Large-breed dogs have special dietary needs, and Labs are no exception. While Labradors can technically eat any type of dog food, it’s important to choose a formula that meets their unique nutritional needs. Large-breed dog food is formulated to provide the right balance of calories, protein, fat, and other nutrients that growing Labs need.
While all dogs need protein to build and maintain muscle mass, Labs require a little more than most. That’s because they’re such active dogs. Protein is also essential for healthy skin and coat, and it helps keep the immune system strong. Look for a large-breed dog food that has at least 18% protein on the dry matter basis (DMB).
Fat is another important nutrient for Labs. It’s a concentrated source of energy, and it helps keep the coat shiny and healthy. Fat also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. The ideal fat content for large-breed dogs is between 8% and 15% on the DMB.
Related: Best large-breed puppy food.
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for all dogs, but they’re not as essential as protein and fat. That’s because dogs can convert protein and fat into glucose, which is their preferred source of energy. However, carbs do play a role in gut health, and they can help support a healthy immune system. The right carb sources for Labs are complex carbs like whole grains, sweet potatoes, and peas. Look for a large-breed dog food that has 20% or fewer carbohydrates on the DMB.
Labs need plenty of calcium to grow strong bones and teeth. This mineral is also important for muscle contraction and nerve function. The best way to ensure that your Lab is getting enough calcium is to feed them large-breed dog food that’s formulated with adequate levels of this essential nutrient.
Growing Labs also need plenty of phosphorus, another mineral that’s essential for bone and tooth health. Phosphorus also plays a role in energy metabolism, cell function, and muscle contraction. The right level of phosphorus for large-breed dogs is between 0.8% and 1.2% on the DMB.
Labs need a moderate amount of sodium, which is an essential electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance in the body. Sodium also aids in muscle contraction and nerve function. The best way to ensure that your Lab is getting enough sodium is to feed them large-breed dog food that’s formulated with adequate levels of this essential nutrient.
Labs also need a moderate amount of chloride, another electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance in the body. Chloride also aids in digestion and absorption of other nutrients.
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Should labs eat large breed food?
The short answer is yes. Large-breed dogs have special dietary needs, and Labs are no exception. While Labradors can technically eat any type of dog food, it’s important to choose a formula that meets their unique nutritional needs. Large-breed dog food is formulated to provide the right balance of calories, protein, fat, and other nutrients that growing Labs need.
How to find the best large-breed dog food for labs:
When choosing large-breed dog food for your Lab, it’s important to look for a formula that contains adequate levels of protein, fat, and essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. You should also make sure that the carb sources are complex carbs like whole grains, sweet potatoes, and peas. Look for a large-breed dog food that has 20% or less carbohydrates on the DMB.
It’s also important to choose a large-breed dog food that’s formulated for growth. This means that the food will contain higher levels of calories and nutrients than adult dog food. Growth formulas are often labeled as “puppy food,” but they can also be labeled as “large-breed formula.”
When in doubt, always consult with your vet to find the best large-breed dog food for your Lab. They can help you navigate the different options and choose a formula that meets your dog’s individual needs.
Best large-breed dog food for labs:
- Wellness Core Large Breed Dog Food
- Sport Dog Active Series Field Dog Formula
- Taste of the Wild High Prairie
- Nutro Ultra Adult Dog Food
FAQs
Q: How much large-breed dog food should I feed my Lab?
A: The amount of large-breed dog food you should feed your Lab will depend on their age, activity level, and other factors. Consult with your vet to determine how much food is right for your dog. Also, most kibble brands will have feeding instructions that you should follow.
Q: What are the benefits of feeding my Lab large-breed dog food?
A: Large-breed dog food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of growing dogs. This type of food is typically higher in calories and essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. It’s also usually lower in carbohydrates, which can be beneficial for dogs who are prone to weight gain.
Q: Are Labs considered large breed?
A: Yes, Labs are not considered large-breed active dogs with males reaching heights of 24.5 inches and females reaching heights of 23.5 inches. They are big-bone animals known for being very intelligent.
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Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com
