Welcoming bundles of fur to the family and becoming dog grandparents is quite an awesome experience. Pregnancy is one of the most important phases for every female dog that demands special care and attention, especially on matters of nutrition. Ensuring the dog feeds right will help her go through the period in good health and consequently give birth to healthy puppies.
While the scope of this guide is to help you find the best dog food for pregnant dogs, knowing the considerations to keep in mind is equally important. To ensure optimal nutrition, we have summarized the best dog food for pregnant dogs that provide a good mix of these considerations. Let’s dive right in!
1) Zignature Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
For pregnant dogs with stomach sensitivity, Zignature Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food offers a delightful solution. It is a limited ingredient formula that contains turkey as its first ingredient.
Turkey is rich in amino acids, the building blocks of protein, for the thriving of the dog and the growing puppies in her womb. The formula features low glycemic carbohydrates such as chickpeas to keep blood sugar spikes on the low.
Chickpeas are also sources of fiber that are beneficial to the digestive system. L-carnitine is an addition to this food to promote a healthy metabolism. This grain-free formula is fortified with vitamins and minerals for overall good health. Sunflower oil is one of the natural ingredients used in this kibble to keep skin and coat healthy.
Benefits
- Grain-free kibble rich with protein from turkey meat for strong muscle formation
- Limited ingredient formula ideal for pregnant dogs with stomach sensitivity
- Contains low glycemic index carbohydrates to promote healthy blood sugar levels
- Has fiber and L-carnitine for boosted metabolic processes
- 100% complete and balanced nutrition made with the elimination of potential allergens
2) Taste of The Wild Dry Dog Food with Roasted Bison and Roasted Venison
This is one of the best dog foods to choose for your pregnant dog as it features a careful combination of ingredients that seek to satisfy the innate carnivore craving in your dog.
Roasted bison and venison deliver a delightful treat for your dog’s taste buds together with high protein content for lean muscle formation. This grain-free formula uses highly digestible ingredients to meet the energy demands of the pregnant dog’s body.
Blueberries, raspberries and tomatoes are some of the antioxidant-rich fruits used to keep immunity strong. For the digestive system, there is an addition of dried chicory root in the kibble that is a great source of probiotic fiber.
The proprietary K9 probiotics developed by this brand also ensure support to digestive processes. As much as the insides are cared for, this dry dog food is keen on skin health and uses natural oils to keep skin shiny.
Benefits
- Uses roasted bison and venison as number ingredient. Both being lean meats they promote healthy formation of muscles and support the ideal weight
- A grain-free formula that is rich in antioxidants from a variety of fruits and vegetables
- Fortified with probiotics to support digestion
- Contains healthy oils with plenty of omega fatty acids for shiny healthy skin and coat
- Suitable for pregnant dogs of all breed sizes
3) The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Turkey Recipe Dehydrated Dog Food
The Honest Kitchen uses simple but nutrient-rich ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers to manufacture their foods. Their foods are made with no by-products, fillers, preservatives, or additives and start with turkey that is packed with protein. If your pal has no allergies to grains then this is the best dog food to get as it is manufactured with the inclusion of organic whole grains.
Some of these grains like flaxseed that carries several health benefits such as their fatty acid content to support normal reproduction, immune function and healthy coat and fur.
Flaxseeds possess anti-inflammatory properties to maintain healthy joints. For dogs with kidney problems, this addition will benefit them. Also, for digestion especially pregnant dogs experiencing constipation, this will be a welcome relief.
The food is supplemented with chelated minerals and vitamins to deliver complete nutrition once consumed by your fur friend. To bring out the sweet aroma and natural flavors in the food you will need to add a little warm water, mix it up then serve it. This is one of the best dog foods for pregnant dogs and also a budget-friendly one.
Benefits
- Features turkey as the first ingredient
- Made with organic whole grains that carry vital nutrients needed for good health
- Supports the immune system with the addition of taurine for a healthy heart
- Made without fillers, artificial preservatives, or GMO products to give all-natural nutritional value
- Complete and balanced meal supplemented with minerals and vitamins for optimal nutrition
4) Purina Beyond Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food Variety Pack
For fussy eaters carrying fur babies in their womb, Purina Beyond Grain Free Entrees are the way to go. There are different flavors available all drawing protein from either chicken, salmon or beef dipped in delicious gravy to offer a lip-licking meal that offers quality nutrition. Apart from the meat other essential ingredients are used to bring vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants in every serving.
The high moisture content ensures the dog remains well hydrated throughout the day. this perfect balance of nutrients ensures a problem-free pregnancy period and the birth of healthy puppies. Manufactured devoid of by-products, wheat, corn, gluten, or soy this is among the best-canned foods you should get your pregnant dog.
Benefits
- Delicious wet dog food that contains salmon, beef, or chicken as its first ingredient to provide energy for daily activity
- Balanced nutrient profile with high moisture content for hydration purposes
- More palatable to appeal to picky eaters
- Come in various flavors for you to choose from
- Formulated with zero by-products, wheat, gluten, corn or soy good for canines with food allergies
5) Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food
This limited-ingredient formula features in our best dog food for pregnant dogs by the virtue of its carefully chosen ingredients that is aimed at reducing your canine’s exposure to allergy triggers.
Being grain-free, it is also an ideal choice for dogs that experience food intolerance or allergy. It contains a single animal protein source to keep muscles healthy and the body well-fueled with enough energy.
The ingredients are easy to digest and are naturally preserved to keep the nutrients intact. This delicious kibble has plenty of DHA from salmon oil for the healthy development of the puppies.
It also provides essential omega fatty acids for soft skin. Taurine is a healthy addition to food that supports cardiovascular function for good blood circulation which is very important during pregnancy.
A wide selection of minerals is drawn from veggies and fruits to keep your dog healthy. For instance, in the kibble is zinc that works collaboratively with enzymes to support the immune system and thyroid function. Calcium for strong bone formation is also present. Treating your dog to this food guarantees complete nutrition for all pregnancy phases.
Benefits
- Limited ingredient, grain-free dog food ideal for pooches with food sensitivity troubles
- Contains all-natural and easy-to-digest ingredients
- Derives protein from a single animal meat
- Rich in DHA for proper brain development in puppies and taurine for regulated blood flow
- Abundant minerals for enhanced organ functioning that work in conjunction with vitamins for a boosted immune system
6) Wellness Wet Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
Wellness Wet Grain-Free Canned Dog Food is a top choice among canned foods when it comes to offering the best nutrition for pregnant dogs. Contained in the can are yummy tender chunks of real meat from chicken that provide the much-needed protein in the body.
Ingredients are derived from naturally grown fruits and veggies bringing in vitamins and minerals that balance out the nutrient profile in this food so that your fur baby gets all-around nutrition during this stage of their life.
It has rich fiber content from celery for good digestion while at the same time being rich in moisture for hydration. This wet formula is crafted by a team of expert nutritionists so you can trust it to guarantee a lifetime of well-being for your pet. This grain-free diet complements Wellness dry foods well. For good health inside out, treat your buddy to this nutrient-filled delicacy.
Benefits
- Grain-free wet dog food that draws protein from real chicken meat
- Uses all-natural nutrient-rich ingredients
- Crafted by a team of expert nutritionists and vets for 100% complete and balanced nutrition in adult dogs
- Keeps dog well hydrated with its high moisture content
- Can be mixed with dry dog diets
7) Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food
Nothing speaks better to a carnivore’s hunger pangs than tasty raw meat. Merrick Backcountry knows this best and provides satisfaction through this grain-free formulation.
The kibble in this formula is made of freeze-dried meat from beef to keep your pal energetic through the day. For the joints, the kibble contains glucosamine and chondroitin in plenty for your furry friend to remain comfortably mobile.
Limited carbs for an energy boost and plentiful fiber are inclusive of this dog food for smooth digestion. Fish meals are blended in to provide omega acids for soft-to-touch skin.
The fat content coupled with just enough calories helps support the dog your pregnant dog’s meet her growing energy demands without losing her lean muscle form.
A meal is never complete without added vitamins and minerals for strong functioning body defense mechanisms. Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Dry Dog Food has plenty of these which is why it falls on our best dog food for pregnant dogs category.
Benefits
- Minimally processed kibble made with real beef
- Has limited carbohydrates with plenty of fats and calories to meet energy demands
- Contains plenty of glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy bone frames
- Supports healthy skin through omega fatty acids from fish meals
- Fortified with vitamins and minerals for maximum nutrition
8) Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties ooze with chicken goodness providing high-quality protein for strong muscles. Raw foods are usually characterized as easy to digest which is why the nutrients contained in these freeze-dried patties are going to be easily absorbed into your canine’s body.
For this purpose, the food is also enhanced with probiotics to promote healthy churning of food during digestion. Broccoli, carrots, apples and blueberries are some of the farm-grown fruits and veggies used for vitamin-mineral supply.
For vibrant skin and coat natural oils are sourced and mixed in. Stella and Chewy’s products are made completely devoid of gluten, fillers, or artificial colors. The food uses limited ingredients and it being grain-free is a bonus for pregnant dogs that suffer from food intolerances.
Benefits
- Contains high-quality protein from chicken
- Minimally processed freeze-dried patties to ensure nutrients remain intact
- Is a limited-ingredient dog food enhanced with probiotics for dogs suffering from food intolerance
- Has a rich blend of vitamins and minerals for well-rounded nutrition
- All-natural food made with natural oils great for skin health
Further Reading
- Best Senior Dog Foods
- Dog Food for Small Breeds
- Best Dog Food for Weight Loss
- Healthiest Dog Food for Senior Dogs
Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs Buying Guide & FAQs
Considerations When Selecting Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs
Pregnant dogs have special dietary needs. This will require you to exercise caution when choosing what to feed her as you are not only focused on the pooch but the pups developing in her womb as well. Here are a few things you need to look for when buying food for your pregnant dog.
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Protein
Protein should always feature as the first ingredient in every dog food. Protein from real meat should be the preferred option. Plant protein is acceptable in limited quantities to act as an addition to animal protein. Pregnant dogs require a minimum of 30% protein content in their diet to support their functioning and essential nourishment for the puppies she is carrying.
Read: Tips for Healthy Dog Pregnancy
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Fat
From the real meat used for protein, your dog should be able to get healthy fat. Pregnant dogs require a high-fat diet of about 20% and above. These fats provide the energy needed as her body will demand more of it as the pregnancy period advances. Also going for foods with high-calorie content helps supplement energy supply. Fats are packed with omega fatty acids that maintain supple dog skin.
Omega fatty acids like DHA help growing puppies develop healthy eye and brain tissue. Pregnant dogs are often introduced to puppy formulas during the final phase of pregnancy so puppies benefit from these omega-fatty acids as they breastfeed even before they start weaning.
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Digestibility
The dog food you pick should have easy-to-digest ingredients so that there is maximum nutrient absorption without having to overindulge the dog in food. You can get food rich in fiber from whole grains that are highly digestible to support digestion.
If there exists sensitivity to grains, try and get a formula with added prebiotics or L-carnitine that brings efficiency in digestion ensuring nutrition for both the to-be mother and her pups get all the essential nutrients contained in the food.
Read: Best Dog Food for Losing Weight
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Vitamins and Minerals
For complete and balanced nutrition, dog food must be fortified with vitamins and minerals. Fresh and vegetables are often used as sources for this and they also offer antioxidants to maintain a healthy oxidative balance in the body. Minerals such as calcium are vital for strong bone formation.
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Affordability
The dog food for the pregnant dog should be well within your budget with zero compromises on quality nutrition. Most pet food manufacturers give you a variety of options that come at pocket-friendly prices to ensure your companion gets quality nutrition despite what your budget looks like. Also seeing that you will be welcoming a litter of puppies, you should plan well for this change.
Read: Best High-Protein Dog Food
Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs FAQs
Q: Why is Puppy Formulas Recommended for Pregnant Dogs?
High protein and moderate to high-calorie levels are some of the hallmarks of puppy foods to help these young ones develop strong muscles with energy that is enough to match their activity. Also, they are rich in DHA, an omega fatty acid, for the development of the brain and vision.
Feeding this food to the pregnant dog not only helps her meet the changing energy requirement in her body but also gives the puppies a head start on the development of these organs even before they are born. Even after they are born the DHA still exists in the milk they suckle.
Q: How Much Should I Feed a Pregnant Dog?
Serve her usual portions during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Increase the portions gradually from the fifth week, serving a little more every week up to the ninth week. This should be done cautiously to keep her from becoming obese. In case of any complications like persistent loss of appetite, always consult a veterinarian.
Q: How do I Know my Canine is Pregnant?
Just as in humans, an ultrasound can be run to detect heartbeats at around day 25 of the pregnancy. A blood test can also be done to diagnose pregnancy. Manual palpation is another method to check where your vet physically examines the dog and during this process, some can tell the number of pups the mother is carrying.
Conclusion
Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful experiences in the life of a mother. Dogs are intelligent as they know this too well as they gracefully create, carry and give birth to their adorable puppies. Support them with the best dog food for pregnancy during this period as you both wait to welcome these lovely additions to your home.