Labradors require a diet rich in proteins to support optimal muscle development. This food provides ample lean meats without wheat gluten contamination – an excellent choice!
This food offers an abundant supply of protein from named sources (rather than by-products), along with adequate levels of calcium and phosphorus for bone health, plus additional ingredients including chondroitin and glucosamine for joint wellbeing.
Contents
Grain-free
Grain-free kibbles have quickly gained in popularity with pet owners due to their marketing campaigns. Unfortunately, these food sources contain high concentrations of starches and carbohydrates which may contribute to digestive issues, while they may deplete essential phytic acid and nutrients essential for the gut microbiome. Furthermore, many brands of grain-free kibble are often processed at temperatures exceeding 176degF, which causes them to lose the phytase enzyme.
The ideal grain-free dog food for labs should contain real meat as its primary source of protein, not legumes or potatoes. Furthermore, large breeds require food with an ideal calcium-phosphorus ratio to support their musculoskeletal health; Open Farm’s large breed dry formula features 45% chicken protein as its main source while other ingredients provide fiber, vitamins B & C, potassium and iron sources as well. It boasts an incredible rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon!
Allergy-friendly
Providing your Lab has food allergies, it is crucial that they receive food with limited ingredients to lessen the chance of an allergic reaction and give more energy. Furthermore, this food may help with sensitive skin or coat issues by providing necessary fatty acids for healthy coats.
This food is an ideal choice for Labrador puppies as it provides the right balance of calcium and phosphorus, high levels of protein and fiber and will help prevent weight gain during their active senior years.
This food boasts 32% protein, 15% fat and 45% estimated carbs – providing an ideal fat/protein ratio for Labrador puppies. Furthermore, it includes glucosamine and chondroitin that may help alleviate joint discomfort for your Lab. With four, eleven and 24-pound bags to choose from it also makes use of real salmon as an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids!
Weight management
Labradors are susceptible to obesity, so their diet must include foods low in calories and fat content as well as plenty of water and fiber for digestive health. Avoid feeding high phosphorus foods that could potentially lead to liver or kidney issues in some Labs.
Labs should consume a diet with moderate levels of protein and low carbs to promote muscle maintenance and protect their coat. A diet containing healthy fats such as sunflower oil can also encourage production of linoleic acid that will benefit their coat.
Labradors should have an ideal weight that can easily be felt when running your fingers along their body, with their abdomen tucked under and being able to feel their ribs without difficulty. If they become overweight, consult with a vet; or alternatively consult pet nutritionists and trainers who will devise a diet suitable for your pup.
Joint health
Labs are predisposed to developing joint health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, so providing them with food containing joint-nourishing ingredients like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids is important in order to minimize their risks of these common inherited health conditions.
Hill’s science diet can be an excellent choice to ensure the joint health of your pet. Packed full of proteins and essential nutrients – like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids – this food is free from fillers, by-products and artificial flavors and includes high-quality meat such as lamb and chicken flavors for superior taste and texture. With 34 pounds available at once and an outstanding customer review rating.
American Journey Active Life is designed for large breed dogs like labs who enjoy playing in parks. This recipe is high in protein and low in fat to support optimal metabolism and prevent weight gain; in addition, its omega-3 fatty acid content supports your pet’s skin, coat and brain health.