There are plenty of reasons why golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds around. Not only are they extremely cute and fluffy, but they also have some of the best personalities. Goldens are well-known for being very friendly and affectionate dogs that are great with kids, loyal to their families, and love to play.
Just like any other dog breed, golden retrievers are predisposed to certain health issues based on their genetics. Alongside proper vet support and an active lifestyle, your golden retriever’s diet can make a huge difference for their health in both the short and long term.
What do golden retrievers eat to achieve optimal wellness? There’s no one food that is absolutely perfect for all goldens and their individual needs. However, you can take some of your pup’s potential health risks into account when choosing your next dog food brand. Ask your vet what food brand they recommend for your pet based on their specific health status and age.
What Health Concerns Do Golden Retrievers Have?
Golden retrievers usually live between 10 and 12 years, and many enjoy long, full lives free of serious health issues. However, there are some physical ailments that golden retrievers are more likely to develop than some other breeds.
Since goldens are so active and energetic, they tend to develop skin issues like hot spots. Playing on rough terrain or swimming in pools often can cause these localized irritation spots to develop, and they can become infected easily. Other skin problems like atopic dermatitis, or atopy, are also common in golden retrievers.
Endocrine and thyroid issues such as hypothyroidism are also seen among goldens. This condition can occur when your dog’s thyroid starts producing less and less thyroid hormone, causing symptoms like weight gain, skin and/or ear infections, decreased energy, and thinning fur.
You should also look out for elbow and hip dysplasia with your golden retriever. This hip and/or elbow mobility issue often develops among older goldens, and it’s common in a huge variety of other breeds as well. This condition can lead to arthritis and severely limit your dog’s mobility as they age while also causing chronic pain in some cases.
How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Golden Retrievers
So many deciding factors go into choosing your golden retriever’s ideal food blend and brand. You should consider the many potential health issues your pup could develop and choose a food type that helps prevent these issues. However, taste and texture are also crucial to consider, as your dog’s food should be something they enjoy and look forward to eating each day.
Before you choose golden retriever dog food for your pup, start with your dog’s age. Do you need golden retriever puppy food or a tasty, health-boosting blend for adult dogs? What about senior goldens who need a bit more support in their diet? Your dog’s age will play a key role in their nutritional needs.
If your pup has any preexisting health conditions that might affect their diet, such as long-term health issues or allergies, you should take them into account. Consult with your vet about how the right food could affect or improve your dog’s health status.
Once you’ve considered all of these angles, it’s time to explore your options and try out some of the best dog food for golden retriever puppy, adult, or senior pets. Your pup may not love the first brand you give them, so be open to trying a few different options. Keep consulting your vet throughout the process as you try various brands and eventually settle on the right one for your dog’s needs.
Top Dog Food Brands for Golden Retrievers
There are so many great food brands on the market that offer a variety of specializations. Whether you prefer a grain-free, whole-food approach for your dog or simply want to find the best deal with all the features you’re looking for, the perfect dog food for your golden retriever is within your grasp.
Here are a few examples of dog food that is well suited to golden retrievers in multiple stages of life, from the best food for golden retriever puppy pets to the optimal diet for senior goldens.
Taste of the Wild
Did you know that some of the best puppy food for golden retrievers is also well suited to adult dogs? Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon blend is made with a variety of natural ingredients, including beef, lamb meal, garbanzo beans, and peas.
This food is high in protein, helping golden retriever puppies and adults get the energy and support they need from their diet.
Wellness Complete
For adult golden retrievers, the Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Adult blend is a great option for a grain-included kibble that’s high in protein and healthy carbs. It combines chicken meal and deboned chicken as its primary protein source and is made without preservatives.
Nom Nom Fresh
If you’re looking for freshly-made dog food that will give your golden retriever the nutrients they need, look no further than Nom Nom Fresh. The Chicken Cuisine blend is made with fresh diced chicken as the primary ingredient, with other tasty mix-ins like squash and sweet potatoes.
Since Nom Nom Fresh is made with whole food ingredients, it’s free from grains and fillers. This food is generally suitable for goldens in all life stages.
Holistic Select
Once your golden retriever reaches senior status, they need some extra support to maintain their mobility and energy. Give your pup the help they need with high-quality food geared toward senior dogs like Holistic Select Senior Health. This blend is packed with the protein, vitamins, and minerals your senior golden needs.
Royal Canin
Royal Canin makes a blend particularly formulated for golden retriever puppies. It’s packed with protein sources and complex carbs, which puppies need lots of as they grow. Additionally, this food is formulated with the perfect amount of calcium for growing golden retrievers.
Great Health for Your Golden Starts With Their Diet
As you can see, your golden retriever’s wellness is closely linked to what they eat. Do further research and consult with your vet to determine the right food for your pet.
