Feeding a nursing dog the best food possible is important for their health and the long-term well-being of their puppies. Nursing dogs require special food that is designed to meet their nutritional needs while they are nursing. Some of the best foods for nursing dogs include those that are high in protein, higher in hydration, lower in carbohydrates, and filled with healthy fats. They should also be enriched with omega fatty acids and other nutrients to help support lactation and the nourishment of puppies.
Choosing the best food for nursing dogs can be tricky, but with a little research, and our reviews, it’s easy to find the right food for your furry friend.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2023
Image Product Details
Best Overall
Ollie Lamb Recipe Fresh Dog Food Subscription
Human grade
Limited ingredient list
Customizable
Click to Save 50%
Best Value
Nutro Natural Choice Adult Dry Dog Food
Its first ingredient is chicken
Non-GMO ingredients, no corn, wheat, or soy
Natural fiber and antioxidants
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Wellness CORE High Protein
Dogs love the savory flavor
Replenishes overall health
Fiber-rich grains and nutrient-dense superfoods
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Kinetic Performance Ultra Dry Dog Food
Specially designed for highly active adult dogs
Great source of nutrition for nursing dogs and puppies
Natural source of glucosamine promotes healthy hips and joints in puppies
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Vet’s Choice
Nulo Frontrunner Adult Dry Dog Food
Contains essential amino acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids improve coat and skin health
Probiotics for digestive and immune system health
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The 11 Best Dog Foods for Nursing Dogs
1. Ollie Lamb Recipe Fresh Dog Food Subscription – Best Overall
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Weight: Customizable
Lifestage: All
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Wet, fresh
Special diet: Natural, human-grade
Calories: 1804 kcal ME/kg
Our pick for best overall dog food for nursing dogs is Ollie Fresh Dog Food Lamb recipe. It is essential that your dog receives the proper nutrients to nourish her own body all while maintaining a consistent and rich milk supply. Ollie’s Fresh Lamb recipe offers its highest kcal per serving and is made up of whole, natural ingredients, with real lamb as the first. Cranberries and butternut squash are high in fiber and rich in antioxidants, promoting good digestion. It also includes the superfood kale, providing your new mother with the vitamins and minerals she needs to stay on top of her health.
A dog food delivery service like Ollie ensures that you never run out of food, a welcomed perk during such an exciting and busy time for both you and your dog. You can choose the frequency of your deliveries and customize the meal plans based on your nursing mother’s weight, age, breed, and dietary restrictions.
Pros
Human grade
Limited ingredient
Delivered straight to your door
Customizable
No additives, byproducts, or fillers
Cons
May be more expensive than store-bought options
Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice is the best food for nursing dogs for the money. The food is made with complex carbohydrates and proteins that can help dogs sustain energy throughout the day. Additionally, the food contains omega fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coats for nursing dogs. The first ingredient in this dry dog food is succulent chicken, a source of high-quality protein which is important during lactation.
Human grade
Limited ingredient
Delivered straight to your door
Customizable
No additives, byproducts, or fillers
- Human grade
- Limited ingredient
- Delivered straight to your door
- Customizable
- No additives, byproducts, or fillers
May be more expensive than store-bought options
- May be more expensive than store-bought options
Weight: 30 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: Large breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: High fiber, high protein, molasses-free, natural, sensitive digestion, with grains, but with no corn, wheat, or soy, non-GMO
Calories: 335 kcal/cup
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Your dog’s immune system will be strengthened by the antioxidants; the natural fibers will help the digestion process for puppies and natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin support their joint health. This product is recommended for large-breed dogs, but this range also offers formulations meant for smaller breeds.
Pros
Its first ingredient is chicken
Non-GMO ingredients, no corn, wheat, or soy
Natural fiber and antioxidants
Provides glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints
Cons
Suitable for large breed dogs
A little lower in calories per cup than some other brands
Wellness CORE Wholesome Grains Original Recipe High Protein Dry Dog food is another food suitable for nursing dogs. The food contains complex carbohydrates and high-quality protein to help meet the nutritional needs of nursing dogs. The food is also enriched with vitamins and minerals to help support the health of nursing dogs. Dogs will waste no time enjoying its savory taste! It’s perfect for lactating dogs because it is designed to support their entire bodies.
Its first ingredient is chicken
Non-GMO ingredients, no corn, wheat, or soy
Natural fiber and antioxidants
Provides glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints
- Its first ingredient is chicken
- Non-GMO ingredients, no corn, wheat, or soy
- Natural fiber and antioxidants
- Provides glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints
Suitable for large breed dogs
A little lower in calories per cup than some other brands
- Suitable for large breed dogs
- A little lower in calories per cup than some other brands
Weight: 24.05 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: High-protein with grain
Calories: 422 kcal/cup
Protein, fiber-rich grains, and nutrient-dense superfoods nourish and replenish nursing dogs. Omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine are included to support body mass retention in your dog as well as keep her puppies healthy too.
Pros
Dogs love the savory flavor
Replenishes overall health
Fiber-rich grains and nutrient-dense superfoods
Omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine
Great nourishment for milk supply
Cons
A little lower in fiber than some other brands
- Kinetic Performance Formula Dry Dog Food, 35-lb bag
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Weight: 35 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: No corn, wheat, soy, or peas, and contains grain
Calories: 477 kcal/cup
Kinetic Performance Ultra 32K Formula Dry Dog Food is suitable for nursing dogs because the complex blend of nutrients helps to ensure that the nursing dog is getting the sustenance they need. The food is also calorie-rich, helping puppies to put on weight quickly and support their high energy levels. This is because Kinetic Performance Ultra 32K Formula Dry Dog Food is made with complex ingredients that provide the nutrients puppies need to grow and develop properly. The food is also fortified with minerals and vitamins to support the puppies’ immune systems.
Dogs love the savory flavor
Replenishes overall health
Fiber-rich grains and nutrient-dense superfoods
Omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine
Great nourishment for milk supply
- Dogs love the savory flavor
- Replenishes overall health
- Fiber-rich grains and nutrient-dense superfoods
- Omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine
- Great nourishment for milk supply
A little lower in fiber than some other brands
- A little lower in fiber than some other brands
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Weight: 35 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: No corn, wheat, soy, or peas, and contains grain
Calories: 477 kcal/cup
Although the product is specifically formulated for highly active dogs that exercise for 3–4 hours at a time, this makes it perfect for the high caloric needs of nursing dogs. It includes a prebiotic blend that supports healthy digestion and is manufactured in the United States. Some owners may be put off by seeing chicken by-product meal so high in the list of ingredients, which is rendered from the ground-up bones, feet, undeveloped eggs, and intestines of chickens.
Pros
Specially designed for highly active adult dogs
Great source of nutrition for nursing dogs and puppies
Natural source of glucosamine promotes healthy hips and joints in puppies
Made in the USA
Cons
Second ingredient is chicken by-product meal
Vets recommend this food because it is suitable for nursing dogs and contains a blend of complex carbohydrates like ancient grains, along with turkey and trout protein. The high fiber content helps to regulate digestion, while the antioxidants support overall health. The spelt in the formula also helps to improve skin and coat condition. This formula can provide sustained energy for nursing dogs and their puppies. The food also contains turkey and trout, which are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are beneficial for nursing dogs and puppies.
Specially designed for highly active adult dogs
Great source of nutrition for nursing dogs and puppies
Natural source of glucosamine promotes healthy hips and joints in puppies
Made in the USA
- Specially designed for highly active adult dogs
- Great source of nutrition for nursing dogs and puppies
- Natural source of glucosamine promotes healthy hips and joints in puppies
- Made in the USA
Second ingredient is chicken by-product meal
- Second ingredient is chicken by-product meal
Weight: 25 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: High-protein, low-glycemic, with grains
Calories: 431 kcal/cup
Additionally, the food is supplemented with probiotics to support a healthy digestive system. Proteins derived from animal sources provide amino acids that support lean muscle mass and a healthy heart in puppies. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to their healthy coat and skin. For additional reassurance, this product has been designed to meet the nutrient profiles established by AAFCO for dog food.
Pros
Contains essential amino acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids improve coat and skin health
Probiotics for digestive and immune system health
Based on the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles
Cons
As a trout-based food, it smells slightly fishy
Not a hit with picky eaters
The Purina ONE Natural SmartBlend Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food is another great food for nursing dogs. The food contains all of the nutrients that nursing dogs need to stay healthy and grow properly. The complex blend of ingredients helps to ensure that dogs get the right balance of nutrients, which can be difficult to achieve with just one product. Additionally, the food is easy to digest, which is important for nursing dogs who are constantly feeding puppies. A blend of real lamb and other high-quality protein sources helps support milk production and quality calories for mothers and puppies.
Contains essential amino acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids improve coat and skin health
Probiotics for digestive and immune system health
Based on the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles
- Contains essential amino acids
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids improve coat and skin health
- Probiotics for digestive and immune system health
- Based on the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles
As a trout-based food, it smells slightly fishy
Not a hit with picky eaters
- As a trout-based food, it smells slightly fishy
- Not a hit with picky eaters
Weight: 40.4 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: Natural, high-protein food with grains
Calories: 380 kcal/cup
Lamb is combined with grains and other ingredients to create a complete protein profile. While omega-6 contributes to a healthy coat and skin for nursing pups, natural sources of glucosamine help promote the healthy development of their joints.
Pros
Many dogs seem to love the taste
Real lamb is the first ingredient
Lamb and grains combine to create a complete protein profile
Omega-6 promotes skin and coat health
Glucosamine supports healthy joints development
Cons
Some owners say this product has a strong smell
Annamaet Original Adult Formula Dry Dog Food is particularly suitable for nursing dogs. It is made with complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to keep your nursing dog healthy and ensure that puppies get the nutrients they need to grow and develop properly. The formula also contains important vitamins and minerals to support healthy growth and is fortified with essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins to support the puppies’ immune system and overall health.
Many dogs seem to love the taste
Real lamb is the first ingredient
Lamb and grains combine to create a complete protein profile
Omega-6 promotes skin and coat health
Glucosamine supports healthy joints development
- Many dogs seem to love the taste
- Real lamb is the first ingredient
- Lamb and grains combine to create a complete protein profile
- Omega-6 promotes skin and coat health
- Glucosamine supports healthy joints development
Some owners say this product has a strong smell
- Some owners say this product has a strong smell
Weight: 40 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: High-protein, natural, with grains
Calories: 365 kcal/cup
This US-made, grain-inclusive formula is crafted with super-premium chicken and marine microalgae, which delivers omega-3 fatty acids. Probiotics and prebiotics are added to help support your buddy’s gut health.
Pros
Complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
Good for nursing dogs and their puppies
Essential vitamins and minerals
Omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotics, and probiotics
Cons
Some people find the 40-pound bag difficult to handle
A few dogs seem to develop digestive issues with this formula
This Royal Canin food isn’t just a great choice of nutrition for lactating mothers; its formula is also suitable for nursing puppies. A great feature is that it supports both the mother and puppies’ immune systems. Additionally, it is packed with vegetable protein, animal fats, and rice—each of these nutrients is essential to the health of adult dogs and puppies.
Complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
Good for nursing dogs and their puppies
Essential vitamins and minerals
Omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotics, and probiotics
- Complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
- Good for nursing dogs and their puppies
- Essential vitamins and minerals
- Omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotics, and probiotics
Some people find the 40-pound bag difficult to handle
A few dogs seem to develop digestive issues with this formula
- Some people find the 40-pound bag difficult to handle
- A few dogs seem to develop digestive issues with this formula
Weight: 2 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: Small breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: Contains grains
Calories: 364 kcal/cup
These qualities make it one of the best dog foods for nursing dogs because it is easier on their digestive system. However, the manufacturers designed this formula specifically for smaller dogs, and the kibble pieces dissolve into a sludge that not all dogs will enjoy.
Pros
Balance of animal and vegetable proteins
Fits the needs of nursing dogs and their puppies
Formulated for high energy needs of pregnancy and nursing
Cons
Quite expensive
Rehydrated kibble has a porridge-like consistency
Lower in calories than some other brands reviewed
- The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food
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Use code PETKEEN30 to SAVE 30% on your first order over $30 on thehonestkitchen.com
Weight: 10 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dehydrated
Special diet: With grain
Calories: 441 kcal/cup
The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Beef Recipe Dehydrated Dog Food is a great food for nursing dogs that contains complex carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and protein. The food is designed to provide the nutrients that dogs need to support their growth and development and is made with human-grade ingredients, so it is perfectly safe for dogs.
Balance of animal and vegetable proteins
Fits the needs of nursing dogs and their puppies
Formulated for high energy needs of pregnancy and nursing
- Balance of animal and vegetable proteins
- Fits the needs of nursing dogs and their puppies
- Formulated for high energy needs of pregnancy and nursing
Quite expensive
Rehydrated kibble has a porridge-like consistency
Lower in calories than some other brands reviewed
- Quite expensive
- Rehydrated kibble has a porridge-like consistency
- Lower in calories than some other brands reviewed
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- Use code PETKEEN30 to SAVE 30% on your first order over $30 on thehonestkitchen.com
The food also includes high-quality protein to help build and maintain muscle mass, as well as essential fatty acids for a healthy coat, so it’s a wonderful source of nourishment to pass along through the milk to puppies, too.
Pros
Recipe uses ranch-raised beef, organic oats, carrots, and apples
Nutrition for nursing dogs of all breeds and sizes
100% human-grade recipe
Cons
Lower in protein than some other brands
The Pedigree High Protein Beef & Lamb Flavor Adult Dry Dog Food is a wonderful food for lactating dogs. The complex blend of ingredients helps to provide the mother with the protein and nutrients she needs to produce milk for her puppies. The food also has a flavor that most dogs enjoy, making it easier for them to eat. This formula has quality ingredients, and high protein levels help to ensure your dog gets the nourishment she needs to nurse well. And it is made in the United States.
Recipe uses ranch-raised beef, organic oats, carrots, and apples
Nutrition for nursing dogs of all breeds and sizes
100% human-grade recipe
- Recipe uses ranch-raised beef, organic oats, carrots, and apples
- Nutrition for nursing dogs of all breeds and sizes
- 100% human-grade recipe
Lower in protein than some other brands
- Lower in protein than some other brands
Weight: 40 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: High-protein, with grain
Calories: 315 kcal/cup
One issue some people have is with the 40-lb bag size, which some owners find difficult to dispense from. The kibble may also be too large for small dogs.
Pros
Good nutritional profile
Keeps weight on a lactating dog
Dogs like this flavor
Cons
The 40-lb bag is difficult for some owners to manage
Lower in calories per cup than most other brands reviewed
Smaller dogs may find the kibble too large
- Dog Chow Dry Dog Food
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Weight: 20.3 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: High-protein
Calories: 424 kcal/cup
Lactating dogs need a diet that is high in protein to provide them with the nutrients they need to produce milk. Dog Chow’s High Protein Recipe With Real Lamb & Beef Flavor Dry Dog Food is great for lactating dogs because it contains complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats that can help meet their unique nutritional needs. The food also features real lamb and beef flavor to provide a palatable meal and provides your dog with essential proteins.
Good nutritional profile
Keeps weight on a lactating dog
Dogs like this flavor
- Good nutritional profile
- Keeps weight on a lactating dog
- Dogs like this flavor
The 40-lb bag is difficult for some owners to manage
Lower in calories per cup than most other brands reviewed
Smaller dogs may find the kibble too large
- The 40-lb bag is difficult for some owners to manage
- Lower in calories per cup than most other brands reviewed
- Smaller dogs may find the kibble too large
Weight: 20.3 pounds
Lifestage: Adult
Breed size: All breeds
Food type: Dry food
Special diet: High-protein
Calories: 424 kcal/cup
The food also contains other nutrients that are important for lactating dogs, such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and probiotics. It’s free from artificial flavors and made in the United States, though not all owners will love that the first ingredient is corn.
Pros
Complete and balanced for adult dogs
Contains lamb, beef, peas, and carrots
Free from artificial flavors
Made in the USA
Cons
Some dogs refuse to eat it
Large bag size is inconvenient
Corn is the first ingredient
Complete and balanced for adult dogs
Contains lamb, beef, peas, and carrots
Free from artificial flavors
Made in the USA
- Complete and balanced for adult dogs
- Contains lamb, beef, peas, and carrots
- Free from artificial flavors
- Made in the USA
Some dogs refuse to eat it
Large bag size is inconvenient
Corn is the first ingredient
- Some dogs refuse to eat it
- Large bag size is inconvenient
- Corn is the first ingredient
Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Dog Food for Nursing Dogs
Dogs have a number of specific nutritional needs while nursing. One is that they need a diet that is high in protein to help them produce milk. They also need plenty of water, as nursing dogs can consume up to three times more than usual. Nursing dogs should be fed a high-quality diet to support their health and the health of their puppies.
Do Dogs Need More Calories While Nursing?
Dogs, just like humans, need more calories while nursing in order to sustain milk production. A lactating dog will burn more calories per day than a non-nursing dog. In order to ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need, you can provide them with a high-quality diet specifically designed for nursing dogs. In addition, puppies who are being breastfed also need more calories than puppies who are being fed formula or solid food.
While Nursing, Does a Dog Need More Protein?
The needs of nursing dogs vary depending on their age, activity level, and overall health. However, dogs who are nursing do require more protein than those who are not. This is because puppies need protein to help them grow and develop properly, and nursing mothers need extra protein to produce enough milk for their puppies. Dogs, like all mammals, produce milk to feed their young, and the mother’s diet determines the nutrient composition of this milk.
While pregnant and lactating, dogs require more protein than usual to meet the needs of their growing puppies. Most commercial dog foods contain enough protein to meet the needs of nursing mothers and their puppies.
Are Dogs More Thirsty While Nursing?
The mammary glands of nursing dogs produce milk, which is composed of approximately 87% water. Dogs require plenty of fresh, clean water to keep hydrated, especially while nursing puppies. Puppies may nurse up to eight times per day and consume up to 60 milliliters of milk each time, so nursing dogs need plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, feeding nursing dogs a diet of high-quality dog food is important for their health and the health of their puppies.
We love Ollie Fresh Dog Food Lamb Recipe because it has balanced nutrition suitable for nursing mother dogs. Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is another great choice as it is high in protein with a good ratio of fiber. The rich, savory flavor of Wellness CORE Wholesome Grains Original Recipe High Protein Dry Dog Food comes with an excellent nutritional profile.
Not all dog foods are created equal, so it is important to do your research and find a food that is appropriate for nursing dogs. By choosing one of our favorites, you can help ensure that your dog has a healthy litter of puppies and stays healthy while nursing.
Sources
VCA Hospitals American Kennel Club Pet MD The Journal of Nutrition
Featured Image Credit: Anna Hoychuk, Shutterstock
Sources
VCA Hospitals American Kennel Club Pet MD The Journal of Nutrition
- VCA Hospitals
- American Kennel Club
- Pet MD
- The Journal of Nutrition
