Labradoodles are social and adorable pets. As the name suggests, they are a mixed breed of the Labrador and the Poodle. They have an extensive coat like a poodle and are an active breed like a labrador. Since they are super-active pets and possess high activity levels, they require more food and protein.
These dogs comparatively have a low shedding coat and are gaining popularity as pets. They are very affectionate dogs and are easy to manage. In order to set their nutrition right, we help you with the best dog foods for this mixed breed, the labradoodle.
Globally, the pet food market is $94.76 billion in 2021. The dog food market is booming. It can be challenging to choose the right brand. Labradoodle owners have a seemingly endless selection of dog food options, but some may not be suitable for their dogs.
Nevertheless, there is no need to worry. I am a veterinarian myself, but to make sure you get the best food for your labradoodle, I spoke with other veterinarians, who are members of aafco.org. We’ve also tested and reviewed dozens of different dog foods to be sure you get the best food.
Best Dog Food For Labradoodle
1. Merrick Grain-Free Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food – Overall Best
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 38.0% |
| Crude Fat | 15.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3.5 % max |
| Moisture | 11.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.80 % min |
| Glucosamine | 800 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3585 kcal/kg, 380 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, etc.
Product Reviews:
Since the best and the healthiest dog deserves the best dog food and the best ingredients, Merrick Grain Free Texas Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe has to be the overall best dry dog food for us and for your Labradoodle. The food promises allergy-free nutrition which is totally grain-free and has real deboned beef along with the goodness of sweet potatoes, peas, apples, blueberries, and more.
The recipe is formulated with vitamins and minerals for complete and balanced nutrition. The diet also has high levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for maintaining joint stability and mobility. The food also comprises Omega fatty acids which are important for maintaining your doodle’s coat and skin health.
The poultry free formula is suitable for dogs with sensitivities and the food is made in Merrick’s Texas facility using ingredients that are locally sourced and from trusted farmers.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 3 LBS | 1/3 |
| 6 LBS | 2/3 |
| 10 LBS | 1 |
| 15 LBS | 1 1/4 |
| 20 LBS | 1 1/2 |
| 30 LBS | 2 |
| 40 LBS | 2 1/2 |
| 50 LBS | 3 |
| 60 LBS | 3 1/2 |
| 70 LBS | 3 ¾ |
| 80 LBS | 4 1/4 |
| 90 LBS | 4 ⅔ |
Pros:
- Deboned beef is full of flavor along with the goodness of fruits and vegetables
- Grain-free and gluten-free recipe, thereby no chances of allergies
- High levels of Omega fatty acids along with Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint function
- Carefully sourced ingredients from local and trusted farmers
Cons:
- The consistency of the food is too sticky
- The packaging of the product is not great
About Merrick:
Merrick believes in the fact that whole foods do better for your dog as well as taste better. Their handmade recipes are curated with care and better than any scientific formulas for canines. Merrick has been into the pet food industry for more than 30 years now.
They especially take care to manufacture the food in small batches and monitor each recipe carefully to match what’s written in their packaging labels. Merrick believes that food is fuel and not mere fillers in dog food and therefore offer a wide range of protein-rich dry dog foods your pooch can relish.
2. American Journey Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Most Popular
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 34.0% |
| Crude Fat | 15.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.70 % min |
| Glucosamine | 600 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3,710 kcal/kg, 390 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, flaxseeds, Menhaden Fish Meal, Salmon Oil, Blueberries, Carrots, etc.
Product Reviews:
American Journey provides nutritious meals that are known to fuel your labradoodle’s daily activities and keep them agile all day. The Chicken and Sweet Potato recipe provide a goodness of protein as it has deboned chicken as well as turkey which are tasty as well as rich sources of protein.
Alongside the food offers sweet potatoes which act as excellent sources of fiber that aid in digestion. The diet is rich in amino acids that provide lean muscles and an exceptional flavor that your dog would surely crave for.
It also has a blend of wholesome fruits and veggies like carrots, dried kelp, blueberries, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for better immunity and overall health.
The diet has a plentiful of Omega Fatty acids which are required by your Labradoodle for a shiny coat and healthy skin. It comes from the ingredients in the food like salmon oil and flaxseeds. The recipe is free of fillers and additives like corn, soy, grains or other ingredients that can cause allergies.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding (Cup) | Calories (Day) |
| 3 | 1/3 | 130 |
| 6 | 2/3 | 260 |
| 10 | 1 | 390 |
| 15 | 1 ⅓ | 520 |
| 20 | 1 2/3 | 650 |
| 30 | 2 1/4 | 878 |
| 40 | 2 3/4 | 1073 |
| 50 | 3 1/4 | 1268 |
| 60 | 3 2/3 | 1430 |
| 70 | 4 | 1560 |
| 80 | 4 1/2 | 1755 |
| 90 | 5 | 1950 |
| 100 | 5 1/3 | 2080 |
Pros:
- Grain-free recipe and does not contain any allergens or additives
- Complete and Balanced dog food
- Rich in protein and amino acids due to multiple protein sources
- Rich in omega fatty acids which are necessary for Labradoodles
Cons:
- Transitioning to the dog food is difficult
- Dogs don’t like the taste of the food
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.
3. Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken & Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Dry Dog Food – Premium Pick
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 37.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 20.5% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 9.0% max |
| Omega-3 fatty acids | 0.35% min |
| Omega-6 fatty acids | 3.2% |
| Caloric Content | 4,427 kcal/kg, 508 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Fish Meal, Herring Meal, Pumpkin Seeds, Freeze-Dried Chicken Liver, Salmon Oil, Blueberries
Product Review:
Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe Dry Dog Food suggests a better way to feed kibble by going raw on your doodle’s diet. Instinct likes to keep its dog food raw as they believe that raw keeps the nutrients intact.
Instinct grain-free raw dog food is rich in proteins and features bites of freeze-dried raw meat throughout. The raw meal is made with cage-free chicken as its first product to boost your dog’s protein levels naturally.
The raw dog food also has high levels of probiotics for better digestive health, and a high amount of Omegas for maintaining healthy skin and coat health. The level of antioxidants in the raw food help in maintaining immunity and the food is sourced and made from the finest of ingredients around the world.
The best part, freeze-dried raw food does not contain any fillers or preservatives like corn or soy meal. The dog formula is manufactured in the U.S.A.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Adult Maintenance Daily Feeding (cup) | Adult Weight Loss Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 5 – 15 LBS | 1/2 – 1 | 1/4 – 1/2 |
| 16 – 25 LBS | 1 – 1 1/4 | 1/2 – 3/4 |
| 26 – 50 LBS | 1 1/4 – 2 1/4 | 3/4 – 1 1/2 |
| 51 – 75 LBS | 2 1/4 – 3 1/4 | 1 1/2 – 2 |
| 76 – 100 LBS | 3 1/4 – 4 | 2 – 2 1/2 |
Pros:
- Blend of dog kibble plus freeze-dried raw meat
- Grain-free chicken recipe suitable for all life stages
- Minimally processed and uncooked ingredients for intact nutrition
- Made in the USA with the finest of ingredients
- No fillers or preservatives used
Cons:
- Most dogs don’t prefer eating the raw boost pieces
- Low quality and highly-priced
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.
4. Nutro Hearty Stew Tender Chicken, Carrot & Pea Stew Grain-Free Canned Dog Food, 12.5-oz, case of 12 – Affordable Pick
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 9.0% |
| Crude Fat | 3.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 1.0 % max |
| Moisture | 82.0% max |
| Caloric Content | 879 kcal ME/kg, 312 kcal ME/can |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Pork Broth, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Peas, etc.
Product Review:
The Nutro Healthy Stew Tender Chicken, Carrot and Pea Stew Grain-Free Recipe is sure to make your dog drool over the food. The wet food is filled with the goodness of wholesome ingredients that small to medium to large size dogs will love. Tasty food at such an affordable price, this is an offer, you would surely not want to miss.
The high protein diet is balanced with vitamins and minerals and crafted with real chicken. The ingredients are carefully sourced so you can feed your canine with confidence and guarantee that the food is 100% safe for your friend.
The diet is free of grains, gluten, allergens, and GMOs and does not contain any fillers like corn, soy, wheat, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives Filled with nutrition and taste at such a price is something very hard to find, and Nutro promises to offer that for your Labradoodle.
Feeding Instructions:
Feed adult dogs 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 trays daily per 10 lbs. body weight. Adjust to maintain ideal body condition.
Refrigerate unused portions up to 3 days. Feed at room temperature. Provide fresh drinking water.
- Pros
- Real chicken is the first ingredient that is rich in protein
- Wet food with a gravy that dogs love
- Does not contain GMO based ingredients
- Made in the USA with ingredients from trusted farmers
- Cons
- Low amounts of fat and protein
- Taste is not great
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.
5. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato & Fish Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 21.0% |
| Crude Fat | 10.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.5% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.50 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3310 kcal/kg, 350 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Dried Sweet Potatoes, Salmon, Fish Meal, Potato Protein, Canola Oil, Potato Fiber, Salmon Oil, etc.
Product Review:
Since Labradoodles are prone to get obese, this limited ingredient diet from Natural Balance will help your mate in maintaining the perfect balance between health and taste. This limited ingredient diet has salmon as well as salmon oil which is rich in proteins and omega fatty acids.
The recipe also features sweet potatoes which are an excellent source of fiber and a digestible source of carbohydrates.
The diet has been specially formulated by a team of board-certified members, clinical vets and nutritionists to curate the perfect recipe for your dog. The premium-quality dog food promises to provide nutrition and quality taste with each bite.
The food does not contain any other filler ingredients like corn, wheat, soy, etc that are potential allergens as doodles are prone to food allergies.
The limited ingredient diet has been produced in the U.S.A. and is made from the finest ingredients from across the world.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding (cup) |
| Up to 10 LBS | Up to 1 |
| 10 – 20 | 1 – 1 2/3 |
| 20 – 30 | 1 2/3 – 2 1/2 |
| 30 – 40 | 2 1/2 – 2 3/4 |
| 40 – 60 | 2 3/4 – 3 3/4 |
| 60 – 80 | 3 3/4 – 4 3/4 |
| 80 – 100 | 4 3/4 – 5 1/2 |
Pros:
- Limited ingredient diet to avoid allergies
- Made by expert vets and clinical nutritionists
- Premium-quality dry dog food rich in taste and quality
- No fillers or artificial ingredients
Cons:
- Users complain that the food causes nausea and vomiting in dogs
- The food leads to foul-smelling feces in dogs
- Not for picky eaters
About Natural Balance:
The natural balance limited ingredient diet carefully sources its ingredients from across the finest places and formulates wet and dry dog foods as per their nutritional needs.
The food is perfect for dogs with sensitivities or who are prone to allergies as it uses a single protein source and makes a blend with limited carbohydrates. It is the best diet for pets who want to reduce or minimize the number of ingredients in their dog’s food.
7. True Acre Foods Chicken & Vegetable Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 13.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Moisture | 12.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.2 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3643 kcal/kg or 375 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Peas, Soybean Meal, Poultry Fat, Canola Meal, Carrots, Cranberries
Product Reviews:
True Acres Dog Food promises to offer some grain-free goodness in your dog’s meals. The chicken and vegetable recipe is sure to provide a balanced blend of proteins and vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in your dog’s diet. The food is formulated with gentle fibers to support your dog’s digestion.
Additionally, it also has antioxidants to support your canine’s immune system. The dog food also comprises Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy and shiny coat development.
The chicken is sourced from and raised in the USA which serves as the first ingredient in dog food. The food is devoid of any fillers like grains or corn that can cause allergies.
Feeding Instructions:
| WEIGHT | Daily Feeding (Cup) |
| UP TO 10 LBS | 1/3 – 3/4 |
| 11-20 LBS | 3/4 – 1 1/3 |
| 21-30 LBS | 1 1/3 – 1 3/4 |
| 31-40 LBS | 1 3/4 – 2 1/4 |
| 41-60 LBS | 2 1/4 – 3 |
| 61-80 LBS | 3 – 3 3/4 |
| 81-100 LBS | 3 3/4 – 4 1/2 |
| 100+ LBS | 4 1/2 + 1/2 for every 20 LBS over 100 |
Pros:
- Rich in insoluble fibers that aid in digestion
- Includes Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for a healthier and shinier coat
- Free of artificial ingredients
Cons:
- Contains soymeal as filler
- Devoid of chicken fat unlike other dog foods
- Has less protein as compared to other food brands
About True Acre Foods
True Acre believes that canines are just like another family member and deserve to be happily wagging their tails. That is only possible through their diet.
Therefore, since your pooch deserves the best, True Acre foods reward pups and dogs with nutritious ingredients and flavors they are bound to love. And as they say, the simplest of love and affection can keep dogs happy.
6. Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 22.0% |
| Crude Fat | 9.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 1.25 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.5 % min |
| Glucosamine | 600 mg /kg min |
| Caloric Content | 3,323 kcal/kg, 358 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Dried Sweet Potatoes, etc.
Product Reviews:
Gentle Giants Canine Nutritional Chicken Dry Dog Food is a whole blend of farm-raised chicken, rice, oatmeal, and non-GMO fruits and vegetables like cranberries, blueberries, apples, carrots, tomatoes, etc which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The recipe also comprises glucosamine and chondroitin for joint and muscle mobility along with pre and probiotics to improve gut health. It is suitable for both small and large breeds and especially a great formula for those who have sensitive stomachs.
The formula also has taurine to keep your dog feeling energetic along with no artificial fillers, ingredients, or preservatives. The overall food is low in protein for dogs who have sensitive digestion.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding (cup) |
| LESS THAN 15 LBS | 1/2 – 1 |
| 15 – 30 LBS | 2 |
| 30 – 50 LBS | 2-3 |
| 50 – 75 LBS | 3 – 4 1/2 |
| 75 – 100 LBS | 4 1/2 – 6 |
| 100 – 125 LBS | 6 – 7 1/2 |
| 125 – 150 LBS | 7 1/2 – 9 |
| 150 – 175 LBS | 9 – 10 1/2 |
| 175 – 200 LBS | 10 1/2 – 12 |
Pros:
- Good for dogs with a sensitive digestive system
- Has glucosamine and chondroitin for joint development and mobility
- Suitable for all dogs of all life stages
- Has taurine for additional energy
Cons:
- Dogs don’t like the taste of the food
- Users claim that the food shows side effects
About Gentle Giants:
Gentle Giants offer world-class canine nutrition and mark themselves as experts in canine health. They believe their food is bound to make your dog feel younger and happier even at the most senior of ages. They promise that their formulas will make your canine live for longer with better health and vitality.
8. Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 12.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.4 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.6 % min |
| Glucosamine | 250 mg/kg min |
| Caloric Content | 434 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Peas, Ground Brown Rice, Chicken Fat
Product Reviews:
Do not feed the same old traditional dog food when the revolutionizing Wellness Complete Health Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal recipe is here. It has a special mixture of proteins and wholesome whole grains like oatmeals which provide your dog with a balanced and complete diet.
The dog food also has additional antioxidants to keep your dog’s immune system going along with superfruits like blueberries, cranberries, etc which are rich in antioxidants as well as vitamins and minerals.
The food mainly has deboned chicken and whitefish along with a probiotic extract of Yucca Schidigera. This helps in balancing the metabolism. The food also has complex carbohydrates for providing active energy for his daily activities.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight (LBS) | Daily Feeding (cup) |
| 7 – 17 | 3 – 7 1/2 |
| 18 – 23 | 1 – 1 ½ |
| 24 – 45 | 1 1/2 – 2 1/4 |
| 46 – 65 | 2 ½ – 3 |
| 66 – 85 | 3 1/4 – 3 3/4 |
| 86 – 105 | 3 3/4 – 4 1/2 |
| 106 – 125 | 4 1/2 – 5 |
| DOGS OVER 125 LBS | Add 1/4 cup per additional 10 lbs |
Pros:
- Goodness of deboned chicken and whitefish
- Helps in joint maintenance with chondroitin sulfate
- Complex carbohydrates provide energy and help in digestion
Cons:
- The kibble is too large
- Users claim it makes their dog’s stomachs upset
About Wellness:
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.
CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Petite Salmon Formula Small Breed Puppy Limited Ingredient Diet Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% |
| Crude Fat | 13.5 % min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.0 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.0 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3,500 kcal/kg; 3.50 kcal/kg; 1,587 kcal/lb; 525 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Canola Oil, Garbanzo Beans, Flaxseed, etc.
Product Reviews:
Give your Labradoodle some big nutrition at a budget price with the CANIDAE Grain-free petite salmon formula. The freeze-dried kibbles in the dog food are designed keeping in mind the sensitive dogs who need to thrive on a limited ingredient diet.
The food comprises 8 limited and main ingredients, salmon, salmon meal, lentils, peas, canola oil, and garbanzo beans with freeze-dried salmon.
The food also boasts of having HealthPLUS Solutions, a trio that is full of nutrition and comprises probiotics, antioxidants, and Omega fatty acids. All of these are very essential for your doodle’s health. Each batch is coated with freeze-dried salmon for the goodness of protein and the taste with every bite.
The grain-free kibble is made by Canidae which is a family-owned company, meaning they maintain high-quality standards without compromise on nutrition and safety for your pet.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding (Cups) |
| 2 LBS | 1/4 |
| 5 LBS | 1/2 |
| 10 LBS | 2/3 |
| 15 LBS | 1 |
| 20 LBS | 1 ½ |
Pros:
- Single source of protein, causing fewer chances of allergies
- Has HealthPlus Solution which is a blend of omega fatty acids, antioxidants and probiotics to support overall digestion and immune health
- Limited ingredient diet to keep allergies at bay
- Kibble coated with freeze-dried salmon for great taste
Cons:
- Pups don’t prefer a limited ingredient diet
- Does not provide appropriate nutrition
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.
9. Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Guaranteed Analysis:
| Nutrient | Percentage Content |
| Crude Protein | 32.0% |
| Crude Fat | 18.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0 % max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.8 % min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.3 % min |
| Caloric Content | 3,719 kcal/kg, 370 kcal/cup |
Top 5 Ingredients: Venison, Lamb Meal, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Lentils, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Duck Meal, etc.
Product Reviews
The meal by Taste of the Wild is intended to nourish your small breed canine companion by providing him with nutrition and taste that he craves from the wild. The diet is unique and popular amongst various dog parents due to its unique blend of ingredients and probiotic bacteria. The ingredients as a great source of protein having venison, lamb meal, and duck meal.
The grain-free recipe is in the form of a small-sized kibble which is made perfectly for easy ingestion by your small mate. Probiotics and prebiotic fiber help in supporting healthy digestion while lamb, venison, and duck meal offer high amounts of protein for muscle building and tissue repair.
The diet is rich in proteins and fats and the recipe promises to provide balanced nutrition to your Labradoodle at all costs. Not only nutrition, but the blend of multiple types of meat also provides energy to keep your pup and adult dog going throughout the day.
Feeding Instructions:
| Weight | Daily Feeding for Adult Dogs (cups) |
| 3-5 | 1/3 – 1/2 |
| 5-10 | 1/2 – 3/4 |
| 10-20 | 3/4 – 1 1/2 |
| 20-30 | 1 1/2 – 2 |
| 30-40 | 2 – 2 1/3 |
Pros:
- Blend of multiple types of meat providing optimum amounts of protein
- Natural recipe with added vitamins, minerals, and probiotic bacteria
- The K9 probiotic strain supports healthy digestion and metabolism
- Made in the USA by a family-owned company and follows appropriate food safety protocols.
Cons:
- Not a great flavor as compared to the beef and venison formula
- Has too many fillers
- Puppies may not like the dog food
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.
Why does Quality Food Matter for Your Labradoodle?
Choosing high-quality food for your Labradoodle can be tough. Most dog food brands may boast of high-quality ingredients but possess a filler or two which can affect their health and sensitive stomachs.
Labradoodles are prone to getting obese easily and you constantly need to keep them in check. If your doodle has high activity levels, he will certainly require more amount of nutrients from his food, mainly proteins from meat sources like chicken, beef, turkey, etc.
But since doodles are prone to getting obese, choose a dog food that ensures a limited set of ingredients. This will not only keep their weight in check but also keep them away from allergies and food-related sensitivities. A high-quality food fed multiple times a day instead of overfeeding your doodle is the secret to keeping them healthy and active all day.
Do Labradoodles Have Special Nutrition Requirements?
Like every other dog breed is unique, the labradoodle is a unique dog breed, being a mix between the Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. The dog is gaining importance only recently and not much study has been done about their dietary requirements. However, here are a few requirements to note based on their original pure breeds and what special nutrients you must consider in their diet.
Protein:
Protein forms an important part of most dog foods. Since Labradoodles have extensive amounts of activity involved in their daily life, they require energy mainly from protein for muscle development and to repair the wear and tear of tissues.
Check the ingredient label carefully in order to determine the source of protein in their food. High-quality dog food will have multiple sources of protein from various animals like beef, duck, chicken, turkey, etc.
Some foods also consider plant protein as a substitute for meat protein. However, dogs have wild canine instincts and are made to thrive on animal meat and protein sources. The source of the animal meat is important as it should be safe and non-allergic to your pet.
Fat:
Certain experts and dog lovers claim that dog foods should not have fat at all. Moreover, Labradoodles are prone to getting obese which makes dog experts feel like they should be kept away from fat as much as possible. However, fat is an essential aspect of both our as well as our pet’s diet.
Dogs use fat as a source of energy. The source and type of fat are important. Animal fats coming from chicken and fats coming from certain types of oils make for a good source that is required for good skin and coat health.
Carbohydrates:
Carbohydrates prove to be a great source of energy to dogs. They are known to provide certain health benefits. Carbohydrate sources that also provide fiber keep your dog feeling fuller for longer. This keeps them from feeling hungry and overeating over the course of the day.
Dietary fiber is a carbohydrate which mainly is chicory root, oats, barley, brown rice, etc are necessary for your dog’s digestion in small amounts.
Be careful as certain carbohydrates can also be used as fillers in your dog’s food which have zero nutritional value. Low to moderate carb levels are recommended for your dog as most of their nutrition should be coming from protein.
More carbs would only mean empty calories. If you want to avoid carbohydrates completely, choose wet/canned foods instead of dry foods.
Grain or Grain-Free Diet:
Whole grains are a good source of carbohydrates, the question arises whether grains are safe for dogs or not.
Various dog breeds might have allergies and sensitivities to grains although they form rich sources of carbohydrates. Most grains like oatmeal, barley, brown rice, etc are good sources of healthy carbohydrates that are safe for dogs to consume.
However, it is recommended that if your dog is prone to allergies or sensitivities and the source of the same is unknown, it is better to avoid a diet comprising of grains.
Labradoodles have a sensitive stomach and hence a limited to moderate grain diet is suitable for them.
Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamins and Minerals form an essential part of your dog’s diet. They are needed to build strong immunity and for the proper functioning of all body organs including their vision and cognitive health.
Vitamins and Minerals from natural sources like fruits and vegetables are recommended as added minerals can cause grave side effects in Labradoodles.
Water:
If you are feeding your doodle with dry food, you need to keep water at dispense for all times. This helps in proper digestion, maintains circulation, and keeps from choking of food. Unless the vet has suggested limiting the water intake, it has to form an essential part of their diet at all times.
Common Health Issues of Labradoodle
Labradoodles are a healthy and active dog breed. Although, just like other pets, they too are prone to certain health conditions that we need to take care of. Here are a few health concerns a labradoodle might face:
Hip Dysplasia:
This is a condition where the thigh bone has moved out of the hip joint and doesn’t fit appropriately. The condition is generally characterized by pain and lameness and is a genetic disorder. There is no physical damage seen from the outside.
The best way to diagnose the condition is through an X-Ray. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred to avoid the genes to pass on to further dog generations. Moreover, dogs with hip dysplasia are also prone to arthritis.
Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can either be inherited or occur during later stages of life. The condition causes mild to severe seizures that show abnormal behavioral changes in your doodle.
In severe cases, their limbs may feel rigid or they might lose consciousness. It is frightening to watch getting seizures and the proper treatment can be suggested by a vet.
Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism is a dysfunction of the thyroid gland where it is incapable of secreting the thyroid hormone which regulates metabolism. This can also lead to other conditions like obesity, pyoderma, hyperpigmentation, lethargy, and can be regulated with a balanced diet and proper medication.
Diabetes Mellitus:
Just as diabetes is common in humans with an unhealthy lifestyle, so is in the case with dogs due to an unhealthy lifestyle or a genetic disorder. When your body cannot normal blood sugar levels, it causes diabetes.
This can lead to other conditions like obesity due to abnormal regulation of the insulin hormone in their body which does not breakdown the glucose levels in the blood.
Symptoms of diabetes include excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes in dogs can only be controlled by a balanced diet and administering insulin.
Allergies:
Allergies and food sensitivities are common in dogs and the labradoodle is not an exception. They are more prone to allergies than any other dog breeds as they are a mixed breed and get the sensitivities of both dog breeds in combination.
Food allergies are commonly caused due to an improper ingredient in dog food which can cause an unwanted reaction.
That is why it is suggested to give Labradoodles a limited ingredient diet in order to avoid a major chunk of ingredients that are known to cause allergies. These diets contain limited protein sources and no extra supplements.
Ear Infections:
Since Labradoodles have floppy ears, they are prone to harboring infections below the surface. Therefore, their surface around the ears need to be checked regularly and kept clean for any potential infections.
Ingredients to Avoid in Your Labradoodle’s Dog Food
Labradoodles have sensitive stomachs and hence should avoid consuming foods that are rich in grains and fillers. Therefore, a limited grain-free diet is the best for a labradoodle. Here are a few more ingredients you must take care of and avoid feeding your pooch:
Grains:
While certain grains are a rich source of carbohydrates and OK to consume by your dog, Labradoodles are prone to allergies and sensitivities and hence should avoid any food that contains grains. Mild to moderate amounts of grain is recommended but it is best to keep them in a limited ingredient diet.
Artificial Ingredients, Fillers, and Preservatives
Corn, soymeal, etc are only added in dog food as fillers and do no good to your pet. They only make your dog feeling fuller and more obese as these are empty calories. Therefore, they are best avoided.
Preservatives are added to increase the shelf life and taste of dog food but have zero nutritive value. Dog food manufacturers may also use dyes and artificial colors to make the food look more appealing, but it does no good.
They trigger harmful reactions within your doodles body which can lead to fatal health conditions. Therefore, these must be avoided.
Unknown Protein Sources:
Unless the source of protein is not mentioned in the label, do not go for the dog food. They can end up sourcing meat from non-reputed places which can be infected by harmful pathogens.
Moreover, they are not thoroughly processed either which can cause unwanted reactions and allergies to your labradoodle.
Other Ingredients:
Food that is high in sugars or xylitol should be avoided. Garlic, Raisins, Grapes, Chocolates, and other leftovers from your dining table are a strict No-No for your doodle.
This can only lead to empty calories and does no good to your pet from the nutritional point of view.
Can Labradoodle Eat Chocolate?
No, Labradoodle can not eat the chocolate, always keep chocolates away from Labradoodle.
Labradoodle Feeding Chart: How Much I have to Feed my Labradoodle
The general lifespan of a Labradoodle is 12-14 years.
The growth chart is as follows:
Puppies: up to 6 Months
Adult: From 1 year to 8 Years
Senior: Over 8 Years
The ideal weight of an adult Labradoodle is 50-65 pounds.
Labradoodles are a mixed breed originally developed from the pure breeds being Labrador and Poodle. It is sized medium as that of a labrador and has a coat like that of a poodle. They should be given 1.5 to 2 cups of food in 24 hours. This should be divided into various meals over the day as per their activity levels to avoid bloat or gastric tension.
The table below helps you with approximate serving suggestions for your Labradoodle:
| AGE
(Months) |
FOOD
(Cups) |
MEALS PER DAY |
| 2 – 4 | ½ – 1 | 4 |
| 4 – 6 | ½ – 1 | 3 |
| 6 – 8 | 1 – 1 ¾ | 2 – 3 |
| 8 + | 2 – 2 ½ | 2 |
Here is an ideal weight range that you should maintain for your Labradoodle:
| AGE (Months) | Puppy Weight (lbs.) |
| 1 Week | 1.00 |
| 4 Weeks | 3.90 |
| 8 Weeks | 7.80 |
| 14 Weeks | 15.60 |
| 20 Weeks (5 Months) | 25.30 |
| 27 Weeks (6 Months) | 30.00 |
| 35 Weeks (8 Months) | 30.90 |
Their general calorie intake for ideal adult weight should be 900 – 1000 calories per day. This depends upon their size and activity levels as they are mixed breed and this is subject to alter.
Related Buying Guide
- Best dog foods for goldendoodles
- Best dog food for great danes
- Best dog food for beagles
- Best dog food for american bulldog
- Best dog food for doberman
Personal Opinion:
Labradoodles are unique as they are a mix between two pure breeds being the Labrador and the Poodle. It has the athletic features of the Labrador and the cuteness of the Poodle. While poodles require high amounts of Omega fatty acids to maintain their coat health and density, Labradors require high protein to maintain their stature. Combine both, it requires a unique dog food to cater to the needs of the Labradoodle.
According to us, the best dog food for a Labradoodle is the Merrick Grain-Free Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food. The rich taste of beef, combined with high protein, optimum fat, and the goodness and fiber of sweet potato, makes this dog food a meal worth relishing.
Plan on adopting a Labradoodle? Read our reviews on the best dog foods for Labradoodles and let us know which food your doodle loves in the 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.