Best Dog Foods For Poodles: Puppies, Adults & Seniors – LoveYourDog.com

Are you curious about what foods is the best for your Standard Poodle? That all depends on what their needs are and many other factors. Let’s take a closer look at the world of Poodle nutrition to help you find the best choice for your pup.
Last Updated: January 5, 2023 | 11 min read
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Are you looking for the best dog food for your new Poodle puppy? Or maybe you’re looking to switch to a better-quality diet? Whatever your reason for being here, we compare our favorite food brands for the Standard Poodle, offering you a wide selection. We take you through each of the Poodle’s life stages, from puppyhood to their senior years, so you know what nutrients they need and when. Making your choice a whole lot easier.
The standard-sized Poodle is a large dog that typically weighs between 40 and 70 pounds. They are also very active and need plenty of concentrated energy to keep them fueled for their busy day. This guide is specifically for the standard-sized Poodle. If you’re looking for food recommendations for a toy or miniature-sized Poodle, you need to head to our small breed food recommendations.
Feeding your Poodle a high-quality diet plays a massive part in keeping them healthy, too, so finding the best dog food for your Poodle is a significant decision. We only recommend brands and products that do much better than meeting the expected standards. Let’s take a closer look.
Best For Puppies
Instinct Raw Large Breed Puppy
Best For Adults
The Farmer’s Dog
Best For Seniors
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Senior
Contents
The Poodle puppy has specific needs compared to an adult, so feeding them food specifically designed for puppies is essential. They have a lot of development to do, and they grow at a fast pace. Growth requires high levels of protein, fatty acids, and other nutrients. Without them, they cannot develop into a healthy adult. So it’s essential to feed them a high-quality diet that meets these crucial needs. Arguably, puppyhood is the most critical life stage as it sets the foundations for a healthy body and lifestyle.
According to the MSD veterinary manual, puppies need a protein content of at least 22%. Meat protein should always be the first ingredient, a sign of top quality. High-quality dog food should also contain vitamins and minerals from fruits, vegetables, and added supplements.
Omega fatty acids are one of the most critical nutrients in a puppy’s diet as it assists with the healthy development of eye and brain function and overall health. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid present in mothers’ milk and essential for puppy growth. Look for ingredients such as eggs, fish, fish oils, animal fat, and flaxseeds that are rich sources of these fats.
When your Poodle reaches 12 months, it is time to start transitioning them to adult food. The MSD manual states that adult dogs need a minimum protein content of 18%. By now, you should know what proteins your dog prefers, or is allergic to, so choose accordingly. Although healthy fats are still essential, they need less than puppies as they are almost full-size, so it is vital to switch them to well-balanced adult food.
The number of calories your Poodle needs depends on their size and lifestyle, so it’s essential to follow the feeding instructions according to what your Poodle needs. As a very active dog breed, standard-sized Poodles rarely become overweight. But if yours does, in addition to speaking to a vet, it’s sensible to switch them to a weight management diet. We recommend two great diet products at the end of this guide.
As your Poodle reaches retirement age, which is around the age of eight years, it’s important to transition them to food better suited to seniors. Seniors are less active, and their digestive system begins to slow down, requiring less energy, fat, and protein. But they still need healthy fats to nourish their skin and coat, assist with brain function, and manage their overall wellness.
Senior foods should have higher levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, which support aging joints. These nutrients are in meat meals, bone, fish products, eggs, and as supplements too. Vitamins and minerals are essential as they support your Poodle’s immune system to fight disease and stay healthy.
Finding your Poodle puppy high-quality food is essential. There is a selection of food to choose from, including dry kibble, wet or canned food, fresh food, freeze-dried food, or raw food. The type of food you choose depends on factors such as time and budget and your preferences. There are several diets and brands you can choose for your pup. Let’s take a look at them.

Instinct Raw is a high-quality brand mixed with raw toppers for added crunch, taste, and nutrients for your growing Poodle pup. The raw toppers are freeze-dried, so they maintain most of the goodness from raw meat without the worry that some owners feel about raw food.
The first ingredient is tasty cage-free chicken meeting your pup’s growing needs, along with chicken meal, fish meal, and eggs. Freeze-dried chicken liver and heart are highly nutritious and provide DHA for your pup’s eye and brain function. Dried kelp, montmorillonite clay, and other fruits and veggies support your pup’s immune system.
We love that this product provides a mixture of kibble and raw toppers. Raw toppers are full of nutrient-dense ingredients and a big taste that Poodles love.
Diamond Naturals is a popular formula adored by puppies and owners who appreciate the budget-friendly price tag. It is designed with large breed puppies in mind, meaning it can help to reduce the chances of developing joint dysplasia. The first ingredient is tasty but easy-to-digest lamb, which is great for pups who find more common proteins harder to process. The protein content is 27%, which is great.
This Diamond Naturals formula also contains lamb and fish meal which is great for their DHA needs, plus salmon oil. These ingredients also do wonders for their skin and coat health too. It is fortified with probiotics, promoting gut-friendly bacteria. Superfoods, including chia seeds, pumpkin, blueberries, papaya, coconut, and dried kelp, boost doggy immune systems, ensuring they can fight disease.
We love that choice is a gentle lamb formula. Plus, it is a budget-friendly option without compromising on high-quality nutrition.
This is a natural dry dog food specifically designed for the growing needs of large-breed puppies. Wellness Complete lists chicken and chicken meal as the first two ingredients, providing your pup’s muscles with the energy they need. Salmon meal and oil follow shortly after delivering a mixture of protein, nutrients, and essential DHA.
Wholesome grains such as brown rice are listed, which is excellent for owners who want to feed their pup a grain-inclusive diet. It does not contain GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or preservatives like other kibbles. Dried kibble is a convenient way of feeding your puppy, and it is ideal for pups who find fresh and raw food too rich.
We love that this is a high-quality food that gives your large pup everything they need. This option is convenient for busy families without compromising on quality.
Cali Raw is another one of our favorite subscription services, this time offering nutrient-dense raw food. Unlike other raw brands, Cali Raw has two puppy-specific formulas, so you can be sure your puppy is getting everything they need. Choices include chicken and beef or turkey and lamb. Liver and neck are among the protein ingredients, as a rich source of nutrients like glucosamine and DHA.
Cali Raw offers a starter pack, so you can try it out before subscribing to a more significant order. Plus, they also offer a build-your-own box for a tailored choice which is great if your pup likes a variety of flavors. Your subscription is flexible and can be canceled or changed at any time, and they offer discounts for regular customers.
We love that this is one of the few subscription services offering raw food specifically for puppies. This is an excellent option if you want your pup to have a biologically appropriate diet.
The Farmer’s Dog is a subscription-based service that offers fresh-frozen dog food delivered straight to your door. Each recipe is AAFCO certified for all life stages, feeding your young or older adult with everything they need. There are four grain-free recipes with a mixture of high-quality meats as the first ingredient. You can choose from beef, chicken, pork, and turkey.
Owners can customize their plan based on their dog’s current and ideal weight, age, activity levels, and health. Because every Poodle is unique, they get the right amount of food they need. Each recipe is made with human-grade food from USDA-approved kitchens, using only the best. Depending on the recipe, they contain a mix of fruits and veggies, such as sweet potatoes and green beans, for added energy and goodness.
We love that these recipes are cooked fresh according to your Poodle’s specific dietary needs, and they are sure to get everything they need and more. If their needs change, so can your order. Farmer’s Food takes the guesswork out of your dog’s diet.
Natural Balance has created this formula for large-breed dogs who struggle with digestive issues. It is a limited ingredient formula that uses one protein, which is easy-to-digest lamb. This formula only uses seven ingredients making it less complex. Many Poodles suffer from sensitive stomachs, making this a great choice. This food is rich in vitamins and minerals, meeting your Poodle’s nutritional needs.
Brown rice is also a gentle grain that is easy to break down while having all the energy a Poodle needs. Canola oil is an excellent source of fatty acids for your active Poodles’ skin, coat, and joints. The kibble pieces are extra-large, which is great for large dogs who like extra crunchy dinners.
We love that this limited-ingredient recipe is the best option for Poodles who find many diets difficult to digest.
There are eight formulas to pick from, including a mixture of beef, venison, boar, duck, turkey, rabbit, salmon, and trout. The protein content ranges from 32% to 35%, depending on which recipe you choose, making it a high-protein option. Each formula contains a long and varied list of proteins, ensuring that your Poodle’s active muscles receive all the energy and maintenance power they need to thrive.
Each piece is freeze-dried and raw-coated in addition to the raw toppers, making it irresistible and tasty. It is high in omega fatty acids and glucosamine, ideal for active adults. If your Poodle likes big flavors, this could be a great option. This range includes wholesome grain options plus grain and gluten-free choices too.
We love that the adult recipe is infused with freeze-dried raw toppers, combining the convenience of kibble and the nutritional benefits of raw diets.
Blue Buffalo provides top-quality products while not breaking the bank. This kibble is part of the Life Protection range, which suits most dogs, delivering what they need while not being too rich and challenging to digest. Deboned chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients, so your pup will have 22% protein content.
Blueberries, cranberries, and dried kelp are highly nutritious, ensuring your Poodle’s immune system stays fighting fit. Seven superfoods are in the LifeSource Bits, too, and provide extra texture for added interest. Wholesome whole grains give your Poodle plenty of energy and make it feel fuller for longer. This option is a high-fiber pick, which is excellent for forever-hungry dogs.
We love that this budget-friendly option contains everything that active large dog breeds need, plus extra pieces containing antioxidant-rich ingredients.
Spot & Tango are another subscription-based fresh service, but they have two ranges. The first is a high protein fresh line, and the other is their “non-kibble” kibble range. This is an excellent option for senior dogs who might find fresh food too rich to digest. The “non-kibble” range is slow-cooked at a low temperature and then dried, creating fresh kibble. This food must be used within three to four weeks, but it combines the nutritious freshness and convenience of kibble.
This brand always uses human-grade ingredients, and the packaging is eco-friendly too. They list non-GMO and antioxidant-rich ingredients such as apples, cranberries, blueberries, sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach. Spot & Tango is hassle-free and can be changed at any time.
We love that this subscription-based fresh food service caters to your senior Poodle’s needs depending on their size, activity level, and health. So you can find the best fit for your pup.
This is the senior version of the Blue Buffalo pick from the adult section. So, if your pup thrives on that recipe, they should love this less-rich, easier-to-digest version. It also contains the anti-oxidant-rich LifeSource Bits made with seven superfoods, which are needed now more than before in their senior years. Created with old dogs in mind, this recipe has fewer calories for less active dogs.
Like before, the first ingredient is chicken, ensuring lots of taste and protein. The following ingredients include wholesome brown rice and oatmeal, which is gentler on senior stomachs. Blue Buffalo has added glucosamine for joint support too. It ensures enough omega fatty acids to keep their drying skin soft and supple without making it too rich.
We love that this recipe continues from our adult recommendation. So, if your Poodle like this high-quality but budget-friendly pick, this is the obvious choice.
Here is another product featured in previous recommendations for the Poodle. If your older Poodle still craves a big meaty taste, this is a great option. Chicken features heavily in this recipe and is the first ingredient, as your Poodle’s muscles and overall health are cared for with the high protein content. Eggs provide DHA for continued brain function into their older years.
Instinct Raw combines the convenience of dried kibble with raw goodness that dogs love into their golden years. This is a grain-free recipe that is essential for some dogs who struggle to digest grains. L-carnitine is listed, which stimulates metabolism helping your old Poodle to stay trim and lean. Plus, glucosamine is a bonus for your dog’s achy joints.
We love that this kibble with raw topper pieces is an excellent pick for Poodles, who have always thrived on a freeze-dried kibble infusion.
Hill’s Science Diet is another trusted and famous dog food brand. This recipe is for dogs seven years and over, focusing on maintaining vitality in their later years. Chicken is the first ingredient, but it isn’t too rich compared to some of the other recipes, which some senior Poodles need. L-carnitine is present in the formula, which helps old dogs feel youthful and stimulates their metabolism.
Carrots and spinach are just some nutrient-rich ingredients that help support your dog’s immune system. With added vitamins and minerals, you can be sure their body gets everything it needs. This grain-inclusive recipe lists rice and barley, providing slow-release energy throughout the day. It is also full of healthy fatty acids to keep their coat looking and feeling healthy.
We love that this simple, limited-ingredient formula provides your Poodle with everything they need in the senior years while being super simple to digest.
It is rare for Poodles to become overweight. But like most things in life, you can never say never. Should your Poodle start piling on extra pounds that they don’t need, you need to change their diet to one better suited to their needs and lifestyle. Remember that the recommendations below usually work better with a more active lifestyle.
Ollie is a subscription-based service that allows you to tailor their recipes to your dogs’ needs. They consider your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. So, if they need fewer calories than before but all the nutrients, they can calculate precisely what your dog needs. Ollie only uses human-grade ingredients free from artificial preservatives and fillers.
They also offer grain-free and grain-inclusive options. They have a range of recipes and use free-range beef, turkey, chicken, and lamb. So, whatever your Poodle needs and likes, they can have it while losing weight. Each recipe only uses one meat protein, making recipes more straightforward to break down. They list nutrient-rich ingredients such as carrots, coconut, pumpkin, blueberries, kale, broccoli, and lentils.
We love that this food can be tailored to your dog’s lifestyle, ensuring that they only eat what they should be. Taking the guesswork and stress away from the Poodle parent.
Holistic Select has designed this recipe with porky pups in mind, listing ingredients that work together to achieve weight loss while still getting everything they need. The first ingredients are chicken meal and peas, which are nutritious and full of goodness. Chicken meal is rich in glucosamine which supports your Poodle’s heavily laden joints.
Probiotics and live yogurt cultures provide your dog with digestive support. Antioxidants such as apples, cranberries, pumpkin, papayas, and blueberries provide all the goodness your dog needs for their body to work as it should. This high-fiber diet helps your dog feel fuller for longer, and yucca schidigera extract promotes stool health.
We love that this high-quality weight management recipe is convenient to help you achieve effective weight loss.
The standard-sized Poodle is a large dog breed that needs plenty of energy to do what it does. Their large and active muscles need high-quality protein, and their skin and coat need omega fatty acids to be nourished. As your Poodle grows, their nutritional needs do too, and you need to transition them slowly. All of our recommendations are highly nutritious, and with a wide choice, there is something here for every Poodle.
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