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What’s the best dog food for Rottweiler Puppies?
Rottweiler puppies are the young offspring of the Rottweiler breed, descended from the mastiffs of the Roman legions, they are a robust breed with great strength and a protective nature.
Rottweilers are relatively popular as pets in the United States. The American Kennel Club (AKC), which keeps track of dog registration statistics, reveal that Rottweilers have consistently ranked within the top 10 most popular breeds in the US over the past decade.
It is crucial to provide your Rottweiler puppy with a high-quality, balanced and nutritious diet to ensure proper growth and development into a strong adult dog.
This large breed benefits from a diet rich in high-quality animal protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish, so look for a dog food with named meat protein sources at the top of the ingredient list.
Healthy fats are also crucial for Rottweilers to maintain optimal skin and coat health. Opt for dog foods that contain sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids such as fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat.
You should also avoid dog foods that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Opt for natural and minimally processed options.
Below, you can read our recommendations of the best dog food for Rottweiler Puppies.
You’ll also learn the answer to each of the most frequently asked questions we get about Rottweiler Puppies.
Best Dog Food For Rottweiler Puppies January 2025
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Rottweiler puppies for January 2025.
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Best Dry Dog Food For Rottweiler Puppies
Redbarn Grain-Free Sky Recipe
Redbarn Grain-Free Sky Recipe is one of five recipes included in our review of this dry product line.
This recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from turkey, which is naturally rich in the ten essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 31.1% protein, 16.7% fat and 44.2% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Redbarn Grain-Free Sky Recipe includes probiotics, miscanthus grass, and prebiotic fiber to promote healthy digestion. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids from chicken and flaxseed contribute to a healthy skin and shiny coat. Essential nutrients like methionine, taurine, and L-Carnitine support heart health, while vitamins A and E help maintain a strong immune system.
Read our review of the full Redbarn Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Contains Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
- High protein
- Contains essential nutrients
Main Ingredients Turkey, chicken, chicken meal, duck meal, turkey meal Type Grain-Inclusive AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All Rottweilers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at RedBarn.com"I got a few different bags of dog food in preparation for the arrival of my newest puppy, and am very happy with this brand of dog food in particular. I wanted to get something that would work for both puppies and adult dogs, and this provides exactly that - nutritious, high-quality dog food for any life stages. My puppy loves it, so it is a win-win for all!"
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Best Wet Dog Food For Rottweiler Puppies
Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Plate Beef Recipe
We highly recommend Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Plate Beef Recipe In Gravy for Rottweiller puppies, as the nutrient balance in this formula aligns well with the needs of large breeds.
This recipe is one of 14 foods in our review of this wet range. The bulk of the meat protein comes from beef, which offers essential proteins for muscle development and growth which is particularly important for Rottweiler puppies as they grow fast.
Dry matter label analysis reveals the food contains 44.4% protein, 16.7% fat and 30.9% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
Since this is a wet food, it offers additional moisture, which can help with hydration and be gentler on a puppy’s digestive system and the beef and gravy combination is highly palatable, encouraging even picky eaters.
Read our review of the full Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Canned) range here
Things we like
- High meat content
- Contains essential vitamins for large puppies
- USDA-inspected meat
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, beef broth, carrots, sweet potatoes, apples Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 44.4% AAFCO Standards Growth & Reproduction Best For Puppies and Pregnant or Lactating Females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My pups enjoyed Merrick Beef Grain Free Wet Puppy Food. We mixed it with dry food for them and they absolutely loved it!! An hour after they ate they were nudging their bowls for more. We have added merrick canned dog food to our feeding regime."
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Best Fresh Dog Food For Rottweiler Puppies:
Nom Nom Beef Mash
This fresh, human-grade food is a great choice for Rottweiller puppies as it is made with high quality, whole food ingredients tailored specifically for your dog’s age and breed.
Nom Nom Fresh Beef Mash is one of four recipes included in our review of this product line. It includes nutrient supplements such as fish oil and a blend of vitamins and minerals to support critical functions, such as bone growth and joint development in large breeds.
The recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from beef and includes nutrient-rich eggs, healthy fatty acids, alongside wholesome carrots and peas to support overall health.
Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34.8% protein, 17.4% fat and 39.8% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Gently cooked
- Tailored recipes
- High protein
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 34.8% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All Rottweilers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Most of all I love that I’m giving my pets top-notch food that I hope will contribute to their longevity and overall wellbeing."
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Best Puppy Dog Food For Rottweiler Puppies
Jinx Jr. Puppy Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato
Jinx Jr. Puppy Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato is one of six recipes included in our review of this dry product line.
The recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken, to enrich your puppy’s growing muscles. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.3% protein, 15.6% fat and 43.1% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Puppy Chicken, Brown Rice, and Sweet Potato kibble recipe is formulated using high quality ingredients including whole grains for sustained energy and healthy digestion, and essential vitamins and minerals to support your puppy’s developing brain and heart function.
Read our review of the full Jinx Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Organic chicken
- Contains whole grains
- Essential vitamins and minerals for large puppies
Main Ingredients Organic chicken, chicken meal, ground peas, pearled barley, brown rice Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All Rottweilers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"As new puppy owners we were quite clueless on what puppy food ingredients to avoid and what kind of food to go with. With Jinx, I love that all the ingredients are listed on the bag. Nothing is hidden and they are fair priced. I feel better knowing what my puppy is eating and she loves it!!"
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Best Affordable Dog Food For Rottweiler Puppies
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice
Formulated for the health and well-being of large-breed puppies such as Rottweilers, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is an affordable quality option.
This particular recipe is one of 20 included in our review of the popular Blue Buffalo Life Protection dry product line.
It derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28.9% protein, 16.7% fat and 46.4% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
This Blue Life Protection Formula starts with high-quality deboned chicken and features wholesome whole grains, antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, plus essential nutrients like DHA to support healthy growth and development in larger puppies.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Developed for large-breed puppies
- Contains DHA
- High-quality protein
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 28.9% AAFCO Standards Growth & Reproduction Best For Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our rottweiler has been on Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy food since she was 8 weeks old. She is thriving well on this food and loves it. Shiny coat , growing well, and never had a stomach upset."
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Best Dog Food For Rottweiler Puppies With Allergies
Holistic Select Large & Giant Breed Puppy Health
Holistic Select Large & Giant Breed Puppy Health Lamb Meal and Oatmeal is designed specifically for large and giant breeds, addressing their slower, steady growth patterns to avoid joint and bone development issues.
This recipe is one of five dry foods included in our review. It derives the bulk of its meat protein from lamb, providing essential amino acids for muscle development and overall growth. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27.8% protein, 16.7% fat and 47.6% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
The Lamb Meal & Oatmeal Recipe comes in larger kibble for bigger mouths and includes active probiotics, healthy fiber and digestive enzymes.
Read our review of the full Holistic Select Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Specifically formulated for large breeds
- Includes probiotics
- Large kibble size
Main Ingredients Lamb meal, chicken meal, oatmeal, brown rice, barley Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 27.8% AAFCO Standards Growth & Reproduction Best For Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Females Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Bitzy and her sister Minnie are big girls at 227lbs. Holistic Select Large & Giant Breed Adult Health Chicken Meal & Oatmeal dry dog recipe keeps them happy and healthy since puppyhood. Thanks for keeping my girls in great shape!"
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
If you are considering getting a Rottweiler puppy, it’s essential to carry out thorough research, meet individual dogs, and interact with responsible breeders – or reputable rescue organizations – to ensure this is the right breed for your lifestyle and capabilities.
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding Rottweiler Puppies:
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a Rottweiler puppy?
Rottweiler puppies can vary in size depending on factors such as genetics, diet and overall health. A newborn puppy would typically weigh around 1 pound (0.5 kilograms).
As a breed they grow and mature slowly. At around 8 weeks old, Rottweiler puppies can weigh between 13.5 and 15 pounds (6 to 7 kilograms) or more.
Rottweilers usually reach their full adult size and weight between 18 months and 2 years of age.
How to socialize and train a Rottweiler puppy?
Start training your Rottweiler puppy early. Basic commands like sit, stay, come are important for their safety and your control.
They are intelligent and trainable but require consistent and firm guidance.
Known for their loyalty, confidence, and protective nature, Rottweilers are generally calm and confident dogs but can be aloof and reserved with strangers. Early socialization and obedience training are important to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved and well-adjusted dogs.
How much exercise does a Rottweiler puppy need?
All puppies, including Rottweiler puppies, have growing bones and joints that are still developing. Excessive high-impact exercise, such as running on hard surfaces or jumping, can potentially lead to joint problems later in life. Until your puppy’s growth plates have closed (usually around 18 months of age), focus on controlled and moderate exercise.
For very young Rottweiler puppies, the general rule would be around five minutes of exercise per month of their age.
As your Rottweiler puppy grows, you can gradually increase the lengths of walks and playtime. Focus on controlled activities such as walking, jogging, or light training.
Is a Rottweiler puppy a good family pet?
Rottweilers are affectionate and do well with young children when introduced to them properly.
Remember that each dog is an individual, and while there are general breed characteristics, your Rottweiler puppy’s personality and behavior will also be influenced by genetics, upbringing, and environment. If you’re dedicated to providing proper training, socialization, and care, a well-raised Rottweiler can be a loyal and loving companion.
Final word
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