5 Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs in 2024

Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs

Discover the Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs: Whether you’re looking for grain-free options, organic ingredients, freeze-dried treats, or high-protein meals, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the ideal dog food options for your pregnant dog’s nutritional needs.

Top 5 Best Dog Food for Pregnant Dogs

This comprehensive review will explore the top five best dog foods for pregnant dogs available on the market. The selection is based on extensive research, personal opinions, and key factors such as popularity, quality, price, durability, and user opinions.

In this review, we will explore the top five best dog food options for pregnant dogs available on the market. Each product offers unique benefits that make them ideal for supporting the nutritional needs of pregnant dogs. Read on to discover the pros of each dog food and why they are suitable for pregnant dogs.

In Addition – The Easy Dog Pregnancy Calculator may be helpful to you.

1. Purina Beyond Adult Wet Dog Food

Purina Beyond Adult Wet Dog Food
FeatureDescription
Package SizeTwelve (12) 13 oz. cans
FormulaPurina Beyond Chicken, Carrot and Pea Ground Grain Free Wet Dog Food Natural Pate
Added Vitamins and MineralsIncludes added vitamins and minerals to support immune health
Protein SourceMade with real chicken as the number 1 ingredient
Grain-FreeDoes not contain corn, wheat, or soy
No Poultry-By-Product MealExcludes poultry-by-product meal from the ingredients list
No Artificial Colors, Flavors, or PreservativesFree from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Healthy IngredientsContains healthy ingredients, including carrots and peas

Purina Beyond’s grain-free formula provides easy digestion, making it an excellent choice for pregnancy dog food. The variety pack, featuring real beef, chicken, or salmon, ensures that your dog remains interested in her meals, even if her appetite fluctuates.

With fish meal as the primary ingredient, this dog food offers essential protein for maintaining energy levels. The addition of rich gravy satisfies your dog’s taste buds. It also contains essential omegas, vitamins, and minerals, promoting overall health and supporting the growth of unborn puppies.

2. Honest Kitchen Organic Whole Grain Dog Food

Honest Kitchen Organic Whole Grain Dog Food
FeatureDescription
IngredientsMade with real whole food ingredients including free-range chicken, organic oats, and bananas
Nutrient RetentionIngredients are gently dehydrated for maximum nutrient retention and digestion
Suitable forPuppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes, including large breed puppies and adult mothers
Easy PreparationJust add warm water for a wholesome and delicious meal. Can be served alone or used as a topper for dry food
Human Grade100% human-grade ingredients, produced in a human food facility for higher quality and safety standards
No Additives or FillersRecipe contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy
Natural and Made in USAMade with ingredients recognizable from your own kitchen and sourced from trusted sources worldwide

Made with simple and wholesome ingredients, including whole grains, this organic dehydrated dog food offers all-round nutrition beneficial for all stages of your dog’s pregnancy. While it has the lowest percentage of protein among the reviewed options, it provides natural energy and satisfies your dog’s hunger.

The moderate calorie content is suitable for maintaining appetite, and the formula is free from byproducts, preservatives, corn, wheat, or soy. Adding warm water enhances the meal’s soothing goodness, making it a comforting and high-quality choice for tired pregnant dogs.

3. ORIJEN Freeze-Dried Dog Treats

ORIJEN Freeze-Dried Dog Treats
FeatureDescription
Nutrient-Dense and High in ProteinOrijen original freeze-dried dog treats are packed with nutrients and offer a high protein content, providing a delicious reward for dogs.
Whole Free-Run Poultry and Wild-Caught FishThese treats contain whole free-run poultry and wild-caught fish as the primary ingredients, ensuring quality animal protein sources.
Biologically Appropriate and Grain-FreeOrijen treats are formulated to be biologically appropriate for dogs, meaning they align with their natural, biological needs. The treats are also grain-free, catering to dogs’ evolutionary diets.
Raw Animal IngredientsThe treats use raw animal ingredients, including meat, organs, cartilage, and bone. This approach ensures a closer resemblance to a dog’s natural diet, providing essential nutrients and promoting overall health.
Natural PreservativesOrijen treats are made with only natural preservatives, avoiding artificial additives or synthetic ingredients. This choice ensures that the treats remain as natural as possible for the dog’s well-being.
Ingredients Supplied by Trusted SourcesThe ingredients used in Orijen treats are supplied by trusted sources. This emphasizes their commitment to quality and safety, as they maintain relationships with suppliers they know and trust.
Delivered Raw in Natural and Nourishing FormThe ingredients are delivered to Orijen’s kitchen in their raw form, preserving their natural and nourishing properties. This approach helps retain the integrity of the ingredients, ensuring optimal nutrition for dogs.

These grain-free freeze-dried raw meat treats by ORIJEN are a delicious and nutritious option to treat your pregnant dog. Packed with protein sourced from chicken, turkey, and wild-caught monkfish, these treats offer essential omegas for your dog’s health.

The freeze-drying process preserves the ingredients’ natural flavor, aroma, and goodness, enticing your pet’s taste buds. Each large kibble contains only five calories but is rich in energy and nutrients, making it a well-deserved reward for your clever dog mom.

4. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
FeatureDescription
Love Is RawFreeze-Dried Raw dinner patties offering protein-rich taste and nutrition
Irresistible TasteMade of 95% chicken, organs, and bone for an irresistible taste dogs love
Whole Prey IngredientsDiet similar to what ancestors enjoyed, supporting healthy digestion, teeth, skin, coat, vitality
Grain FreeEasy to digest with no unnecessary fillers, suitable for canines of all life stages
Supports Whole Body HealthFortified with vitamins, minerals, fiber, probiotics, and taurine for overall well-being
Natural Nutrition100% organic fruits and veggies for antioxidants, immune system support, and energy
Great for Skin & CoatOmega fatty acids from pumpkin seeds and fenugreek seeds for skin and coat support

Sustainably sourced and made with 95% protein from cage-free chicken, these freeze-dried raw dinner patties provide an energy-boosting treat for pregnant dogs. The raw protein supports digestibility, making it easy to eat for dogs during their pregnancy.

Each patty offers 50 calories, making them suitable for dogs in the later stages of pregnancy or those with decreased appetite. These patties also contain 100% organic fruits and vegetables for balanced nutrition.

They are fortified with probiotics and can be rehydrated for even easier consumption.

5. Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe

Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe
FeatureDescription
Grain-Free FormulaThe dog food is grain-free, eliminating common allergens and fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy.
Freeze-Dried Raw ChickenContains freeze-dried raw chicken bites, providing a natural source of high-quality protein.
Probiotics for DigestionIncludes probiotics to support healthy digestion, promoting optimal nutrient absorption and gut health.
Omega Fatty AcidsRich in omegas, which contribute to healthy skin and a shiny coat, promoting overall coat and skin health.
No Artificial AdditivesFree from artificial colors, preservatives, and by-product meals, ensuring a more natural and wholesome diet.
Raw Boosted KibbleCombines high-protein, grain-free kibble with freeze-dried raw dog food toppers in one bag, offering variety and nutrition.
Complete and BalancedProvides complete and balanced nutrition suitable for dogs of all life stages, including puppies, seniors, and small breeds.
Made with Real IngredientsCrafted with pure, real nutrition from whole food ingredients and real meat, ensuring a protein-packed and minimally processed diet.
Made in the USAManufactured in the USA using high-quality ingredients sourced from around the world.
Comparisons to Other BrandsSuggested for comparison with other popular dog food brands, such as Blue Buffalo, Rachel Ray, and Hills Science Diet.

This premium dog food combines grain-free kibble with freeze-dried raw cage-free chicken, delivering a protein-rich meal that supports energy levels.

With added probiotics for digestive health, omegas for overall well-being, and antioxidants for optimal nutrition, this dry dog food is an excellent choice for the later stages of pregnancy and during nursing.

The absence of corn, potato, wheat, or soy makes it highly digestible, and its minimal processing retains the delicious real meat taste. Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe is a top-quality dry dog food for pregnant dogs.

How to choose dog food for a pregnant dog?

So, How to Choose Dog Food for a Pregnant Dog? Remember, every dog is unique, and the nutritional requirements may vary. Regular monitoring of the pregnant dog’s weight, and overall health and consultation with a veterinarian throughout the pregnancy is crucial to ensure she receives the appropriate nutrition for a healthy pregnancy and successful delivery of her puppies.

  • Metabolizable Energy: Look for dog food that provides 1600 kcal of metabolizable energy per pound of food. This information is usually available on the package label. Adequate metabolizable energy ensures that the pregnant dog receives sufficient calories to support her energy needs during pregnancy and nursing.
  • Protein Content: Check the protein content of the dog food. Choosing a food containing at least 22 percent protein is recommended. Protein is essential for the development of the mother dog’s body and the growth of the puppies.
  • Weight Management: Consider the pregnant dog’s weight. If she tends to put on excessive weight, it may be necessary to monitor her food intake and choose a dog food that is formulated for weight management. However, if weight gain is not a concern, allowing the pregnant or nursing dog to eat as much food as she wants is generally recommended. This helps ensure she receives sufficient nutrition to support her and her puppies’ needs.
  • Nutritional Balance: Look for dog food that provides a well-balanced diet with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Ensure the food meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines for all life stages or specifically states that it suits pregnant and nursing dogs.
  • Consult with a Veterinarian: It is always advisable to consult with a veterinarian when choosing dog food for a pregnant dog. They can provide personalized recommendations based on the dog’s needs, health conditions, and dietary restrictions.

FAQs- People also ask

To further help, here are some answers to questions you may have about Pregnant Dogs Food.

Is egg good for pregnant dogs?

Yes, eggs can be beneficial for pregnant dogs. Here’s why:

  • Protein-Rich: Eggs are a rich source of protein, which is essential for supporting the growth and development of both the mother dog and her unborn puppies.
  • Linoleic Acid: Eggs contain linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid crucial in maintaining healthy skin, and a shiny coat for the pregnant dog.
  • Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Eggs are a natural source of fat-soluble vitamins, including Vitamin A. These vitamins contribute to overall health, immune function, and vision.

What food helps dogs produce milk?

The food that helps dogs produce milk includes milk thistle, zinc, and apricot. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any supplements to ensure they are safe and suitable for your dog.

Is milk OK for pregnant dogs?

Yes, milk can be given to pregnant dogs, but it’s important to ensure that it contains phosphorus and calcium. These nutrients are essential for supporting sufficient milk production for nursing puppies.

Can I feed chicken to a pregnant dog?

Yes, you can feed chicken to a pregnant dog. Chicken is a high-quality source of protein for dogs, which is important during pregnancy and nursing. In addition to chicken, other suitable protein options include turkey, beef, lamb, and fish, as long as your dog is not allergic to any of these ingredients. Eggs and dairy products can also be good secondary sources of quality protein for pregnant dogs.

Is chicken breast good for pregnant dogs?

Yes, chicken breast is good for pregnant dogs. It can be a healthy addition to their diet during pregnancy. It provides a good source of lean protein, which is important for their overall health and the development of their puppies.  

What can pregnant dogs drink?

During pregnancy, pregnant dogs can drink the following:

  • Raw Goat’s Milk: Raw goat’s milk is a nutritious option that can provide a boost of energy for pregnant dogs.
  • Raw Honey: Raw honey can be added to the dog’s diet to provide additional energy and nutrients.
  • Yogurt or Kefir: Yogurt or kefir can be given to pregnant dogs as they contain beneficial probiotics and can support digestion.

When should I increase my pregnant dog’s food?

You should increase your pregnant dog’s food intake around weeks six to seven of her pregnancy. During the first five weeks, there is no need for a significant increase in food.

However, as the dog’s weight increases during weeks six and seven, you can provide approximately 25 percent more food to meet her growing nutritional needs.

Do pregnant dogs need water?

Yes, pregnant dogs need water. It is essential to ensure that a pregnant dog stays hydrated, especially during birthing.

While it is normal for a dog to refuse food before giving birth, it is important to encourage her to drink water. Adequate water intake helps prevent dehydration and supports the overall well-being of the mother dog during this critical time.

Conclusion

Selecting the right dog food for your pregnant dog is crucial for her health and the development of her puppies. Based on our research and personal opinion, the top five dog foods reviewed here offer a range of options suitable for different dietary needs and preferences.

So, What food is best for pregnant dogs? Consider the specific requirements of your pregnant dog and choose the food that best meets her nutritional needs. Ensure a healthy and happy pregnancy for your dog by providing her with the best dog food available on the market.