10 Best Dog Food for Boxers: Top Selling Brands in 2024

Boxers have been described as “clownish” and “the best antidepressant on the market” because they are energetic, affectionate and can brighten the mood in any room, that is until they start destroying the furniture.

Boxers have a cult following of owners who can not get enough of the energetic balls of fur. As such, they are very picky about what they feed their boxers.

The dog foods featured here are considered the best dog food for boxers because they contain the healthy proteins, fats, fruits, and vegetables that boxers need to sustain a healthy lifestyle.

Unlike low-quality dog food products, these products contain zero filler and animal byproduct so you can be sure your boxer is eating nothing but what his body needs to remain healthy and happy.

Whichever dog food you decide is right for your boxer be sure to buy a mop and a broom; boxers are infamously messy eaters, and they drool a lot.

Boxers need a lot of attention, but boxer owners would agree that rescuing one is well worth the cost of a little furniture repair.

Fast Facts

The breed that would become the modern boxer (Molosser)  originated in Assyria more than 2000 years ago where they were used as guard dogs and as war dogs in battle.  Another breed derived from the molosser is the terrior, a cousin of the boxer.

The Molosser category of dog breed became popular in Germany around the sixteenth century for its strength and agility. The boxer as it is known today was bred from the Bullenbeisser, a now extinct breed of German bulldog.

Because the Bullenbeisser is an extinct breed, the genetic code for the boxer is extinct as well.

Boxers make great guard dogs because they are so affectionate toward their family but also because of their imposing, muscular demeanor, speed, agility, and intimidating bark.

The name “boxer” is derived from a playful characteristic of the breed. When boxers play, they tend to rear onto their hind legs and bat at other dogs, similar to a boxer.

The boxer breed has a higher-than-average IQ for a dog and has won Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show four times, proving the breed to be one of the world's most intelligent and athletic breeds.

Boxers are an affectionate, excitable breed and they love human attention. They are incredibly friendly toward people and, with a little training, make excellent service dogs.

The affectionate nature of the boxer makes them a fantastic breed for families with young children. Just like children, boxers are known to be sloppy eaters and drool. They even have one of the longest tongues of any dog breed, which also makes them excessive droolers.

OUR TOP 3 PICKS FOR DOG FOODS FOR BOXERS

Best Dog Food for Boxers

1. Ollie Fresh Pet Food
2. Taste of the Wild High Prairie
3. American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato
4. True Acre Foods Chicken & Vegetable Recipe
5. Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken
6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
7. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe
8. Nature's Recipe Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe
9. Eukanuba Breed Specific Boxer
10. Royal Canin Boxer

 

1. Ollie Beef Dish with Sweet Potatoes

First 5 ingredients: Beef, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Carrots

Ollie is a brand of pet food that uses high-quality, human-grade ingredients to create nutritious and delicious meals for dogs. One of their popular flavors is the beef dish with sweet potatoes, which is made with real beef as the main protein source.

Unlike many commercial dog foods that use low-quality meat byproducts, this one is made with whole cuts of beef meat that are slow-cooked to retain as much of the natural nutrients and flavor as possible. The recipe also includes a blend of vegetables and fruits for added vitamins and minerals, as well as salmon oil for a healthy coat.

One of the benefits of feeding your pooch this meal is that it is highly digestible and easy on the stomach. It is also free from common allergens such as corn, wheat, and soy, making it a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities.

Overall, this is a healthy and tasty option for dogs of all sizes and breeds. It provides all of the nutrients that your furry friend needs to stay happy and healthy, while also satisfying their taste buds.

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2. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Formula

First 5 ingredients: Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes,

A taste of the wild is exactly what your boxer will taste when it wharfs down a bowl of Taste of the Wild High Prairie.

This product is formulated to mimic the diet of the wolf, the ancestor to all dogs. As the name states, Taste of the Wild High Prairie contains zero grain.

Instead this dry kibble is loaded with roasted red meat, healthy fruits, vegetables and legumes that support a happy and healthy K9 diet.

This particular formula from Taste of the Wild supports a high energy diet, which is perfect for boxers who have more energy than the majority of dog breeds.

This product also contains vitamins, antioxidants, and prebiotics to support a healthy digestive tract and improve overall health.

When you feed your Boxer this product you are also providing them with healthy omega fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6.

Marine-sourced omega-3 is found in salmon oil, and tuna while omega-6 is derived from plant sources. Together the fatty-acids maintain your boxers’ healthy skin and coat and to support overall health and wellness.

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3. American Journey LID Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe

First five ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Peas, Pea Starch, Sweet Potatoes

Dog parents who are grain-free enthusiasts will love the Salmon version of American Journey’s Limited Ingredient dog food. Savory real deboned salmon will greet your pup with every bite, giving your pet a protein-rich diet, with protein making up 22% of the meal.

Made with easily digestible carbohydrates like peas and sweet potatoes, this grain-free kibble is ideal for dogs with food sensitivities.

The brand didn’t just stop at protein. American Journey also added nourishing ingredients such as omega fatty acids for healthy coat and skin, calcium for strong bones, zinc for thyroid and immune function, Vitamin E for healthy muscles, and a whole lot more nutrients and minerals for a complete and balanced diet.

This recipe is made to be as healthy as possible with no grain or by-product ingredients. There are no artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors to cause food sensitivities, either.

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4. True Acre Foods Chicken & Vegetable Recipe

First five ingredients: Chicken, Peas, Pea Starch, Canola Meal, Poultry By-Product Meal

Using chicken as its main protein source, True Acre Foods have created a reasonable dog food formula that gives quite a lot of value for money. Whilst it only contains an average amount of protein and fat at 24% and 13% respectively, this is all from animal protein sources.

This (along with the good sources of fiber present) make this a great dog food if your pooch has a weak stomach. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids present within the formula will also work to ensure your dog's coat and skin remain healthy and vibrant.

All of True Acre's dog foods are made with ingredients sourced from trusted farms, and without grains, wheat, corn or artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Whilst peas are listed as one of the ingredients, it will be difficult to escape this ingredient within this price bracket.

At $39.99 for a 40-lb bag, this formula is quite reasonably priced and represents a good buy for the dog owner on a budget.

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5. Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken

First five ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp

Gentle Giants have produced a chicken-based dry budget dog food that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It uses twelve whole fruits and vegetables including beets, tomatoes, blueberries, cranberries, spinach, celery,  and apples.

This means that your dog will not only be enjoying a flavor sensation, they will also be absorbing Vitamin A, Vitamin B 12, and Vitamin C from natural sources. These aim to foster good immune health in your dog. We are a little disappointed in this formula's protein and fat content.

Containing only 22% protein, this kibble falls below the average amount in this price bracket. Still, this will adequately meet the nutritional needs of your dog and support their muscles and bones.

This formula has been designed for dog's with sensitive stomachs, so it might be a good idea to try this if your pet is having digestive trouble with standard kibble.

Whilst, it isn't really competitive with premium dog food, Gentle Giants will be more than adequate for dog owners on a tight budget.

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6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula

First five ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal

Named after a beloved pet who struggled with serious health issues, the Blue Buffalo company is dedicated to creating holistic premium pet food that addresses the various needs of dogs.

From prescription formulas to grain-free recipes, Blue Buffalo seeks to give every pup healthy, wholesome meals developed by leading animal nutritionists and veterinarians.

The brand sticks to all natural ingredients that are a precise blend of pure meaty goodness, flavorful taste, and complete balanced nutrition to meet the different life stage requirements of your furry family member.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula was created for the holistic health and well-being of adult dogs. All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.

This Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken and other natural ingredients for a healthy meal your dog will love.

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7. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe

First five ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Peas, Pea Protein, Tapioca Starch

Your boxer will thrive with Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe dry kibble as the source of its diet. It is the healthy choice for Boxer owners. The nutrient-rich recipe contains zero grains and no artificial colors or preservatives.

This is packed with chicken, duck, salmon, apples, spinach, blueberries and pumpkin, everything their body needs to sustain a healthy development.

It also contains “life-source-bits” that consist of vitamins and minerals that support healthy muscle development, strong bones and teeth and a healthy coat.

High-quality protein promotes strong muscles and high-energy while calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins ensure your boxers teeth and bones remain healthy for the extent of their life.

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8. Nature's Recipe Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe

First five ingredients: Salmon, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Menhaden Fish Meal, Pea Starch

Most of Nature's Recipe product lines have meat or meat meal as top ingredients. As a natural recipe, this is very crucial Our pets need healthy names animal proteins.

The #1 ingredient of this dog food variety is Salmon. It is an excellent source of protein and omega rich fatty acids. The next ingredient is garbanzo bean (aka chickpeas), these are also excellent source of carbohydrates. These beans are naturally rich in dietary fiber and protein.

It also contains pumpkin and sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are common gluten free source of carbohydrates in pet foods. Furthermore, it is also a wonderful source for beta carotene which is beneficiary for your canine companion.

Then we have the pumpkin. Like the sweet potato, it is also a nice source of carbohydrates, fiber and other essential minerals.

Also this brand is affordable compared to others in the market today. This is a big deciding factors for pet owners.

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9. Eukanuba Breed Specific Boxer

First five ingredients: Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn Meal, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum.

Eukanuba Breed Specific Boxer kibble is one of the few dog food products that is breed specific. This is designed to provide your dog with exactly what their breed needs most.

This formula contains vitamin E, beta-carotene, L-carnitine and natural taurine that support heart, bone, and joint health as well as a strong immune system.

This also includes a “3D DentaDefense System” designed to reduce plaque and keep your boxers’ teeth strong, clean and healthy.

Eukanuba has a reputation for advancing animal nutrition science and they understand that your boxer is a carnivore.

The special recipe is designed to deliver peak carnivore nutrition to your boxers’ diet. This formulation from Eukanuba contains only animal-based proteins like chicken and lamb in the perfect proportion for the boxer breed.

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10. Royal Canin Boxer

First five ingredients: Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Chicken Fat, Oat Groats

Royal Canin Boxer formula is designed for Boxers over 15 months and delivers the nutrition an adolescent boxer needs more than anything else.

Adolescent boxers are notoriously high-spirited and require a diet that can support their high energy and rapid development.

Boxers are prone to cardiomyopathy which is why this recipe from Royal Canin contains taurine, EPA and DHA to support a heart and cellular health and well-developed muscles.

What’s more, Royal Canin Boxer is engineered with crescent-shaped kibble bits which makes it easier for your boxer to eat and chew. The crescent shape also encourages your boxer to chew, thus discouraging them from chewing your furniture

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Boxer Attributes & Appearance

The boxer breed is easily distinguishable from other dog breeds due to their athletic build. Boxers are sturdy and muscular with a barrel-chest. Boxers are also tall, lithe and have a characteristically adorable face.

Boxers have wrinkles jowls and a snout that occupies half the length of their skull, a feature that enables them to breathe while holding onto prey.

The boxer coat comes in several different colors, including, tan, black, brindle and white.

Interestingly, boxers with a white coat are not considered albino, or to suffer from a genetic defect as in other white coated dogs. Boxers with a white coat are simply white, though they are prone to deafness.

It was historically common to crop and dock a boxer's ears and tail. Thankfully the practice has fallen out of style.

Boxer Caloric Needs

Boxers are very high-spirited. They are excited for most of the waking hours of the day, and as such, they burn a lot of calories.

Four factors contribute to how many calories your boxer needs.

• Age & Weight- Younger and lighter boxers, especially puppies, don’t require as much food as older, heavier boxers, but they do require more food per pound. For example, a boxer puppy that weighs 10 pounds requires at least 550 calories to sustain its weight. On the hand, an adult boxer that weighs 55 pounds requires between 1,400 and 1,950 calories per day.
• Health & Activity- Boxers that receive a lot of activity burn more calories than sedentary dogs, though boxers are typically far from sedentary.

 

Boxer Nutritional Needs

If the energy level of a dog breed was measured on a scale of 1-10 boxers would score a 9. Boxers have been described as hyper and, at times, annoying.

That much energy requires a diet that is high in nutritional value and low in filler. Foods that contains ingredients such as peanut hulls, modified corn starch, meat by-products, and artificial ingredients is not only low in nutrition but potentially damaging to the health of your boxer.

To provide your boxer with optimal nutrition avoid dog foods that contain:

• Corn and wheat gluten (grain)
• Meat and grain meals and by-products.
• BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)
• BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
• Ethoxyquin.
• Food Dyes (Blue 2, Red 40, Yellow 5 and 6, 4-MIE)
• PG (Propylene Glycol)
• Rendered fat.
• Starches (potatoes)

• Puppies- Boxer puppies are exceptionally cute and affectionate. Boxers, like most breeds, experience growth spurts as puppies and often reach adolescent size before their puppy brains mature.
• Adolescent- Adolescent boxers have more energy than there is time to play in a single day. The adolescent stage in the boxer breed begins immediately after the puppy stage (12-18 months), with the adolescent temperament lasting well into the adult stage of development. Fluctuations in body weight characterize the adolescent stage of development in the boxer breed. The body weight fluctuations are due to the high energy and near ceaseless activity of an adolescent boxer which burns calories at a rapid rate. Adolescent boxers need to intake enough calories to offset the rapid rate at which their growing body consumes them. The rule of thumb for how much food your boxer needs is 30-55 calories per pound of body weight.
• Adult & Senior- Boxers keep their energetic temperament well into adulthood. In fact, adult boxers are so energetic it is often difficult to distinguish them from your boxers. Adult and senior boxers who receive the proper amount of exercise and activity (2 walks per day + play time) generally require less food than adolescent boxers. Like most older dogs, senior boxers are susceptible to arthritis and benefit from foods that supports bone and joint health.

What’s in the Best Dog Foods for Boxers?

Boxers and just about every other dog breed need protein, fat, and fiber in their diet. If it can’t be classified as one of those nutritional categories, it shouldn't be in your dog's diet.

The best dog foods for boxers contains ingredients that are rich in fatty proteins and healthy sugars like; muscle protein (no animal byproducts like hooves and tendons) and fresh fruits and veggies, such as:

• Green peppers
• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Carrots
• Green Beans
• Cantaloupe
• Watermelon
• Turkey
• Chicken
• Beef
• Salmon
• Tuna

The best foods for the boxer breed mimic what a boxer would eat in the wild, which is living prey. Prey animals consist of 70% water. High-quality food contains a high level of moisture and minimal, to zero grain and filler content.

Boxers, like all dogs, are carnivores. They do not require any starch or complex carbohydrates like grains and wheat.

Unique Needs of Boxers

Boxer dogs, being highly active and muscular breeds, have unique dietary needs that require careful attention. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to the dietary requirements of boxer dogs.

1. High-quality protein: Protein is essential for maintaining the muscle mass and energy levels of boxers. Look for dog food that has high-quality protein sources such as lean meats (chicken, beef, fish) listed as the main ingredient. Avoid low-quality fillers and by-products.
2. Adequate calories: Boxers have high energy levels and require a calorie-dense diet to sustain their active lifestyle. Ensure that the dog food you choose provides the right amount of calories based on your boxer's age, weight, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding to prevent weight gain and obesity.
3. Balanced nutrients: Boxers need a well-balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Look for dog food that meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for complete and balanced nutrition.
4. Joint health support: Boxers are prone to joint issues, such as hip dysplasia, as they age. Look for dog food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to support joint health and prevent joint problems.
5. Digestive health: Boxers may have sensitive stomachs, so choose dog food that is easy to digest and does not contain common allergens like soy, corn, or wheat. Consider feeding smaller, frequent meals to prevent bloating, a condition that boxers are susceptible to.
6. Hydration: Boxers are active dogs and need access to clean, fresh water at all times to stay hydrated, especially during exercise and hot weather.

It’s important not to forget heart health when shopping for kibbles as boxers are prone to cardiomyopathy,  which is defined as: “a disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for your heart to pump blood to the rest of your body. Cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure.”

Boxers are also prone to certain types of cancers such as mast cell tumors and lymphomas associated with skin tags, mange, and other skin conditions. Low-quality foods that contain processed sugars, grains and preservatives have been linked to cancer in dogs and should be avoided by boxer owners.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your boxer dog and select a high-quality, balanced dog food that meets those requirements to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.