Finding the Right Dog Food for Your St. Bernard: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the right dog food for your beloved St. Bernard can feel like navigating a maze. With countless brands, clever marketing strategies, and an overwhelming number of reviews, it’s easy to become frustrated. However, understanding your dog’s unique needs based on age, activity level, breed, and size can help simplify the process.
If you’re reading this, chances are you have a gentle giant in your life, and size is a significant factor in your decision-making process. St. Bernards are known for their large stature and gentle temperament, making them wonderful companions. However, their size also means they have specific nutritional requirements that must be met to ensure their health and well-being.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a review of the 10 best dog foods for St. Bernards, taking into account their unique needs.
A Quick Comparison of the Winners (2024)
| Dog Food | Main Ingredients | Protein Content | Fat Content | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Farmer’s Dog | Beef, sweet potatoes, lentils | 11% | 8% | 721 kcal/lb |
| American Journey | Deboned chicken, brown rice | 25% | 15% | 342 kcal/cup |
| Purina Pro Plan | Chicken, liver, rice | 9% | 2% | 316 kcal/can |
| Hill’s Science Diet | Lamb meal, brown rice | 24.5% | 12% | 373 kcal/cup |
| Royal Canin | Corn, chicken by-product | 24% | 13% | 314 kcal/cup |
| Blue Buffalo Wilderness | Deboned chicken, peas | 32% | 13% | 377 kcal/cup |
| Diamond Naturals | Chicken, brown rice | 23% | 13% | 397 kcal/cup |
| Holistic Select | Chicken meal, rice | 24% | 13% | 453 kcal/cup |
| Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Mobility | Chicken meal, brown rice | 28% | 12% | 367 kcal/cup |
| Eagle Pack | Chicken meal, pork meal | 25% | 12% | 340 kcal/cup |
The 10 Best Dog Foods for St. Bernards
1. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Subscription – Best Overall
Main Ingredients: Beef, sweet potatoes, cooked lentils, carrots, beef liver
Protein Content: 11%
Fat Content: 8%
Calories: 721 calories per pound
The Farmer’s Dog offers a fresh, human-grade dog food subscription tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Formulated by veterinary specialists, this food is tested through live feeding trials, ensuring it meets the nutritional requirements of all breeds, including large ones like the St. Bernard. With high-quality ingredients, including USDA human-grade beef and nutrient-rich vegetables, this option is ideal for your gentle giant.
Pros: High-quality ingredients, tailored to your dog’s needs.
Cons: Online ordering only, requires freezer space.
2. American Journey Active Life Dog Food – Budget Buy
Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, peas
Protein Content: 25%
Fat Content: 15%
Calories: 342 kcal/cup
American Journey is specially formulated for large dogs, featuring deboned chicken as its primary protein source. This budget-friendly option is packed with superfoods like cranberries and dried kelp, promoting overall health without breaking the bank.
Pros: Affordable, made without artificial ingredients.
Cons: Slightly high carbohydrate content.
3. Purina Pro Plan Adult Large Breed Canned Dog Food
Main Ingredients: Water, chicken, liver, wheat gluten, rice
Protein Content: 9%
Fat Content: 2%
Calories: 316 kcal/can
Designed for large breeds, Purina Pro Plan provides essential nutrients to support your St. Bernard’s energy needs. It contains high-quality proteins and essential vitamins to promote a healthy coat and strong bones.
Pros: High-quality ingredients, specially crafted for large breeds.
Cons: Can be expensive, some dogs may experience digestive issues.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Puppy Food
Main Ingredients: Lamb meal, brown rice, whole grain wheat
Protein Content: 24.5%
Fat Content: 12%
Calories: 373 kcal/cup
This formula is specifically designed for large breed puppies, providing the right balance of nutrients for healthy growth. With lamb meal as the first ingredient, it offers high-quality protein to support your puppy’s development.
Pros: Specifically designed for large breeds, high-quality ingredients.
Cons: May contain potential allergens.
5. Royal Canin Large Joint Care Dry Dog Food
Main Ingredients: Corn, chicken by-product meal, wheat
Protein Content: 24%
Fat Content: 13%
Calories: 314 kcal/cup
Royal Canin focuses on joint health, making it an excellent choice for St. Bernards prone to joint issues. This formula is lower in calories, helping maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress on joints.
Pros: Supports joint health, good calorie content.
Cons: Some dogs may not prefer the taste.
6. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas
Protein Content: 32%
Fat Content: 13%
Calories: 377 kcal/cup
Blue Buffalo Wilderness offers a high-protein, grain-free option for your St. Bernard. With a blend of essential vitamins and minerals, this food supports strong bones and a healthy coat.
Pros: High-quality ingredients, rich in antioxidants.
Cons: May not suit all dogs, especially picky eaters.
7. Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Main Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, brown rice
Protein Content: 23%
Fat Content: 13%
Calories: 397 kcal/cup
Diamond Naturals is packed with high-quality protein sources and superfoods like blueberries. This formula is free from artificial colors and preservatives, making it a wholesome choice for your St. Bernard.
Pros: High-quality ingredients, rich in vitamins and minerals.
Cons: Some dogs may find it hard to digest.
8. Holistic Select Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, rice, oatmeal
Protein Content: 24%
Fat Content: 13%
Calories: 453 kcal/cup
Holistic Select focuses on digestive health, making it a great option for St. Bernards with sensitive stomachs. With a blend of prebiotics and probiotics, this food supports gut health and overall well-being.
Pros: Supports digestive health, high-quality ingredients.
Cons: May not appeal to picky eaters.
9. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Dog Food
Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, whole grain sorghum
Protein Content: 28%
Fat Content: 12%
Calories: 367 kcal/cup
This formula promotes joint health and mobility, making it ideal for St. Bernards. With glucosamine and chondroitin, it supports healthy cartilage and overall joint function.
Pros: Promotes joint health, high-quality ingredients.
Cons: Strong smell may deter some dogs.
10. Eagle Pack Adult Large and Giant Breed Dog Food
Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, pork meal, brown rice
Protein Content: 25%
Fat Content: 12%
Calories: 340 kcal/cup
Eagle Pack is specially formulated for large breeds, providing the right balance of nutrients to maintain a healthy weight. This affordable option is free from artificial additives, making it a wholesome choice.
Pros: Specially formulated for larger breeds, high-quality ingredients.
Cons: Some dogs may find the smell unappealing.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Food for St. Bernards
How Do You Know Which Diet Is Best?
Research is your best friend when it comes to selecting the right dog food. Look for brands that prioritize your St. Bernard’s health, taste, affordability, and availability. Pay attention to customer reviews and consider your dog’s specific needs, including any sensitivities or allergies.
Large Breeds and Weight Gain
St. Bernards are prone to joint problems, making weight management crucial. Overweight dogs face numerous health risks, including arthritis, back problems, and reduced lifespan. Regular vet check-ups can help monitor your dog’s weight and overall health.
Healthy Protein and Fats
Opt for high-quality meat proteins and avoid unnamed meat by-products. Look for concentrated protein sources like “chicken meal” or “salmon meal.” Healthy fats, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil, are essential for heart and joint health.
Digestible Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates should be included in moderation. High-quality sources like sweet potatoes and quinoa provide essential nutrients without contributing to weight gain.
How We Selected These Dog Foods for St. Bernards
Our team of writers, editors, and veterinarians carefully curated this list based on brand reputation, customer reviews, and personal experiences. We aim to provide you with the best options to ensure your St. Bernard’s health and happiness.
Why Trust Dogster?
Dogster has been a trusted resource for dog owners since 2004. Our team is passionate about providing the best for every canine, and we are committed to helping you make informed decisions for your furry friend.
Conclusion
In summary, our top pick for the best overall dog food for St. Bernards is The Farmer’s Dog fresh dog food subscription, known for its high-quality, tailored nutrition. For budget-conscious pet owners, American Journey offers excellent value without compromising quality. Purina Pro Plan is our premium choice, while Hill’s Science Diet is perfect for puppies. Lastly, Royal Canin Large Joint Care is ideal for maintaining your St. Bernard’s weight and joint health. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect food for your gentle giant!