Best Dog Food For Great Danes: Vet Recommend [2024]

ByDr. Aukse Caraite, Veterinary Surgeon, DVM
best dog food for Great Danes

Canine Bible is reader-supported. We receive affiliate commissions via some of our links. This doesn’t affect rankings. Learn more.

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Want to provide the best nutrition to your Great Dane? We’ve compiled the most compressive guide to the best dog food for Great Danes. These gentle giants deserve nothing but the best, and we’re here to help you discover the top choices to keep them healthy, strong, and happy. This article highlights the best dog food for Great Danes, ensuring they receive the proper balance of nutrients essential for their health and well-being. With in-depth research and expert advice, we will guide you through the top-rated options available. Let’s go!

In This Article:
In This Article:

Best Dog Food For Great Dane — At A Glance

Best Overall

Nom Nom

Made with fresh, human-grade
ingredients to offer the most optimal
nutrition for your Great Dane

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Dry Food

A Pup Above

A new kind of dry dog food
with the flavor and benefits of fresh
food with the convenience of kibble

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Puppy Pick

Open Farm

Perfect for Great Dane puppies.
Contains all the nutrients puppies need to
develop and grow healthy.

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Value

Royal Canin Great Dane Adult Dry Dog Food, 30 lb bag
Royal Canin

The cheapest option if you are
looking for a budget-friendly dog
food for your Great Dane

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best For Senior

Orijen

Complete and balanced nutrition
designed to meet the specific needs
of senior purebred Great Dane

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best Raw

Instinct

For dog parents looking to raw-feed
their Great Danes. Has all nutrients and
vitamins dogs need to thrive.

Visit Chewy

Read Review ↆ

Sensitive Stomach Pick

Hill’s

Formula fortified with prebiotics
for healthy digestion for Great Danes
with sensitive tummies.

Visit Amazon

Read Review ↆ

Best For Allergies

Royal Canin

Made with hydrolyzed protein for adult
dogs & puppies with food allergies
that cause skin issues. 

Visit Chewy

Read Review ↆ

Best Grain-Free

Open Farm

For dogs with allergies or sensitivity
to grain. Made with premium-quality
beef, chicken & other meats. 

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

Best Wet

JustFoodForDogs

Shelf stable fresh wet dog food
that offers a premium and delicious
stew-like texture.

Visit Website

Read Review ↆ

The Research
Jump to: Product Reviews | Additional Info

Why You Should Trust Us

178+
hours of research
27
companies tested
3
experts & studies consulted
10
dog food
brands recommended

Our writers, editors, and in-house veterinarians spend hours analyzing and reviewing products and services to help you find what’s best for you. Read the product review methodology and editorial mission to find out how we test, analyze, and rate.

What Is The Best Food For Great Danes?

As a giant breed, Great Danes have distinct nutritional needs that require careful consideration. The best food for a Great Dane is balanced and appropriate for their life stage, health, activity levels (energy needs) and weight (size). This will ensure your Great Dane is healthy, develops appropriately, and can sustain daily activities and bodily functions.

When deciding the best diet for a Great Dane, it’s essential also to consider individual preferences such as taste or food type. Some Great Danes may thrive on high-quality commercial kibble, while others may do better on a human-grade fresh diet or a professionally formulated home-cooked diet.

How to Pick The Best Dog Food For Great Danes

1. Consider The Great Dane’s Nutritional Requirements

The optimal Great Danes diet for nutrition typically includes a combination of the six nutrients they need to thrive: High-quality protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats (fatty acids and omegas), vitamins, minerals, and water.

Protein plays a vital role in your Great Dane’s diet, providing essential amino acids necessary for bodily processes, including the creation of blood glucose for energy. Protein also helps build and repair muscles and other body tissues. It’s needed to make new skin cells and grow hair, hormones, and enzymes. The proteins in your dog’s diet must have a balanced amino acid profile and be provided in appropriate amounts.

Protein dietary recommendations for Great Dane food:

  • Adult Great Danes. 18% dry matter protein (45.0g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
  • Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Great Danes. 22.5% dry matter protein (56.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Protein sources for Great Dane food include:

Fats play a crucial, multifaceted role in a Great Dane’s diet. Fats come in two forms: saturated and unsaturated. Both are important in a Great Dane’s diet, but it’s essential to maintain the right balance. Saturated fats, derived from animal sources, enhance the palatability, flavor and texture of your dog’s food and facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. On the other hand, essential fatty acids, which are unsaturated fats, include Omega-3 (EPA, DHA, and ALA) and Omega-6+9 (LA and AA). These fats are crucial for the body’s cells’ development, structure, and function.

When balanced correctly, they promote healthy skin and coat, support eye health and the nervous system function, regulate hormones, fuel the brain and learning processes, help reduce inflammation, offer insulation and organ protection, support reproductive health, and serve as a reserve for energy storage. Fats are a dense energy source.

Fat dietary recommendations for Great Dane food:

  • Adult Great Dane. 5.5% dry matter fat (13.8g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
  • Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Great Dane. 8.5% dry matter fat (21.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Fat sources for Great Dane food include:

  • Meats fats
  • Fish oils
  • Olive
  • Sunflower oil
  • Canola oils

Dogs need energy for daily activities, growth, pregnancy, lactation, and exercise. This energy, measured in calories, comes from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Omnivorous animals, including dogs, derive some energy from carbohydrates. Carbohydrates supply glucose needed by the brain, nervous system, and other critical organs for normal function in dogs. Carbohydrates should also include 2.5-4.5% fiber. You can use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight. Ensure you follow the 10% rule if feeding treats to your dog. Food would equal 90% of the total calories and treats the remaining 10%.

Carbohydrate sources for Great Dane food include:

  • Oats
  • Brown rice
  • Potatoes
  • Quinoa
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Whole wheat

Minerals in a dog’s diet are indispensable for bone and dental health, nerve function, enzymatic reactions, fluid balance, oxygen transport, and maintaining the body’s pH level, making them essential for overall health and metabolic processes. Proper mineral balance is crucial and should be carefully managed to avoid deficiencies or excesses.

These 12 minerals are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

  • Calcium
  • Potassium
  • Sodium
  • Magnesium
  • Iodine
  • Chlorine
  • Iron
  • Copper
  • Selenium
  • Manganese
  • Zinc
  • Phosphorus

Mineral sources for Great Dane food include:

  • Sweet potatoes and pumpkin (Magnesium)
  • Fish (Iodine)
  • Beef, eggs, and liver (Zinc)
  • Poultry, nuts, and legumes (Copper)
  • Bananas and carrots (Potassium)
  • Chicken and duck (Iron)

Vitamins in a dog’s diet are integral for maintaining overall health and bodily functions. They support vision, immune health, aid in energy metabolism and nervous system function, provide antioxidant benefits, reduce inflammation, prevent diseases and ailments and more. Dogs require vitamins, but only in small amounts, and excessive doses of specific vitamins, like vitamin D, can harm them.

These 12 vitamins are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

  • Vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, D, E & K
  • Riboflavin
  • Niacin
  • Folic Acid
  • Pantothenic Acid
  • Choline

Vitamin sources for Great Dane food include:

  • Sweet potatoes and spinach (Vitamin A)
  • Eggs, chicken, and beef (Vitamin B)
  • Broccoli (Vitamin C)
  • Kale and parsley (Vitamin K)
  • Vegetables (Vitamin E)
  • Meats and fish (Vitamin D)

Water is vital in a dog’s diet to maintain hydration, support body functions such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste excretion, lubricate joints, regulate body temperature, ensure proper organ function, and facilitate metabolic processes. Continuous access to clean water is as crucial as providing nutritious food for overall health and well-being. Generally, Great Danes should drink 2 to 3 times the amount of their dry food intake daily. However, if water is readily available from various sources, Great Danes can naturally regulate water consumption daily.

2. Consider Your Great Dane’s Health Conditions

Nutrition is crucial in managing and preventing common health issues in Great Danes. Talk to a veterinarian if your Great Dane has a health condition. They can recommend the most suitable diet for them. Below are some general dietary tips to help you choose the best dog food or supplement for addressing the most common Great Dane health problems.

Food allergies

Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Great Danes. This occurs when a dog’s immune system identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in Great Danes may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. It’s important to note that food intolerances can also occur. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea.

To manage or prevent food allergies in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Avoid common allergens such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef.
  • Conducting a dog food allergy test or at-home dog food allergy tests like the 5Strands kit (test for up to 255 ingredients) may help determine food allergies or intolerance in your dog. Use the results to avoid food formulas that contain potential allergens.

Sensitive stomach

Great Danes can have sensitive digestive systems, a condition where a dog has difficulty digesting certain foods or experiences frequent digestive upset. This can manifest in various symptoms and may be caused by various factors.

To manage or prevent sensitive stomachs in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

Cancer

Great Danes are at increased risk for bone cancer (osteosarcoma) and lymphoma, which can be challenging to treat. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch these conditions early.

To manage or prevent cancer in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)

Great Danes are highly susceptible to bloat, a dangerous and often fatal condition in which the stomach twists and cut off the dog’s blood supply. Signs of bloat include restlessness, pacing, and unproductive vomiting. Emergency veterinary treatment is necessary to save the dog’s life.

To manage or prevent bloating in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Small size kibble
  • Multiple meals per day
  • Slow feeding (slow-feeder bowl or puzzle)
  • Limit exercise around mealtime

Skin infections

Great Danes may be prone to various skin conditions, including allergies, pyoderma, and demodectic mange. These conditions can cause itching, redness, and hair loss.

To manage or prevent skin infections in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids
  • Fish oil
  • Flaxseed oil
  • Vitamin C & E

Joint and bone diseases

Great Danes’ large frames strain their joints, leading to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and osteoarthritis. These conditions can cause pain and lameness and may require medical treatment.

To manage or prevent joint and bone diseases in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Glucosamine
  • Chondroitin
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Low-impact exercise

Cardiomyopathy

This heart muscle disease leads to heart enlargement and can cause heart failure. Great Danes are particularly prone to dilated cardiomyopathy. Symptoms include weakness, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Treatment options include medication and lifestyle changes.

To manage or prevent cardiomyopathy in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Low sodium
  • Low fat
  • Taurine
  • L-Carnitine
  • Magnesium
  • Lean meats

Tricuspid valve disease

This heart condition occurs when the valve between the right atrium and ventricle fails to close properly. It can lead to heart failure and sudden death. Great Danes are one of the breeds at risk for this condition.

To manage or prevent tricuspid valve disease in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Low sodium
  • Low fat
  • Taurine
  • L-Carnitine
  • Magnesium
  • Lean meats

Hypothyroidism

An endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, affecting the dog’s metabolism.

To manage hypothyroidism in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Iodine
  • Zinc
  • Vitamin A & E

Wobbler syndrome

Wobbler syndrome is a spinal condition affecting the neck vertebrae, causing spinal cord compression. This can lead to neck pain, unsteady gait, and even paralysis. Treatment options include medication, physical therapy, and surgery in severe cases.

To manage or prevent wobbler syndrome in Great Danes, consider these diet tips:

  • Glucosamine
  • Chondroitin
  • Maintain ideal body weight
  • Vitamin B complex
  • Magnesium

3. Consider Your Great Dane’s Activity Level

Provide a diet that suits your Great Dane’s activity level. This is crucial in maintaining overall health, energy levels, and quality of life.

Inactive

Inactive Great Danes may be older, have mobility issues, or have a naturally low energy level. They require a diet lower in fat and calories to avoid weight gain. Excess weight can lead to health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and more.

Moderate Activity

These Great Danes enjoy daily walks, regular playtime and occasional vigorous activities. They need a balanced proportion of calories, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Recipes for “adult maintenance” are usually appropriate.

High Activity

These are working dogs (herding), sports dogs (competition), or those with high energy engaging in strenuous daily activities. They require higher calories and a diet higher in proteins, fats & carbs for muscle recovery & sustained energy.

4. Consider Your Great Dane’s Life Stage

Great Danes have specific nutritional needs at different stages of their life. Provide a diet that meets their life stage.

Puppy

Great Dane puppies require a diet higher in calories and nutrients and a high protein count of at least 22% to 32% to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced ratio of calcium and phosphorus in their diet for proper bone growth.

Senior

Senior Great Danes are less active and have slower metabolisms, requiring fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. As digestion becomes less efficient with age, easily digestible protein sources and fiber become necessary. Their diet should contain supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to manage or prevent joint problems common in seniors. Protein requirements are about 25-30%.

Adult

Adult Great Danes require a moderate-calorie and protein diet to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. Adult dog food should typically have a protein content of around 18-25%, depending on their needs and activity level. Caloric and nutrient intake should match their activity level.

Pregnant

Pregnant Great Danes need more calories, particularly in the last few weeks of pregnancy, to support fetal growth and milk production. Like puppies, lactating Great Danes need around 22-32% protein content. Protein supports fetal development and later, milk production for nursing.

The Product Reviews
Jump to: The Research | Additional Info

Best Dog Food For Great Danes

Best Overall Dog Food For Great Danes

4.9

★★★★★

Nom Nom

Who It’s For: Ideal for those who want the most optimal nutrition and potential health benefits.

VISIT NOM NOM

Recipes: Beef, chicken & more

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: Nom Nom fresh dog food recipes win the spot for the best dog food for Great Danes. This brand uses human-grade ingredients to craft pre-portion recipes delivered directly to your doorstep. Feeding your dog Nom Nom comes with numerous scientifically-supported health benefits of fresh dog food, including longer lifespans, better digestibility, higher energy levels, and more. Fresh recipes are also ideal for dogs with food allergies, sensitive stomachs, or other dietary concerns because they avoid cheap fillers, additives, and harmful chemicals. Unlike traditional kibble, Nom Nom is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained — this means that your Great Dane will receive the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving.

What sets it apart from competitors: Nom Nom stands out from other dog food brands by taking a personalized approach to nutrition. Many dog food brands offer one-size-fits-all recipes, but Nom Nom takes the time to create a custom formula for each dog, considering factors like age, health, weight, and activity level to ensure your dog gets the perfect balance of nutrients for their unique needs.

Key Features

  • Caters to health-specific. Recipes are formulated to address your dog’s health concerns, such as food allergies, tear stains, bad breath, joint issues and more.
  • Vet-designed. Formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that comply with AAFCO standards.
  • Excellent sourcing. Ingredients are sourced from reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.

Pros

  • The level of customization is unmatched
  • Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
  • Never use feed-grade ingredients
  • Cooked in human-grade kitchens

Cons

  • It’s on the expensive side

Our Video Review Experience

Our readers get 50% off their first Nom Nom order with Canine Bible’s link.

Best Dry Dog Food For Great Danes

4.8

★★★★★

A Pup Above

Who It’s For: For those who want to provide the benefit of a fresh dog diet with the convenience of kibble.

VIEW A PUP ABOVE

Recipes: Beef, chicken, pork & turkey

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Premium

Why we picked and recommended it: A Pup Above Food Cubies dog formula is our top pick for the best dry dog food for Great Danes. Unlike traditional dry dog food, Unkibble is less processed and has half the cost of fresh dog food. Think of Unkibble as freshly homemade dog food with the convince of kibble without the nasty preservatives, additives, and cheap fillers. It’s perfect for Great Danes because it’s been formulated to surpass the specific nutritional requirements of most dry dog foods.

What sets it apart from competitors: UnKibble recipes are gently dried using our unique process, which gently dries out whole foods to preserve nutrients and flavor and maximize nutritional integrity. Some recipes use organ meats, one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can give your dog. In fact, entrails contain as many (or more) vitamins, minerals, and other valuable nutrients as lean muscle meat.

Key Features

  • Limited ingredients. Use radically simple ingredients ideal for a picky eater or dog with food allergies.
  • Superherbs. Boosted with super herbs for join, immunity, digestive support and more.

Pros

  • Exceeds industry standards
  • Cheaper than fresh dog food
  • Crunchy texture
  • GMO and hormone-free
  • Custom plans and scoops

Cons

  • It’s a bit more expensive than traditional kibble. NUTRO Ultra dry dog food is another great alternative if you want a more traditional dry dog food that’s less expensive.

Our readers get 25% off their order by using the code CANINEBIBLE — Use this link to get started.

Best Great Danes Puppy Food

4.7

★★★★★

Open Farm

Who It’s For: Made specifically for Great Dane puppies. It has all the nutrients for proper puppy development.

VIEW ON AMAZON

Recipes: Blend of chicken, pork & salmon

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Puppies

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is the best dog food for Great Danes. This puppy-specific formula provides the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of Great Dane puppies, including prebiotic fiber like pumpkin and chicory root, supports healthy digestion and calcium iodate as a source of energy production, and also promotes muscular and cognitive development in puppies.

What sets it apart from competitors: This formula is designed specifically for Great Dane puppies and has a purposeful blend of three proteins to help prevent allergies. It also has added collagen for healthy joint development.

Key Features

  • Human-grade meats. High-quality meats are raised without antibiotics or added hormones.
  • Superfoods. Boosted with chia seeds, kale, flaxseed and other wholesome ingredients.

Pros

  • Made with non-GMO fruits and veggies
  • No potatoes, rendered poultry or meals
  • Serve as a topper or complete meal

Cons

Our Video Review Experience

Our readers get 20% off on their order with the code CANINEBIBLE. Just use this link to get started!

Cheapest Dog Food For Great Danes

4.8

★★★★★

Royal Canin

Who It’s For: Great if you are looking for the most affordable dog food for Great Danes.

VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Chicken

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Natural

Why we picked and recommended it: Royal Canin Great Dane Food has a slightly lower price than other brands. It’s formulated to provide your Great Dane with sustained healthy energy from high-quality animal-based proteins. This dog food helps build strong, lean muscles and maintain optimal body conditions. It is made with wholesome ingredients that are easily digestible and provide a balanced diet for adult dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: Designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Great Danes 10 months and older. The kibble is designed with a specific shape, size, and texture for the Great Dane’s facial and jaw structures and biting patterns to aid with chewing and digestion.

Key Features

  • Omega 3. Packed with vitamin A, as well as EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) from fish oil, to provide skin support and nourish healthy skin and a smooth coat.
  • Cardiac support. Promotes heart health with taurine and L-carnitine for healthy cardiac function.
  • Bone and joint health. It also contains Glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joint development. 

Pros

  • Formulated for giant breed, with the specific nutrients to help them thrive

Cons

  • It may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities, as it is not specifically designed for these conditions
  • The inclusion of brewer rice and chicken meal and fat may be higher in carbohydrates than some dogs need, which could be a concern for overweight or diabetic dogs

Best Food For Senior Great Danes

4.6

★★★★★

Orijen

Who It’s For: Great senior Great Danes who need the appropriate nutrients to support them through their older years.

VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Chicken, turkey & fish

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Senior

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Fresh

Why we picked and recommended it: Most veterinarians consider a dog a senior once it reaches seven years old. If your Great Dane is in that stage of his life, it might be time to switch to a high-quality senior dog food diet. If you’re concerned about keeping your Great Dane healthy during his older years, Orijin Senior dog food will support long-life vitality. It’s crafted specifically for your senior Great Dane to help them stay healthy by supporting lean muscle mass and weight maintenance.

What sets it apart from competitors: With rich inclusions of a whole prey diet, ORIJEN dog food is made with the most nutrient-dense, succulent parts of the prey to deliver the nutrition dogs need.

Key Features

  • Wholeprey diet inclusions. It uses fresh and raw animal ingredients, including meat, organs, cartilage, and bone, nourishing dogs according to their natural and biological needs. Note“ “r”w” in this context means that the ingredients are super-fresh when they arrive at the factory/kitchen. The kibble is cooked by the time it is in the bag. This is high-quality cooked pet food, not raw food.
  • Bones and joint support. Enhanced with Glucosamine to aid with cartilage wear and tear as your pet ages.

Pros

  • Protein, including poultry, fish and organs
  • Freeze-dried coated for a burst of raw flavor
  • 85% quality animal ingredients
  • Great feedback from senior dog parent 

Cons

  • A bit expensive

Raw Food For Great Danes

4.8

★★★★★

Instinct

Who It’s For: Good for those seeking to provide a more biologically appropriate, natural diet for dogs that offers several health benefits.

VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Chicken, lamb & beef

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Raw

Why we picked and recommended it: As more dog parents opt to raw feed their dogs, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of a raw diet for dogs. If you are in the market for raw dog food for Great Danes, Instinct Frozen Raw Bites Real Beef Recipe formula is one of our top picks for the best raw dog food delivery brands. This formula is protein-packed with 85% meat and organs and 15% wholesome non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your Great Dane a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong. 

What sets it apart from competitors: Raw dog food may benefit your dog with a shinier coat and skin, cleaner teeth, more energy, smaller stools and more. Instinct Raw states that raw dog nutrition can promote strong, lean muscles and energize your pup.

Pros

  • Helps with allergies and weight management
  • Ingredients are frozen to maintain the highest nutritional profile
  • Cold-pressure processing to keep the nutrients and taste intact

Cons

  • Needs to be kept frozen until it’s your pet’s mealtime
  • Not as convenient as feeding dry dog food. Open Farm freeze-dried raw dog food is an excellent alternative for a more convenient way to feed raw
  • It’s slightly more expensive than traditional kibble, but you can buy raw food budget

Best Food For Great Danes With Sensitive Stomachs

4.7

★★★★★

Hill’s

Who It’s For: If you are looking for the best food for Great Danes with sensitive stomachs.

VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Chicken & Barley

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: Adult

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Natural

Why we picked and recommended it: Hill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin is formulated to protect Great Danes with sensitive tummies and skin. It’s made with easily digestible ingredients, including barley, beet pulp, and brown rice and contains no soy, wheat, or artificial that can cause upsets or skin flare-ups on your Great Dane. 

What sets it apart from competitors: Specialized formula fortified with prebiotics fiber for healthy digestion, sensitive stomachs and immune health. Prebiotic fiber nourishes healthy intestinal bacteria.

Key Features

  • Omega-6. Excellent source of omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help maintain a healthy, shiny coat. 
  • Highly digestible. The food is gentle on the stomach.

Pros

  • Supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog
  • No artificially colored, flavored, or preserved

Cons

  • Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs
  • 15% may still be sensitive to this diet. Another option is going fresh with a more premium option like JustFoodForDogs Balanced Remedy. Its plain composition of a single protein source, single starch source, and low-fat levels make it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Best Food For Great Danes With Allergies

4.7

★★★★★

Royal Canin

Who It’s For: Excellent for Great Dane suffering from skin allergies, food allergies, or food intolerance.

VIEW ON CHEWY

Recipes: Natural

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Hypoallergenic

Why we picked and recommended it: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you feed an allergic Great Dane. This vet-exclusive prescription formula helps dogs with itching, hair loss, skin allergies and digestive upset. It’s also highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health.

What sets it apart from competitors: This formula uses hydrolyzed soy protein (non-animal protein). Hydrolyzed protein is made by a process known as hybridization, which breaks down proteins to a size less likely to be recognized by the immune system, effectively stopping allergic reactions.

Key Features

  • Limited ingredients. Its limited ingredients also make it great against allergies. They use one single source of carbohydrates.
  • Supports GI health. Contains a special blend of fibers and prebiotics.

Pros

  • Specially designed for canines with food intolerances or allergies
  • Helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
  • Support healthy skin and help reduce inflammation

Cons

  • A bit expensive
  • Requires vet authorization. While we recommend Royal Canine Veterinary for the best results, unfortunately, it requires a prescription. If you can’t wait to visit your vet or don’t have the budget to afford it, ACANA Lamb & Pumpkin Limited Ingredient Diet can also help with allergies and does not require a prescription.

Best Grain-Free Food For Great Danes

4.7

★★★★★

Open Farm

Who It’s For: Ideal for Great Danes with grain allergies or sensitivities.

VIEW ON WEBSITE
VIEW ON AMAZON

Recipes: Beef, chicken & turkey, salmon, lamb, venison & more

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Premium

Why we picked and recommended it: Open Farm’s grain-free dry dog food is your best Great Danes grain-free kibble. We picked it because they skip the grain, corn, soy and wheat in favor of science-backed superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, leafy greens and coconut oil for a balanced and complete diet that provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support Great Dane nutritional needs.

What sets it apart from competitors: It’s made responsibly from ethically sourced and sustainable ingredients free from antibiotics, hormones, and artificial preservatives, making it one of the most sustainable dog food brands.

Key Features

  • 100% traceable ingredients. Instantly trace the origin of every ingredient in your bag via their website.
  • Premium ingredients. Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies.
  • Ethically sourced protein. Only uses ethically sourced and humanely raised meats.

Pros

  • No rendered poultry or meat meals
  • Meats from audited higher welfare farms
  • High in protein
  • Local carbon footprint per bag

Cons

  • It can be more expensive than other brands on the market

Our readers get 20% off subscription orders with code CANINE20 + an extra 5% off for subscribing with our link.

Best Wet Dog Food For Great Danes

4.5

★★★★★

JustFoodForDogs

Who It’s For: A good choice for those looking for the best wet food for Great Danes.

VISIT WEBSITE
VIEW ON AMAZON

Recipes: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb & more

Nutrition: AAFCO

Life Stage: All ages

Manufactured: USA

Ingredients: Human-grade

Why we picked and recommended it: JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is our favorite wet food for Great Danes. This food is a convenient and healthy option for dog owners who want to feed their dogs soft-textured meals and keep them hydrated, especially those in warmer climates. Unlike traditional canned wet dog food, Great Dane uses only ingredients fit for human consumption to ensure the highest quality nutrition. Additionally, they use a unique cooking process to make Pantry Fresh preserve the nutritional value and taste of the ingredients, making it a nutritious and tasty option for dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: Aside from traditional flavors, they have specialized wet food for targeting health-specific problems, including joint, skin, sensitive stomach, renal, appetite loss, metabolism and liver function.

Key Features

  • Ready-to-serve nutrition. A team of veterinarians and canine specialists formulate every recipe.
  • Gently cooked. This process maximizes the nutritional value and promotes a healthy immune system.
  • Travel friendly. 2-year shelf life and transportable Tetra Pak® packaging make it easy to store and travel with.

Pros

  • USDA-certified meats
  • Organ meats
  • A convenient way for busy people to feed their dogs a fresh diet
  • A variety pack for picky eaters
  • Provides the benefits of fresh dog food

Cons

  • More expensive than traditional wet dog food

Other Best Dog Foods For Great Danes

  • Best dehydrated dog food for Great Danes. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for Great Danes to digest. Additionally, if your dog has dental problems or is missing teeth, dehydrated dog food can be easier for them to eat than traditional kibble.
  • Best food topper for Great Danes. Portland Pet Food Company Human offers a fantastic variety of tasty fresh dog food flavors you can add as a topper to your dog’s kibble meals.
  • Best health-specific custom diet food for Great Danes. JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your Great Dane has a medical need for a restricted diet.
  • Best Great Dane dog food to lose weight. Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low is excellent if your Great Dane needs to lose weight.
  • Best Great Dane dog food to gain weight. With 600 calories per cup, Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gain Dog Food is ideal for helping your Great Dnae gain lean muscle mass.

Additional Information
Jump to: The Research | Product Reviews 

How to Switch Great Dane Dog Food

Veterinarians recommend a gradual approach when changing your Great Dane’s diet to a new formula.

  • Week 1: 25% new food and 75% old food
  • Week 2: 50% new food and 50% old food
  • Week 3: 25% new food and 75% old food
  • Week 4: 100% new food

Increase your Great Dane’s new food portion weekly if they adjust well to each transition phase. Watch their reaction to the new diet carefully; discontinue the new food immediately if any negative responses are observed. Never change your dog’s food abruptly. It could cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Health-Based Food Changes In Great Danes

If your Great Dane is struggling with the following health conditions, adopting a new diet or adding supplements can be beneficial to get these dog-related issues under control.

ConditionDietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color ChangesIncrease amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI SignsAvoid foods with tryptamine and histamine, such as dairy, fermented vegetables, and meats (yes, this includes bacon); try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and DermatitisFortify the diet with Vitamin E, B Vitamins, Zinc, omega-6, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil; add a dog probiotic; try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and ScalingAdjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try food with added zinc.
Dandruff and CrustinessAdd Zinc and Vitamin A levels

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Great Danes can eat normal dog food formulated for their size, age, and activity level. Opt for large breed formulas to ensure controlled levels of calcium and phosphorus, which supports proper bone development and growth. Look for moderate protein and fat content to maintain their energy needs without causing excessive weight gain. Consider dog foods with added joint support ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fatty acids to address their susceptibility to joint issues. Always avoid overfeeding to prevent conditions like bloat, and consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet plan tailored to your Great Dane’s individual needs and health status.

The best meat for Great Danes is lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, and fish. These meats are rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle development, maintenance, and overall health in dogs. Additionally, lean meats help to control fat intake, which is important for preventing obesity and maintaining a healthy weight, especially in large breeds like Great Danes. It’s also advisable to ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly and free from any bones, as cooked bones can pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal issues. Overall, a balanced diet that includes lean meats, along with other essential nutrients, is key to ensuring the health and wellbeing of Great Danes.

The worst food for Great Danes is highly processed and contains fillers, by-products, or artificial additives. It’s made with meat meals or meat products. Pugs should avoid brands that use these ingredients to formulate their recipes.

Best Dog Food For Great Danes — Conclusion

In conclusion, providing the best dog food for Great Danes is essential for maintaining their overall health and well-being. By regarding the unique nutritional requirements of this breed, you can make informed decisions to support their specific needs. We encourage you to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and recommendations based on your Great Dane’s individual health status. By taking these steps, you can ensure a long, healthy, and happy life for your cherished companion.

For those who want more options, venturing into cooking Great Dane homemade food can offer great benefits. Alternatives like vegan dog food are also great for environmentally conscious pet parents. Remember to always talk to your veterinarian before switching your dog’s diet. If your Great Dane suffers from health issues related to poor nutrition, don’t let financial concerns prevent you from providing the best care for your pet. Consider getting the pet insurance for Great Danes today.

Like It? Subscribe & Share!

* indicates required

Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Dr. Aukse Caraite, Veterinary Surgeon, DVM
DVM Surgeon Veterinarian at Canine Bible | + posts

Dr. Aukse is our in-house Lead Senior Veterinarian. Dr. Aukse is a dedicated and skilled DVM Surgeon renowned for her expertise in small/companion animal surgery and medicine. With a robust academic background and extensive hands-on experience, she ensures her patients receive the highest standard of care. Dr. Aukse is happy to share her knowledge and expertise with our readers.

Dr. Caraite's career experience as a DVM Veterinary Surgeon spans over seven years, marked by comprehensive learning from esteemed institutions and substantial experience in veterinary clinics. She is currently employed at a family-run, day-opening clinic in central Gothenburg, Sweden, where she performs surgery daily and manages a large patient base for both surgical and outpatient care. Her externship at North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, with a focus on soft tissue and oncology service, has further honed her skills, equipping her with the essential knowledge and proficiency to excel in her field.

Dr. Aukse holds a Master’s in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (2017) and has completed an externship in Soft Tissue and Oncology Service at NC State (2018-2023). She is also has a Master’s in Small Animal Surgery with a specialization in Dog and Cat Surgery from the University of Copenhagen.

Similar Posts