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What’s the best dog food for a goldendoodle?
The answer to that important question depends on the AGE of YOUR particular dog.
That’s because…
Goldendoodle puppies, adults and seniors EACH have different nutritional needs.
For example…
Adult goldendoodles can thrive on ANY top-rated dog food… wet or dry.
But…
Because they’re the offspring of AT LEAST ONE large-breed parent…
Goldendoodle puppies have an increased risk of developing a crippling and permanent form of hip disease… if they’re fed a diet that contains too much calcium… while they’re still growing.1
Like the tragic bone and joint damage seen in this x-ray.
And there are other age-related nutritional differences, too.
For example…
Older goldendoodles require more protein… and fewer calories… than younger animals.
Here’s the point…
Since there are no official nutrient guidelines for ANY specific breed…
It’s important to choose a dog food that’s designed to match the nutritional life stage of YOUR goldendoodle.
The Three Nutritional Life Stages of a Goldendoodle
Since dog breeds age at different rates, the life stages below can be used as a guide to help you find the best possible food for your goldendoodle.
Our Top Recommendations
On this page…
We’ll share The Dog Food Advisor’s safest and most recommended brands… each optimized for the age of your particular goldendoodle, as well as the best foods for specific health conditions that this breed are more prone to.
We’ll also answer the 6 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding goldendoodles.
Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles January 2025
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Goldendoodles for January 2025.
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1. Best Overall Dog Food for Goldendoodles: Ollie Lamb Dish with Cranberries
Ollie Lamb Dish with Cranberries is one of five human-grade recipes analyzed in our review of the Ollie fresh product line.
This particular recipe takes the majority of its meat protein from fresh lamb and lamb liver. Dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 38.5% protein, 27% fat and 26.6% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.
A fresh, human-grade dog food that’s also nutritionally complete and balanced. A great way to offer your pet a home-made meal… without all the fuss.
Customized, pre-measured packaging to keep your dog at optimal weight. Multiple flavors and recipes, ideal for rotational feeding. A bit pricey… but worth the slightly higher cost. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- High in protein
- Complete & balanced
Main Ingredients Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, chickpeas, kale Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38.5% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Goldendoodle puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at MyOllie.com"Leia has a sensitive tummy and used to not eat (or throw up) her dry kibble. She literally jumps for joy when we pull Ollie out of the fridge. What a huge difference Ollie has made in our dog's life."
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2. Best Food for Goldendoodle Puppies: Orijen Large Breed Puppy
Large Breed Puppy is one of nine dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.
Orijen Large Breed Puppy gets the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken and turkey, flounder as well as whole Atlantic mackerel. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 18% fat and 31% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
The formula features 85% poultry and fish ingredients. So, it’s naturally rich in essential protein, vitamins and minerals. We note each piece of kibble is coated with freeze-dried liver for the optimal flavor of meat dogs crave.
Made by Champion Petfoods. The company has always been known for its dedication to a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” canine diet.
A complete and balanced design. One of our top picks for goldendoodle puppies. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- High in protein
- Added vitamins and minerals
- Complete & balanced
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, flounder, eggs, whole Atlantic mackerel Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Goldendoodle puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We weaned our puppy off of Eukanuba puppy food which the breeder recommended and have been using Orijen for seven months. The results are fantastic and our dog loves the food. He coat is shiny and healthy. The cost is definitely higher and we tried buying other cheaper brands (small bag to try) which had good recommendations but with no success. So far our dog has actually been eating around the other food."
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3. Best Dog Food for Adult Goldendoodles: Merrick Classic Healthy Grains
Real Beef and Brown Rice is one of 15 dry recipes rated in our review of the Merrick Classic Healthy Grains product line.
This classic Merrick kibble derives most of its meat protein from fresh deboned beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
The formula contains no peas, legumes or other plant-based protein boosters.
It’s also fortified with taurine, an amino acid many veterinary professionals believe may help reduce the risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart disease found in certain breeds.
Merrick Classic is a quality, grain-inclusive dog food ideal for larger breeds. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- No plant-based protein boosters
- Fortified with taurine
- Two named protein sources
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Goldendoodles Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After adopting animals that had been dropped off at my property I thought it was easy to buy cheap dog food to keep them all nourished. Bad deal! I was contributing to poor health and obesity. I switched over to Merrick and within weeks noticed a change in weight and energy in all my pets."
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4. Best Dog Food for Senior Goldendoodles: Diamond Naturals Senior
Senior Dog is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
Diamond Naturals Senior Dog gets the majority portion of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 12% fat and 52% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
Contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, synthetic additives that may be linked to an increased risk of cancer in older pets. Also rich in glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints.
A complete and fully balanced, grain-inclusive senior recipe that’s also low in fat. Plus the formula contains only 318 kcal (calories) per cup, which can help maintain optimal weight in senior dogs. Highly recommended.
For More Choices: See our Best Dog Food for Seniors page
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Low fat
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
- Rich in glucosamin and chondroitin
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, ground white rice, egg Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Goldendoodles Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"The Diamond Naturals Senior is without a doubt the best senior food I've come across in my 25+ years as a veterinary technician, a breeder of Boxers & Wildlife rehabilitator. I've been using it for the past couple of generations of my dogs beginning at 7 yrs of age & with the added glucosamine it has helped maintain my senior dog's health, wellbeing & all around comfort as they age. For those with arthritis it is an integral component of their long term treatment for pain management & quality of life. I recommend this diet for all seniors."
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5. Best Dry Dog Food for Goldendoodles: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe
Rocky Mountain is one of seven dry recipes discussed in our review of the Blue Buffalo Wilderness product line.
Blue Buffalo Rocky Mountain derives the better part of its animal protein from deboned beef and beef meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 17% fat and 42% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Fortified with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat, this formula is high in protein and grain-free, which can benefit dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies. Goldendoodles, being a mix of Poodle and Golden Retriever, often benefit from balanced nutrition that supports their active lifestyle, coat health, and joint support.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Affordable range
- Supports an active lifestyle
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, beef meal, pea protein, pea starch, tapioca starch Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Goldendoodle adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This is my first time feeding my 2.5 yr old a beef based kibble. I had moved away from grain free and found that she gained (unwanted) weight quickly on grain inclusive kibble. When looking for a grain free to get her back on track I happened to see a TV ad for this food. I read reviews and went ahead and ordered. She loves it! "
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6. Best Wet Dog Food for Goldendoodles: Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew
Open Farm Harvest Chicken Rustic Stew is one food of six foods in our product review of the Open Farm Rustic Stew range.
It derives the bulk of its protein from chicken and our dry matter label analysis reveals is contains 44.4% protein, 28% fat with an estimated carbohydrate level of 20%…which means the fat to protein ratio is 63%.
This recipe provides a lean source of protein to support muscle health and like all wet foods can help with hydration, which is important if your goldendoodle doesn’t drink much water. It is rich in vegetables such as pumpkin, carrots, and spinach whcih provide fiber and essential nutrients for digestive health.
Things we like
- Ethically-sourced ingredients
- High moisture content
- Rich in vegetables
Main Ingredients Humanely raised chicken, chicken bone broth, pumpkin, carrots, green beans Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 44.4% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior goldendoodles Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews"The quality ingredients made feeding our pup Open Farm a no brainer. There is hands-down no other food Id feed after comparing the ingredients going into his meals."
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7. Best Affordable Dog Food for Goldendoodles: Acana Regionals Grassland
Grasslands is one of four dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Acana product line.
This Acana Regionals recipe receives most of its meat protein from deboned lamb, deboned duck, lamb meal, and goat meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 19% fat and 35% estimated carbs…delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Produced by Champion Petfoods, the respected maker of Orijen. The company is known for advocating a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” diet.
A complete and balanced design that makes this recipe a top option for either adult or still-growing goldendoodle puppies.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Acana Highest Protein Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- High in animal protein
- Incorporated whole-prey ratios
- Rich in omega fatty acids
Main Ingredients Deboned lamb, deboned duck, eggs, lamb meal, goat meal Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Goldendoodle puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Cash, our three-year old goldendoodle loves this food. We recently switched from Lotus on a recommendation from my vet-tech daughter, and he loves it. So much so, that we can even use it as training treats."
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8. Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles with Allergies: The Farmer's Dog Pork Recipe
The Farmer’s Dog Pork Recipe is one of four fresh foods in our review of this premium dog food.
It derives the bulk of its protein pork, a novel protein often used in foods for dogs which are sensitive to more common proteins such as chicken or beef.
This recipe contains simple, whole-food ingredients, which can help minimize exposure to potential allergens and as it is grain-free making it is a good choice for dogs with grain sensitivities as it avoids other common allergens such as wheat, corn, or soy.
Our dry matter analysis reveals this recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and an estimated carbohydrate level of 28% which means the fat to protein ratio is 78%.
Things we like
- Rich in fiber
- Novel protein source
- Cauliflower and pork liver offer additional vitamins and minerals
Main Ingredients Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult goldendoodles and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews"We have noticed clearer eyes, shinier coat an much more energy!"
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9. Best Dog Food for Goldendoodles with a Sensitive Stomach: Canidae PURE Real Salmon & Sweet Potato
Canidae Real Salmon and Sweet Potato is one of 11 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Canidae product line.
This grain-free formula gets most of its animal protein from fresh salmon, salmon meal, and menhaden fish meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
We also note this nutrient-balanced formula contains iron and other chelated minerals, supplements typically found in more costly kibbles. Another top pick. Reasonably priced. Easily recommended.
This food is great for maintaining a healthy digestive system while providing high-quality nutrition, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to allergies.
Read our review of the full Canidae Pure Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Limited ingredients
- Includes probiotics and prebiotics
- No artificial additives
Main Ingredients Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Goldendoodles Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs get so excited & gobble this Canidae Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe up every time! They love it so much that I can even use them as training treats. It just never gets old for them. Even better, there have been NO tummy issues. Coats are looking great. Poops are solid and a healthy color. Plus, no weird ingredients. It’s high quality stuff! The only minor downside I would say is probably the slightly smaller quantity & smell. I reorder more frequently, now & if you really hate fish smells it could be a pretty rough 10 mins for you at feeding times. Other than that though, two thumbs up! Would definitely recommend!"
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10. Best Dog Food for Mini Goldendoodles: Nulo Freestyle Small Breed Salmon & Red Lentils
Small Breed Salmon & Sweet Potato is one of nine dry recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.
This particular derives the better part of its meat protein from salmon, offering essential amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids for muscle development and a healthy coat. Salmon is also gentle on the stomach, making it ideal for dogs with sensitivities to other proteins like chicken or beef.
Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 19% fat and 39% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
The ingredients are low-glycemic, helping to manage weight and avoid blood sugar spikes, important for maintaining a healthy metabolism in smaller dogs. This recipe helps mini Goldendoodles maintain a healthy, shiny coat while supporting digestive health and providing the energy they need for their active nature.
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Low glycemic ingredients
- High quality protein source
Main Ingredients Deboned salmon, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, salmon meal, red lentils Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 34% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Goldendoodle puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My goldendoodle absolutely loves this food! Takes him 2 minutes to empty his food bowl. He has wonderful energy and a beautiful shiny coat. I would recommend this food to any dog/puppy owner."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I switch dog foods... without making my Goldendoodle sick?
In the following short video…
Veterinary expert, Dr. Gary Richter, shares a simple feeding tip that can help lower your goldendoodle’s risk of getting sick when you switch to a new food.
How much food should I feed my Goldendoodle?
A landmark study found that dogs fed an amount of food to maintain them at ideal body condition lived nearly 2 years longer… than other dogs.5
Since every Goldendoodle is different, it’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “ideal” for every animal. So, start with the feeding amount printed on the package. Then, over time, adjust that amount up or down… to reach and then maintain your Goldendoodle’s ideal weight.
Do Goldendoodles need special dog food?
There are no official pet food industry standards established for goldendoodles. However, because the breed’s puppies, adults and seniors EACH have different nutritional needs, it’s important to choose a dog food that’s designed to match the AGE of YOUR particular Goldendoodle.
What's the best dog food for a Goldendoodle puppy?
Since they’re genetically related to Golden Retrievers, Goldendoodles should be considered large breed dogs.
This means Goldendoodle puppies are at higher risk of developing a crippling and permanent form of hip disease… if they’re fed a dog food that contains too much calcium… while they’re still growing.
For this reason, most veterinary experts and professional breeders recommend feeding Goldendoodle puppies a dog food that’s safe for large breed puppies. In addition to the brands listed in this article, be sure to check out The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Large Breed Puppy Food page.
What if my Goldendoodle is bred from a small or medium size Poodle?
Even if your Goldendoodle is bred from a smaller size poodle, your dog may still be carrying genetic material (DNA) from a golden retriever… which means your puppy is more likely to develop a diet-related form of canine hip dysplasia (CHD).
Here’s the point… small breed puppies can still thrive on large breed puppy food. But any dog food that contains too much calcium should never be considered safe for large breed puppies… including Goldendoodles.
When can I safely switch my Goldendoodle puppy to adult dog food?
Goldendoodle puppies don’t stop growing and aren’t ready for adult food… until they reach 15 to 18 months of age.6 7 8
Because they’re considered large breed dogs, switching your goldendoodle puppy to adult food too soon may increase your pet’s risk of developing a diet-related and crippling form of canine hip disease.
Bottom line… an adult Goldendoodle can safely eat large breed puppy food. But a growing puppy must never eat adult dog food.
What's the best dog food for a senior Goldendoodle?
According to VCA Hospitals, large breed dogs tend to age sooner than smaller breeds. So, some Goldendoodles may be considered “senior” between 7 and 10 years of age. If your Goldendoodle is 7 years (or older), you may wish to visit our best senior dog foods page here.
Final word
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