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What’s the best dog food for Great Danes?
Great Danes are a giant dog breed which has very specific nutritional requirements.
They need a moderate protein content to support their muscle development and overall health, so foods that contain high-quality animal protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish are a must. The fat content should also be moderate to provide them with adequate energy without promoting excessive weight gain.
Great Danes are prone to skeletal issues such as hip dysplasia and developmental bone diseases. It’s, therefore, crucial to choose a dog food that has appropriate and balanced levels of calcium and phosphorus to support healthy bone growth. However, avoid excessive calcium supplementation, as it can lead to skeletal abnormalities.
This dog breed is also susceptible to joint problems such as arthritis and hip dysplasia, so look for recipes that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and help maintain cartilage.
Great Danes can have sensitive digestive systems. Opt for dog foods with easily digestible ingredients such as chicken, fish, rice, sweet potatoes and pumpkins, to promote good digestion and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
We have a list of recommended best foods for Great Danes below, along with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get from our readers about this breed. But please remember to consult with your veterinarian to determine the specific nutritional needs of your pet, as individual dogs may have unique requirements based on their age, weight, activity level, and overall health.
Best Dog Food for Great Danes May 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Great Danes for May 2024.
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1. Taste of the Wild
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Formula received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this product range made by Taste of the Wild.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from fish. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 30% protein, 18% fat and 45% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Taste of the Wild lists named meat sources as the first ingredient in these recipes along with several nutritionally beneficial foods such as tomatoes and blueberries which are both rich in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- High level of good protein
- USDA- approved
- Contains probiotics
Main Ingredients Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, pea flour Type Dry Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Yes - Maintenance Best For Dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Taste of the Wild"We have been feeding Taste of the Wild since our dogs were puppies. They love it. Our chow call is "You want to eat?" and they come running with tails wagging. We compete in dog sports and feel this food has contributed to our ability to condition our dogs in an outstanding manner. "
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2. Holistic Select
Holistic Select Large and Giant Breed Adult Health Chicken and Oatmeal received the Dog Food Advisor’s second-highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of five recipes in this product range made by Holistic Select.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 27% protein, 14% fat and 51% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
The main ingredients in this dog food are high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, along with added vitamins and minerals.
Read our review of the full Holistic Select Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- High-quality proteins
- Contains probiotics
- Free from anything artificial
Main Ingredients Chicken meal (source of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate), rice, oatmeal, oats, chicken fat Type Dry Protein Percentage 27% AAFCO Standards Yes - Maintenance Best For Dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Holistic"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!"
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3. Orijen
Orijen Puppy Large dry dog food received the Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this product range made by Orijen.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 43% protein, 18% fat and 31% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
Orijen uses high-quality fresh or raw poultry or fish in its recipes that are rich in natural sources of vitamins and minerals and include premium, fresh fruits, vegetables, and botanicals.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- No fillers
- Complete transparency
- Responsibly sourced ingredientsChicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, chicken liver
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, chicken liver Type Dry Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Orijen"My puppy loves this food! I started by mixing a little in with his old food and he ate it so fast. I did this for a few days before switching him completely over. They recommend this on the package and I think it worked great! It is so much healthier for him! It has plenty of protein for him which he needs. It smells good and he gets so excited when I feed him. I like the natural ingredients and am so happy I found this! Definitely a high-quality food!"
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4. Diamond
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Formula received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 13 recipes in this product range made by Diamond Naturals.
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Formula derives the bulk of its protein from lamb. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 17% fat and 45% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
This is an affordable, premium dog food that uses real chicken or lamb as the first ingredient and has added superfoods such as chia seeds, quinoa and spinach. It also contains fruits and vegetables like kale, carrots, blueberries, and papaya all for complete nutrition.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Added probiotics
- No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
- Some recipes contain DHA
Main Ingredients Lamb, Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Grain Sorghum Type Dry Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Diamond"Our puppy is doing so great on Diamond Naturals large puppy food. We will be switching to lamb and rice adult food after one year. Have always fed our dogs Diamonds and they live long happy lives."
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5. Eagle Pack
Eagle Pack Large and Giant Breed Adult dog food received the Advisor’s second-highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of seven recipes in this product range made by Eagle.
This particular recipe derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 28% protein, 13% fat and 51x% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48)%.
Eagle Pack is an affordable range of dog food that is high in protein. It contains natural ingredients that are full of essential vitamins and minerals and free from artificial flavors and preservatives.
Read our review of the full Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Naturally sourced vitamins and minerals
- Free of artificial ingredients
- High protein levels
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, pork meal, ground brown rice, oatmeal, rice Type Dry Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards Yes - Maintenance Best For Dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Eagle Pack"This is the only brand we use for our Great Danes. It has everything they need and nothing they don't. We tried another brand and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack and all is right again. Great product! Our vet approves too! "
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6. Canidae
Canidae ALS Large Breed dry dog food received our second-highest rating: 4.5 stars.
It is one of five recipes in this product range made by Canidae.
This Large Breed recipe derives the bulk of its protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 27% protein, 14% fat and 51% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Canidae dog food is made with high-quality animal protein sources, providing essential amino acids, and is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Read our review of the full Canidae All Life Stages Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- No corn, wheat or soy
- Vet certified
- Committed to sustainability
Main Ingredients Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Oatmeal, Barley Type Dry Protein Percentage 27% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Canidae"You cannot find a better brand and price on the market. Its first ingredient is turkey meal and it doesn't contain low-quality fillers. If you own a large breed dog or more than one, BUY IT!"
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7. Merrick
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Chicken and Brown Rice received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of 13 recipes in this product range made by Merrick.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Chicken and Brown Rice derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 11% fat and 45x% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
A premium range of dog food that uses high-quality ingredients from real, wholesome foods for superior nutrition and is locally sourced.
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Formulated by vets
- High levels of real meat protein
- USDA-certified
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, turkey meal Type Dry Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Yes - Maintenance Best For Dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Merrick"Merrick is a high-quality dog food that my dogs enjoy eating. When I feed it to them, I am confident that I am providing them with excellent nutrition. It has the perfect balance of meat and grains."
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8. Ollie
Ollie Fresh Chicken Dish with Carrots received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of five recipes in this product range made by Ollie.
Ollie Fresh Chicken Dish with Carrots derives the bulk of its protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 11% fat and 50% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
This is a fresh premium range of dog food made up of recipes crafted by experts. They contain nutrient-dense ingredients that are slow-cooked at low temperatures for maximum nutrition.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Fresh and whole ingredients
- Human-grade
- USDA-certified
Main Ingredients Chicken, rice, carrots, chicken livers, peas Type Fresh Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards Yes - All life stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"My dog used to leave his expensive breed specialized dog food in his bowl for hours before touching it. Since switching to Ollie he comes and finds me in the house and whines to be fed. He wags his tail when I feed him every time. He’s never done that before."
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9. Nom Nom
Nom Nom Beef Mash fresh dog food received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
It is one of four recipes in this product range made by Nom Nom.
This Beef Mash recipe derives the bulk of its protein from beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 35% protein, 17% fat and 40% carbohydrates . . . resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Nom Nom fresh dog food’s nutrient-packed recipes are formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists using wholesome ingredients and containing vital vitamins.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Meals tailored for each dog
- Human-grade
- Premium proteins
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Type Fresh Protein Percentage 35% AAFCO Standards Yes - 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!"
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 popular are Great Danes?
Great Danes are a giant breed of dog known for their imposing size and gentle nature. The American Kennel Club (AKC) consistently ranks Great Danes within the top 20 most popular breeds in the United States.
What are the main characteristics and traits of Great Danes?
Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds, with males typically standing 30-34 inches (76-86 cm) tall at the shoulder and weighing between 140-175 pounds (63-79 kg). Females are slightly smaller, standing 28-32 inches (71-81 cm) tall and weighing 110-140 pounds (50-63 kg). They have a muscular build, a deep chest, and a square-shaped body.
Great Danes have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including brindle, fawn, blue, black, and harlequin.
What is a Great Dane’s temperament like?
Great Danes are often described as gentle giants. They are generally known for their friendly, affectionate, and patient nature. They are typically good with children and can get along well with other animals when properly socialized. Great Danes are loyal and devoted to their families and can be protective if they perceive a threat. Despite their size, they are generally not aggressive or overly territorial.
How much exercise does a Great Dane need?
Despite their large size, Great Danes have moderate exercise needs. They require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated but are not as high-energy as some other breeds. Daily walks, playtime in a secure area, and mental stimulation through training or puzzle toys are beneficial for their overall well-being.
How easy are Great Danes to train?
Great Danes are intelligent and eager to please, which generally makes them trainable. However, their large size and strength require consistent and firm training methods, using positive reinforcement techniques. Early socialization is essential to expose them to different people, animals, and environments to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.
What health conditions can affect Great Danes?
Like many large breeds, Great Danes can be prone to certain health issues. Common health concerns for Great Danes include hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), heart disease, and certain genetic disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise can help mitigate some of these health risks.
