nutrition is reflected in recipes free from artificial colours, preservatives, flavours, and genetically modified ingredients, providing your puppy with a wholesome and nourishing meal.
What sets AATU apart is their unique cooking method, utilising the "low & slow" technique to pre-cook fresh and raw protein. This not only intensifies flavours but also aids in efficient digestion, enhancing the overall nutritional value for your puppy.
Benefits include ethical excellence, as an independently owned British company, they take pride in their ethical practices. Single protein 85/15 diet focused on a single protein source, minimising allergic reactions in puppies.
Preservative-free freshness, including a blend of fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and botanicals for vital nutrients.
Grain, white potato, and gluten-free catering for sensitive stomachs. A highly concentrated formula allows for smaller portions without compromising on nutrition.
Added joint support which Includes glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM for healthy joints. On top of that AATU have added probiotics for a balanced gut.
With AATU, you can confidently be reassured that your puppy has a high-quality, natural, and balanced diet. Recognising the importance of a strong start, AATU is dedicated to supporting your puppy's nutrition.
Key Ingredients - 85% Salmon (Includes 44% Salmon, 40% Dehydrated Salmon, 1% Salmon Stock), Sweet Potato, Chickpeas, Peas, Lucerne, Minerals, Vitamins, Prebiotic MOS, Prebiotic FOS, Tapioca, Apple, Cranberry, Pear, Blueberry, Mulberry, Orange, Bilberry, Cowberry, Carrot, Tomato, Chicory, Peppermint, Parsley, Cinnamon, Marigold, Stinging Nettle, Camomile, Rosehip, Yucca, Spirulina, Seaweed, Aniseed, Fenugreek, Oregano, Sage, Marjoram, Thyme
Type - Grain-free, white potato-free, and gluten-free catering for sensitive stomachs.
Suitable For - All puppy breeds.
The Pooch & Mutt company is a small ethical award-winning Great British company, that offers great food at an affordable price.
Pooch and Mutt PRIMAL dry dog food offer the most nutritional value from natural ingredients that are hunted or foraged in the wild, simulating the diet of ancient canines. PRIMAL dry dog food, mostly composed of lamb, ostrich, chicken, and salmon meat, has a high animal protein content and provides energy and amino acids for maintaining muscle. PRIMAL has been enhanced with natural superfoods turmeric and spirulina in addition to a variety of veggies like pumpkin and carrots to offer potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits for optimum health. This mix, which includes glucosamine and chondroitin to protect against wear and tear and maintain joint health, is perfect for active or working dogs.
The taste is simply irresistible! Even the pickiest eaters quickly will love this food. Naturally hypoallergenic, the formula contains no wheat, corn, rice, beef, soya, and dairy products. No artificial flavours, colours, or preservatives are added. It's free from grain, cereal, and gluten, and also uses non-GM ingredients.
Key Ingredients - Dried Free-Range Lamb (36%), Fresh Ostrich (26%), Peas, Chicken Fat (13%), Hydrolysed Chicken Liver (3%), Chickpeas, Dried Apple Pulp, Pumpkin, Salmon Oil (2%), Pea Flour, Carrots (0.5%), Glucosamine (0.019%), Chondroitin Sulphate (0.012%), Mannan-Oligosaccharides (0.011%), Fructo-Oligosaccharides (0.008%), Mojave Yucca (0.007%), Dried Rosemary (0.003%), Dried Turmeric (0.003%), Spirulina (0.003%).
Type - Free from artificial colours, flavours & preservatives
Suitable For - 2 months to old age.
Butcher's Wet Puppy food is made with 50% British and Irish farmed meat and is a well-balanced and nutritious diet.
It comes in 3 flavours, Chicken, Beef and Lamb which are all crafted with care and expertise, this formula is tailored specifically for puppies, ensuring they receive the essential nutrients vital for their growth and development.
One of the standout features of Butcher's Puppy Perfect Dog Food is its high-quality ingredients. With real meat as the primary ingredient, it provides a protein-rich foundation that supports muscle development and overall health. Additionally, the inclusion of vegetables offers a well-rounded nutritional profile, delivering vitamins, minerals, and fibre to support digestive health and immune function.
Another aspect worth praising is the absence of artificial additives, colours, and preservatives. This commitment to natural ingredients enhances the food's digestibility and minimises the risk of adverse reactions, making it suitable for puppies with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Furthermore, Butcher's Puppy Perfect Dog Food has received positive feedback from many pet owners who have noticed improvements in their puppies' energy levels, coat quality, and overall well-being after switching to this formula.
Key Ingredients - With Chicken: British & Irish Farmed (Chicken 40%, Beef 6%, Liver 4%), Salmon Oil, Sunflower Oil, Parsley, Rosehip, Chicory, Mint, Minerals; Prebiotic Mannan-oligosaccharide, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA 0.07%). With Beef: British & Irish Farmed (Chicken 40%, Beef 6%, Liver 4%), Salmon Oil, Sunflower Oil, Parsley, Rosehip, Chicory, Mint, Minerals; Prebiotic Mannan-oligosaccharide, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA 0.07%). With Lamb: British & Irish Farmed (Chicken 36%, Beef 6%, Lamb 4%, Liver 4%), Salmon Oil, Sunflower Oil, Parsley, Rosehip, Chicory, Mint, Minerals; Prebiotic Mannan-oligosaccharide, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA 0.07%)
Type - Wheat free.
Suitable For - All puppies from Weaning to 12 months.
Lillys Kitchen Organic trays are gentle, meaty and a complete recipe for your puppy, made from the best organic ingredients.
This naturally nutritious dinner contains a variety of organic meats - chicken, pork, beef - and organic fish to provide protein from a spectrum of sources, which makes a satisfying and nourishing dish for your puppy. The meat content has been reduced in the last 12 months though.
Additionally, the recipe is packed with natural ingredients fresh meat, freshly prepared vegetables and healthy herbs, plus carefully chosen vitamins and minerals.
As expected from Lily's brand, there no meat meal, no bone meal, and no rendered meat are in the recipe and neither are there any cheap fillers like wheat, corn or soya or any nasties. Comes with a nutritional rating of 79%, which is up there with the top 3.
Key Ingredients - Organic Chicken (28%), Organic Pork (12%) Organic Beef (10%), Organic Fish (7%), Organic Vegetables (Organic Carrots and Organic Peas), Vitamins & Chelated Minerals, Organic Spirulina, Herbs & Botanicals
Type - No dairy, soya or added wheat.
Suitable For - All breed sizes, from weaning to 12 months old.
Harringtons puppy is a naturally happy and healthy puppy recipe and has loads of natural ingredients that provide all the wholesome nutrients and goodness to meet the needs of your growing puppy.
Made with 70% freshly prepared human-grade chicken, with salmon oil as a natural source of omega 3 to aid in your pup's cognitive development. The recipe contains no nasties. no surprises. just natural, wholesome goodness.
It's a nutritionally balanced meal for happy, healthy dogs, free from grain, dairy, soya, added wheat, artificial flavours and colours.
Key Ingredients - Chicken (70%), Vegetables 14% (Potato, Peas, Carrot), Vitamins & Minerals, Salmon Oil (0.4%), Dried Tomato (0.15%), Seaweed (0.08%), Green Lipped Mussel (0.05%), Chicory (0.05%), Parsley (0.05%), Basil (0.05%), Green Tea (0.01%), Rosemary (0.01%), Rosehip (0.01%)
Type - Free from grain, dairy, and soya
Suitable For - All breed sizes, from weaning to 12 months old
ACANA Wild Prairie Dog food is a premium option from the makers of Orijen, and contains 70% meat, including free-run chicken, turkey, whole nest-laid eggs and wild-caught fish – all deemed fit for human consumption prior to inclusion.
The recipe is rich in protein and essential for muscle development and overall health. The inclusion of fruits and vegetables provides vital nutrients and antioxidants. Grain-free and with limited carbohydrates, it suits dogs with sensitivities. However, the high protein content might not be suitable for all breeds or activity levels.
Key Ingredients - Fresh chicken meat (8%), fresh turkey meat (8%), fresh chicken giblets (liver, heart, kidney) (8%), chicken meal (8%), turkey meal (8%), whole herring meal (8%), whole green peas, whole red lentils, whole chickpeas, fresh whole eggs (4%), fresh wild-caught walleye (4%), fresh wild-caught trout (4%), chicken fat (4%), fresh turkey giblets (liver, heart, kidney) (3%), whole green lentils, whole pinto beans, whole yellow peas, sun-cured alfalfa, pollock oil (2%), lentil fibre, dried chicken cartilage (1%), dried brown kelp, fresh pumpkin, fresh butternut squash, fresh parsnips, fresh green kale, fresh spinach, fresh mustard greens, fresh turnip greens, fresh carrots, fresh red delicious apples, fresh bartlett pears, freeze-dried liver (chicken and turkey) (0.1%), salt, fresh cranberries, fresh blueberries, chicory root, turmeric root, milk thistle, burdock root, lavender, marshmallow root, rosehips, enterococcus faecium.
Type - Free from artificial colours, flavours & preservatives
Suitable For - 2 months to old age.
Skinner's Field & Trial Puppy is a complete dog food, specially developed and formulated to support the early growth and development of puppies, especially working dogs. Kibble has the right level of key nutrients in a highly digestible form, and its size and shape suit puppies of different ages, shapes, and sizes.
Many generations of puppies have been raised on Skinner's Field & Trial Puppy, and it remains a favourite among breeders.
A quality brand that is still made in Britain comes in two convenient sizes has a Nutritional rating of 65% and is VAT free in the UK.
Key Ingredients - Poultry Meat Meal 30% (of which min. 90% Chicken Meal), Maize, Brown Rice, Poultry Fat, Naked Oats, Prairie Meal, Beet Pulp, Sunflower Meal, Whole Linseed, Dried Egg, Vitamins & Minerals
Type - Wheat Gluten Free
Suitable For - Working puppy breeds.
Complete balanced diet featuring premium freshly cooked English free-range chicken, Scottish salmon, North Atlantic herring, Suffolk duck raised traditionally, and whole eggs and contains 70% meat.
Based on your dog's ancestral diet, which included a lot of high-quality animal protein and was in line with what a dog would naturally eat.
Low carbohydrate content combined with veggies and fruit and naturally hypoallergenic, made without white potatoes, grains, or gluten.
Salmon, herring and prebiotics provide Omega 3 and 6 to aid in digestion. Organic vitamins, minerals, and health-promoting herbs for best absorption.
Proud to be a British Brand.
Key Ingredients - Poultry Meal (min 14% Chicken, 14% Duck), Whole Grain Maize, Prairie Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Chicken Fat, Whole Grain Oats, Hydrolysed Chicken Proteins, Peas, Unmolassed Beet Pulp, Full Fat Linseed, Egg Powder, Salmon Oil, Yeast, Minerals, Seaweed
Type - Wheat Gluten Free
Suitable For - Working dog breeds of all ages.
30L Dry Food Container
Now you have found your choice of food, why not store it in a container and keep it dry. This 30L plastic storage container will hold up to 15kg of dry kibble and has a scoop to help you dispense your food.
Dog
5 FAQ on Puppy Food
1. What's the difference between puppy food and adult dog food?
Puppy food is specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of growing puppies. It typically contains higher levels of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to support their growth and development, while adult dog food is formulated for maintenance.
2. How do I choose the best puppy food for my dog's breed and size?
Selecting the best puppy food depends on your dog's breed, size, and age. Consult with your veterinarian or breeder for specific recommendations. They can consider your puppy's unique requirements and suggest an appropriate formula or brand.
3. Is wet or dry puppy food better?
Both wet and dry puppy food can be nutritionally balanced and suitable for your puppy. The choice between them often comes down to your pup's preferences and specific needs. Some owners choose a combination of both for variety. Ensure that the food you select meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.
4. How often should I feed my puppy, and what's the right portion size?
Puppies usually require more frequent feeding than adult dogs. It would be best if you generally fed your puppy three to four times a day, gradually reducing the frequency as they age. Portion sizes should be determined based on your puppy's age, size, and activity level. Follow the feeding guidelines on the food packaging or consult your vet for tailored recommendations.
5. What ingredients should I look for in the best puppy food, and are there any to avoid?
Look for puppy food with high-quality sources of protein, like chicken, beef, or fish, listed as the first ingredient. Avoid artificial additives, excessive fillers, and by-products. Beneficial ingredients include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. If your puppy has allergies or sensitivities, you may need a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic formula to avoid common allergens.
Remember that it's essential to monitor your puppy's growth and health and adjust their diet if necessary. Regular consultations with a veterinarian can help ensure your puppy is receiving the best food for their specific needs.
Updated 17.04.2024
Comments