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What’s the best dog food for a boxer?
When choosing a dry or wet food for your boxer… it’s super-critical to keep your pet’s age in mind.
Which isn’t a problem… so long as you’re feeding an ADULT boxer.
However…
Boxer puppies are different. They have a higher 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 growing.1
Keep in mind…
Boxer puppies don’t stop growing and aren’t ready to eat adult dog food… until they reach 15 to 24 months of age.2 3 4
Top Recommendations for Boxers
To help you choose the best possible food for your dog…
The Dog Food Advisor recommends the top-rated brands below. Each contains an amount of calcium and other nutrients5 considered safe for a boxer, based on your dog’s age. Recipes are marked as “best for” adults… or puppies.
In addition…
We’ll also answer the 8 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding boxers.
Best Dog Food for Boxers July 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Boxers for July 2024.
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1. The Farmer's Dog Fresh Pork Recipe
Pork is one of four fresh-cooked, human-grade recipes evaluated in our review of The Farmer’s Dog full product line.
This Farmer’s Dog formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh USDA pork. Dry matter label analysis confirms the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
If you’ve ever wished you could feed your boxer a fresh, home-cooked meal… but you didn’t know how to make sure it was nutritionally complete and balanced… then The Farmer’s Dog makes a smart choice.
The first time you visit the Farmer’s Dog website, you’ll answer a few questions about your dog’s age, weight and breed. This important step helps the company to design a custom feeding plan… one that’s just right for YOUR dog.
Brimming with top level, human-grade ingredients… then, wrapped in a fully balanced recipe that’s ideal for both puppies and adults. Expertly designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN). Not cheap. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients USDA Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Boxers of all ages Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"Lola has put on a lot of weight in her old age, despite a strict diet and exercise. The weight never came off. Our vet ran every test imaginable on her. Since switching to Farmer Dog, she’s lost 10lbs and is playing again. It’s been nothing short of miraculous. I’m so happy that we found you guys!"
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2. IAMS ProActive Health Large Breed Adult Recipe
Large Breed Adult is one of 12 dry kibble recipes evaluated in our review of the Iams ProActive Health product line.
This ProActive Health recipe acquires the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis confirms the recipe contains 25% protein, 13% fat and 54% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
It’s also worth noting this classic, fully-balanced design is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to help prevent joint damage… a common issue with pure-bred boxers.
The recipe contains both natural fiber as well as prebiotics to support healthy digestion. A quality, affordable dog food for animals whose adult weight is expected to exceed 50 pounds. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Iams Proactive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain sorghum, chicken by-product meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 25% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Boxers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our dog absolutely LOVES Iams! It’s healthy, keeps her active, and keeps her happy. Feeding a big dog can be expensive, especially when your dog isn't eating it all and you end up throwing it out. Not the case with iams. Our dog loves both the wet and dry food! Totally recommend!"
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3. Taste of the Wild Ancient Prairie
Ancient Prairie is one of four dry recipes covered in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
This Taste of the Wild formula gets the better part of its animal protein from fresh buffalo and pork, as well as chicken 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 58%.
A nutrient-rich, highly digestible kibble that’s made using ancient grains. The recipe also contains proprietary probiotics which thrive in the GI tract and help support stable digestive health.
A super-popular recipe ideal for both boxer puppies and adults. Readily recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Buffalo, pork, chicken meal, grain sorghum, millet Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Boxers of all ages Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Overall, I would recommend this food. I really love the ingredients and it has done wonders for my dog's coat ! She used to have a dull coat and, occasionally, dry skin. After testing exclusively this food for months, I've noticed a drastic improvement in her coat. She also loves the taste!! The only thing that could use improvement is the percentage of protein; I wish it was a little higher! But overall, great ingredients!"
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4. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
Large Breed Puppy is one of 13 dry recipes rated in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.
This Wellness Complete Health Puppy formula derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal, as well as salmon meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 14% fat and 45% estimated carbs… producing a healthy fat-to-protein ratio of about 45%.
Typical with all Wellness dog foods, this recipe is 100% free of anonymous meat by-products, generic fillers or artificial preservatives. One of The Dog Food Advisor’s favorite large-breed puppy foods containing an ideal blend of calcium, phosphorus and calories. And a solid option for growing boxer pups.
Highly recommended.
For More Choices: Visit our Best Large Breed Puppy Foods page
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, salmon meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Boxer puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I must admit we researched just about every kibble on the market right now and we were impressed by the quality ingredients found in the Wellness brand. And we were especially happy when we noticed the specific for large breed puppy. Puppy that will be a large breed require nutrition that will support their bone, muscle, brain growth. Our shelter rescue German Shepard is alive and thriving. She gained 6.5 lbs in her first week with us. I think she is now off to a yummy start to her life."
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5. JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint and Skin Support
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support received the Dog Food Advisor’s rating of 4.5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this range made by Just Food For Dogs, a company founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Shawn Buckley.
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support derives the bulk of its protein from pork, which is naturally rich in all 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 33% protein, 5% fat and 55% carbohydrates. . . with a fat to protein ratio of 15%.
This Pantry Fresh range is vet-recommended, fresh, human-grade food. They can be stored safely for up to two years (refrigeration is only required once opened).
Read our review of the full JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Pork, quinoa, kale, carrots, apples Texture Wet Type Fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult boxers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at JustFoodForDogs"I wasn't sure how my 2 boys would react to something new, but they were ecstatic. My oldest has some join issues and to be honest, stomach and digestive issues too, but he loved it. He has great energy and has been playing with his little (big) brother dog a lot more lately which shows me he's feeling great!"
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6. Crave High Protein White Fish & Salmon
White Fish and Salmon is one of four dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Crave product line.
This Crave formula draws the bulk of its animal protein from white fish and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 19% fat and 35% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A grain-free dog food containing no corn, wheat or soy… and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. Made with iron amino-acid complex and other costly chelated minerals for optimal absorption and nutrition.
Moderately priced. Nutritious design. Easily recommended.
Read our review of the full Crave Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients White fish, chicken meal, lentils, split peas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Boxers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My Jojo has to eat no grain no soy food which can get pricey. I love this alternative to Blue Buffalo and my dog loves this brand way better. He is an American Bully and has skin issues if he doesn’t eat quality food. I can definitely say this is quality and he has had no skin issues since switching to this brand! Thank you!"
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7. Annamaet Original Extra
Annamaet Original Extra is one of eight kibbles analyzed in our review of the Annamaet dry dog food product line.
Annamaet Extra obtains most of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 45% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
A classic grain-inclusive design containing L-carnitine for efficient fat metabolism and lean muscle mass.
Notable for its nutrient-balanced calcium, phosphorus and calorie content… which makes this recipe an exceptional choice for both boxer puppies and adults.
Annamaet is prized by members of the large breed athletic and sporting dog community. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Annamaet Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, sorghum, chicken fat, rolled oats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Boxers of all ages Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This is my favorite food. The calcium level is appropriate for raising puppies of my large breed, it feeds our active adults who are running in competition, our pregnant and lactation ladies, and we reduce the quantity to feed to retired older dogs. We've been feeding a large number of dogs for well over 40 years, so have a lot of experience. In our experience, Annamaet Extra is the best food we've found."
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8. Nulo Freestyle Senior Trout and Sweet Potato Recipe
Nulo Freestyle Senior Trout and Sweet Potato is one of nine recipes in our review of the Nulo Freestyle dry dog food product line.
This recipe obtains most of its protein from trout. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.3% protein, 13.3% fat and 45.3% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
A dry food with the benefits of a high animal meat, grain-free formula. This senior formula also includes glucosamine and chondroitin to support hip and joint health.
This senior recipe provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult boxers, recommended with confidence for boxers over 5-6 years of age…
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned trout, turkey meal, salmon meal, yellow peas, sweet potato Texture Dry Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For Senior boxers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We had truly believed that our 10 year old boxer was nearing his last days. He was sleeping all the time, not enjoying his food, losing interest in playing or going for walks, and really started to smell bad (gas). We switched to Nulo Freestyle Senior my old dog seemed to get younger right before our eyes. The change has been honestly remarkable and he loves the food. He is literally dancing in a circle as I put it in his dish. I don't know what kind of magic potion is in this food, but I'm so glad we switched!"
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9. AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Wholesome Grains Salmon and Oatmeal Formula
AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support is one of nine dry recipes covered in our review of the AvoDerm Natural product line.
This AvoDerm Natural formula gets its protein from salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26.7% protein, 15.6% fat and 49.8% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
The Advanced Sensitive Support range is recommended for boxers with sensitive skin. This recipe contains omega fatty acids and is a limited ingredient with salmon as the first ingredient to support skin sensitivities.
Read our review of the full AvoDerm Natural Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon (source of omega 3), salmon meal, oatmeal, ground white rice, pumpkin Texture Dry Type Grain-Inclusive Protein Percentage 26.7% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult boxers Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Was looking for a salmon formula that is NOT grain free and does not contain any chicken. This food was recommended by a trusted friend in the dog food industry. So far so good - my dog loves it!"
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Here are 8 of the most frequently asked questions we get each month about feeding boxers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I switch to a new food... without getting my Boxer sick?
In the following video…
You’ll find a simple feeding tip that can help lower your Boxer’s risk of digestive upset… when you switch to a new food.
Does a Boxer need to eat special dog food?
That depends on your dog’s age. Adult Boxers can eat just about ANY brand of quality kibble. However, to lower your pet’s risk of developing a crippling and permanent form of hip disease, Boxer puppies should be fed a diet that’s made to be safe for large breed puppies. For more top choices, view The Dog Food Advisor’s best large breed puppy foods page.
What's the best dog food for an older Boxer?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, larger breed dogs like Boxers tend live shorter lives than smaller dogs… which is why they’re often considered seniors when they reach 5 to 6 years of age. If your Boxer is over 6, you may wish to visit our best senior dog foods page for some safe recommendations.
What causes hip disease in Boxers?
Hip disease in Boxers is caused by at least one of 3 factors:
Since there’s nothing you can do to change your boxer’s genetics, be sure to avoid overfeeding your puppy. And choose a dog food that contains a calcium level that’s made to be safe for Boxers and other large breed puppies.
How can I lower my Boxer's risk of hip disease?
There are 2 things you CAN do to help lower your dog’s risk of hip disease. First, don’t overfeed your puppy. Too many calories in the diet can increase your Boxer’s risk of developing lasting hip damage.
Next, avoid dog foods that contain too much calcium for large breed puppies. View our best large breed puppy foods here.
How much food should I feed my Boxer?
A landmark study found that dogs fed an amount of food that keeps them at ideal body condition lived almost 2 years longer… than other dogs.15
So, to help your Boxer live a longer life…
Start with the feeding instructions printed on the bag. Then, adjust that amount up or down… to keep your boxer at ideal body condition.
The following short video explains exactly how to help your boxer achieve and maintain an ideal weight.
Final word
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