10 Best (Healthiest) Puppy Foods for a Goldendoodle 2023

Goldendoodles are a relatively new breed that come from the mix of Golden Retrievers and Poodles – they are friendly and gorgeous with coats that experience little to no shedding, making them easy to clean up after when they have lounged on the couch with you.

These dogs are super friendly, outgoing, and don’t exhibit aggression. They love to be around their favorite humans and are always eager to please. They display high intelligence and often work as service dogs as well as playing the role of a favorite family pet.

This breed also comes in a plethora of colors, appearing in cream colors, red, and even apricot colors. Furthermore, they can have chocolate and even black coats. They also come in several different sizes, depending on how they are bred.

According to the Goldendoodle Association, there are petite Goldendoodles that can reach up to 25 lbs. with a height below 14 inches. The miniature range is larger between 26 lbs. and 35 lbs. and can reach a height up to 17 inches. The medium range get up to 21 inches and reach up to 50 lbs., and finally, the standard range reaches over 21 inches and can even make it over 51 lbs.

Goldendoodles have different feeding requirements, depending on their size. However, one thing they share in common is their sensitive tummies.

They can easily become bloated following consumption of the wrong foods or too much water and as a pet owner, it is your responsibility to inform yourself fully to protect your Goldendoodle puppy from becoming uncomfortable or sick and help him grow up strong and healthy. To find the best dog food for a Goldendoodle puppy, read through the guide below. By the end, you will be well-informed to make the best feeding decisions for your new, precious pup.

Determine which type of Puppy Food to Feed your Goldendoodle Puppy

• Dry – Dry dog food is a great choice for your Goldendoodle puppy because it contains a great balance of nutrients that your growing fur baby requires. Those kibbles, preferably puppy-sized for their chewing comfort, also aid with removing tartar and any bacteria that may be stuck to your puppy’s teeth. These dry kibbles have the potential of preventing more serious dental issues like periodontal disease and canine gingivitis.
• Wet (Canned) – Wet food can be appropriate for picky eaters who prefer a softer, wet texture and who turn up their noses to dry kibbles. It’s not every dog that may behave this way but if your pup happens to avoid dry dog food, you may want to try mixing in some wet food or switching to a wet food only diet to ensure he obtains the nutrients he needs. It’s generally a more expensive option but if your pup has a specific preference, it is best to give him the yummy treats he desires than have him starve and become malnourished.
• Raw – Since dogs are naturally inclined to hunt, a raw diet doesn’t sound too far-fetched. Since raw foods are the freshest available, they contain the most nutrients which your Goldendoodle’s growing body will use to build immunity, heal from illness, and prevent disease. You can even incorporate raw chicken bones since they don’t splinter, rather they crunch, offering the same benefit of dry kibbles that help to keep your Goldendoodle’s teeth clean.
• Freeze Dried – When puppy food is freeze dried, it is an interesting process because the method actually captures and well, freezes, the nutrients in the fresh food and is able to provide the same amount of nutrition that is included in raw food. There are grain-free options available that will be best for your Goldendoodle’s delicate stomach and will be easier to digest. Read the labels on your freeze dried food packaging to ensure there are no fillers like corn, wheat, or soy but that instead the recipe is filled with the good stuff: proper, high-quality protein, added vitamins and minerals, yummy veggies and fruit, and all the fatty acids required to help his health from his little paws to his brain!
• Human-Grade – If you can maintain a consistent diet of human-grade food that meets all the right specifications for your Goldendoodles nutritional needs, this is a great option to try. These human-grade options avoid all the extra processing and preservation and are made of whole foods combined to deliver a natural product with natural flavors your little one will thrive off of. These types of options can come prepackaged and ready to serve and can be some of the highest quality options available on the market for your precious pup. If your budget is not an issue when it comes to your puppy’s food, you may want to consider making human-grade foods his entire diet. However, whatever you choose, make it sustainable as your pup depends on your consistency to keep his tummy troubles at bay throughout his life.

5 Special Dietary and Nutritional Considerations of Goldendoodle Puppies

• Protein – Your Goldendoodle will need plenty of protein throughout his life, including from whole meat like lamb, beef, fish, and chicken. In addition, he will require plant protein which is easier to digest like with peas and lentils. Check out food labels to ensure the primary protein is coming from meat but also be sure to review and confirm there is plant protein available within the meal as well.
• Fat and Fiber – Fat is an energy-provider for your pup and a primary staple in his diet. Fiber-rich foods also assist with moving food along the digestive tract to make mealtimes delicious and enjoyable and avoid stomach upset following dinner.
• Carbohydrates – Carbs are a requirement to keep your Goldendoodle’s blood sugar stable; however, you should only be feeding a low number of carbs to avoid spikes in sugar, meaning low-glycemic index foods, like sweet potatoes – these are the perfect pairing for a meal high in protein.
• Water – Water is a life-giving force and can assist in so many ways, besides quenching thirst after some fun in the sun. A well-hydrated Goldendoodle will operate more effectively because his digestive tract will be working at its best. He will be able to regulate his body temperature more easily, and his joints and bones will move with more ease. Always leave water out for him  so he can freely hydrate himself, especially during hot summer months when it is easier to become dehydrated.
• Omega 3s, DHA, & Other Vitamins and Minerals – If you want your pup’s metabolism to function perfectly, be sure the foods you are providing contain the right number of vitamins and minerals, along with those Omega 3s and DHA that support healthy brain and eye development. Minerals are part of the building blocks of organs and tissues, which will eventually support your pup throughout his entire life, so keep reading through those labels and meeting with your vet to ensure your pet is on the right track for a very full and very healthful life!

Goldendoodle Puppy Feeding Chart

• 6-Week Old Goldendoodle – At the tender age of six weeks, your only job is to ensure your new puppy is still enjoying his mother’s milk as it contains all the nutrients required for your puppy to grow up into his perfect size range depending on his specific breeding.
• 10-Week Old Goldendoodle – At 10 weeks, you can start weaning your cute little one off his mother and begin to add more puppy food to his diet. As always, when the transition is from a solely liquid diet to one of more sustenance, the kindest thing you can do is introduce wet food first to serve as an intermediary before providing dry kibbles in one go. The shock to your puppy’s system jumping from a liquid diet straight to dry food can be too uncomfortable for your puppy so it is best to transition slowly with the assistance of wet, canned food.
• 12-Week Old Goldendoodle – At 12 weeks, the transition between wet food to dry food may begin. Continue being gentle with the transition by slowly mixing in just a little bit of kibbles with the wet food until the process of transition is complete. This will give your Goldendoodle’s sensitive tummy enough time to become adjusted to this new way of life and you will have an easier time as well, ensuring your pup is free of discomfort and producing normal stool consistency and odor.
• 3-Month Old Goldendoodle – At the age of 3 months, your pup should be almost completely transitioned into eating only dry food. Try to stick to meals that have been developed specifically for puppies as they will contain the best amount of nutrients for his growing body. Try to keep away from any product labeled for all life stages or for all growth stages, as these formulas are too broad and are just not designed in a way to optimize your Goldendoodle puppy’s health.
• 5-Month Old Goldendoodle – At the five-month stage, your Goldendoodle puppy should be fully transitioned into his regular diet of dry dog food. You will also be feeding significantly less often, preferably providing a morning meal before you are off to work and an evening meal when you return home. This will ensure he is not overeating; try not to leave food out for him to munch on since more than likely he will, even if he is not hungry. Continue to control his caloric intake and be sure to abide by the feeding guidelines spelled out for you on the branded food you choose to purchase.
• 1-Year Goldendoodle – Once your Goldendoodle puppy reaches one year old, you will probably have noticed that he is eating significantly less, having matured into the beginning of his adulthood. He will have sensed how his metabolism is slowing and you can lower mealtimes to once per day. If you notice he is leaving food in his bowl, you can start pulling back on the amount of food served. As always, if you notice unusual behavior or weight issues, engage your vet to catch anything uncommon right away.

Our 2023 Picks : Best Puppy Food for Goldendoodles

The Farmer’s Dog Customized Fresh Chicken Recipe Dog Food Made with human-grade ingredients in small batches Delivered to your door Price: Varies	CHECK PRICE
Taste Of The Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula Grain-Free Grain-free formula Prebiotic support Price: $1.78/lb	CHECK PRICE
American Journey Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Puppy Grain-free formula Zero corn, wheat, or soy Price: $1.66/lb	CHECK PRICE
Tylee’s Human-Grade Beef Recipe Frozen Dog Food Grain-free food Zero wheat, soy, peas, or corn Price:  $4.99/lb	CHECK PRICE
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Puppy Chicken Dinner Natural ingredients Zero corn, wheat, or soy Price:  $2.16/can	CHECK PRICE
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Puppy Puppy-sized kibbles for comfortable chow time Single animal protein source Price:  $2.48/lb	CHECK PRICE
Purina Pro Plan Focus Puppy Large Breed Formula Easily digestible formula h Omega-6 fatty acids Price:  $1.41/lb	CHECK PRICE
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids No corn, wheat, soy or chicken Price:  $1.58/lb	CHECK PRICE
Wellness Complete Health Puppy Deboned Chicken Delicious deboned chicken, oatmeal and salmon Taurine supports a healthy heart Price:  $1.76/lb	CHECK PRICE
Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Grain-free recipe with no gluten ingredients No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives Price:  $2.39/lb	CHECK PRICE

The Farmer’s Dog Human-Grade Chicken Recipe

• Delivered to your doorstep
• Blended and portioned by nutritionists
• Consultants available to help adjust food to dog’s tastes

Our favorite food for Goldendoodle puppies is from the growing fresh dog food genre. The Farmer’s Dog offers human-grade food blended by veterinary nutritionists, portioned for your dog’s optimum health, and delivered to your home.

The result is healthy dog food for your doodle pup. Conveniently, the food is brought to your doorstep and is already portioned for your pet. If your Goldendoodle puppy isn’t a fan of The Farmer’s Dog, consultants are available to adjust recipes to your pet’s preferences.

Pros:

• Made with fresh ingredients
• Portioned so no need to worry about over-feeding
• Delivered to your home

Cons:

• Fresh food can be more expensive
• Needs to be refrigerated

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

• Main ingredient: real buffalo
• Natural, grain-free recipe
• Zero grains, corn, fillers, wheat, or artificial ingredients
• Easy-to-digest recipe

Overall Best Dog Food for Goldendoodle Puppies – This dry dog food by Taste of the Wild High Prairie is specially created for puppies. It is protein-rich with buffalo, roasted venison, bison, and beef for the right amount of nutrition to encourage the development of strong muscles. Since the recipe is grain-free and free of other unnecessary and unhealthy fillers, it is perfect for a Goldendoodle who has sensitive digestion.

This formula includes an exclusive probiotic combination that also assists with the digestive process, making this food excellent for your puppy’s comfortability during and after mealtimes. Along with all the animal protein, this dry dog food includes real fruits and vegetables, chelated minerals, and amino acids to take full advantage of the comprehensive and balanced nutrition provided in the food.

Pros:

• Grain-free formula
• Prebiotic support
• Real buffalo as first ingredient
• Available in 5-lb., 14-lb., and 28-lb. bags

Cons: 

• Recipe contains genetically modified ingredients (GMOs)

American Journey Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Puppy Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

• Grain-free formula
• Zero corn, wheat, or soy
• Added vitamins and minerals
• Main ingredient: deboned lamb
• Added Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and DHA

Most Inexpensive (Cheap) – This American Journey dry dog food is made for puppies with a delicious lamb and sweet potato recipe your growing Goldendoodle will enjoy. It is packed with nutrition including vitamins and minerals derived from carrots, blueberries, and even dried kelp. DHA, flaxseed, and salmon oil provide the sustenance your growing boy needs for that gorgeous non-shedding coat and his eye and brain development.

Fiber-rich chickpeas help food move along his digestive tract and keep his energy levels high so he can journey with you wherever you go. With zero corn, grains, wheat, or soy, you can relax knowing your pup’s sensitive tummy will not be exposed to popular allergens that cause tummy discomfort like the bloating these little ones are prone to.

Pros:

• Grain-free recipe
• Created specifically for the puppy life stage
• Available in a 4-lb., 12-lb., and 24-lb. bag

Cons:

• Not guaranteed to be free of genetically modified ingredients (GMOs)

Tylee’s Human-Grade Beef Recipe Frozen Dog Food

Key Features:

• Formulated with human-grade ingredients
• Simple – just defrost and serve
• Minimally processed ingredients
• Grain-free recipe

Best Human Grade Lab Puppy Food – This Tylee’s frozen dog food is made with a beef recipe that your Goldendoodle will devour. You can choose to feed this food alone if your budget permits or use it as treat or topper for your pup so he can enjoy a little extra flavor. The added antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins delivered via this formula will encourage your growing puppy’s optimal health.

Since this food omits grains, soy, wheat, corn, and by-product meals, your pup will bypass any unnecessary stomach discomfort and can just focus on savoring his food and feeling full and satisfied after mealtime. The Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids comes from sunflower oil, ground flaxseed, and chia seeds to provide the nourishment he needs for a gleaming coat and healthy-feeling skin.

Pros:

• Grain-free food
• Zero wheat, soy, peas, or corn
• Human-grade; easy to serve

Cons:

• Not guaranteed to be free of genetically modified ingredients (GMOs)

Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Puppy Chicken Dinner with Garden Vegetables Canned Dog Food, 12.5-oz, case of 12

Key Features:

• Natural ingredients
• Zero corn, wheat, or soy
• Main ingredient: deboned chicken
• No chicken by-product meal
• Includes whole grains; brown rice and barley

Best Canned Puppy Food for Goldendoodles – This chicken dinner and garden vegetable recipe by Blue Buffalo offers that homestyle delectableness puppies will drool over – every time! These natural ingredients omit unnecessary fillers like soy, wheat, and corn to keep your Goldendoodle puppy’s tummy from experiencing upset.  The deboned chicken included in this formula provides the essential amino acids required for his continued muscle development.

This formula is not grain-free and contains brown rice and barley as complex carbohydrates to provide consistent energy delivered throughout the day. The formula is meant to be holistic, free of any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavoring but includes the natural flavors and antioxidants provided by the addition of blueberries and cranberries.

Pros:

• Created specifically for puppies
• Delicious homestyle recipe dogs truly enjoy
• Free of artificial ingredients and fillers

Cons:

• Not a grain-free formula

Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Puppy Formula Potato & Duck Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

• Grain-freer formula
• Created with sensitive tummies in mind
• Designed for puppies with smaller kibble size
• Single animal protein: duck

Best Limited Ingredient Foods for Goldendoodle Puppies – This puppy formula made by Natural Balance has limited ingredients to make digestion a breeze for your beautiful Goldendoodle. The limited carbohydrates and lack of artificial flavors or colors make it so your pup is only getting the best, natural ingredients to aid with his development.

Flaxseed delivers Omega 3 fatty acids to protect the integrity of their coats while keeping their skin looking and feeling amazing. DHA derived from salmon oil is also included in the recipe so your pup has cognitive support as he grows into adulthood.

Pros:

• Puppy-sized kibbles for comfortable chow time
• Single animal protein source
• Limited ingredients to avoid possible allergic reactions
• Available in a 4.5-lb., 12-lb., and 24-lb. bag

Cons:

• Pricier compared to other brands and formulas

4 More Top Rated Puppy Foods for Goldendoodles:

Purina Pro Plan Focus Puppy Large Breed Formula Dry Dog Food

This dry dog food made by Purina is available in two sizes: an 18-lb. bag and a 34-lb. bag. The formula has been combined especially for the puppy stage of life and includes lean chicken for lean muscle mass, DHA-rich fish oil for eye and brain advancement, and complex carbs delivered via rice to keep your pup full of energy.

The recipe includes prebiotic fiber to help move food along his digestive tract and keep him comfortable during defecation. Purina boasts their U.S.A.-based facilities and confirms all products are manufactured without any artificial ingredients or preservatives.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

This Blue Buffalo chicken and brown rice recipe is made specifically for puppies and is available in several sizes, from a 4-lb. bag to a 30-lb. bag. The kibbles are smaller to accommodate small puppy jaws and the formula includes essential vitamins and minerals like phosphorus and calcium to encourage the development of strong bones and teeth. The dry kibbles also assist with cleaning out their teeth and removing tartar to prevent dental diseases down the road. There is zero corn, wheat, soy, or chicken by-product meals so your Goldendoodles stomach can be protected from any potential allergens.

Wellness Complete Health Puppy Deboned Chicken, Oatmeal & Salmon Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food

This dry dog food by Wellness comes in a 5-lb., 15-lb., and 30-lb. bag and is formulated specially for the life stage of puppyhood. The ingredients include deboned chicken, salmon, and oatmeal to provide a tasty, nutritious meal for your growing Goldendoodle. Coat and skin health is encouraged via flaxseed and added taurine helps to support his heart health. Not only does this food provide adequate nutrition for your puppy, it also includes Yucca Schidigera which helps to minimize stool odor, keeping your nose from the offensive odors experienced following accidents during training.

Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food

This chicken and sweet potato recipe by Merrick delivers a meal bursting with nutrition for your Goldendoodle puppy. The formula is grain-free, gluten-free and omits, corn, wheat, or soy to protect sensitive bellies. DHA encourages the healthy development of your little furry one’s brain and added minerals and vitamins create a comprehensive meal filled with only the best ingredients like deboned chicken and real vegetables and fruit.

Our 2023 Goldendoodle Puppy Feeding Guide

Goldendoodles thrive off of structured mealtimes versus leaving food out when you leave the house for free feeding. Well-timed meals delivered with consistency will help keep your puppy’s tummy happy and free of bloat.

Be sure you are providing your puppy with natural ingredients – avoid fillers at all costs that can cause allergic reactions to flare up and leave you with more visits to the vet than you would care for.

Raw food will generally taste better to Goldendoodles so if you opt for a raw food diet, you will be on track with their ancestor’s way of living. However, if dry kibble will be the best option for you as a pet parent, just be sure to review the available ingredient list and avoid artificial preservatives and flavoring, as well as grains to prevent any stomach issues from developing.

The method is pretty simple – natural, whole foods formulated for puppies will be the best option for your growing little one. Avoid the cheap stuff filled with unnatural ingredients and you will be able to set your Goldendoodle up for a good life of fun and health.

FAQ

How much food should I feed a Goldendoodle puppy?

This is a crucial aspect of your puppy’s diet – knowing how much to feed during each stage of puppyhood. These cute pups are known for how quickly they chow down their food, which unfortunately, can lead to the rapid, unnatural expulsion of the meal recently consumed. Your Goldendoodle puppy should be eating three to four small meals per day to help lessen his chances of vomiting after feeding and keep him satiated throughout the day. After six months, you can begin feeding your Goldendoodle a little less often, bringing down mealtimes to twice per day. If you provide treats during training, be sure to adjust the amount of food you feed him to ensure he is eating the right number of calories for his size. Always pay attention to feeding instructions on food labels and be sure to check in regularly with your veterinarian to be sure he is developing healthily.

What is the best type of food for a Goldendoodle puppy?

The best type of food for your Goldendoodle is the type that not only fits your budget, but also provides your growing puppy with the complete and balanced nutrition he needs. So long as your Goldendoodle is meeting his developmental markers, is enjoying his meals, and is receiving the correct combination of nutrients, it does not matter if the food is wet, dried, freeze dried, or raw. Just choose natural, whole foods and avoid any fillers to protect your little one’s delicate tummy.

When should I stop feeding my Goldendoodle puppy food?

Your Goldendoodle will reach adulthood at the end of one year. At that point, you may transition him from food specially made for puppies to a more standard adult food option.

How many times a day should I feed my Goldendoodle puppy?

Although dogs are generally fed according to their activity levels and body composition, when they are puppies, they can be fed at the same rate, even as they grow over several months. This means that between four to about 12 months of age, your puppy can receive the same amount of food to promote his growth at a standard rate. Between month four to about month six, your puppy will experience a growth spurt so you must be mindful to maintain a steady eating schedule. During the first three months, you’ll notice your pup can easily transition to their new food after weaning and will generally regulate their own consumption consistently during this time. Feeding four times a day at this stage is recommended. During months six to 12, you should only be feeding your Goldendoodle twice per day. As with any pup, monitoring his growth stages with regular vet visits will help you feel at ease knowing your puppy is growing into adulthood appropriately.

How can I fatten up my Goldendoodle Puppy?

If you have the unfortunate experience with a Goldendoodle that does not gain weight as he should be, you will understand just how frustrating it can be trying to fatten up your puppy. The very first step when you realize your Goldendoodle is not gaining weight properly is a visit to your trusted vet. Together, you can collaborate and put together a feeding plan that will give your little one an assist to move into a healthy weight range.

Goldendoodle Puppy Food – RECAP

Goldendoodles are considered “designer dogs” and were bred specifically following human desires for this particular mix. They are so easy to love, are intelligent, and have sweet faces that reveal how playful they really are. Their unique, near shed-less nature is perfect for pet parents who want a loyal companion but experience allergies. These dogs are naturally athletic and require the proper nutrition to support that aspect of their personalities. Their friendliness will demonstrate when they are feeling happy and healthy and flourishing and you will feel satisfied knowing this little furry buddy you have raised and fed is living his best life in his adulthood.

After reading through the dietary and nutritional needs of your Goldendoodle and checking out the different options for the types of foods to feed, you are better equipped to make a solid decision of how to feed your new member of the family. With consistency and structure, the foods you provide your pet will work to provide him with lean muscle mass, with the proper and full development of his organs and tissues, with strong teeth and bones, and with an overall highly functioning body to support him throughout his living years alongside you. A little goes a long way with Goldendoodles; cherish your pup and he will love you endlessly in return!