science diet puppy food large breed
Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
INGREDIENTS:Chicken, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat, Pea Protein, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Soybean Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Chicken Liver Flavor, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Dicalcium Phosphate, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Iodized Salt, Dried Citrus Pulp, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Pressed Cranberries, Calcium Carbonate, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), DL-Methionine, L-Threonine, Taurine, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Tryptophan, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene.
Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
INGREDIENTS:Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Fat, Pea Protein, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Wheat Gluten, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor, Soybean Meal, Egg Product, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Dried Citrus Pulp, Fish Oil, Potassium Chloride, Iodized Salt, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Pressed Cranberries, L-Threonine, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, DL-Methionine, L-Tryptophan, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene.
Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
INGREDIENTS:Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Fat, Pea Protein, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Wheat Gluten, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor, Soybean Meal, Egg Product, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Dried Citrus Pulp, Fish Oil, Potassium Chloride, Iodized Salt, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Pressed Cranberries, L-Threonine, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, DL-Methionine, L-Tryptophan, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene.
Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Chicken
Additional info:
Great tasting nutrition for a long, happy life. With a wagging tail and licks on your face, no one can say hello like your dog. Because every moment you spend together is special, we strive to give you more of them. With wholesome ingredients and the right nutrients, Hill's Science Plan is precisely prepared to offer your dog the nutrition he needs for lifelong health and happiness.
We manufacture our pet foods with highest quality ingredients. These ingredients must meet our strict requirements for purity and nutrient content, which exceed industry standards.
You can make a difference in the lives of shelter pets. With every purchase of Science Plan you help feed over 100,000 homeless pets every day, 365 days a year. Learn more at hillsfoodshelterlove.com.
Hills Science Diet Puppy Food Review (Dry)
The Hills Science Diet Puppy product line includes the 3 dry dog foods listed below.
Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.
Recipe and Label Analysis
Hills Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.
Ingredients Analysis
The first Ingredient is chicken. Chicken is considered the clean combination of flesh and skin derived from the parts or whole carcasses of chicken.1Chicken is naturally rich in the ten essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life.
The second ingredient is brown rice, a complex carbohydrate that (once cooked) can be fairly easy to digest. However, aside from its natural energy content, rice is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The third ingredient includes oats. Oats are rich in B-vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber.
The fourth ingredient is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.
The fifth ingredient is barley. Barley is a starchy carbohydrate supplying fiber and other healthy nutrients. However, aside from its energy content, this cereal grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The sixth item is chicken fat. Chicken fat is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.
Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.
The seventh ingredient is pea protein, what remains of a pea after removing the starchy part of the vegetable.
Even though it contains over 80% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.
And less costly plant-based products like this can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.
The eighth ingrdients is brewers rice. Brewers rice is a cereal grain by-product consisting of the small fragments left over after milling whole rice. Aside from the caloric energy it contains, this item is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.
But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this product.
With 6 notable exceptions
First, fish oil is naturally rich in the prized EPA and DHA type of omega-3 fatty acids. These two high quality fats boast the highest bio-availability to dogs and humans.
Depending on its level of freshness and purity, fish oil should be considered a commendable addition.
Next, beet pulp is a controversial ingredient, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing.
Some denounce beet pulp as an inexpensive filler while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits.
We only call your attention here to the controversy and believe the inclusion of beet pulp in reasonable amounts in most dog foods is entirely acceptable.
In addition, we note the use of taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.
Next, we find no mention of probiotics, friendly bacteria applied to the surface of the kibble after processing to help with digestion.
We also find sodium selenite in this product. Sodium selenite is a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.
And lastly, the minerals listed here do not appear to be chelated. And that can make them more difficult to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually associated with higher quality dog foods.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients alone, Hills Science Diet Puppy looks like an above-average dry product.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 26%, a fat level of 15% and estimated carbohydrates of about 50%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 28% and a mean fat level of 19%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 45% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Near-average protein. Near-average fat. And below-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.
When you consider the protein-boosting effect of the corn gluten meal and flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a kibble still containing a notable amount of meat.
Hill's Dog Food Recall History
The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to Hill's through April 2024.
No recalls noted.
You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.
Our Rating of Hill's Grain-Inclusive Dog Food
Hills Science Diet Puppy is a grain-inclusive dry dog food using a notable amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of animal protein, thus earning the brand 4 stars.
Best Large Breed Puppy Foods
Complete Health Large Breed Puppy is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.
Complete Health Large Breed Puppy derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh chicken as well as chicken meal and salmon meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 14% fat and 45% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
A safe, balanced calcium design from a trusted brand. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, salmon meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds This Orijen formula is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.
Orijen Puppy Large gets the dominant portion of its animal protein from deboned poultry and fresh fish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 18% fat and 30% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 41%.
A premium large breed puppy food. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, yellowtail flounder, whole eggs, whole atlantic mackerel Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds (also safe for adults) Beef Mash is one of 4 fresh-made recipes included in our review of the Nom Nom Dog Food product line.
Beef Mash derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh ground beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 35% protein, 17% fat and 40% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
If youve ever wished you could serve your new puppy a fresh, home-cooked meal but you dont have the time for all the fuss then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.
Made with top-quality, human-grade ingredients and a balanced recipe designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN).
Not cheap. Enthusiastically recommended for all breed sizes including puppies of larger breeds.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 35% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Salmon and Sweet Potato recipe is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Jinx product line.
This Jinx recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Jinx Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, pearled barley, ground peas, turkey meal, brown rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at ThinkJinx.com"Ive had my pup on jinx for a year now and his tummy issues are no longer an issue. Ive gone through so many brands before I found jinx and Im so thankful I found them when I did."
This Large Breed Puppy product is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
This Diamond Naturals formula gains the greatest share of its meat protein from fresh lamb and lamb meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 17% fat and 45% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A safe, budget-friendly option for your large breed puppy. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Lamb, lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds (also safe for adults) Life Protection Large Breed Puppy Chicken and Brown Rice is one of 21 dry recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.
This Blue Buffalo Life Protection recipe acquires the lions share of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
A top-rated, large breed growth option at an affordable price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Large Breed Puppy is one of 10 dry recipes included in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Puppy product line.
Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy obtains the major portion of its meat protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 15% fat and 45% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A time-proven field-tested formula with balanced calcium levels ideal for large and giant breed puppies. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, rice, corn gluten meal, whole grain corn, poultry by-product meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds (also safe for adults) Hills Large Breed Puppy is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Hills Science Diet product line.
Hills Science Diet Large Breed Puppy derives the dominant portion of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 14% fat and 48% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A classic, balanced design ideal for large breed puppies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Hills Science Diet Puppy Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, whole grain wheat, whole grain oats, whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Pacific Stream Puppy is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
This Taste of the Wild puppy recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh salmon and ocean fish meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 17% fat and 45% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
We like the inclusion of omega-3 DHA-rich fatty acid from salmon oil which helps support brain and vision development in growing puppies.
This super-popular, scientifically-designed, all life stages formula is not only ideal for large breed puppies its also reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds This Eukanuba puppy formula is one of 14 dry recipes included in our review of the Eukanuba product line.
Eukanuba Puppy Large Breed gains the principal part of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
A classic puppy design thats especially popular among large breed enthusiasts. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Eukanuba Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Royal Canin Large Puppy is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Royal Canin product line.
This Royal Canin large breed puppy formula derives the dominant portion of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 16% fat and 45% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A vet-designed, grain-inclusive formula ideal for large breed puppies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Royal Canin Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Corn, chicken by-product meal, wheat, wheat gluten, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy is one of 19 dry recipes included in our review of the Nutro Natural Choice product line.
This Nutro Large Breed Puppy formula acquires much of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
A time-proven, fully-balanced large breed puppy food with added omega-rich fish oil. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nutro Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain brown rice, whole grain barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds This Chicken Soup formula is one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of the Chicken Soup for the Soul product line.
Chicken Soup Large Breed Puppy derives the bulk of its animal protein from poultry and poultry meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 14% fat and 48% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
A top-rated, large breed puppy food at an affordable price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Chicken Soup for the Soul Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, chicken meal, turkey meal, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds (also safe for adults)
