Best Dog Food for Australian Cattle Dog: Boost Performance and Health

Australian cattle dogs are strong herders known to be highly intelligent, sometimes even more so than their owners! This is a small dog with a muscular build that grows up to 19 inches if female and 20 inches if male.

They generally weigh between 35 and 40 pounds. The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes the Australian Cattle Dog’s temperament as “alert, curious, and pleasant.”

These talented dogs are born with a white coat that over time turns red or blue-grey with a speckled pattern throughout. They have endless amounts of energy and are well known for their chasing and hunting abilities, along with their ability to mobilize farm animals of course.

These dogs love to run – and they’re great at it. Since this is a pup that has a natural inclination toward rigorous exercise, pet parents need to be heavily involved in maintaining an active lifestyle for their Australian cattle dog. If this physical requirement is not met, this dog’s boredom will lead him into mischievous activities.

The Australian Cattle Dog is very athletic and requires balanced nutrition to keep up with his energetic nature. High-quality dog food is a must, along with providing the right type of dog food throughout the different stages of life, ranging from puppy to senior.

If you’re wondering where to start to find the best dog food for Australian cattle dogs, look no further. This guide covers the special dietary considerations and key nutritional needs of your Australian cattle dog and includes our top picks for high-quality dog foods available on the market.

A puppy feeding chart provides ample information for the first critical year of your pup’s life, starting at the 6-week mark until he reaches one year of age.

At the end of this guide, you will find a section for frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide you with enough information to pick the best, most nutritious food for your loyal companion.

 

Best Dog Food for Australian Cattle Dog

1. Ollie Fresh Pet Food Delivery

Ollie's healthy turkey feast formula is created by veterinarians with ingredients safe enough for human consumption. These formulas are specially designed for your favorite canine companion. All ingredients go through a gentle cooking process that allows nutrients to remain intact and be delivered for the optimal health of your pet.

There are no artificial flavors in their recipes, which lets your pup enjoy the natural flavors of all the wholesome ingredients included in his meal. If your pup has a sensitive stomach or is prone to allergies, this is a great option because it also omits those pesky fillers like soy, corn, and wheat that can cause stomach upset or allergy flare-ups.

The primary animal protein source included in this recipe comes from turkey. It also includes vegetables and fruits like carrots for eye health, blueberries for antioxidant support, and chia seeds, a superfood for extra health benefits.

This meal is not only a delicious option your Australian Cattle Dog will love, Ollie also makes it easy for you as a pup parent by delivering all of these fresh ingredients right to your front door. It’s a win-win for you and your adored four-legged companion.

---

2. We Feed Raw Lamb Recipe

This Lamb Recipe Patty is a testament to the brand’s commitment to redefining pet nutrition with premium raw diet options.

Although relatively new to the industry, We Feed Raw has quickly gained a reputation for excellence by prioritizing quality and transparency in their products.

This lamb recipe is expertly formulated by a PhD nutritionist to ensure it meets all of your dog's dietary needs, delivering the perfect balance of essential nutrients.

Crafted with 100% USDA-inspected, human-grade lamb, this recipe offers a wholesome and safe choice for your furry friend. Plus, they make mealtime effortless by offering FREE nationwide cold-shipping, ensuring your pet’s food arrives fresh, frozen, and ready to serve.

The brand is leading the charge in pet nutrition innovation, offering a fresh, thoughtful approach to nourishing your beloved pet.

---

3. Jinx Beef, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato

This is a thoughtfully crafted, high-quality meal designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.

Made with premium ingredients like real beef as the first ingredient, wholesome brown rice, and nutrient-dense sweet potato, this kibble provides a well-rounded diet that supports your pet's overall health and vitality.

Enhanced with a proprietary blend of probiotics, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids, it promotes healthy digestion, a strong immune system, and a shiny coat.

Jinx focuses on using clean, minimally processed ingredients, free from artificial additives, fillers, or common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy, making it a wholesome choice for your furry friend.

With its thoughtful combination of high-quality ingredients and science-backed enhancements, this is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a nutritious and delicious meal for their canine companions.

---

4. Farmina Natural & Delicious Chicken & Ancestral Puppy Formula

This puppy formula by Farmina combines quality ingredients that provide your pup with protein, fat, and carbohydrates that are specially measured out to support his development. This chicken recipe omits peas, by-products, and legumes to avoid digestive issues.

Vitamins in this recipe are coated after cooking so they can maintain their freshness as your Australian Cattle Dog enjoys his meals day by day. Since the nutrients are better preserved, your four-legged friend is getting a balanced meal packed with the good stuff during each feeding time.

---

5. Natural Balance L.I.D. Sweet Potato & Salmon Formula

For Sensitive Stomach: Natural Balance’s sweet potato and fish formula has a limited set of ingredients that provides a small amount of carbs and leaves out unnecessary artificial elements. Salmon provides the main animal protein source in this recipe and sweet potatoes provide fiber to encourage a healthy digestive system.

Healthy skin and good coat health is promoted via the omega fatty acids incorporated into this formula. If your Australian Cattle Dog has had a hard time adjusting to other dog foods, a limited ingredient product is worth trying.

These recipes are crafted without common allergens to provide dogs with high-quality nutrition that supports their health.

---

6. Evolve Deboned Turkey & Sweet Potato Recipe

This is a good option if you are a pet owner on a budget. This is a premium-quality, nutrient-rich option designed to meet the unique dietary needs of dogs at all life stages.

Crafted with deboned turkey as the first ingredient, this formula delivers a high-protein foundation to support lean muscle development and overall health.

Sweet potatoes and other wholesome vegetables provide a natural source of fiber, vitamins and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout the day.

This recipe is entirely grain-free, making it an excellent choice for pets with sensitivities to grains or gluten. Enriched with omega fatty acids from flaxseed and fish meal, it promotes a healthy coat and skin, while added prebiotics and probiotics support optimal digestive health.

Free from artificial flavors, colors and preservatives, Evolve ensures that only the finest, natural ingredients make it into your dog’s bowl. The result is a delicious, well-balanced meal that dogs love and pet parents trust for their furry companions.

---

7. ZIWI Peak Chicken with Orchard Fruits Recipe

This unique kibble offers a carefully crafted, nutrient-dense diet that combines premium proteins and wholesome ingredients to support your dog’s overall well-being.

It features free-range chicken as the primary ingredient, ethically sourced without added hormones or antibiotics, ensuring a clean and natural protein source that promotes lean muscle development and sustained energy.

The inclusion of chicken organs such as heart and liver provides a natural source of essential vitamins, minerals and taurine, crucial for heart and eye health.

Infused with the goodness of orchard fruits like apples and pears, this recipe delivers a boost of natural antioxidants, fiber and vitamins for a healthy digestive system and a strong immune response.

The addition of New Zealand green-lipped mussels, a powerhouse ingredient, offers a rich source of glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility.

This air-dried formula eliminates the need for artificial preservatives, relying instead on a gentle steam (Z-microsteam Technology) and drying process that locks in flavor and nutrients.

Free from grains, soy, and fillers, ZIWI Peak caters to dogs with sensitive stomachs or specific dietary needs. The recipe is also enriched with kelp, a nutrient-dense seaweed, and cold-washed tripe for enhanced gut health and improved digestion.

With every bite, your dog enjoys a biologically appropriate, highly digestible meal that mirrors their ancestral diet, making it a natural, wholesome choice for your canine companion.

---

8. PetPlate FreshBaked Beef Recipe

A wholesome meal designed to deliver optimal nutrition and incredible taste for your beloved dog.

Made with human-grade ingredients, this recipe highlights real beef as the primary protein source, ensuring a rich supply of high-quality amino acids for strong muscles and overall vitality.

Complementing the beef are nutrient-packed vegetables such as sweet potatoes and carrots, providing a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to support digestion and boost immune health.

This gently baked and air-dried preparation method locks in the food’s natural flavors and nutrients while maintaining a satisfying texture that dogs adore.

The formula is crafted without artificial preservatives, colors or flavors, giving you peace of mind that your pet is enjoying a clean and natural meal.

Additionally, this grain-free recipe excludes fillers such as wheat, corn and soy, making it an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

Enriched with essential fatty acids from ingredients like flaxseed and fish oil, this recipe promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin. The inclusion of a carefully balanced blend of vitamins and minerals ensures your dog receives complete and balanced nutrition in every bite.

Whether used as a full meal or a topper, this is a delectable, health-focused option that makes mealtime both enjoyable and nourishing for your furry friend.

---

9. 360 Pet Nutrition Raw Formula Multi-Protein Formula

This is a nutrient-dense, biologically appropriate diet meticulously crafted to mimic the ancestral diet of dogs. This top-tier meal features a blend of high-quality proteins, including chicken, salmon, whitefish and beef, providing a robust source of essential amino acids to support muscle development, energy levels, and overall health.

Complementing the protein blend are nutrient-packed organ meats like liver and heart, delivering natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and taurine for heart and eye health.

This freeze-dried raw formula retains the nutritional integrity and flavors of its raw ingredients, thanks to a gentle dehydration process that locks in essential nutrients while ensuring a shelf-stable and convenient meal option.

With zero grains, gluten, artificial additives and fillers, it caters to dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, promoting healthy digestion and reducing the risk of adverse reactions.

The recipe also includes superfoods like blueberries, spinach, broccoli and kelp, which are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients to boost immune function and overall vitality.

Omega fatty acids from natural sources support a shiny coat and healthy skin, while the formula's prebiotics and probiotics promote optimal gut health and nutrient absorption. Whether served as a complete meal or as a topper, it offers a convenient, wholesome and delicious way to fuel your dog’s natural instincts and keep them thriving every day.

---

10. Pawstruck Fish Recipe

Another premium, high-protein meal crafted to provide optimal nutrition and irresistible taste for your furry companion.

This recipe features sustainably sourced fish as the primary ingredient, offering a rich source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids to support muscle development, a shiny coat, and healthy skin.

The inclusion of nutrient-packed organ meats enhances the meal with essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring a well-rounded and biologically appropriate diet.

Antioxidants encourage immune system health, keeping colds from afflicting your beloved pup. The high protein content will give your Australian Cattle Dog the energy he requires for those long working days.

This grain-free formula is thoughtfully designed for dogs with dietary sensitivities, omitting common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.

The air-dried preparation locks in the food’s natural nutrients and flavors, delivering the benefits of a raw diet in a convenient, shelf-stable format.

---

 

6 Special Dietary and Nutritional Considerations

• Glucosamine – Athletic dogs love their regular exercise and require healthy joints, bones, and muscles to keep movement agile and comfortable. Glucosamine is naturally found inside your Australian cattle dog’s body, primarily held in healthy cartilage. Glucosamine assists with the production of glycosaminoglycan, which aids with repairing body tissue. When dogs enter the later stages of their lives, the natural production of glucosamine slows down, causing the repair process to become less efficient. This is ultimately what can lead to painful arthritic issues. Therefore, providing glucosamine as a supplement along with your pup’s food can help with rebuilding cartilage to promote ease of movement. Glucosamine has multiple benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects, lubrication of joints, and an overall increase in mobility, keeping your naturally active dog thriving and pain-free.
• Chondroitin – Chondroitin is often supplemented alongside glucosamine because they complement each other in their effects within the body. Chondroitin protects cartilage from damage, aids with nutrient absorption into cartilage, and stimulates cartilage fusion. When delivered to your dog via high-quality dog food products, chondroitin works in tandem with glucosamine to protect and assist with tissue repair to keep dogs active and prevent the development of issues like hip dysplasia, arthritis, knee ligament injuries, and other common conditions found in aging dogs, especially those that have led an athletic lifestyle.
• Probiotics – Probiotics serve several important functions, primarily helping with digestion to make mealtimes comfortable and efficient. Probiotics are especially important when a pup has a sensitive stomach, as a little extra digestive boost can make a world of difference. Probiotics also contain essential fatty acids that help with the promotion and maintenance of a healthy coat and healthy skin and they even have the capacity to stimulate your pup’s automatic anti-inflammatory response.
• Antioxidants – Antioxidants not only help with maintaining the freshness of your pup’s favorite dog food, they serve a more important function: maintaining the health of your pup. Antioxidants work by tackling free radicals that can wreak havoc on the body. Free radicals are single atoms that travel through the body, damaging cells and DNA. Free radicals thrive in an unwell body, particularly a malnourished one. This is why antioxidants are so crucial – they have the power to calm scavenging free radicals, preventing them from further damaging the body. Antioxidants promote optimal health by boosting the immune system and working tirelessly to counter the effects of free radicals in the body.
• High Protein – Since your Australian Cattle Dog expends tons of energy in his daily pursuits, he requires a diet that is high in protein to meet his needs for boundless energy. Whether you are feeding dry dog food or wet dog food, you will want to choose an option that has a high protein content; higher than standard dog food options. This will ensure your active dog is receiving the nutrition needed to supply his energy and strengthen his lean muscle mass.
• High Fat – Similar to your Australian Cattle Dog’s requirement for high protein, high fat is suggested for this highly active dog to pack him with sustained energy that will fuel him throughout long days of vigorous exercise. This pup will burn right through his daily caloric intake and keeping a diet high in fat will ensure he is getting optimal nutrition to keep him energized throughout his days.

5 Key Nutritional Needs of a Puppy

• Animal protein – Animal protein is a required staple in the diet of an Australian Cattle Dog. These dogs are extra active and energetic and require the support protein provides. When reviewing dog food labels, be sure that an animal protein source is listed as the main ingredient. Protein provides the amino acids that your pup needs to keep his muscle mass lean and optimized. Many dog foods also incorporate plant proteins which can be great additions for balanced nutrition, but ultimately, your Australian Cattle Dog needs to eat meat!
• Fat and Fatty Acids – Fat is ultra-important for this inherently sporty dog. Fat provides long-lasting energy, facilitates the absorption of nutrients, and regulates hormones. Without fat, your Australian Cattle Dog will be unable to thrive and reach its potential for physical activity and mental acuity. Fatty acids protect his skin and coat health, making sure his spotted coat gleams with signs of health.
• Fiber – Fiber is a great helper when it comes to digestive health. When consumed as a part of a balanced diet, your pup’s intestinal bacteria will ferment it into fatty acids so that they can assist with the prevention of bad bacteria overgrowth and colon recovery. Although an important component for digestive health, the overconsumption of fiber can create stomach upset in your pup. A little goes a long way with fiber.
• Carbohydrates – Carbohydrates are helpful with delivering instant energy to your pup. Highly active dogs can burn through their carbohydrates with ease, but it is not suggested they eat a diet with a high carbohydrate count. In fact, carbohydrates are generally best when provided in smaller amounts, especially with your Australian Cattle Dog that will do best when the focus is on protein and fat.
• Water – It is likely your Australian Cattle Dog loves guzzling down some fresh water following a long run or hard day’s work. Water adequately quenches his thirst, but it does more than that. It serves as a mobilizer, helping nutrients from food move throughout the body so they can do their work. Water also helps with joint mobility, as it freely offers lubrication. Being that joint health is vital for your Australian Cattle Dog, you will want to make sure your pup is staying hydrated.

Australian Cattle Dog Puppy Feeding Chart

• 6 Week Old Australian Cattle Dog – During this tender stage, your Australian Cattle Dog is small and adorable and should still be with his litter. Canine moms have all the nutrients your pup requires at this stage and he should still be suckling milk to take in the nutritional boost mom is best suited to provide.
• 10 Week Old Australian Cattle Dog – At this age, your puppy should be getting about four meals per day. He will be needing lots of protein and fat to support his athletic build and provide energy for all of his daily play and exercise. Pay mind to the dog food feeding instructions to be sure you are providing enough calories per day.
• 12 Week Old Australian Cattle Dog – At twelve weeks, your pup should be maintaining his four mealtimes per day structured feeding routine. He will be steadily growing, using up all the nutrients provided to prepare him for adulthood.
• 3 Month Old Australian Cattle Dog – At three months, meals can be provided three times per day. High-quality foods made for puppies that have high protein and fat content are the most suitable. Your pup has several months of growth left before reaching adulthood.
• 5 Month Old Australian Cattle Dog – At five months, some pet parents begin to reduce meals to twice per day; however, you may still continue to feed three times per day, depending on how your pup reacts. Heed feeding instructions but incorporate flexibility to keep your pup satiated and not underfed.
• 1 Year Old Australian Cattle Dog – Your dog has reached adulthood at this stage! Two meals per day will be adequate. Just be mindful and provide extra calories on days with vigorous exercise.

Our Feeding Guide

• Puppy Australian Cattle Dog – During puppyhood, your Australian Cattle Dog will need to eat about three to four times per day. These dogs are highly active, and you may find that they request more food than what is suggested in their feeding instructions. Since these pups are natural athletes, so long as they are getting adequate daily exercise and burning their caloric intake, they can be provided with extra food to satisfy their appetites. A puppy between four to 12 months old should be weighing approximately 20 – 30 pounds at this stage.
• Adult Australian Cattle Dog – When your Australian Cattle Dog reaches adulthood at one year, you can minimize feeding times to twice per day. The same considerations should apply as during puppyhood, taking into account how much activity your pup is participating in will affect how much food is fed on a daily basis. At this stage, your pup should have reached his adult weight, up to 40 pounds.
• Senior Australian Cattle Dog – During the senior stage, your Australian Cattle Dog will be slowing down and will require less calories per day. You can reduce his meal amounts according to his reduction in activity to prevent weight gain. Extra glucosamine and chondroitin will be super helpful during this stage to help with any joint or mobility issues. At this age, your pup should he maintaining his adult weight.

Final Say

The best dog food for Australian Cattle Dogs is one that meets their specific nutritional needs as active working dogs. A high-protein diet is essential, as these dogs have high energy requirements and need protein to support their muscle development and overall health. Look for dog foods that list a high-quality source of animal protein, such as beef, chicken, or lamb, as the main ingredient.

In addition to protein, a balanced and complete nutrition is crucial for this breed. They require a well-rounded diet that includes carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to support their overall health and wellbeing. Avoid dog foods that contain excessive fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives, as these may not provide the optimal nutrition that they need.

Consider your dog's age, weight, and activity level when choosing a dog food. Puppies and senior dogs may have different nutritional requirements compared to adult dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations based on your dog's specific needs.

Remember to provide fresh water at all times, monitor your dog's weight and body condition, and feed them according to their individual needs to keep them healthy and happy. Regular veterinary check-ups and a well-balanced diet are key components of ensuring your Australian Cattle Dog thrives on the best dog food for their needs.

Now that you are acquainted with some of the best dog food available on the market today, you can make a purchase that provides your pup with delicious, high-quality ingredients that are full of nutrients meant to support the overall health of your always handsome natural athlete.