The Goldendoodle is a designer dog, meaning a mixed breed obtained by crossing the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. This breed is gaining more popularity as you will not find a more affectionate, caring, and loving dog than a Goldendoodle.
They are active, loving, energetic, and full of life. They have a soft coat and shed less. They have the best features of the Retriever and the Poodle.
They are intelligent and make great companions. And since they possess such high activity levels, they require high-quality dog food at regular intervals to fulfill their dietary and nutritional requirements.
We bring you the reviews of the 10 Best Dog Foods for Goldendoodles along with a feeding guide of the dos and don’ts in their diet.
Why Quality Food Matters for Your Goldendoodle?
As the name suggests, the Goldendoodle is a mixed breed between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Therefore, it gets the lineage of both breeds which determines their characteristics like size and shape. This is subject to vary and so is their nutritional requirement.
However, regardless of their size, Goldendoodles are generally considered as active dog breeds. This means they require a good amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids throughout the day. They should be fed in small intervals instead of giving them one large meal.
Since the species is a crossbreed, the creature is also susceptible to various food allergies and sensitivities that it gets from both dog breeds. Cheap and low branded dog foods commonly have fillers, grains, additives, artificial colors, and flavors that are not very desirable in dog foods.
Therefore, it is recommended to feed your Goldendoodle only a high-quality protein-rich diet which is also balanced out by a proper set of carbohydrates, fats, minerals, and vitamins. Look for a high-quality premium dog food brand that offers a combination of both nutrition and quality.
Do Goldendoodles Have Special Nutritional Requirements?
Like every other dog breed, the Goldendoodle too is a unique dog breed and has special nutritional requirements. Since the dog is a mixed breed and possesses more activity levels, they need to be fed in small portions multiple times over the day. Here are some special nutritional considerations for your Goldendoodle.
High-Quality Animal Proteins:
While choosing to buy high-quality dog food for your Goldendoodle, it is very important to consider the protein content and the source of protein. The overall percentage should be anywhere between 18-22% in dry dog food, and this protein should be coming from animal meat.
The animal meat should be sourced from the finest of places that rear quality animals for meat.
Since canines are used to feeding on meat and food from the wild, the protein has to be sourced from animals. Protein helps your pup in muscle development and helps in the development and repair of tissues.
Fats:
Fats form an essential aspect of any dog food. There is a myth that dogs should not be fed with food containing fats as this may lead to obesity.
However, most of their energy actually comes from fat. Puppies require high amounts of fats not only for their activities but also for their growth and smooth functioning of their brain and other organs of the body.
Minerals, Vitamins, and Antioxidants
Minerals, Vitamins, and Antioxidants are added as additional supplements in your dog’s food and are important for supporting your canine’s overall health. They help in developing strong muscles, help in smooth joint functioning and antioxidants help in maintaining strong immunity, and keeping allergies at bay.
Limited ingredient diet may not have vitamin and mineral supplements added externally. However, they help in the overall development and growth of your Goldendoodle.
Omega fatty acids:
Appearance matters a lot for your Goldendoodle as they need to have a shiny coat and smooth appearance that makes them look adorable and soft.
Omega fatty acids are of two types, Omega -3 and Omega – 6 fatty acids. These are usually obtained from flaxseeds, Fish, and Salmon Oil. These are very important aspects that must be included in any dog food.
Fibers:
Fruits and certain vegetables, as well as grains that provide a source of carbohydrates, are rich in fiber. These fibers help in maintaining the digestive system and keep it functioning smoothly.
They also help in maintaining firmer stools and fiber should form a part of your dog’s daily diet.
Calories:
In order to keep your dog going active all day, they would need to maintain an overall fat to carbohydrate to protein ratio. And apart from that, the maximum calories they obtain from the food is also important to provide them with sufficient energy levels.
Puppies require more calories in comparison to adults as they have more activity levels.
Water:
After a long day filled with activity, your Goldendoodle would certainly require to gulp onto some water to keep themselves hydrated.
Water forms an essential aspect as it keeps the nutrients circulating throughout their body and keeps their cells functioning for metabolism. An ongoing supply of fresh water in their bowls always does the trick.
Common Health Issues of Goldendoodles
Goldendoodles generally are considered to be a very healthy breed. However, they can suffer from certain health conditions that are acquired either genetically, or through their food or environment. Here are a few health concerns you must take care of if petting a Goldendoodle:
Gastric Dilatation – Volvulus
This condition is also referred to as bloat and generally affects dogs with a deep chest such as the Goldendoodle.
This condition usually happens if they are fed one large meal a day, they eat too quickly or gulp their food, drink large amounts of water after eating or indulge in some heavy activity after eating. The condition is common in older dogs and usually happens when the stomach is distended with gas or air which causes it to twist.
Your dog is not able to regurgitate his food which causes the blood flow to reverse thereby dysfunctioning the blood flow. Their blood pressure drops and your doodle might enter into a state of shock.
If your canine is not attended quickly he might die and the condition can get fatal. If your dog is salivating excessively or behaves abnormally suspect bloat. Your dog may also feel restless and one must show to the vet immediately in such cases.
Allergies:
Allergies are a common problem in any dog breed and since your Goldendoodle is a mixed breed, one needs to be more careful. Keeping them on a limited ingredient diet can be considered as an option and avoid foods from cheap sources.
Look for brands that offer high-quality food rich in protein and offering a balanced meal. Allergies may cause your dog to feel discomforted, may lead to the shedding of the coat, or will make them behave unusually with excessive itching and scratching.
Ear Infections:
Goldendoodles have floppy ears and hence can harbor various pathogens and infectious bacteria beneath their ears. Moreover, if they remain soggy and wet, then it’s more troublesome. Therefore, it is always necessary to check below their floppy ears from time to time and keep it clean.
Hip Dysplasia:
Hip dysplasia is generally an inherited condition wherein the thigh bone does not fit snugly into the hip joint. This causes your dog to feel lame but they do not show any outward signs of discomfort.
An X-Ray screening will help in the proper diagnosis of the condition. As your dog ages gradually, it may even lead to arthritis. Always confirm with your breeder and look out for signs as dogs with hip dysplasia should generally not be reared.
Von Willebrand’s Disease:
This condition is a blood disorder which leads to clotting and is found in both humans as well as dogs. Your affected dog will be very fragile and you may often find his nose bleeding, gums bleeding, excessive bleeding from wounds or surgery, or during heat cycles, etc.
The condition usually happens by the time they reach adulthood and it cannot be cured. The only way to reduce this is by altering their medications, blood transfusions, proper suturing post-surgery to avoid excess bleeding, etc.
Ingredients to Avoid in Your Goldendoodle’s Dog Food
While most dog breeds survive on a high protein low fat and low carb diet, mixed breeds like the Goldendoodle work slightly differently than other dog breeds. They have different preferences when it comes to their dog food. Here is a list of ingredients and types of food you must avoid for your doodle.
Cheap dog foods:
Cheap dog foods have unknown meat and protein sources. They do not contain quality ingredients that are bound to harm your dog and cause unwanted reactions and allergies. These dog food brands do not maintain transparency with their buyers and refrain from mentioning the correct set of ingredients that they use.
In order to make their food appealing and attractive, they end up adding poultry and animal byproducts from sources unknown. These byproducts can contain harmful bacteria that can get pathogenic and cause diseases in your pet.
Fillers, Grains and Artificial Ingredients:
In order to compensate for the total amount of food, manufacturers may end up adding fillers and other unwanted ingredients from cheap sources.
These fillers can range from colors, dyes, preservatives, grains, and gluten which are known to trigger allergic reactions in your dog. This would only increase your vet visits and burn a hole in your pocket.
Wet or Dry Food:
Goldendoodles being a mixed breed and a designer dog variety may have different choices and preferences. What is more suitable in terms of the food, is dry food more than wet food. Wet food may end up forming plaques whereas dry kibble keeps their jaws healthy and maintains their dental health.
If the kibble feels too dry, always mix it with sufficient amounts of water or keep a water bowl by your pet’s side at all times. This will help in digestion as well as the smooth functioning of their body.
Doodles who have attained senior age can always opt for wet food as they may have difficulties in chewing.
High-Fat Content:
Food that has a high-fat percentage or has high amounts of animal fats or byproducts must be avoided. These are nothing but empty calories which would only end up making your dog obese.
Moreover, if the source of these byproducts is unknown, the product automatically becomes unreliable which makes it unsafe and unhealthy for consumption.
Other Ingredients:
Other ingredients that every dog breed must generally avoid include candies, chocolates, artificial sweeteners, food colors, alcohol, caffeine, and table leftovers.
Can Goldendoodles Eat Chocolate?
No, Goldendoodles can not eat the chocolate, do not try to feed them any kind of chocolates.
Goldendoodles Feeding Chart: How Much I have to Feed my Goldendoodles
The general lifespan of a Goldendoodle is 10-15 years
Their age range is as follows:
Puppies: up to 12 Months
Adult: From 1 to 6 Years
Senior: Over 7 Years
The weight range of a Goldendoodle is as follows:
- Miniature: 15 to 30 pounds
- Medium: 30 to 45 pounds
- Standard: 45 up to 100 pounds
Their weight is subject to vary depending upon the dominant breed. Golden retrievers are usually medium-sized whereas poodles are tiny in size.
Goldendoodles are susceptible to gastric disorders and generally possess high levels of activity and exercise. In order to keep them going all day, you must give them several small meals in a day. Puppies need to be fed multiple times a day. When they start entering the adult stage, the frequencies of their meals need to be reduced.
The table below summarizes the various stages and the number of calories your Goldendoodle will need to maintain optimum health and weight:
| Age | Kcal per day |
| 4 Months or Less | 618 per day |
| 4 to 12 Months | 414 per day |
| 12 Months and Up (Fixed) | 371 per day |
| Senior Dogs | 330 per day |
We show you the general recommended frequencies of feeding as per their age and weight
| Life Stage | Weight | No of feedings per day |
| Puppy | 4 – 9 lbs (Small)
8 – 10 lbs (Medium) 10-11 lbs (Large) |
3 – 4 times a day |
| Adult | 15 – 30 (Small)
30 – 45 (Medium) 45 – 100 (Large) |
Twice a day |
| Senior | 15 – 30 (Small)
30 – 45 (Medium) 45 – 100 (Large) |
One whole cup divided into two meals in 24 hrs |
The 10 Best Dog Foods For Goldendoodles
While Goldendoodles are a mixed breed, they would have nutritional requirements that are unique and cater to their specific dietary needs. We help you figure out the best dog foods for your Goldendoodle with our reviews below.
1. Blue Buffalo Freedom Adult Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Overall Best
Guaranteed Analysis
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 6.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.5 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.5 % min |
| Glucosamine | 400 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3,583 kcal/kg, 373 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Tapioca Starch, Pea Starch, Chicken Fat, etc.
Product Reviews
If your Goldendoodle is sensitive to most ingredients then the Blue Buffalo Freedom Adult Chicken Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the perfect bait for your pet. The diet is 100% delicious, grain-free, and gluten-free to not cause any harmful unwanted reactions or allergies to your pooch.
The food is free of corn, soy, or any artificial fillers and has real chicken as the first ingredient. The diet also features BLUE’s exclusive LifeSource BITS which is a mix of select antioxidants, vitamins, minerals which are handpicked by expert veterinarians worldwide.
The recipe also has Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat health and the food is specially designed for your pup to stay healthy and active.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight of Dog | Daily Feeding (cups) |
| Upto 15 lbs | 1/2 – 1 1/4 |
| 16 – 25 lbs | 1 1/4 – 1 3/4 |
| 26 – 40 lbs | 1 3/4 – 2 1/2 |
| 41 – 60 lbs | 2 1/2 – 3 1/2 |
| 61 – 80 lbs | 3 1/2 – 4 1/4 |
| 81 – 100 lbs | 4 1/4 – 5 1/4 |
| Over 100 lbs lbs | 5 1/4 + 1/2 per 20 lbs |
Pros:
- Chicken is the first ingredient in the dry dog food
- Grain and Gluten-Free
- Rich in Omega Fatty Acids
- Has LifeSource Bits which is a tasty blend of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants
Cons:
- Dogs find it difficult to transition to the food
- The packaging of the food is not great
About Blue Buffalo:
BLUE Buffalo began as a company with some inspiration from a large breed Airedale, Blue. Their vision has always been to be able to feed pets with the same care and nutrition that one would feed their family members.
Therefore, BLUE Buffalo created the no. 1 natural pet specialty food to help all the fur friends globally to lead healthy and happy lives.
2. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Popular Choice
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 25.0% |
| Crude Fat | 15.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.4 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.3 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3,600 kcal/kg, 360 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas, Canola Oil, Lentils, Salmon Meal, Smoked Salmon, Potato Fiber
Product Reviews:
Your furry friend deserves a balanced diet that comes directly from nature. Taste of the Wild promises a balanced diet with a formulation comprising proteins including ingredients like real smoked salmon.
The grain-free balanced recipe also includes peas and sweet potatoes that provide the necessary carbohydrates for energy and the fiber required for regulated digestion.
The food is also rich in antioxidants along with fruits and vegetables to support your dog’s immune system and provide the necessary vitamins and minerals for overall growth and development. The diet has dried chicory root that provides prebiotic support to the natural gut flora.
The recipe by Taste from The Wild also has essential minerals that are chelated with amino acids to improve your dog’s overall nutrient absorption. This ensures maximum benefit from their diet along with a taste your fur friend will crave.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding for Adult Dogs (cups) |
| 3-5 LBS | 1/3 – 1/2 |
| 5-10 LBS | 1/2 – 1 |
| 10 – 20 LBS | 1 – 1 1/2 |
| 20 – 30 LBS | 1 1/2 – 2 |
| 30 – 40 LBS | 2 – 2 1/3 |
| 40 – 60 LBS | 2 1/3 – 3 1/4 |
| 60 – 80 LBS | 3 – 3 3/4 |
| 80-100 LBS | 3 3/4 – 4 1/2 |
| 100-125 LBS | 4 1/2 – 5 1/4 |
| 125-150 LBS | 5 1/4 – 6 |
| 150-175 LBS | 6 – 6 2/3 |
Pros:
- Grain-free recipe with novel proteins from salmon
- Rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables as well as superfruits
- Minerals chelated with amino acids for better absorption
- No fillers or artificial ingredients
Cons:
- The food is known to cause allergies and scratching
- The kibbles are too hard for your canine’s teeth
About Taste of the Wild:
Taste of the Wild is a part of the family-owned Diamond Pet Food Company and has its manufacturing headquarters in Missouri. They use high quality and advanced facilities to curate quality dog food for your canine.
These foods meet the official high nutrition standards. The grain-free recipes offered by Taste of the Wild combine fruits, vegetables, berries, legumes to satisfy your pet’s natural cravings of the wild.
3. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food – Premium Choice
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 34.0% |
| Crude Fat | 16.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.25 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.5 % min |
| Glucosamine | 250 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 421 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Peas, Potatoes, Dried Ground Potatoes, Chicken Fat, Ground Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, etc.
Product Reviews:
Wellness CORE takes you back to the basics of rich raw food with its rich in protein formula that has deboned and original TURKEY as the main ingredient. The rich protein and the delicious taste makes it our premium choice amongst all. The delectable grain-free recipe has proteins sourced from real chicken and turkey offering the best of both.
The recipe also combines antioxidants and omega fatty acids along with glucosamine and probiotics which makes the food dense in nutrients and a perfectly balanced diet for dogs.
Wellness is one such brand that continues to stand by its quality by providing real food having premium ingredients and no fillers. The food is devoid of any unwanted ingredients like corn, soy, colors, or artificial flavors. Wellness promises to offer your canine more than just food, it offers overall WELLNESS.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight
|
Daily Feeding (cups) |
| 6 – 10 | ¼ – 1 1/4 |
| 20 – 35 | 1 1/4- 1 3/4 |
| 35 – 50 | 1 ¾ – 2 1/4 |
| 50 – 65 | 2 ¼- 2 3/4 |
| 65 – 80 | 2 ¾ – 3 1/4 |
| 80 – 95 | 3 ¼ – 3 3/4 |
| 95 – 115 LBS | 3 3/4 – 41/4 |
Pros:
- Deboned turkey and chicken fat combined to make a balanced meal
- Has glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility
- Flaxseeds and Salmon Oil provide omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
- Kibble coated with probiotics to support gut bacteria and digestion
Cons:
- Causes gas in various dogs
- Not meant for fussy eaters
About WELLNESS CORE:
Wellness is a pioneer brand in dog food and always looking for innovative ways for pets to survive and thrive. They believe in offering wholesome nutrition to pets for their wellness. Their diverse team of animal lovers, veterinarians, and nutritionists believe in one motto: to provide your pet a healthy, happy, and longer life.
4. American Journey Large Breed Salmon & Brown Rice Protein First Recipe Dry Dog Food, 28-lb bag – Affordable Pick
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 12.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 6.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 1.7 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.80 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3,300 kcal/kg or 330 kcal/cup ME (calculated) |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Pea Protein, Rice Bran, Brewers Rice, Barley, Chicken Fat, Carrots, Oatmeal, Sweet Potatoes
Product Reviews:
The American Journey Large Breed Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe are full of nutritious ingredients and an irresistible taste at an affordable price. The food has been specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of your Goldendoodle. The ingredients are carefully selected and sourced to fuel your pet’s daily adventures.
The recipe specifically has real deboned salmon as the first ingredient that is rich in protein as well as taste. Salmon also has Omega fatty acids for improving your Goldendoodles soft and shiny coat. The recipe also features DHA for brain and vision development. The food also has external sources of Calcium and Phosphorous for maintaining bone health.
The food also has healthy grains like brown rice along with added fruits and vegetables for increased levels of energy along with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It does not have any fillers or artificial ingredients and makes a great recipe at a budget price for your canine.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight of Dog (LBS) | Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 10 | 1 |
| 15 | 1 1/2 |
| 20 | 2 |
| 30 | 2 1/2 |
| 40 | 3 1/4 |
| 50 | 3 1/4 |
| 60 | 4 1/3 |
| 70 | 4 3/4 |
| 80 | 5 1/3 |
| 90 | 6 |
| 100 | 6 1/2 |
Pros:
- Deboned meat is the first ingredient and richest source of protein for your large dog breed
- Controlled levels of added minerals like Calcium and Phosphorous
- DHA and Omega Fatty acids for brain and vision development
- Includes premium ingredients to support the overall growth and development of your canine
Cons:
- Not good for dogs who are allergic to poultry meat
- Pups may not prefer the salmon flavor
About American Journey:
American Journey believes that any day of your dog can be filled with adventure and makes sure to impart enough fuel to keep your doggo going.
Their recipes are always a blend of deboned protein be it chicken or fish along with a mix of vitamin and mineral-rich fruits and vegetables.
Their products are manufactured in the USA using domestic and globally sourced ingredients and trusted suppliers.
5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.5 % min |
| Glucosamine | 400 mg /kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3,627 kcal/kg, 378 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Menhaden Fish Meal, Blueberries, Cranberries, etc.
Product Reviews:
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula creates recipes for the health and wellbeing of your dog. Their formulas are made such that animal protein is always the first ingredient. It is also rich in carbohydrates to keep your dog feeling energetic throughout the day.
All of their recipes have real meat and are enhanced with LifeSource Bits, which is a precise blend of nutrients that has been fortified with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.
This particular dog formula for adult breeds is rich in protein, delicious and is made of deboned chicken which adds to the overall taste. The kibble shape is medium and perfect making it convenient for the breeds of all sizes to chew easily.
Feeding Instructions
| Weight of Dog | Daily Feeding (cups) |
| UP TO 15 LBS | 1/2 – 1 1/4 |
| 16 – 25 LBS | 1 ¼ – 1 3/4 |
| 26 – 40 LBS | 1 ¾ – 2 1/2 |
| 41 – 60 LBS | 2 ½ – 3 1/2 |
| 61 – 80 LBS | 3 ½ – 4 1/4 |
| 81-100 LBS | 4 ¼ – 5 |
| Over 100 LBS | Feed 5 cups, plus 1/2 cup for each additional 20 lbs |
Pros
- Animal protein as the first and most important ingredient.
- Kibble size is perfect for small breeds like Havanese
- Has added glucosamine for joint support
- No by-products or fillers
Cons:
- Users complain that the packaging arrives opened
- Not suitable for picky eaters
About BLUE Buffalo:
BLUE Buffalo began as a company with some inspiration from a large breed Airedale, Blue. Their vision has always been to be able to feed pets with the same care and nutrition that one would feed their family members.
Therefore, BLUE Buffalo created the no. 1 natural pet specialty food to help all the fur friends globally to lead healthy and happy lives.
6. Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 26.0% |
| Crude Fat | 16.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 12.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 1.6 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.8 % min |
| Glucosamine | 350 ppm min |
| Caloric Content | 3,725 kcal/kg, 429 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Barley, Ground Rice, Canola Meal, Oatmeal, Fishmeal, Salmon Meal
Product Reviews:
Give your Goldendoodle everything that he needs to thrive with the nutrition that he deserves. The Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Sensitive Skin and Stomach Formula is just perfect for your doodle’s sensitive needs. The recipe flaunts rich salmon as the first ingredient which offers the goodness of protein with each bite.
Your dog will surely crave for and love this recipe. Moreover, the recipe also has prebiotic fiber for doodle’s who have a sensitive stomach. These prebiotics help in the growth of the beneficial bacteria that aid in your dog’s digestion.
The recipe also has special ingredients such as rice and oatmeal which provide high fiber and are also easy to digest. It is also packed with the goodness of Omega fatty acids which help in developing joint health as well as skin and coat health. The best part is the food is made without any filler ingredients or additives.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight (LBS) | Daily Feeding (Cups) |
| 3 – 12 LBS | 1/3 – 1 |
| 13 – 20 LBS | 1 – 1 1/4 |
Pros:
- Has various sources of proteins in one meal
- Has digestible sources of carbohydrates
- Omega fatty acids to support joint health and coat development
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Cons:
- Transitioning to the dog food can take time
- Dogs may not like the taste of the food
About Purina:
Purina is a trusted and reputed brand. It is recommended by many veterinarians, breeders, and animal rescuers across the globe. They have an immense focus on your pup’s nutrition, quality, and safety, and their food products are trusted and tested by more than 500 scientists, nutritionists, veterinarians, and animal behaviorists.
Being passionate about dog food, they curate extraordinary products for your pet’s health and well being.
7. CANIDAE All Life Stages Multi-Protein Formula Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.7 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.75 % min |
| Glucosamine | 700 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3,600 kcal/kg, 3.6 kcal/g, 1,636 kcal/lb, 468 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Rice Bran, Cranberries, etc.
Product Reviews:
Make mealtimes a great experience for your doodle with the tasty and nutrition filled recipe from CANIDAE All Life Stages Multi Protein Formula Dry Dog Food. The dog food has multiple sources of real meat and protein and is designed for canines of all life stages. The product features premium ingredients and optimum protein for your dog’s overall growth and development.
CANIDAE provides all in one approach to feeding and makes mealtime an interesting experience for your furry mate. The diet also works for multiple dog households who may have different nutritional demands but require rich protein in their diet.
No tensions of switching and thinking of changing your dog’s feeding patterns and food style with this mix of natural and protein-rich food from CANIDAE.
The food is specially formulated by veterinarians for dogs of all life stages and combines premium ingredients and minerals for making food that is tasty and nutritious. It has no fillers like corn, wheat or soy as well. CANIDAE also has its HealthPLUS formula in dog food which is a trio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids along with probiotics and antioxidants.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Up to 6 Months Old Daily Feeding (cup) | Adult Daily Feeding (cup) | Lite/Senior Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 2 – 10 LBS | 1/2 – 1 1/2 | 1/2 – 3/4 | 1/4 – 1/2 |
| 10 – 25 LBS | 1 1/2 – 2 | 3/4 – 1 | 1/2 – 3/4 |
| 25 – 50 LBS | 2 – 4 | 1 – 2 | 1/2 – 1 |
| 50 – 75 LBS | 4 – 5 | 2 – 3 | 1 – 1 1/2 |
| 75 – 100 LBS | 5 – 6 | 3 – 4 | 1 1/2 – 3 |
| 100 – 125 LBS | – | 4 – 4 3/4 | 2 1/2 – 3 |
| 125 – 150 LBS | – | 4 3/4 – 5 1/2 | 3 – 3 1/3 |
Pros:
- Optimum protein from multiple sources
- Has HealthPLUS solution which includes antioxidants, probiotics and Omega Fatty acids
- No allergens or fillers
- Formulated by veterinarians
Cons:
- The quality of the dog food has deteriorated in the last few months
- Users claim that dogs have had smelly poops due to the food
About CANIDAE
Canidae is an origin of a southern California feed store in 1996. It is an independent and family-owned brand of dog foods. They have their own farms as well as cooking centers in Kansas and Texas respectively.
Their ultimate objective is to make high-quality food that is loved by pets as well as pet parents. They are quite motivated and driven towards wearing high-quality pet food to date.
8. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Farm-Raised Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 23.0% |
| Crude Fat | 12.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.2 % min |
| Glucosamine | 250 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3547 kcal/kg, 317 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Barley, Split Peas, Whole Brown Rice,Lamb Meal, Sweet Potato, Chicken Fat, etc.
Product Reviews:
When your doodle pup needs extra nutrition, you can always look up to Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Natural Dry Dog Food. The farm-raised chicken, brown rice, and sweet potato recipe are filled with the wholesome of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber that looks after your pet’s overall health.
The dry dog food also has antioxidants to support your dog’s immune system along with Omega fatty acids to promote a shiny glossy coat and skin.
Farm-raised chicken is the first ingredient in the dog food and it is filled with energizing protein for your canine.
The recipe also boasts of natural fiber which supports your dog’s digestive system and keeps his metabolism in check. The recipe is free of GMO ingredients and does not contain wheat, corn, soy, fillers, or any by-products.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Suggested Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 15 | 1 1/4 – 1 1/3 |
| 25 | 1 3/4 – 2 |
| 35 | 2 1/4 – 2 2/3 |
| 45 | 2 3/4 – 3 1/4 |
| 55 | 3 1/4 – 3 2/3 |
| 65 | 3 1/2 – 4 1/4 |
Pros:
- Chicken is the first ingredient in the dry dog food
- The recipe is safe for your pet and has no GMO ingredients
- It has Omega fatty acids to improve skin and coat health
- High-quality dog food manufactured in the U.S.A
Cons:
- The quality of food is not worth the price
- Users claim that the food makes their dogs sick
About NUTRO:
NUTRO has a long history of formulating pet food since 1926 and have been pioneers in pet nutrition from the beginning. Their quality products and high standards and long heritage make a difference in their quality of food that pets, as well as dog parents, will surely love.
9. Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 37.0% |
| Crude Fat | 20.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.6 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.3 % min |
| Caloric Content | 4,406 kcal/kg, 518 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Herring Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, etc.
Product Reviews:
Your Goldendoodle needs real food, the need for which can be satisfied with Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe which has a real chicken that is freeze-dried.
The best advantage of freeze-dried is that it preserves nutrition as the food undergoes minimal processing techniques. Cage-free chicken is the first ingredient in this raw food which makes up for a great source of meat and protein.
This recipe by Instinct unlocks your dog’s potential to thrive and is our premium pick of all dog foods. The kibble is perfectly sized for small to medium-sized breeds. The diet is thoroughly balanced with wholesome nutrition and has real chicken and veggies that provide probiotics, natural omegas, and antioxidants.
The food is a high animal protein diet that is tasty and promotes digestibility, coat health, and skin health and supports overall immune health. The food is made in the U.S.A. with premium quality ingredients sourced from the finest places around the world with pure nutrition in each bite.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Adult Maintenance Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 5 – 15 LBS | 1/2 – 1 |
| 16 – 25 LBS | 1 – 1 1/4 |
| 26 – 50 LBS | 1 1/4 – 2 1/4 |
| 51 – 75 LBS | 2 1/4 – 3 1/4 |
| 76 – 100 LBS | 3 1/4 – 4 |
Pros:
- Cage-free chicken is the first ingredient which forms real source of protein
- Has 70% of animal ingredients and 30% fruits
- Does not have grains, fillers, corn, soy or potato
- Made in the U.S.A. using premium quality ingredients
Cons:
- Users complain that the food causes diarrhea in dogs
- The price of the product jumped too high in recent months
About Instinct:
Instinct believes that pure and real nutrition for pets comes in raw food and they take the sole responsibility of feeding raw food to pets. This makes pet parents believe in their formulas that have helped transform the lives of many dogs and made dog parents happier.
What’s better than transforming the lives of millions of dogs across the world with their enriched, raw diet.
10. Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Chicken & Pomegranate Medium & Maxi Adult Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 30.0% |
| Crude Fat | 18.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 2.9 % max |
| Moisture | 9.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.3 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.9 % min |
| Glucosamine | 1000mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3997 kcal/kg, 400 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Dehydrated Chicken, Whole Spelt, Whole Oats, Chicken Fat, Dried Whole Eggs, Fresh Herring, etc.
Related Buying Guide
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- Best dog food for dobermans
Product Reviews:
Farmina Ancestral Grain Chicken and Pomegranate Adult Dry Dog Food is made with the best of ingredients and has the perfect proportion and balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins and minerals for a healthy and long life. The high protein ancestral grain formula has 60% animal ingredients which is very essential in a dog’s meal.
The food also has 20% organic spelt and organic oats along with 20% veggies, fruits for providing adequate vitamins and minerals. Alongside it has a low glycemic index which is a great option for pets who are prone to diabetes.
The food has natural omega fatty acids and no artificial fillers or ingredients like corn, soy, wheat, legumes, etc. The natural omega fatty acids in the dog food provide good skin and coat health and the antioxidant keeps the toxic radicals of the body away.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 22 | 1 – 1 2/3 |
| 33.1 | 1 1/4 – 2 1/4 |
| 44.1 | 1 1/2 – 2 3/4 |
| 55.1 | 1 3/4 – 3 1/4 |
| 66.1 | 2 1/4 – 3 3/4 |
| 77.2 | 2 1/3 – 4 |
| 88.2 | 2 2/3 – 4 2/3 |
| 110.2 | 3 – 5 1/2 |
| 132.2 | 3 1/2 – 6 1/4 |
| 154.3 | 4 – 7 |
Pros:
- Deboned chicken is the first ingredient that is rich in protein
- Food retains freshness for a long time
- A low glycemic index which makes it a suitable option for dogs with diabetes
- No fillers or by-products
Cons:
- Users complain that the food is adulterated
- The quality of the food has deteriorated over time
About Farmina
Farmina understands that dogs and cats need to thrive on a diet that resembles that of the wild and curates recipes with added nutraceuticals for 10 times the more benefits they would receive from their natural diet.
From their advanced production technologies, their twin-screw extrusion procedures, and added long life vitamins guarantee a perfect development of the feed by preserving the raw materials from production stress.
Their just in time shipments allow them to reach the products to you fresh which preserves the palatability and nutritional aspects of the food.
Personal Opinion:
Goldendoodles are a designer breed that is obtained by mixing two pure breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. While the retriever is all tough and muscular, the poodle looks cute, adorable, and soft. The Goldendoodle is a complete mixture of both with extra intelligence and activity levels.
Higher activity levels demand high energy and good, premium quality nutrition. According to us, the best dog food that promises to provide the best nutrition for your doodle is the Blue Buffalo Freedom Adult Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. It has a blend of everything that your dog needs.
Right from the goodness of protein, to balanced vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates to antioxidants and fruits and vegetables. The food makes it a balance of nutrition and taste your dog will definitely benefit from.
Tell us about which dog food you think is the best for your Goldendoodle by posting your comments below. !!
Dr. Aram Baker has been with Santa Clarita Animal Hospital since 1995 and his special interests include behaviour medicine and dermatology. He graduated from the Cleveland Humanities Magnet Program in Reseda, CA and attended California State University at Northridge where he received a Bachelor’s degree in biology. He went on to pursue his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at the University of California at Davis. He also spent time in the zoological medicine department at U.C. Davis during his Junior and Senior years. He is dedicated to caring for all pets big or small, young or old with compassion, patience, kindness, and love.