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Feeding your mixed breed puppy a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for their overall health and development.
Make sure you choose a high-quality puppy food that meets the nutritional standards set by organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Look for a puppy formula to ensure it provides the appropriate balance of nutrients for growth.
The first few ingredients listed on the dog food label should include a high-quality source of animal protein (such as chicken, beef, or lamb). Avoid foods with excessive fillers, artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
As mixed breed puppies can vary greatly in size, choose a food that is appropriate for their expected adult size. Small, medium, and large breed puppy formulas are designed to meet the specific needs of different-sized dogs.
It’s also important to follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging. These guidelines are usually based on the puppy’s weight and age. Monitor your puppy’s weight and adjust the portion size if needed to maintain a healthy weight.
You should also establish a regular feeding schedule with consistent meal times. This helps regulate your puppy’s digestive system and can make house training more manageable.
As hard as it can be to ignore those puppy dog eyes, avoid feeding your puppy table scraps or human food, as some foods can be harmful to dogs. Stick to a nutritionally balanced puppy diet to ensure they receive the proper nutrients.
Regularly monitor your puppy’s growth and development. If you notice any concerns, such as rapid weight gain or loss, consult with your veterinarian to adjust the diet accordingly.
If you need to switch your puppy to a different food, do so gradually over a period of 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset. Mix the new food with the old food in increasing proportions.
Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your puppy’s overall health. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on diet, vaccinations, and any specific health considerations based on your puppy’s breed mix.
Remember that the specific nutritional needs of your mixed breed puppy may vary based on factors such as size, activity level, and individual health. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice tailored to your puppy’s unique requirements.
See our recommendations below of the best foods for mixed breed puppies; along with some advice and guidelines to help you decide when choosing the right mixed breed puppy for your family pet.
Best Food for Mixed Breed Puppies December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for mixed breed puppies for December 2024.
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1. The Farmer's Dog Chicken Recipe
The Farmer’s Dog Chicken Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 4 recipes in this product range made by The Farmer’s Dog.
The Farmer’s Dog Chicken Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 46% protein, 34% fat and 12% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 74%.
Real food, made fresh. This food provides dogs with an excellent source of quality protein.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Simple personalized recipes
- Eco-friendly packaging
Main Ingredients Chicken, brussels sprouts, chicken liver, bok‐choy cabbage, broccoli Type Fresh Protein Percentage 46% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at The Farmer's Dog"Prince is an extremely picky eater, but from his first TFD meal, he‘s gobbled up every bite! Y’all have done what no other dog food company can."
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2. Ollie Turkey Dish with Blueberries
Ollie Turkey Dish with Blueberries received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 5 recipes in this product range made by Ollie Fresh
Ollie Turkey Dish with Blueberries derives the bulk of its protein from turkey.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a dry recipe containing 35.7% protein, 25% fat and 31.3% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 70%.
100% human-grade and using natural, high-quality ingredients.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Personalized recipes
- No fillers or artificial flavors
Main Ingredients Turkey, butternut squash, turkey livers, oats, lentils Type Fresh Protein Percentage 35.7% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"My puppy Dade absolutely loves the fresh food and treats. He doesn’t eat his dinner, he inhales it. He is so energetic and healthy. Your products are excellent. "
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3. Freshpet Vital Grain-Free Chicken, Beef & Salmon Puppy Recipe
Freshpet Vital Grain-Free Chicken, Beef & Salmon Puppy Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s second highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of 8 recipes in this product range made by Freshpet.
Freshpet Vital Grain-Free Chicken, Beef & Salmon Puppy Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 45.8% protein, 33.3% fat and 12.8% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 73%.
This high-protein recipe is crafted to support a growing puppy, with antioxidant-rich ingredients and formulated with calcium for bone and joint growth, DHA for brain development and omega-3 & 6 for skin & coat.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Freshpet Vital Grain Free Dog Food (Refrigerated Rolls) range here
Things we like
- Non-GMO ingredients
- Developed by vets
- Fresh food
- Natural farm-raised poultry
Main Ingredients Chicken, beef, chicken broth, chicken liver, eggs Type Rolled Protein Percentage 45.8% AAFCO Standards Growth & reproduction Best For Puppies and pregnant or lactating females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Freshpet"We have had our 10 week old maltipoo for 7 days of picky eating or not eating at all. Finally we tried your puppy food and she cleaned her plate. She only weighs 1 pound and a half so I was very concerned. She loves your food and I am a happy dog mom!!!"
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4. Raised Right Puppy Growth Chicken Recipe
Raised Right Puppy Growth Chicken Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.It is one of 11 recipes in this product range made by Raised Right.
Raised Right Puppy Growth Chicken recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 55.9% protein, 23.5% fat and 12.6% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 42%.
Human-grade food. Each recipe is home cooked with limited ingredients and low in carbs.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Limited ingredients
- Low in carbs
Main Ingredients Chicken Thigh, Chicken Heart, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Cranberries Type Fresh Protein Percentage 55.9% AAFCO Standards Growth & reproduction Best For Puppies and pregnant or lactating females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Raised Right"My German Shepherd Puppy LOVES your food. He has grown up healthy and happy, with a beautiful coat. Thank You"
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5. Orijen Puppy Recipe
Orijen Puppy Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 9 recipes in this product range made by Orijen.
Orijen Puppy recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 40% protein, 21.1% fat and 30.9% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 53%.
A diet rich in protein and fat from quality ingredients to support a puppies development.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Fresh & raw ingredients
- No fillers
- Free-run chickens
- Sustainably farmed fish
Main Ingredients Fresh chicken (23%), raw turkey (10%), fresh chicken giblets (liver, heart) (8%), raw whole herring (6%), raw whole hake (5%) Type Dry Protein Percentage 40% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Orijen"We were told that my pup had been having puppy kibbles by other major brands at both breeder and trainer and we thought we'll switch to Orijen gradually. We mixed half and half for the first week or so and she ate the whole thing, no problem at all. My previous dogs were very sensitive to kibble switches but my current pup is a happy chappy with this food. "
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6. Nom Nom Beef Mash Recipe
Nom Nom Beef Mash Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 4 recipes in this product range made by NomNom.
Nom Nom Beef Mash Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from beef.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 34.8% protein, 17.4% fat and 39.8% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 50%.
Nutrient-packed recipes, made with fresh, whole ingredients and gently cooked to preserve nutrients.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh food
- Personalized recipes
- Vet developed
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Type Fresh Protein Percentage 34.8% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Nom Nom"Tula gets so excited when it's mealtime. She no longer has skin issues, her coat looks wonderful and her stools are the best they've ever been. I can't imagine ever feeding her anything but Nom Nom"
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7. Wellness Complete Health Puppy Recipe
Wellness Complete Health Puppy Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 13 recipes in this product range made by Wellness.
Wellness Complete Health Puppy recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 32.2% protein, 20% fat and 39.8% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 62%.
Natural and premium ingredients. Crafted with antioxidants and balanced nutrients.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Affordable
- DHA to support brain development
- Antioxidant rich
- Non-GMO ingredients
Main Ingredients Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Peas Type Dry Protein Percentage 32.2% AAFCO Standards Growth & reproduction Best For Puppies & lactating females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Wellness"I’ve fed this to my Boston Terrier since I got him at 8 weeks old. He loves the food and treats. He is healthy with a shiny coat! I’m very satisfied with the product. "
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8. Farmina Prime Chicken & Pomegranate Puppy Medium/Maxi Recipe
Farmina Prime Chicken & Pomegranate Puppy Medium/Maxi Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 8 recipes in this product range made by Farmina.
Farmina Prime Chicken & Pomegranate Puppy Medium/Maxi Recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 35.2% protein, 24.2% fat and 32.7% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 69%.
Protein rich, non-GMO ingredients without artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Farmina N&D Prime Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- No artificial preservatives
- High-quality protein
- Rich in antioxidants
- Non-GMO ingredients
Main Ingredients Chicken, dehydrated chicken, sweet potatoes, chicken fat, dried whole eggs Type Dry Protein Percentage 35.2% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Farmina"Excellent product my 3 month old GSD is doing great, and helps his energy and coat. "
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9. Merrick Classic Grain-Free Puppy Best Plate Recipe
Merrick Classic Grain-Free Puppy Plate Beef Recipe received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 9 recipes in this product range made by Merrick.
Merrick Classic Grain-Free Puppy Plate Beef derives the bulk of its protein from beef.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 44.4% protein, 16.7% fat and 30.9% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 38%.
Formulated with DHA to aid the development of healthy brain function in young puppies.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Canned) range here
Things we like
- USDA-certified
- Nothing artificial
- Whole food ingredients
- High-quality ingredients
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, beef broth, carrots, sweet potatoes, apples Type Wet Protein Percentage 44.4% AAFCO Standards Growth & reproduction Best For Puppies & lactating females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Merrick"I’ve been looking for a new brand for my puppy that was grain free. I bought this item a few weeks ago to see how he would do and Bruno LOVES this recipe. He usually waits near me while I scoop his food out and prepare it with the dry food. He didn’t know it was new wet dog food. So when he took his first bite his eyes lit up and went to town. I was happy to see my puppy enjoying his dinner and it did not give him stomach problems "
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10. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy Formula
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy Formula received the Dog Food Advisor’s second highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of 9 recipes in this product range made by Taste of the Wild.
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy Formula derives the bulk of its protein from fish.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a fresh recipe containing 30% protein, 16.7% fat and 45.3% carbohydrates . . . with a fat-to-protein ratio of 56%.
A nutrient packed formula to support a puppies development.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Dog Food range here
Things we like
- USDA-certified
- Contains probiotics
- Rich in omega-fatty acids
- Nothing artificial
Main Ingredients Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, pea flour Type Dry Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Taste of the Wild"Started her out on pacific stream puppy, as she is allergic to chicken ...as she got older we tried a couple other salmon formulas from other brands. She just wasn’t having it! So we put her back on Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream ...she has beautiful skin & coat and stays very lean, but most importantly still seems to love it! "
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
When considering getting a mixed breed puppy, there are several important questions to ask and factors to consider to ensure a happy and healthy relationship. Here are some questions you may want to explore:
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the puppy coming from?
Determine the source of the puppy. Are you getting it from a reputable breeder, rescue organization, or shelter? Knowing the puppy’s background can provide insights into its health and behavior.
If applicable, ask for references from the breeder or rescue organization. Speaking with previous adopters can provide insights into their experiences.
Check if there is a return policy or guarantee in case the puppy is found to have health issues shortly after adoption.
What is the puppy's background?
Ask about the puppy’s history, including information about its parents, siblings, and early life experiences. This can help you understand potential health or behavioral considerations.
What is the puppy’s health history?
Has it received vaccinations, been dewormed, and undergone a health check? Request documentation of veterinary care.
Request vaccination and health records. Ensure that the puppy has received necessary vaccinations and preventive care.
What is the puppy’s temperament like?
Ask about the puppy’s temperament and behavior. How does it interact with people, other animals, and different environments? This information is crucial for matching the puppy with your lifestyle.
What is the puppy’s size and weight estimate?
If possible, inquire about the estimated adult size and weight of the puppy. This information can help you choose an appropriate diet and living space.
How much socialization has the puppy been exposed to?
Determine how well the puppy has been socialized. Exposure to various people, places, and experiences during the critical socialization period can contribute to a well-adjusted adult dog.
What is the puppy’s current feeding routine?
Knowing the type of food, feeding schedule, and any specific dietary requirements will help you transition the puppy to your preferred routine.
What training has the puppy received?
Knowing what commands it responds to and its level of house training can give you an idea of what to expect and how much training will be needed.
How much exercise does the puppy need?
Inquire about the puppy’s activity level and exercise needs. This information will help you plan for daily activities and ensure that the puppy gets enough physical and mental stimulation.
Remember that bringing a puppy into your home is a long-term commitment, so taking the time to gather information and ask important questions will help ensure a positive and lasting relationship with your new pet.
Final word
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