The Mastiff, a gentle giant, is one of the largest dog breeds. For this rapidly growing dog, appropriate nutrition is critical.
For proper growth, the best dog food for Mastiffs will incorporate the right amount of nutrients for slow and steady growth.
To learn how to choose the best dog food for English Mastiff, continue to read this complete guide.
Table of Contents
Dog Food | Quality | Our Rating |
---|---|---|
Fromm Gold | B+ | |
CANIDAE Life Stages | A- | |
Wellness CORE | B+ | |
Now Fresh | A+ |
* click on the product name to be taken to Amazon where you can check the current price and read customer reviews.
Below you’ll find in-depth reviews of each of the above products.
Proteins. It is very important that the food for a Mastiff comes from a good protein source. Proteins or whole meats should be one of the first ingredients listed on the food label. Whole meat meals are those that have moisture removed which are higher in proteins.
The Mastiff needs a high protein diet that is monitored to prevent them from becoming overweight.
The best ones to look for include:
Supplements. Omega -3 fatty acids found in fish oils help to keep the skin and coat healthy. They are also big helpers with both eye and brain development. Puppies need DHA (docosahexaenoic acids) whereas the older dogs seem to benefit more from MCFAs (medium chain triglycerides or medium, chain fatty acids).
Ingredients to Avoid. Many people like to look for diets low or free of corn, soy, and wheat as they tend to be allergens. Avoiding unnatural sweeteners, preservative, colors, and flavors are suggested to help in keeping their immune systems stronger.
Additionally, the Mastiff needs a dog food that has more natural ingredients to help keep their immune systems strong.
According to The National Research Council of the National Academies, an adult mastiff that is active and weighing around 200 pounds require a calorie intake daily of 3710 calories. However, a dog that has been neutered or spayed or older might need fewer calories. A dog’s metabolism and activity level determine how many calories are needed.
Puppies and mastiffs that are still growing will need to consume more calories. It is estimated the calorie intake be roughly 3487 calories per day for a young adult that weighs in at about 160 pounds.
Some common health problems that the Mastiff may get include the following.
Developmental orthopedic disease (DOD) is more prevalent in large breed dogs such as the Mastiff. Bone and joint disorders such as hip dysplasia affect many large breed pups.
According to research by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) the mastiff ranks 35th for hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia typically develops because of an abnormally developed hip joint.
For elbow dysplasia, the Mastiff ranked 22nd with the Bullmastiff at 20th, the Tibetan Mastiff at 25th, but the Neapolitan did not make the list.
Large breed pups grow substantially and it needs to be regulated. They should not grow up too fast. Feeding a diet that is too calorically dense or high in fat can make a pup grow faster than his bones can accommodate resulting in skeletal abnormalities.
It is suggested that meals be measured out and only be left out for about half an hour or so. After this time put the food away. For the most part, this ensures that your dog has had plenty of time to eat, but does not overeat.
The calories consumed by the Mastiff must come from a balanced diet that promotes healthy bone and muscle growth. This is a breed that requires good nutrition and is not one that will do well on cheaper food brands.
Here are some of our top food choices for your Mastiff!
Fromm Gold is large breed adult dry dog food that we highly recommend. It has “A” nutrition rating.
Canidae is an all life stage formula dry dog food and it comes highly recommended by Mastiff breeders. It has a nutrition rating of a “B+”.
Wellness Core Grain Free large breed formula has a nutrition rating of a “B”.
Now Fresh Grain Free large breed adult recipe has a nutrition rating of a “B”.