Congratulations on your new Corgi puppy! These affectionate, medium-sized dogs are an excellent addition to any household. You want the best for your corgi, starting with the right puppy food. If you’re overwhelmed by all of the pet food brands on the market, you’re not alone. We’ve researched and compiled our top 9 picks with detailed reviews and a buyer’s guide for young corgis.
A Quick Look at Our Winners (2023)
Image Product Details
Best Overall
Purina ONE High Protein Plus
Chicken is the first ingredient
Easy to buy: Order online or purchase wherever you shop for groceries
Pups may like the mix of dry kibble and “tender meaty morsels”
Check Price
Best Value
Puppy Chow Tender & Crunchy
Affordably priced
Puppies love the flavor
Check Price
Premium Choice
Solid Gold Mighty Mini Dog Food
Suitable for puppies with a beef protein allergy
Picky eaters might enjoy pumpkin and sweet potatoes
More calorie-dense than other pet food brands
Check Price
Holistic Select Dry Dog Food
The smaller 4-pound bag makes it easy to sample
No prescription required
Holistic Select owns its dry food manufacturing facilities
Check Price
Vet’s Choice
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Dry Dog Food
Corgi pups will like the smaller kibble size
Does not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
Chicken meal is the first ingredient
Check Price
The 10 Best Foods for a Corgi Puppy
Our best overall pick for corgi puppy food is Purina ONE High Protein Plus. Purina is a household name and a staple in the pet food industry. We give this brand high marks because of its affordability, availability, and nutrition. This food is suited for most puppies, making it a no-brainer for multi-breed homes.
Main ingredients: Chicken, rice flour, corn gluten meal, chicken by-product meal, whole grain Corn
Protein content: 28.0%
Fat content: 17.0%
Calories: 397 kcal/cup
Check Price on Chewy
Purina ONE High Protein Plus is a puppy food that will carry you through your dog’s entire first year. You can add water to create a softer food when your puppy first comes home. Older puppies can eat the kibble dry as they prepare to transition to adult dog food.
The smaller kibble pieces are perfect for puppy-sized mouths. However, some owners report that their pups pick through the kibble pieces, favoring the dehydrated meat chunks. Purina backs its food with a 28-day challenge. The manufacturer claims that you may see positive changes such as increased energy and a shinier coat in as little as 4 weeks. Purina ONE High Protein Plus gets high marks for nutrition, flavor, and value.
Pros
Chicken is the first ingredient
Easy to buy: Order online or purchase wherever you shop for groceries
Pups may like the mix of dry kibble and “tender meaty morsels”
Cons
Some people report that their pups pick through the kibble pieces
We think the best food for the money is Puppy Chow Tender & Crunchy with Real Beef. Many pups love this value-priced brand from Purina. Some owners report that their puppies pass over more expensive brands but gladly eat Puppy Chow.
Chicken is the first ingredient
Easy to buy: Order online or purchase wherever you shop for groceries
Pups may like the mix of dry kibble and “tender meaty morsels”
- Chicken is the first ingredient
- Easy to buy: Order online or purchase wherever you shop for groceries
- Pups may like the mix of dry kibble and “tender meaty morsels”
Some people report that their pups pick through the kibble pieces
- Some people report that their pups pick through the kibble pieces
The kibble pieces are larger than some other puppy food brands. This size shouldn’t be a problem for most corgis, but it’s something to consider if your pup is on the smaller side.
Puppy Chow contains added DHA and calcium, which is a perk you may not find in other value brands. While corn is the first ingredient, this food still offers a decent protein content. If cost is your first concern, but you still want a quality diet from a trusted brand, Puppy Chow is a good choice.
Pros
Affordably priced
Puppies love the flavor
Cons
Some pet owners may not like the artificial colors or GMO grains
Added salt
Solid Gold Mighty Mini Small & Toy Breed Dry Food has been a leader in the premium pet food market since 1974. The company bills itself as “America’s first holistic pet food.” This food appeals to pet owners’ values by only using cage-free chicken. Pumpkin might seem like an odd ingredient, but it is a canine superfood1. This vegetable is a source of vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, and soluble fiber.
Affordably priced
Puppies love the flavor
- Affordably priced
- Puppies love the flavor
Some pet owners may not like the artificial colors or GMO grains
Added salt
- Some pet owners may not like the artificial colors or GMO grains
- Added salt
While the cost is more per ounce than other brands, Solid Gold Mighty Mini Gut Health has a high caloric content. You may need to feed your dog less if you’re switching from another puppy food. Check with your veterinarian before switching to a grain-free diet. Dogs are often allergic to protein sources2, not grains. However, the added probiotics may be what your pup’s tender tummy needs.
Pros
Suitable for puppies with a beef protein allergy
Picky eaters might enjoy pumpkin and sweet potatoes
More calorie-dense than other pet food brands
Cons
Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet
Most healthy puppies can digest chicken and beef. However, some dogs will develop an allergy to common protein sources2. Holistic Select Adult & Puppy is a good option if your veterinarian recommends a grain-free food with novel protein like fish. This food is a lifelong recipe formulated for both puppies and adult canines. This convenience eliminates the trial-and-error owners face when their sensitive pups reach their first birthday.
Suitable for puppies with a beef protein allergy
Picky eaters might enjoy pumpkin and sweet potatoes
More calorie-dense than other pet food brands
- Suitable for puppies with a beef protein allergy
- Picky eaters might enjoy pumpkin and sweet potatoes
- More calorie-dense than other pet food brands
Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet
- Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet
Holistic Select is available through retailers, and you do not need a prescription. Vegetables like pumpkin, papayas, and pomegranates provide an essential source of fiber. The addition of omega 3 and flaxseed can help your corgi maintain a beautiful, shiny coat.
This brand probably won’t be the first puppy food that you reach for. But if your corgi struggles with a sensitive stomach or potential food allergies, ask your veterinarian about Holistic Select.
Pros
The smaller 4-pound bag makes it easy to sample
No prescription required
Holistic Select owns its dry food manufacturing facilities
Cons
Expensive
Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet
Dogs that do not require a specialty food may not warrant the higher price
In the 1940s, veterinarians recognized the link between the proper diet and optimum health, and Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites remains a top pick of veterinarians today. But the company knows that no matter how nutritionally sound food is, dogs won’t eat it if it doesn’t taste good. All of Hill’s dog foods must earn the approval of the canines who live at the Pet Nutrition Center3. This center is home to approximately 450 dogs whose sole job is to ensure that your pup gets tasty and nutritious food.
The smaller 4-pound bag makes it easy to sample
No prescription required
Holistic Select owns its dry food manufacturing facilities
- The smaller 4-pound bag makes it easy to sample
- No prescription required
- Holistic Select owns its dry food manufacturing facilities
Expensive
Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet
Dogs that do not require a specialty food may not warrant the higher price
- Expensive
- Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet
- Dogs that do not require a specialty food may not warrant the higher price
One downside to Hill’s Science Diet is grocery stores, and big-box stores don’t carry it. You’ll have to go out of your way to buy it online or at a specialty pet store.
Pros
Corgi pups will like the smaller kibble size
Does not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
Chicken meal is the first ingredient
Cons
Only sold online and in pet stores
Royal Canin is known for its breed-specific foods. While the brand has yet to release a formula just for corgis, its Royal Canin Medium Puppy Dry Dog Food is suitable for the canines. The small kibble shape accommodates a growing puppy’s mouth and teeth.
Corgi pups will like the smaller kibble size
Does not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
Chicken meal is the first ingredient
- Corgi pups will like the smaller kibble size
- Does not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
- Chicken meal is the first ingredient
Only sold online and in pet stores
- Only sold online and in pet stores
Beef is a common canine food allergy2 and can leave pet owners scrambling for food that won’t upset their dog’s tummy. Royal Canin Medium Puppy Dry Dog Food is beef-free.
This puppy food can be a good starting point if your veterinarian suspects a beef allergy. Many dog owners report that this food firmed up their pup’s loose stools.
Royal Canin acknowledges that consumers want sustainable and eco-friendly products. That desire extends to pet food, as well. The company launched several healthy planet initiatives4 in the countries where it operates.
Pros
Many dog breeders recommend this brand
Royal Canin manages its manufacturing facilities
Cons
Expensive compared to other puppy foods
Diamond Naturals is a family-owned company that abides by strict quality assurance standards. This in-house testing offers peace of mind to dog owners who are concerned about product safety. A proprietary blend of probiotics, antioxidants, and prebiotics boost your puppy’s immunity and aid digestion.
Many dog breeders recommend this brand
Royal Canin manages its manufacturing facilities
- Many dog breeders recommend this brand
- Royal Canin manages its manufacturing facilities
Expensive compared to other puppy foods
- Expensive compared to other puppy foods
Diamond Naturals Small & Medium Breed Puppy Formula is a good choice for corgis that love chicken. The company only uses cage-free chicken in its pet food. This kibble is more calorie-dense than other brands, so you should be careful not to overfeed your pup. It’s a good option for owners who want superfoods like kale, pumpkin, and quinoa.
Pros
Contains omega fatty acids and probiotics
No artificial flavors or colors
Cons
High caloric content may lead to overfeeding
More expensive compared to other brands with similar ingredients
High protein content (over 30%)5 does not offer any additional benefits
Rachael Ray got her start on the Food Network, whipping up tasty dishes for humans. She has since branched out to pet food with her Nutrish line of pet food. This product is your average, affordable puppy food that you can buy at most retailers. Purchasing this food helps animals in need, as a portion of all proceeds benefits the Rachel Ray Foundation.
Contains omega fatty acids and probiotics
No artificial flavors or colors
- Contains omega fatty acids and probiotics
- No artificial flavors or colors
High caloric content may lead to overfeeding
More expensive compared to other brands with similar ingredients
High protein content (over 30%)5 does not offer any additional benefits
- High caloric content may lead to overfeeding
- More expensive compared to other brands with similar ingredients
- High protein content (over 30%)5 does not offer any additional benefits
The company recently reformulated its Rachael Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Food. The new product contains less dried peas, more whole corn, and different amounts of added vitamins. This is a middle-of-the-road dog food in terms of price and nutrition. You may choose this food because of its availability or simply because your corgi pup loves it.
Pros
Some dog owners will appreciate no artificial colors or flavors
Contains fish oil
Cons
More expensive per ounce than other comparable brands
IAMS is a global brand trusted by pet owners around the world. Some people claim that IAMS ProActive Health Smart Puppy Original cleared up their dog’s loose stools and flatulence. This may be due to the added beet pulp, which is a source of moderately fermentable fiber. (And in case you’re wondering, eating beet pulp will not turn your corgi’s fur purple.)
Some dog owners will appreciate no artificial colors or flavors
Contains fish oil
- Some dog owners will appreciate no artificial colors or flavors
- Contains fish oil
More expensive per ounce than other comparable brands
- More expensive per ounce than other comparable brands
This brand does not overwhelm pet owners with a variety of unnecessary choices. IAMS focuses on life stages rather than offering dog food in dozens of flavors.
We gave this food a lower ranking because of its “natural flavor” ingredient. This vague description could make it difficult to pinpoint a potential food allergy. IAMS costs more than other brands that offer comparable ingredients.
Pros
Widely available
Purported to clear up diarrhea and gas
Cons
Added salt and caramel color
Non-specific “natural flavor”
Since it has a lower calorie content than the competition, Pedigree Puppy Growth and Protection may not last as long as other brands. You may find a better value elsewhere if cost is your primary concern. Pedigree Puppy is only available in larger bags, so you could be stuck with food your dog doesn’t like.
Widely available
Purported to clear up diarrhea and gas
- Widely available
- Purported to clear up diarrhea and gas
Added salt and caramel color
Non-specific “natural flavor”
- Added salt and caramel color
- Non-specific “natural flavor”
Non-specific protein sources like “Meat and Bone Meal” and “Animal Fat” could make it difficult to pinpoint allergies. The “vegetable flavor” might be a bit of a stretch as carrots and peas are far down on the ingredient list.
While Pedigree Puppy Growth & Protection has a lower protein and fat content than other brands, it does meet AAFCO guidelines. The company donates to animal shelters through its You Buy We Give Program.
Pros
Budget-friendly
Contains fish oil
Cons
Some pet owners may object to artificial colors and preservatives
Lower calorie content per cup than many other brands
Not available in smaller bags
Budget-friendly
Contains fish oil
- Budget-friendly
- Contains fish oil
Some pet owners may object to artificial colors and preservatives
Lower calorie content per cup than many other brands
Not available in smaller bags
- Some pet owners may object to artificial colors and preservatives
- Lower calorie content per cup than many other brands
- Not available in smaller bags
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Dog Food for a Corgi Puppy
Many new owners continue to feed their pups the same brand of food, and you may not have any reason to switch if the current brand fits your budget and your pup loves it.
However, you may want to switch food for any number of reasons. Below we answer some of the top questions that corgi owners have about puppy food.
How Do I Switch From One Puppy Food to Another?
If you decide to change dog food, do so slowly over 5 to 7 days. On the first day, your corgi’s diet should be about 25% of the new food and 75% of the existing food. Slowly increase this ratio over the coming days. Your puppy could experience loose stools if you switch brands too quickly.
Does my Puppy Need Grain-Free Food?
While there are numerous grain-free dog foods on the market, most puppies do not have a problem digesting grains. A protein allergy or an environmental allergy is more likely to cause health issues. Consult with your veterinarian before you switch to grain-free food. These foods typically cost more, and the added expense may not be necessary. You can look for organic or GMO-free dog food if genetically modified wheat or corn are a concern.
Is Homemade Dog Food Healthy?
Check with your veterinarian or a certified veterinary nutritionist before you feed your dog any food that does not meet the Association of American Feed Control (AAFCO) guidelines. That includes homemade and raw diets, which may not contain all of the nutrients your corgi needs to grow.
Final Thoughts
Our reviews detailed some of the best brands for your corgi, but Purina One High Protein Plus won our top award for its nutrient-rich, affordable chicken formula. Our best value pick, Puppy Chow Tender and Crunchy, impressed us with its affordability and nutritious ingredients. Solid Gold Mighty Mini Gut Health was our premium choice, and it’s a healthier option than most holistic brands. Holistic Select Adult and Puppy Grain-Free was our pick for pups with allergies, and Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Healthy Development rounded out the list as the best vet-recommended brand.
You might interested in:
- 8 Best Puppy Foods for Australian Shepherds
- 10 Best Puppy Foods in Canada
Sources
Pet MD – Food Allergy Myths Hill’s Pet – Nutritional Philosophy Royal Canin – About us Diamond Pet – Nutritional Integrity Nutrish IAMS – Dry Dog Food IAMS – Why are Beet Pulps Good for Dogs Pet MD – What is AAFCO Pet MD – How Much Protein is in a Balanced Dog Food ACVN.org – Nutrition Consults
Featured Image Credit: Masarik, Shutterstock
Sources
Pet MD – Food Allergy Myths Hill’s Pet – Nutritional Philosophy Royal Canin – About us Diamond Pet – Nutritional Integrity Nutrish IAMS – Dry Dog Food IAMS – Why are Beet Pulps Good for Dogs Pet MD – What is AAFCO Pet MD – How Much Protein is in a Balanced Dog Food ACVN.org – Nutrition Consults
- Pet MD – Food Allergy Myths
- Hill’s Pet – Nutritional Philosophy
- Royal Canin – About us
- Diamond Pet – Nutritional Integrity
- Nutrish
- IAMS – Dry Dog Food
- IAMS – Why are Beet Pulps Good for Dogs
- Pet MD – What is AAFCO
- Pet MD – How Much Protein is in a Balanced Dog Food
- ACVN.org – Nutrition Consults
