The best dog food for growing puppies

NBC Selected independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.DogsYes, there’s a difference between dog food and puppy food — here’s what vets have to sayExperts share how to choose the right food for your new puppy — and what to avoid.Updated July 16, 2026, 1:11 PM EDTMili GodioUpdates EditorSkip to table of contentsAll puppy food should meet nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).Maryna Terletska / Getty ImagesIn this articleOur top picksThe best dog food for puppiesHow I picked the best puppy foodWhat’s the difference between puppy food and adult dog food?How to shop for puppy foodFrequently asked questionsMeet our veterinary expertsWhy trust NBC Selected?See 5 MoreA lot of things come to mind when you get a new puppy: the kind of dog toys you should buy, how beneficial crate training actually is and if they really need their own bed, among other critical things. Perhaps the most important consideration, and certainly the most timely, is the best dog food to feed your new puppy — and what you should avoid.I spoke to veterinarians about the differences between puppy food and adult dog food, and how to determine which food has the best nutritional value for different kinds of dogs. I also compiled a list of highly rated, expert-backed recommendations.Selected.Our top picksBest overallHill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food$undefined$20.99AmazonLearn moreBest cannedPurina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Pate$undefined$14.35ChewyLearn moreBest budget-friendlyIAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food$undefined$29.97AmazonLearn moreBest for small breedsRoyal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food$undefined$27.99AmazonLearn moreBest for large breedsPurina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food$undefined$52.98AmazonLearn moreBest for giant breedsRoyal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food$undefined$109.99AmazonLearn moreBest for sensitive stom...