Newfoundlands are known as a giant breed of dog that eats a lot and are very docile… but not all of that is actually correct.
Newfoundlands were developed as a working dog for fishermen in Canada and, although they don’t have a problem working hard, they are generally quite mild and don't really eat that much (considering their size).
Due to their proneness for several health issues, ensuring your Newfoundland is receiving a diet full of high-quality ingredients is super important to try and keep your furry friend around for many years to come. That is why we have put together the best foods to consider through all stages of life, so you don’t have to.
No matter your budget or the ingredients you would like to include in your Newfoundlands diet (or not include), we have covered it all to make sure no dog is left out. Read on to find out what the best dog foods for Newfoundlands are!
As puppies have different nutritional needs to adult dogs, you must ensure you are aware of the dietary requirements for your Newfoundland puppy so they grow at a healthy rate. Five of the most important nutritional needs include:
First 5 Ingredients: Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas
Special Diet: Grain-free
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS Protein: 8.0% min Fat: 4.0% min Fiber: 1.0% max Moisture: 77.0% max
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, sweet potatoes, squash, water sufficient for processing, spinach
Special Diet: Grain-free
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS Protein: 8.5% min Fat: 6.0% min Fiber: 1.0% max Moisture: 77.0% max
First 5 Ingredients: Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale
Special Diet: Grain-free
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS Protein: 7.0% min Fat: 55.0% min Fiber: 2.0% max Moisture: 75.0% max
First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS Protein: 10.0% min Fat: 5.0% min Fiber: 1.0% max Moisture: 72.0% max
A unique option on this list is the Nom Nom meal option. The reason it is unique is it is neither dry nor canned food – it is gently cooked food delivered to your door. Every batch is cooked on low heat, to preserve nutrients, in their USA kitchens through a set-by-step routine with minimal processing.
The options are customized to your Newfoundland, their age and their needs, as you are required to let them know about your furry friend before you begin. This allows for the best food for your dog, every time.
Nom Nom is delivered to your door frozen and must also be stored in the freezer to ensure freshness. Before you feed your dog their first meal, you must ensure the package has been in the refrigerator for 12 hours.
Then, every meal after that should be defrosted for around 24 hours before eating. One big thing to consider though is the fact that the packaging is not resealable. Therefore, if your Newfoundland is only eating a portion of one meal, ensure you have appropriate containers to store the leftovers until the next meal.
As for the actual food itself, Nom Nom is full of nutritious and wholesome ingredients. It is a great choice for balanced wet dog food for your Newfoundland, as it has a range of beneficial ingredients included.
There is a heart-healthy combination of turkey breast and turkey liver as well as fruits and vegetables including kale, carrots, lentils, blueberries, and pumpkin. These offer phytonutrients for eye health, as well as antioxidants and vitamins that assist with overall health.
There's also the addition of chia seeds, for manganese, zinc, and copper, as well as iron sulfate, coconut oil, cod liver oil and vitamin E for a range of benefits.
Tasty Turkey Feast is created with the assistance of a veterinary nutritionist and is AAFCO approved, which suggests it meets all the necessary nutritional guidelines necessary for healthy dog food.
If you are looking for quality food that sits at a lower price, than definitely consider this one. Even though it isn't super expensive, it still offers a range of benefits to your Newfoundland's health and well being in more ways than one.
The mix contains deboned beef, which is full of protein and amino acids and assists in leaner muscles and a great taste. It can have a strange smell though, as well as being difficult for some senior dogs to digest, so make sure you consider these points before purchasing.
There are also a range of fruits and vegetables included, such as blueberries, carrots, and dried kelp, which offer antioxidants, fiber, and phytonutrients, as well as immune support and lots of vitamins and minerals.
It is also full of omegas-3 and 6 fatty acids, including long-chain DHA from both salmon oil and flaxseed, which help coat and skin health, as well as healthy eye and brain development.
Therefore, if you are after a quality dog food but for a lower price, this product is a great choice.
3. Stewart Raw Medley Beef & Garden Vegetable Recipe
First 5 ingredients:
Beef, Beef Heart, Beef Kidney, Beef Liver, Green Beans
Top 5 Ingredients: Beef, Beef Heart, Beef Kidney, Beef Liver, Green Beans
This right here is a premium blend designed to nourish your adult dog with high-quality, whole-food ingredients. Crafted with real beef as the primary ingredient, this recipe delivers a protein-packed punch to support strong muscles and overall vitality.
The inclusion of nutrient-dense beef heart, kidney and liver not only adds irresistible flavor but also provides essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids to support heart health, energy metabolism, and a shiny coat.
Wholesome green beans, sweet potatoes, and celery offer a natural source of fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, promoting healthy digestion and a strong immune system. Tapioca, a gentle and gluten-free carbohydrate, ensures sustained energy without irritating sensitive stomachs.
Dried yeast contributes valuable B vitamins and proteins to support energy production and healthy skin, while cranberries bring a burst of antioxidants and urinary tract health benefits.
Flaxseeds, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, help maintain a healthy coat and skin while supporting cognitive function and joint health. Freeze-dried to lock in freshness and nutrients, this limited-ingredient recipe is perfect for dogs with sensitivities or pet parents seeking a simple, clean diet.
Finally, if you have come to this article looking for puppy food, you’ve come to the right place! Our best dry food for Newfie puppies is this product from Nulo.
It's ‘puppy-sized' kibble bits are the perfect size for little jaws, as well as promoting tartar removal for a healthy mouth. There are calcium phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong teeth and bones, as well as DHA and ARA for brain and eye development and omegas-3 and 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
Made with a wholesome blend of beef, lamb and pork as the primary proteins, this recipe provides essential amino acids to fuel muscle development and overall growth.
This grain-free formula features low-glycemic ingredients, including wholesome fruits and vegetables, for sustained energy and digestive health.
With added probiotics to support gut health and omega fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin, this high-protein diet ensures your puppy thrives every step of the way.
5. Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch
First 5 ingredients:
Herring Meal, Peas, Pea Protein, Canola Oil, Tapioca
Because there are so many great options when it comes to foods for your pet, we thought we’d add a few more!
This is a high-quality, grain-free dog food that features a variety of fish-based proteins such as whiting, herring, and salmon, providing a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
This recipe is also loaded with wholesome vegetables, fruits, and antioxidants to support overall health and well-being. It is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, and is made with sustainably sourced ingredients. It is formulated to provide a balanced and nutritious diet for dogs of all life stages, promoting optimal health and vitality.
This blend is great for Newfoundlands with stomach issues however, due to the digestion assistance it offers, you may find your furry friend is going to the bathroom more often than before.
It is also worth noting that this dry food mix does not contain corn, grains, wheat or gluten, nor is there any artificial flavors or colors. Seems like a good choice to us!
Turkey Pilaf is a premium dog food made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients, inspired by the flavors of a classic turkey pilaf.
This sous-vide cooked dog food features real, whole-food ingredients like turkey, brown rice, vegetables, and superfoods, providing a delicious and nutritious meal option for your canine companion. The turkey in this recipe is sourced from humanely raised and antibiotic-free turkeys, ensuring a high level of quality and sustainability.
This dog food is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, and is gently cooked to retain the maximum nutritional value of the ingredients. The sous-vide cooking process helps to lock in the natural flavors and nutrients, making it highly palatable and digestible for dogs.
This unique kibble is formulated to provide a complete and balanced diet for dogs, supporting their overall health and well-being. With its wholesome ingredients and delicious taste, this is a healthy and tasty option for dogs who deserve the best in their bowl.
One of the brand's most popular single-protein recipes, this beef formula is packed with premium nutrition to support your dog’s health at every stage of life.
Made with high-quality beef and nutrient-dense beef organs, it provides an abundant source of essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals to promote strong muscles, healthy energy levels and overall vitality.
Crafted with USDA human-grade meats, this recipe ensures your dog receives only the best, with no fillers, artificial preservatives, or unnecessary additives.
Expertly formulated by a PhD nutritionist, it’s designed to deliver a complete and balanced diet your dog will thrive on. Delivered cold-shipped in eco-friendly packaging, the meals arrive fresh to your doorstep with always-free delivery, ensuring convenience and quality in every box.
Another great option for your furry companion is this product from Diamond Naturals
This blend includes great sources of protein, such as fish and beef, as well as a range of fruits and vegetables such as peas, kale, blueberries, and coconut.
There are also superfoods and probiotics, for the overall health and wellbeing of your furry best friend, as well as omega fatty acids, nurturing minerals and antioxidants for coat and skin health.
If your Newfoundland is a super picky eater, you may find that this mix does not suit them, however mostly it is a great choice.
9. Merrick Real Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
First 5 ingredients:
Deboned Beef, Pork And Bone Meal, Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
If you are searching for dry food that is marketed as ‘allergy-friendly', the Merrick Grain-Free Real Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe is a perfect choice.
This blend contains ingredients such as apples, real deboned beef, blueberries, and sweet potato, as well as chondroitin and glucosamine, which helps with mobility.
There are also omegas-3 and 6 fatty acids, for healthy skin and a shiny coat, and a small kibble size for easy eating. It is gluten-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, in addition to being poultry-free.
To round off this list, we have the Instinct original recipe. This mix is suited for all stages of life, from puppy to senior, and has a raw nutrition base for overall wellbeing.
This high-protein food is created with a balanced approach, including a range of options such as vegetables, real chicken, natural omegas, antioxidants and probiotics for help with every part of your dog's body.
This dry food is free of any corn, grains, soy, potato, and wheat and offers great support for coat health, skin health, and digestion, as well as immune health.
Bear in mind however that it can cause your Newfoundland some gas, and the bag can be difficult to open and close, however it is altogether a good choice for your furry best friend.
Feeding Guide
Puppy
Average Weight – Anywhere between 11lbs (at 4 weeks) to 101lbs (at 7 months)
Recommended Daily Food Intake – 4-6 cups a day (400g to 600g)
Adult
Average Weight – Approximately 120lbs – 175lbs (55kg – 80kg)
Recommended Daily Food Intake – 4-6 cups a day (400g to 600g)
Senior
Average Weight – Approximately 120lbs – 175lbs (55kg – 80kg)
Recommended Daily Food Intake – When assessing the amount and type of food for your senior Newfoundland (about 6-7 years of age or older), it is highly recommended that you consult a vet. There is a range of factors that can affect what a senior dog should be fed, and how much, so make sure you speak to a professional.
6 Special Dietary and Nutritional Considerations
Due to Newfoundlands being large dogs with some environmental sensitivities, certain dietary and nutritional standards must be considered including:
Low levels of fat due to history of weight issues
Fatty acids for a nice shiny, thick coat
A diet that is rich in protein for energy
Newfoundlands are prone to obesity, so caloric intake is important to consider
As Newfoundlands have slow metabolisms, it is important to choose a food that is formulated for large/extra-large dog breeds that has all the right nutrition
Due to heart issues, ensure that there isn’t more vegetable protein, as opposed to meat protein, in your dog’s food
At 6 weeks of age, it is ideal that a Newfoundland puppy is still nursing from its mother
If they are not feeding from their mother, it is vital to ensure they are receiving the same nutrients as they would be getting from their mother’s milk
It is difficult to substitute the antibodies, as well as the macro and micronutrients that a puppy receives from their mother’s milk with anything else
Puppies at this age are growing quite fast, so it is very important to ensure they are receiving enough nutrients to keep this growth going
10 Week Old Newfoundland
Puppies begin weaning from their mothers at around 8-10 weeks of age
As a puppy is weaned, they will require more puppy food to replace their mother’s milk
To help with the transition between milk and dog food, it is recommended to start with wet food (which is about 85% moisture) to help their stomachs
Wet food also assists with preparing a puppy’s digestive system for whole food later on
Puppies at this age need to be fed at least 3 times a day
As they are growing very fast, it is important to ensure they are receiving enough nutrients for healthy growth
12 Week Old Newfoundland
At this age, the transition from wet to dry food starts
To avoid diarrhea and vomiting, ensure you complete the transition in small steps, so you don’t upset your puppy’s stomach
To begin, start with around 10% dry food and 90% wet food and increase the dry food by 10-15% each week
Puppies at this age need to be fed at least 3 times a day
Remember, your puppy is still growing so make sure they are getting enough nutrients to fuel this growth!
3 Month Old Newfoundland
At around 3 months of age, your puppy should be eating dry food only
If possible, stay away from foods that state they are for ‘all stages of life’, as they likely do not include all the nutrients that your puppy needs at this age
As a rough guide, look at feeding your puppy a total of 4-6 cups of dry food a day
Puppies at this age need to be fed at least 3 times a day
Remember, your puppy is still growing so make sure they are getting enough nutrients to fuel this growth!
5 Month Old Newfoundland
By the time they get to 5 months of age, your puppy should be completely used to their dry food diet
Additionally, around 4-5 months of age you can introduce some live animal products into their diet, such as liver, actual bone and raw eggs (but not too much!)
Puppies at this age need to be fed at least 3 times a day
As a rough guide, look at feeding your puppy a total of 4-6 cups of dry food a day
Still growing!
1 Year Old Newfoundland
Once your puppy gets to around 12 months of age, they will likely be slowing down a little on their food intake (as their metabolism is slowing down too)
By this time, feed your Newfoundland once or twice a day for a total of 4-6 cups of food (approximately)
Also remember, puppies continue to grow until 1.5 to 2 years old, so continually ensuring they have enough nutrients to keep up with this growth is important
Parting Words
After reading all this information, it is clear to see that there are quite a few options on the market when it comes to food to feed your Newfoundland in any stage of life… but not every option will be suited exactly to your furry friend’s needs.
It is important to read up on the ingredients that are in your dog's food and ensure that they are meeting all their nutritional and dietary needs, as well as factoring in any allergies or other sensitivities.
From digestive health to energy levels to coat and skin health (and everything else in between), the variety of ingredients that are offered in dog food has different benefits for every part of a canine's body.
When it comes to the best food for your Newfoundland though, we have you covered. If you are looking for a fresh delivery service that offers quality meals and your budget is a little higher, the Ollie Turkey Feast dog food is the perfect option.
If you are after something a little less expensive, the American Journey Salmon is the choice for you and your furry friend. If you are looking for the most commonly chosen Newfoundland food for your pooch, then the Taste of the Wild High Prairie is what you need.
Finally, if you have a puppy that needs quality food, look no further than the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, which has ‘puppy-sized’ kibble pieces and heaps of vitamins and nutrients for healthy growth.
If you have read this article and found it all a little overwhelming, don’t be discouraged. Take the information and go to your local vet to talk about what is best for your Newfoundland. They will be able to help you look at all the options, their benefits and which one suits your furry best friend the best.
You have to remember, every dog is different which is why there are so many options available! Not every option will be suited to what your dog needs, so you may have to try a few before you find the best option. Once you’ve found it though, enjoy having a happy and healthy puppy dog for many more years.
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An individual with a profound affection for animals, who was brought up in an environment surrounded by dogs, cats, and chickens. A self-taught enthusiast in the realm of pet care. At present, the proud caretaker of two rescued felines and two lovely mixed-breed canines.
