10 Best Dog Food for Labs: A Nutritional Guide to Keeping Your Labrador Healthy and Happy!

A Labrador, with its heartfelt eyes, wagging tail, and capacity to melt hearts, is the perfect breed to bring into your family.

If there’s one thing Labs are renowned for, it’s their insatiable appetite for fun and adventure. 

But even the most spirited ones need the right fuel to keep them going as they sprout and grow. So what’s the scoop? Find the best food for your Lab!

Even though Labradors are the second most popular dog breed in the US according to AKC, their genetic structure has made them prone to obesity and other health issues like hip dysplasia. 

Exercising is one way to curb them from away from a lot of issues but it is more important to keep them on a diet that meets all the critical requirements.  

We have compiled a list of the 10 healthiest food suitable for your Labrador Retriever. 

Our top pick is Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Breed Dry Dog Food

Go through our recommended list and bring home one that suits your doggo the most. It is time to let your Lab grow in the healthiest of love and care.

10 Best Dog Food For Labs: Give Your Dog The Optimal Nutrition

Here is a sneak peek at our list of the 10 best Labrador Retriever dog food

• Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Breed Dry Dog Food – Top Pick
• Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula – Protein Rich
• Diamond Naturals Large Breed Formula Dog Food – Probiotic Packed
• ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dog Food – Biologically Fit
• NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Dry Dog Food – All Pure
• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Dog Food– Active Life
• Nulo Grain Free All Natural Large Breed Dog Food – Hypoallergenic
• IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food – Glucosamine Might
• ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete Large Dog Food – Vet Formulated
• The Honest Kitchen Clusters Grain Free Beef Dry Dog Food – Human Grade

Now that you know what brands have made it to our list, it’s time to get to know their specific features and other details that set them apart.

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1. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Breed Dry Dog Food – Top Pick

 Best Dog Food For Maintaining Ideal Weight For Labs 

If you are looking for dog food that is specially made by keeping the unique needs of labrador retrievers in mind, you wouldn’t find anything better than Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Breed Dry Dog Food. 

This formula helps maintain a dog’s weight at an optimum level since obesity is a common health scare for Labradors. 

Royal Canin develops these breed-specific formulas that are targeted to meet all health standards by partnering with dog experts and backed by 50 years of experience. 

From bone and joint to skin and fur health, it caters to everything. 

Labs have a habit of gulping down their food which is not good in so many ways. 

The kibble design and shape are specifically designed for the facial and jaw structure of Labs. 

Since dry and wet food are both essential to meet the nutrition requirements, this dog food is a balanced mixture of both.

The taste is palatable. Even the pickiest eaters can’t say to the taste. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Breed Dry Dog Food is made from quality ingredients that are easy on the stomach. 

Specific Features

• For adult Labs only (15 months and above)
• Donut-shaped kibble
• Contains chicken by-product meal, brown rice, oats, corn gluten, pork, beet, wheat gluten, and fish oil
• Wet and dry food nutrition
• 100% satisfaction guaranteed 
• Precise calorie and fat content
• Contains EPA, DHA, glucosamine, folic acid, Vitamin B, D and more

Check Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Breed Dry Dog Food. for more info. #commissionsearned

2. Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Dog Food Dry Formula – Protein Rich

Best Dog Food For Building Muscle Strength

Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula is a high-protein diet for large dog breeds.

Since large-breed dogs must maintain their weight to keep their joints from stressing out, a high-protein diet is great for providing sufficient energy while keeping the calorie count in check. 

Protein-rich diets are also very good for labradors’ heart health.

This is a crunchy dry food that benefits the gum and teeth health of a Labrador. And of course, it is packed with all the essential nutrients. 

Purina large breed dog formula contains antioxidants from four ingredients that are best for the immune system. 

It also has glucosamine for maintaining joint health. This Lab food is a rich source of calcium, vitamins, and all the essential fatty acids for a luscious coat and skin.

What is more reassuring is that this pet food does not contain any preservatives, fillers, or artificial flavoring. 

And we are sure of one thing. Your dog is going to go gaga over the real chicken and veg pieces included with the kibble.

Specific Features

• For large breed adult dogs (over 50 pounds)
• Chunky dry dog food
• Chicken flavor
• Glucosamine, high protein, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids 
• Real chicken, rice flour, soybean, wheat grain, corn meal, beef fat, oatmeal, and veggies

See more here Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula #commissionsearned

3. Diamond Naturals Large Breed Formula Dog Food – Probiotic Packed 

Dog Food For Labs With Proprietary Probiotic Technology 

If your Lab is going through a rough patch of immunity issues, Diamond Naturals Large Breed Formula Dog Food will exceed your expectations.

Why it is an exceptional choice for your Lab’s overall health? This healthy dog food is made with proprietary probiotic technology along with high protein nutrition. 

This help build up your dog’s immune system and fights off bad bacteria in the body.

Diamond Naturals Large Breed Formula Dog Food provides your dog with the energy it needs for staying healthy and super active. 

This dog food uses quality ingredients that are best for your dog’s health. It contains salmon oil that has all the essential fatty acids for maintaining a shiny coat and skin.

The assured quantity of selenium and vitamin E ensures that your dog is receiving the right amount of antioxidants for their growth. 

The kibble size is ideal and the crunchiness is great for cleaning your dog’s teeth as well.

Specific Features

• Rice and fresh chicken flavor 
• Chicken, rice, chia, flax, egg product, kale, coconut, salmon oil, papaya, carrots, and spinach
• Fatty acids, Biotin, Zinc, Probiotics (80 million CFU/pound), Calcium, and essential Vitamins 
• Pellet form
• For all life stages
• Based on AFFCO nutritional standards
• Made in the US

 

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4. ORIJEN Original Grain Free Dry Dog Food – Biologically Fit

Dog Food For Labs That Provides Holistic Nutrition

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food Grain Free Dog Food is packed with 80% raw or fresh poultry (free-run chicken and turkey), salmon, and whole herring.

The ingredient includes liver, cartilage, and other scrumptious parts of the chosen poultry to mimic the wild. So we can say that it is an authentic whole-prey diet for your Labrador.

This dog food is great for your dog’s immunity and digestive health as well as keeps the fur and skin shiny. 

Here’s another fantastic development for Labs with allergies – this dog food is available in a grain-free formula option as well. 

ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food Grain Free Dog Food costs more than an average puppy food but since it is so densely packed with nutrients, a little goes a long way.

The feeding requirements are mentioned on the pack. 

A piece of advice here: if you are transitioning from some other dog food, do it gradually and talk to your vet about feeding guidelines. 

Your dog may not be able to accept the abrupt change in terms of taste and digestion. 

Specific Features

• Granulated dog food
• For all life stages
• Fresh/raw chicken, salmon, sardines whole herring, turkey, organs, eggs, bones, fruits, and veggies
• Protein, fat, fiber, DHA, EPA, fatty acids, glucosamine, calcium, and vitamins
• Made in the US

See more information ORIJEN Original Dry Dog Food Grain Free Dog Food #commissionsearned

5. NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Dry Dog Food – All Pure

Most Natural Dog Food For Labs

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Dry Dog Food is another great addition to our list.

This dry kibble has high-quality protein sources from real chicken. 

The philosophy states not to use anything artificial since it is damaging to the health of even pets too.

With essential antioxidants and natural fibers, you will surely see a boost in your Labs immune and digestive systems. 

And yes all the omega fatty acids included in the ingredients are best for your furry friend’s fur and skin. 

It contains EPA and DHA which is also great for the eye and brain development.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Dry Dog Food is great-tasting kibble that is not too hard on the teeth. 

This large breed dog food offers a completely balanced everyday nutrition. For best results, you can add their wet dog food to their Nutro’s dry food.

Specific Features

• Chicken and brown rice recipe (along with chia, beet, flaxseed, dried egg, and more)
• For large breed adult dogs (age 1+)
• Cooked in the US with premium global products
• Dry Kibble
• No GMO, chicken byproducts, or preservatives
• Protein, fiber, vitamins, omega 3-6, zinc, and calcium

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6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Dog Food – Active Life

Best Dog Food To Keep Your Labs Going

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Dog Food is a glucosamine and chondroitin-rich diet for large breed dogs to help build strong muscles without stressing their joints and limbs.

It also contains L-carnitine and calcium for developing lean muscles and promoting bone strength.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Dog Food also benefits your dog’s skin and fur coat since it contains all the essential fatty acids. 

The dry kibble is crunchy and just about the right size for a large dog to pick it up and chew. The crunchy pieces help clean up teeth and prevent the potential issues of plaque.

It’s a mix of the finest ingredients while options start from real chicken and brown rice recipes to fish and oatmeal. 

The chicken meal contains no by-products, just plain healthy deboned real chicken along with healthy fruits and veggies and wholesome grains. 

Overall it is a great product but a pricey one. But there is no compromise when it comes to your dog’s well-being.

Specific Features

• Cold-formed dry kibble
• Chicken and brown rice, flax seed, peas, fish oil, and sweet potato recipe
• For large-breed adult dogs
• Contains protein, fiber, essential vitamins, omega fatty acids, and vital minerals
• Made in the US from globally sourced ingredients

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7. Nulo Grain Free All Natural Large Breed Dog Food – Hypoallergenic

Ideal Dog Food For Labs With Food Sensitivities

Nulo Grain Free All Natural Large Breed Dog Food is a great option for dogs that do not like chicken meat and eggs or have developed some kind of allergy to grains.

But this does not mean this dog’s food offers any less protein. The recipe contains 80% of the protein obtained from salmon. 

All the ingredients are sourced and manufactured in the US. It contains no additives or preservatives. 

Nulo all-natural dog food contains patented probiotics that build up the immune system of the body. Salmon is rich in fatty acids which is great for your Lab’s fur coat. 

Specific Features

• Salmon, turkey meal, manhaden fish meal, peas, chickpeas, lentils, blueberries, apple tomato, and carrots
• Dry kibble
• For large-breed adult dogs
• Grain, chicken, and egg-free formula
• Patented BC30 probiotic, high protein, essential vitamins, and minerals
• Meets AAFCO standards
• Made in the US

Find out more here Nulo Grain Free All Natural Large Breed Dog Food #commissionsearned

8. IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dog Food – Glucosamine Might

Best Dog Food For Labs With Arthritic Issues

IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food is a high source of glucosamine and chondroitin which help build up joint and bone strength.

Since arthritis is a common health hazard faced by large-breed adults, getting this for your Lab is a good choice. Especially if it is dealing with arthritis.

Made from real farm-raised chicken as its first ingredient, IAMS dog food is free from artificial preservatives and any kind of fillers. 

This formula contains wholesome grains. Not recommended for dogs who are allergic to corn, soy, or wheat. 

Specific Features

• Real farm-raised chicken, whole grain, beet pulp, chicken fat, and carrot recipe
• Dry kibble
• For large breed adult dogs (1+ of age)
• Protein, glucosamine, chondroitin, fibers, and probiotics
• Made in the US from the world’s finest ingredients

 

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9. ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete Large Dog Food – Vet Made

Best Dog Food For Labs For Complete Nutritional Care

ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete Large Dog Food is a vet-developed formula with 100% farm-raised beef and that too in the US.

So it is a protein-rich diet with no additives or artificial fillers. Every single bite is packed with nutritional ingredients that support energy, digestion, immunity, and longevity. 

It also includes berries which are a high source of antioxidants, and premium quality veggies that contain all the essential vitamins and minerals for your Lab’s ideal growth. 

This large breed of dog food comes in a freeze-dried form. You can mix it with warm water for perfect consistency.

Specific Features

• Freeze-dried raw pallet
• For large breed adult dog
• Ranch-raised beef 
• Packed with probiotics, amino acids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
• Made in the US

Get the latest updates ULTIMATE PET NUTRITION Nutra Complete Large Dog Food #commissionsearned

10. The Honest Kitchen Clusters Beef Dry Dog Food – Human Grade

Minimally Processed Dog Food For Labs 

The Honest Kitchen Clusters Grain Free Beef Dry Dog Food is another beef recipe dog food that is a source of high protein.

On top of that, it is a grain-free formula for Labs who have a hard time digesting grains like soy, corn, or wheat. It is a human-grade dog food with no artificial gibberish of any kind.

The fresh ingredients are mixed in small batches, cold pressed, and then roasted and dehydrated. 

This process keeps the ingredients fresh to ensure that maxim nutrition is absorbed by your dog’s body. 

Specific Features

• Human-grade beef, flax seed, salmon oil, coconut oil, carrots, broccoli, kale, apples, and tomato recipe
• For all dog and life stages
• Dry pallets
• Protein, probiotics, amino acids, vitamins, calcium, minerals, and antioxidants
• 100% money-back guarantee

More info The Honest Kitchen Clusters Grain Free Beef Dry Dog Food here #commissionsearned

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most asked questions regarding the Labrador diet addressed.

1. Are Labradors lactose intolerant?

Generally, labradors are not lactose intolerant. But exceptions are there. So yes, some may have a hard time digesting a high-lactose diet that includes milk or cheese. 

Such dogs lack sufficient lactase, the enzyme needed to properly digest lactose in dairy products. 

This can lead to digestive upset, including symptoms like diarrhea or intestinal upset, according to AKC’s article. 

It’s advisable to see a vet for a complete diagnosis before limiting their intake of milk and dairy items or opting for lactose-free alternatives. 

2. Which fruit is best for Labradors?

Fruits are a great source of antioxidants for dogs. Almost all fruits are good for feeding your Lab but blueberries are an ideal fruit choice for them. 

They are low in calories and packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, benefiting your Labrador’s overall health. 

Blueberries can support their immune system, brain function, and digestive health. 

Remember to introduce any new food gradually and in moderation, while also removing seeds and pits to ensure your dog’s safety. 

Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your Labrador’s diet.

3. What should I look for when buying the best food for Labradors?

When purchasing food specifically for Labradors, prioritize high-quality dog food with real meat as the main ingredient. 

Look for well-balanced formulas that include essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. 

Avoid artificial additives, fillers, and excessive grains. 

Opt for brands that offer specific formulas tailored to the needs of larger breeds, and consider your Labrador’s age, activity level, and any potential allergies or sensitivities. 

Consulting your veterinarian can help ensure you choose the most suitable food to promote your Labrador’s health and well-being.

4. Is wet food a better option for large-breed dogs?

Wet food can be a suitable option for large-breed dogs like Labradors due to its higher moisture content, which can help keep them hydrated. 

It may also be more palatable which makes it easier for dogs with dental issues or picky appetites to eat. 

However, a balanced diet is key and wet food should be chosen based on its nutritional quality and ingredients. 

Consulting with a veterinarian can help determine if wet food is appropriate for your Labrador’s specific needs and preferences.

5. Is homemade food good for feeding your Labrador?

Homemade food can be an option for feeding Labradors but it requires careful planning and consideration. 

It’s essential to ensure that homemade meals are well-balanced and provide the necessary nutrients like protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. 

Working with a veterinary nutritionist can help create a balanced recipe for your Labrador. 

However, it can be challenging to achieve the right nutritional balance and store-bought dog foods are formulated to meet specific dietary requirements. 

Consulting a veterinarian before switching to homemade food is recommended to ensure your Labrador’s health and well-being.

Conclusion

Along with giving your dog the best living environment, it is crucial to give them the best diet for healthy growth. 

Labrador is one of the most loveable dog breeds and its body has certain nutritional requirements that have to be met for a healthy life.

So here are our top three picks for the best food for Labradors.

We selected Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult Breed Dry Dog Food as our top pick since it is specifically made for Labrador Retrievers’ anatomy and growing needs.

The second to make it to the list is Purina ONE Plus Large Breed Adult Dog Food Dry Formula which is known for using the best quality ingredients, especially the meat.

We picked Diamond Naturals Large Breed Formula Dog Food as our third choice for immune health since it contains the patented probiotic in abundance.

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