This is our review of the best dog food for Labs in 2022
With a predisposition for obesity, Labs need the right type of food to maintain their wellness. The best dog foods offer balanced nutrition in low-calorie formulas that will help you keep your pup healthy and happy! I am here with some recommendations from my research into what kind of nutritionally sound menu could be just right for this breed.
As a long time owner of Labs, I’ve found that Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Food is the best overall dog food for them. But your pup may have different needs! Check out these reviews on each category to find what works best with their personality and size.
In this article we will look at:
- The best dog foods for Labs
- A guide to buying dog food for Labs
- The nutritional requirements of Labradors
- How much should I feed my Lab?
- health issues & diet
- 5 cool facts about Labradors
Let’s get started!
13 Best Dog Foods For Labradors in 2022
Whether you go dry or wet food, one of the easiest ways for you to determine good dog food is by reading the label and looking out for the AAFCO Statement. Always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet.
All of the dog foods on this list are in accordance with the AAFCO nutrient profile recommendations for dogs.
Best Dog food for Sensitive Stomachs for Labradors
Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Rice Bran, Whole Grain Oatmeal
- Key Feature: Holistic formula combines premium lean proteins with superfoods
- Guaranteed Analysis: 23% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10%
- Caloric Content: 346 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea-Free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Overall
The premium dog food formula features three sources of lean, high quality animal proteins. The chicken provides 23% crude protein while keeping fat content below 12%. Lean meats are important for healthy muscles in athletic dogs that need to maintain their weight. Sunflower oil helps protect your pup’s coat against harmful elements like rainwater and sun damage with its linoleic acid properties [3]
This balanced recipe also includes 348 kilocalories per cup– enough energy without the risk associated with overweight Labradors prone to being “fluffy.”
The addition of nutrient-dense ‘superfoods’ provides a high concentration of vitamins without excess calories. These ingredients include kale, coconut, and blueberries.
Naturally sourced glucosamine also helps manage joint diseases associated with Labs. [4] Plus, this food does not include any harmful chemical additives.
Dog owners rave about improved vibrance and digestive function when feeding their Labs this formula.
This dog food is an excellent fit for the unique dietary needs of a Labrador Retriever. But the kibble is relatively small compared to other large breed brands
Best Food for Labrador Puppy
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Labrador Retriever Puppy Dry Dog Food
Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your large breed puppy with specific nutrients to help puppies thrive.
The donut-shaped specialized kibble is designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports his developing immune system and keeps his large dog bodies growing strong.
Calcium and phosphorus provide bone and joint support, while a balanced energy content helps him maintain an ideal weight.
And to support your puppy’s digestive system, this Labrador dog food contains high-quality proteins and prebiotics to help promote optimal stool quality.
Key Benefits
- Designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Labrador Retriever puppies 8 weeks to 15 months old.
- Specialized kibble designed to help quick eaters chew food slowly.
- Helps protect puppy development of immune system and natural defenses with an exclusive complex of antioxidants including vitamin E.
- Supports bone and joint health and a healthy weight with precise mineral content and a balanced energy intake.
- Aids digestion with high-quality proteins and prebiotics to promote optimal stool quality.
Best Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Labradors
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas
- Key Features:
- Guarenteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 370 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: High Protein,Grain-free
- Life Stages: Maintenance
- Best For: Adults only (not for puppies)
This roasted bison and venison dry dog food is crafted with real meat as the #1 ingredient and is high in protein (32%) to help support bones, joints and lean muscles.
Nutritional Profile Includes:
- Crafted with vitamins and minerals from real fruits and superfoods, omega fatty acids for skin and coat health and nutrients for the energy your furry friend needs thrive!
- Each serving includes species-specific K9 Strain PROPRIETARY PROBIOTICS — plus antioxidants and prebiotics— to help support healthy digestion, IMMUNE system, and overall health and wellness
- Formulated without grain, corn, wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial colors
- Made in the USA by a family-owned brand that only uses quality ingredients from trusted and sustainable local and global sources.
Best High Protein Dog Food for Labradors
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Recipe Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken meal, Turkey meal, peas, Dried Ground Potatoes
- Guarenteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 417 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: High Protein, Lean Body Mass
- Life Stages: Maintenance
- Best For: Adults only
Unlike many dry foods, it has named meat – deboned turkey – as its first ingredient, and then has its protein levels topped up with turkey and chicken meal. There is also added chicken liver and chicken fat, both of which are great sources of nutrients for active Labradors.
There are lots of fruits and vegetables added to the recipe as natural sources of vitamins and minerals including broccoli, carrots, apples, blueberries, and kale.
The recipe has also been topped up with glucosamine and chondroitin, which protect joints, so it is important for Labs, a dog breed prone to hip dysplasia.
Nutritional Profile Includes:
- Fortified with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, taurine, vitamins and minerals.
- Crafted using carefully chosen ingredients that include premium proteins, fruits, vegetables and wholesome grains.
- Developed without any meat by-products, fillers, corn, soy, wheat-gluten or artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
- Designed to encourage lean body mass and muscle tone, support a healthy coat and skin, and promote whole body health.
This nutrient-rich, grain-free dry dog food is designed to encourage lean body mass and muscle tone, support a healthy coat and skin, and promote whole-body health. It is developed without any meat by-products, fillers, corn, soy, wheat-gluten or artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors so you can be sure Rover is always getting the right food. (Manufactured in a facility that also processes grains)
Best Senior Dog Food for Labradors
Wellness Complete Health Senior Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Ground Brown Rice
- Key Feature: Whole-food formula designed to support large senior dogs
- Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 4.25% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 416 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Weight Control
- Life Stage: Senior
- Best For: Senior Labs
When Labs age, their metabolism slows down even further. [7] The breed has a predisposition to obesity at any age. But managing senior dogs’ weight is especially critical.
This formula uses concentrated nutrition to meet your Lab’s dietary needs. A 24% protein content comes from real chicken as the first ingredient.
Additional whole food ingredients are easily digestible. This allows for better nutrient absorption by senior dogs.
This filler-free dog food is suitable for seniors who suffer from food sensitivities. There are no wheat, corn, soy, by-products, or artificial preservatives in this recipe.
Added glucosamine and chondroitinhelp manage joint pain caused by common degenerative conditions.
And taurine supports heart health. [8] This amino acid is essential for breeds prone to obesity as extra pounds can stress your dog’s cardiovascular system.
Dog owners appreciate the full support in a small portion size. But, some seniors Labs have an easier time eating this food after soaking the hard kibble.
Best Natural Dog Food for Labradors
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Pea Protein, Tapioca Starch
- Key Feature: High Protein & Antioxidants
- Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 409 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors and preservatives
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Adult Labs
With real chicken as the very first ingredient, this high-protein, grain-free recipe helps build and maintain lean muscle mass. It also contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, plus complex carbohydrates from fruits and veggies to provide your adult dog with the energy he needs.
Nutritional Profile Includes:
- PACKED WITH REAL CHICKEN: A recipe made to satisfy your dog’s natural love for meat, this high protein dog food features real chicken to help build and maintain lean muscle mass
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
- A NATURAL DOG FOOD: Made with natural ingredients and 100% free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives.
Best Budget Dog Food for Labradors
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Ground White Rice
- Key Feature: Affordable formula with high-quality ingredients
- Guaranteed Analysis: 23% Crude Protein, 13% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 327 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy,
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Budget Lab Food
This budget formula features the same superfood ingredients of premium dog food. Nutrient-dense ingredients include kale, pumpkin, and chia seeds.
Real chicken provides an ideal source for this food’s 23% crude protein content. Comparable budget alternatives often rely on by-products as their primary ingredient.
A blend of fruits and vegetables provides a natural source of vitamins and antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect your dog’s tissue from damage by free radicals.
Every Diamond Naturals product includes 80 billion CFUs of a proprietary probiotic blend. Lactobacillus Acidophilus is a probiotic strain proven to improve digestive health in dogs. [9]
Pumpkin and coconut also increase digestibility with soluble and insoluble fibers.
Lab owners who use this food notice improvements in their pup’s bowel movements.
I am a budget-conscious dog owner myself. And I appreciate that Diamond Naturals proves you don’t have to compromise quality for affordability.
Grain Free Dog Food for Labradors
Wellness Core Grain-Free Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lentils, Peas
- Key Feature: Premium high-protein, grain-free formula
- Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 342 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, High-Protein
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Premium Lab Food
Your dog’s evolutionary diet is the foundation for this premium formula. The high 34% protein content of this food is ideal for athletic Labradors.
In some diets, higher protein means higher fat and calories. But chicken and turkey provide primary sources of animal protein with little fat.
Additional whole food ingredients provide natural sources of essential nutrients. Flaxseed is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids for coat health. And kale is a good source of calcium and vitamin K to support bone health in Labs.
This recipe also includes glucosamine to support joint health. Plus, the label is free from by-products, artificial additives, corn, wheat, and soy.
Owners prefer this dog food as a premium, grain-free option formulated for large dogs’ specific needs.
Some owners found that their pets did not like the taste of this more expensive dog food. But Labradors rarely turn their nose up at anything edible.
Best Grain Free Wet Dog Food
Taste of The Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Wet Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Lamb Broth, Beef Broth, Lamb Liver, Bison
- Key Feature: Tasty wet food for fussy eaters
- Guaranteed Analysis: 8% Crude Protein, 3.5% Crude Fat, 1% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 322 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Chicken-Free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Wet Food for Labs
Real beef is the very first ingredient in this food. The mix also includes bison, lamb, and venison.
A protein content of 8% seems deceptively low compared to competitors due to high moisture content. But this food is also high in protein and even includes organ meat. Organs are excellent sources of nutrients such as vitamin A. [10]
These protein-rich ingredients are essential for healthy muscles in athletic dogs. The grain-free formula is also ideal for sensitive pups since it does not include corn, wheat, or fillers.
Digestible carbohydrates from sweet potatoes provide energy. And real fruits like blueberries offer natural sources of vitamins and antioxidants.
Reviews from owners share that this food is the best choice for the fussiest eaters. Be sure to introduce dietary changes gradually as some dogs experience minor diarrhea when switching to wet food
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Labradors
Canidae Pure Grain-Free Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas
- Key Feature: Limited Ingredient diet based on Salmon and Sweet Potatoes
- Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 496 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Sensitive Digestion, Grain-Free, Chicken-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten Free, Limited Ingredient Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Labs with Allergies
This formula is a limited-ingredient diet designed for dogs who suffer from allergies or sensitive stomachs. Unfortunately, Labs have a predisposition for allergies. [11]
Limited ingredient diets help manage allergic reactions by limiting allergen exposure. Salmon is the only source of animal protein in this 24% crude protein food.
Most allergens are protein. So a single protein source limits exposure and potential for developing new allergies.
This simple recipe uses only eight ingredients. Sweet potatoes offer the primary source of digestible carbohydrates in this grain-free formula. The recipe also eliminates common allergens such as grains, soy, wheat, and corn.
In addition to being an excellent source of protein, Salmon also contains high levels of healthy fats. These omega fatty acids are essential for coat health in labs and do not necessarily directly translate to weight gain.
This food may not be the best option for overweight Labradors due to the high caloric content. Still, many dog owners report successfully managing their Lab’s allergies with this diet.
Best Dog Food for Labradors
Origen original dog food
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, atlantic flounder, cage-free eggs, whole atlantic mackerel
- Key Feature: 38% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
- Guarenteed Analysis:
- Caloric Content:403k/kcal per 8oz cup
- Type of Product: Grain-free
- Life Stages: All life stages
- Best For: Adults and puppies
A biologically appropriate diet that’s packed with different types of whole animal ingredients. This kibble features fresh or raw free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught or sustainably farmed fish, and cage-free chickens. Crafted with the most nutrient-dense and succulent parts of the prey, this recipe is also made with WholePrey animal ingredients, including organs and bone, delivering 85% quality animal ingredients.
The first 5 ingredients are fresh or raw poultry and fish ingredients. The fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation and the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness.
Nutritional Benefits include:
- ORIJEN Original dog food delivers a diet rich and varied in fresh, whole animal ingredients from free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs
- With 85% quality animal ingredients, ORIJEN nourishes dogs according to their natural, biological needs
- Using fresh and raw animal ingredients, including meat, organs, cartilage, and bone, ORIJEN is the Biologically Appropriate, grain-free diet that dogs have evolved to eat
- WholePrey diet featuring the most succulent parts of the prey including poultry or fish, organs, and bone.
Best Dog Food for Joints for Labradors
Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Mobility Large Breed Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat
- Key Feature: Specialty diet to support joint health in large dogs
- Guaranteed Analysis: 28% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 367 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Mobility Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Labs with Joint Problems
This dog food features a 28% protein content from chicken meal. It is not grain-free and includes several whole grain sources of digestible carbohydrates.
A high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil helps reduce inflammation. [13] This has a direct impact on easing discomfort caused by joint inflammation in Labs.
High levels of glucosamine and chondroitin provide the building blocks for healthy cartilage. These popular ingredients help manage joint pain by limiting cartilage breakdown. [14]
Added vitamin E and C work together as powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect joints from damage caused by free radicals. [15]
This food has an excellent reputation as a mobility formula. Most owners report improvements in their dog’s comfort within the first 30 days of use.
However, the large kibble pieces may increase choking risks if your lab bolts his food
Best Low Fat Dog Food for Labradors
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Weight Control Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Peas
- Key Feature: Weight control formula for overweight dogs
- Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein, 9% Crude Fat, 10% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 323 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Weight Control, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For Overweight Labs
Overweight Labs are vulnerable to severe health problems. [16] Putting your pup on a diet that will help him return to a healthy weight is vital.
Lean animal proteins like real chicken promote healthy muscle development. This formula provides adequate amounts of protein at 22% while boasting a low 9% fat content.
A high 10% fiber content keeps your dog feeling full without providing too many calories. Fiber is also beneficial for digestive health.
Overweight dogs often struggle with joint and skeletal disease. The chelated minerals in this formula support strong bones in overweight dogs. And ingredients like glucosamine protect their strained joints.
L-Carnitine is the critical ingredient of this weight control formula. This essential amino acid helps build lean muscle. [17] It also promotes fat burning and weight loss in overweight dogs.
Many dog owners find that this formula is useful for helping their overweight dogs achieve healthy weight loss. However, some dogs can experience slight digestive upset when switching to a higher fiber diet.
Best High Calorie Dog Food for Labradors
Sports Dog Food Active Series Field Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Ground Sorghum, Dried Sweet Potato, Turkey Meal. Whole Ground Millet
- Key Feature: High energy formula for sporting dogs
- Guaranteed Analysis: 29% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 483 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Flax-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten Free, Pea-Free, Non-GMO
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Sporting Labs
We bred Labs to live active lifestyles as sporting dogs. And many owners still take their Labs hunting today.
This formula features several lean animal proteins. A high protein content of 29% and moderate fat content of 14% is ideal for providing sporting Labs with adequate energy.
One cup of this food contains 483 calories. Digestible carbohydrates from whole grain ingredients also provide energy for sporting activities.
A healthy amount of taurine supports cardiovascular health in hard-working dogs. And high levels of omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil help maximize muscle recovery. [18]
Dog owners appreciate the flax-free formula for dogs who suffer from allergies.
Pet parents who feed this dog food also report success keeping a healthy weight on active dogs. But, it may not be suitable for the family couch potato.
Guide to Buying Dog Food For Labs
Any Lab owner will attest that their pet can happily eat just about anything they offer them! This is because Labs are great experimental laboratory pets! The best advice you could receive for feeding your dog the most nutritionally profitable diet would be this: feed him or her premium foods with high-quality ingredients. Two dog foods may each contain 27% protein but differ greatly when it comes to digestibility levels, which means one might break down faster than another after eating an identical amount of food by weight – meaning more waste for everyone involved (including YOU).
Look for food companies that exceed AAFCO guidelines and use high-quality ingredients. Choose foods with meat-based items listed as the first two to three ingredients. Avoid foods that contain excess chemical preservatives and high amounts of fillers like wheat, corn, and soy.
Nutritional Requirements
The six basic nutrients are water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. These essential nutrients are required as part of the dog’s regular diet and are involved in all of the basic functions of the body.
Protein
Dogs, like humans, are omnivores that require significant quantities of protein from lean meats on a daily basis. Dogs such as Labrador retrievers should eat a diet with moderate to high protein levels. Choose a formula with at least 22% crude protein. The amount of protein supplied by food is calculated using scientific tests known as crude percentages, increased amounts of protein are required for dogs that are highly active or that are growing.
Growing puppies will need higher levels of protein to support muscle development, and sporting Labs will need adequate protein for muscle recovery.
The amount of protein needed for a large, young Labrador retriever is about 39 grams per day if the dog eats one-third of its body weight in pounds. Smaller breeds of dogs will require less protein because they have faster metabolisms and smaller body masses.
Lower Fat
I can relate to the passion for food that Labs have, and it’s easy to add a few extra pounds! Look for dog foods with crude fat percentages of 18% or less. Omega fatty acids from high-quality sources, such as fish oil, help preserve your Labrador’s water-resistant coat too.
Digestible Carbohydrates
Large dogs do not necessarily require a high carbohydrate intake in their daily diet, they can store carbohydrates as glycogen, unlike toy breeds.
Your lab may require moderate amounts of digestible carbohydrates to sustain adequate energy, avoid formulas that contain refined carbohydrates, which might cause weight gain.
This macro nutrient is provided by whole grains, which are the greatest source, sweet potatoes, for example, are a good source of complex carbohydrates in grain-free formulations.
Vitamins and Minerals
The nutrient profile requirements of AAFCO should be followed when selecting dog food for your canine. A proper balance of minerals and vitamins will aid your Lab in growing properly throughout his existence.
Chondroitin and Glucosamine
Larger dogs are more prone to develop joint issues as a result of their genetics, because these dogs are overweight, their joints are subjected to an additional amount of strain.
Chondroitin and Glucosamine are joint cartilage building blocks. Cartilage health is important for lubricating joints and preventing pain. These components can be found in many large-dog food mixes. They’re especially significant for aging Labradors with degenerative illnesses.
DHA and Taurine
DHA is a form of omega-3 fatty acid. These good fats are essential for the health and function of the coat and brain, they also aid in the reduction of joint inflammation.
Labradors need sources of healthy fatty acids in their diets in order to support oil production by their skin. This oil production is necessary to protect their unique water-resistant coats.
Taurine is an amino acid that acts as a crucial component in keeping the heart healthy. Taurine can lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure, which lowers the chances of heart failure. Obese labs with cardiac risk are especially benefited by this support.
Calcium and Phosphorous
Calcium and phosphorus are two minerals that are required for the formation of bones. If levels of these minerals in your dog’s diet are inadequate, his bone structure will weaken.
Chronic skeletal disease and improper development can result from mineral deficiencies in Lab puppies. Always make sure your puppy’s meals include enough of these minerals.
Probiotics
Probiotic blends are added to some dog food formulations in order to improve digestion. Probiotics are tiny bacteria that is good for your dog’s health, these bacteria aid in the breakdown of food and improved nutrient absorption. This allows Labs to get the most out of their meals while avoiding overeating.
BEST PROBIOTIC FOR DOGS
Did you know that a dog’s gut health has a significant influence on its overall health?
A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract! discover why this supplement is vital for your dog’s immune system and overall health-Full Bucket’s Probiotic supplements
How Much to Feed Labradors
Individual needs will vary from lab to lab depending on age, activity level, and any existing medical issues. Young Labs require more protein than older Labs, while active dogs need more calories than the average TV-watching couch potato!
| Life Stage | Weight | Meal Size | Meals Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy | 15-18 Pounds | 2 Ounces | 4 |
| Puppy | 24-26 Pounds | 3-3.5 Ounces | 3 |
| Puppy | 50-60 Pounds | 6-8 Ounces | 2 |
| Adult | 61-80 Pounds | 1.75-2.25 Cups | 2 |
| Adult | 80+ Pounds | 2.25-2.75 Cups | 2 |
When creating a diet for your dog, always consult with your veterinarian.
Digestibility
Another important component of a Labrador’s diet is fiber. Dogs don’t rely on dietary fiber as their major energy source, so adding extra won’t help you pack on pounds.
Beet pulp, on the other hand, is essential for good digestion. Prebiotics, such as beet pulp and other healthy sources of fiber, help to promote nutrient absorption from food. A healthy gut and efficient food processing are required for optimal nutrition utilization.
Health Issues and Diet
There can be a direct link between Labradors’ diets and common health issues. Here are some of the most frequent diseases that good nutrition may help to manage.
Bone and Joint Problems
The potential health problems that Labrador Retrievers are prone to include:
- Hip dysplasia – hip joint laxity as a result of poor development, which will eventually lead to arthritis.
- Elbow dysplasia – elbow joint laxity as a result of poor development, which will eventually lead to arthritis.
- Prone to obesity
- Progressive retinal atrophy – gradual deterioration of the retina of the eye. Symptoms can start with night blindness and progress to total blindness.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Kennel Club offer screening programmes for certain diseases. The Canine Health Schemes enable breeders to screen for a number of hereditary illnesses, so it’s worth double-checking that any puppies you’re considering rehoming have been checked by these programs.
When looking for dog food for Labs suffering from joint problems, look for chondroprotective ingredients including glucosamine. Calcium and phosphorus are also important in bone and joint health.
Best Joint Supplement for Dogs
Did you know that there is an all-natural method to relieve inflammation, pain, and discomfort in dogs that works better than pharmaceuticals? Check out or page on Canine Cush for Dogs.
Obesity
Maintaining a Labrador’s weight within a healthy range can help to avoid or minimize the effects of many health problems.
We realize that feeding this greedy breed of dog can be difficult, and we understand how easy it is to provide them too much food. Still, it is something you have control over and which will benefit your closest companion.
Diseases linked to obesity, such as diabetes, are on the rise in our laboratories, and most cases of diabetes might be avoided by maintaining a healthy weight.
Arthritis is a common condition in senior labs, but it isn’t unavoidable. And, when it does happen, it can be readily relieved by weight reduction. By keeping your Labrador trim, you may avoid the development and severity of this debilitating age-related illness.
Bloat or Gastric dilatation-volvulus
GDV, or Gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a severe and potentially fatal illness that primarily affects big and deep-chested dog breeds. Bloat, as it is commonly known, occurs when your pet’s stomach becomes full with fluid, food, or gas. When this happens, the stomach grows in size against other organs in the abdomen and begins to twist, trapping the gas inside. GDV is often fatal because it can cut off blood flow to vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas and intestines. It can also cause chemical changes in your dog’s body that can be deadly even if treated.
The exact origin of gastric torsion in dogs is unknown. If your dog has a previous family member who has had Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), the chances of bloat symptoms are greater.
Heart Problems
The risk of congenital heart disease is greater in Labrador retrievers than it is in other breeds. While genetic flaws are present at birth, bad eating habits can contribute to the development of health problems.
Obese dogs can suffer from the same heart problems as humans, including congestive heart failure and cardiomyopathy. Promoting heart health is possible by controlling your Lab’s weight, however, there are a few more things to consider.
Sodium retention is associated with heart failure. As a result, your veterinarian may recommend a diet that is low in salt for your dog. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help to maintain heart muscle cell structure. [22]
Taurine is also an important heart-health component. This amino acid helps to decrease cholesterol and blood pressure, lowering the likelihood of heart failure.
Eye Problems
As Labradors get older, they are more likely to develop cataracts. Cataracts form in your dog’s lenses and make them opaque instead of transparent. This prevents light from reaching the retina and might result in blindness.Obese dogs with diabetes are at greater risk of developing cataracts.
Another health issue affecting Labrador Retrievers is retinal dysplasia. The retina has an incorrect development in this illness. [23]
Vitamin E supplements or a diet high in antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid may aid in the maintenance of healthy eyes by protecting tissue from harm.
5 COOL FACTS ABOUT LABRADORS
1. Labrador retrievers have webbed toes, which allow them to swim well. In colder climes, the webbing on their feet acts as a snowshoe, keeping snow off of their toes.
2. Their coat is made up of two layers: a short, thick topcoat and a somewhat water-resistant undercoat. This double-layer coat protects them from the cold and dampness.
3. They are the most frequent breed of guide dog. They are bright, simple to train, eager to please, and have a patient demeanour.
4. The most common dog breed in the United States and the United Kingdom is Labradors.
5. This breed loves to be around people and needs a lot of affection, as well as plenty of exercise to burn off all that energy!
The Best Dog Food for labs - The Verdict
When it comes to selecting the right dog food, monitoring your Labrador’s weight is critical.
For Labs, high-protein, low-calorie diets are the best alternatives. Balanced meals like Nutro Ultra Large Breed Adult Dry Food will assist you in avoiding common health issues.
Labs may love all food-But not all food loves them! Working with your veterinarian to choose the best dog food may assist your Lab fulfill its full potential. And learn about how much to feed your puppy.
References:
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/centers/nutrition/dog-food-label-lessons-what-is-an-aafco-statement
- https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/complete-and-balanced-pet-food
- vcahospitals.com
- The Labrador Site
- theretrievernews.com
