Given shelter statistics, American Pit bull Terrier, or the Pitbull as we will refer to him throughout this article, are arguably one of the most frequent dogs in America.
Pitbull owners who are fortunate enough to find their forever home are then faced with the next challenge: nourishment!
Approximately 90% of dog owners are unaware of or unconvinced about their dog’s nutritional requirements.
As a result, most new Pitbull dog owner are unsure of what to look for when selecting a good dog food that has a high protein source and healthy fat for their pet.
You can expect to find the best dog food for your Pitbull at every stage of its life in our guide.
You’ll also learn about Pitbull nutrition and how to use nutrition to help your Pitbull with common health conditions.
The realm of nutrition can be perplexing.
The majority of Pitbull owners are unsure of what to look for when choosing the best dog food.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has published nutritional criteria for dog food, and all respectable dog food manufacturers are required to meet these guidelines.
Of course, all of the options in this guide adhere to these requirements, so you can be confident that all of the favorites on our list are indeed the finest dog foods for your Pitbull even it is a dry dog food or a wet food.
Overview
Bulldogs are affectionate, loyal, and sweet dogs, but they’re also big and robust.
Many people regard these dogs to be American heroes because of their work ethic and bravery.
So, if you want your Pit Bull puppy to be healthy and strong, you need to feed him the correct food.
Pit Bulls, like other dogs, require a diverse diet to flourish throughout their lifetimes.
You can manufacture your own Pit Bull chow, but you’ll need to put on your science hat and consult with your veterinarian to figure out exactly what should go into it.
You can plan to devote many hours per week to creating homemade dog food for your pet that has a high animal protein.
You can also buy high-quality dog food in the shop or online to assist your Pitbull pup thrive as they become older.
But what kind of dog food should you give your canine companion specially if he/she has a food allergy or a sensitive stomach?
On the shelves, both online and in person, there are a plethora of choices.
As a result, we’ve compiled a list of reviews showing our top Pitbull terrier food choices.
Nutrients for Pitbull Puppies
Pitbull puppies have a long way to go in terms of development.
As a result, their nutritional requirements differ from those of fully developed Pitbulls.
The first guideline of puppy nutrition is to feed them puppy formula rather than adult food.
From the beginning, they should be fed high-quality kibble.
This promotes their healthy growth as adults and reduces their health risks later in life.
You should try dog food compositions designed at medium to large breeds with a lot of energy.
Puppy formula has more calories and fat, which is necessary for their growth.
They should ideally be fed food that contains 22 to 32 percent protein, as this allows them to grow muscle and bone, as well as gain energy.
Nutrients for Adult Pitbulls
Pitbulls are large, muscular canines with a lot of energy.
As a result, they require a diet heavy in high-quality protein.
Protein helps to maintain their energy levels throughout the day, as well as drive muscle growth and repair.
You should strive for food that includes at least 25% protein, with any additional protein being a bonus! If your Pitbull is a working dog, he should be eating protein that makes up at least 30% of his diet.
Of course, calorie consumption will be determined fully by his size and level of exercise.
On a daily day, the average Pitbull consumes roughly 1100 calories.
Working Pitbulls, such as the Red Pitbull, have similar nutritional requirements to other active breeds like as huskies.
They require more energy, thus he should aim for a daily calorie intake of roughly 1700.
His nutritional requirements will differ depending on whether he is considerably smaller or much larger than the average-sized Pitbull, which weighs 45 pounds.
Fortunately, most kibble will tell you how much to give your dog based on his weight.
If you’re unsure, consult your veterinarian, who will be able to provide you personalized guidance.
Pitbulls should be fed their necessary food consumption in two or three distinct meals, rather than free feeding, because if allowed, the Pitbull will eat all day!
This is true of many different Pitbull combinations as well!
Nutrients for Senior Pitbulls
Senior Pitbulls are those who have reached the age of seven.
Because each dog is unique, it’s important to consider your dog’s activity requirements as well as his overall health.
If you have any questions, contact your veterinarian, who will be familiar with your Pitbull’s health and requirements.
Pits can be finicky when it comes to what they consume.
When choosing a dog food for your aged Pitbull, keep this in mind, especially if they have sensitive stomachs.
The average senior Pitbull requires roughly 875 calories per day, which is similar to what a senior Boxer requires.
This is significantly less than a Pitbull who is younger and more active.
It’s critical to feed him fewer calories because he’ll swiftly gain weight if you don’t.
This will aggravate his already deteriorating bones and joints.
As a result, recipes with additional Glucosamine and Chondroitin are especially beneficial for senior citizens.
He should also be fed food that is lower in fat, as senior dogs have a harder time digesting fat as they age.
If your senior Pitbull is having trouble crunching dry dog food, a small amount of water can help soften the kibble.
It can also release the aromas and smells of the meal, enticing him to devour it as well!
Pitbull Puppies’ Best Dog Foods
In comparison to adults and seniors, pitbull puppies require nutrient-dense, high-protein food.
The following are five of our natural dry dog kibble recommendations, all of which are created with natural ingredients.
Each dog food complies with the AAFCO’s overall nutritional content guidelines.
Adults and seniors have different nutritional requirements than pitbull puppies.
Dog food should be nutrient-dense and able to meet the demands of a developing puppy.
The foods we recommend for your Pitbull puppy are listed below.
1. Blue Buffalo Puppy in the Wilderness
- MORE CHICKEN IS COMING: An evolution of your dog’s formula with more chicken than ever, plus wholesome grains
- PACKED WITH REAL CHICKEN: A recipe made to satisfy your puppy’s natural love for meat, this high protein puppy dog food features real chicken to help encourage strong muscle growth
- HEALTHY INGREDIENTS: BLUE Wilderness grain free puppy food is made with the ingredients to help promote healthy development including DHA and ARA, important fatty acids found in mother's milk, to help support cognitive development and retinal health
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
- A NATURAL DOG FOOD: BLUE dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals; BLUE contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
This recipe contains actual chicken meal, which is a good source of protein to help with his development.
Food is grain-free, making it ideal for puppies with delicate stomachs.
It also contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fatty acid found in fish oil that promotes brain growth and eye health.
2. Pure Puppy Formula Canidae
- Contains 1- 12 Lb. Bag of Canidae PURE Chicken, Lentil and Whole Egg Recipe Dry Dog Food for Puppies
- Real food ingredients for the newest member of your family. Crafted with real chicken as the first ingredient, paired with whole ingredients like lentils, peas and dried whole egg
- Complete and balanced goodness for growing puppies. This recipe is made using 9 or fewer key ingredients that are easily recognizable, perfect for sensitive dogs
- Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin and coat
- Canidae is creating a world of goodness for pets and the planet. Premium proteins and regeneratively farmed ingredients nourish pets and planet in every bowl, setting a new standard for pet food. Everything we do results in a bowl full of goodness
This food is also grain-free, making it suitable for puppies with sensitive stomachs.
They ensure that probiotics are included in every bite, promoting a healthy digestive and immune system.
Fish and flaxseed provide omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, respectively.
Each of these components aids in the maintenance of a healthy skin and coat.
It also contains high quantities of Glucosamine and Chondroitin, which promote joint health.
3. The Wild Puppy’s Taste
- Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy with ROASTED BISON and ROASTED VENISON dry dog food; REAL MEAT is the #1 ingredient; high-protein (28%) to help support bones, joints and LEAN, STRONG MUSCLES in puppies and nursing or pregnant mothers
- Nutrient-rich and provides the energy to thrive; vitamins and minerals from SUPERFOODS; omega fatty acids for healthy SKIN and COAT
- Each serving includes high levels of species-specific, K9 Strain PROPRIETARY PROBIOTICS - plus antioxidants and prebiotics - to help support healthy digestion, immune system and overall health and wellness
- FAMILY-OWNED and MADE in the USA using quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources
Grain, corn, wheat, filler, artificial flavors, artificial colors, and preservatives are all absent.
It’s not just grain-free for puppies with sensitive stomachs, but it’s also created with the highest quality natural ingredients.
It’s also packed with live, naturally occurring bacteria that will help him digest his food.
4. Merrick Puppy Formula
- One (1) 12 lb Bag - Merrick Lil' Plates Puppy Food, Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Recipe, Small Breed Dog Food
- Merrick Lil' Plates Puppy Food, Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Recipe, Small Breed Dog Food
- Real deboned chicken is always the first ingredient in this grain free dog food dry recipe, which offers the ideal combination of protein and healthy fats to help a dog maintain optimal weight and increased energy
- Natural dog food grain free recipe for puppies crafted with probiotics and prebiotic fiber for healthy digestion
- Merrick dog food small breed recipe made with leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin to aid in maintaining healthy hips and joints while omega 3 fatty acids to help maintain a healthy coat and skin
The first component is deboned chicken.
This supplies the protein that your Pitbull puppy requires for muscle development.
It contains grains like quinoa, which provide him with the energy he needs to maintain his busy lifestyle.
It contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, DHA, Glucosamine, and Chondroitin, all of which help maintain a healthy balance of minerals and vitamins.
5. Hill’s Science Puppy Diet
- This dry puppy food is formulated to support a healthy immune system and overall growth for puppies
- This puppy food provides DHA from fish oil for healthy brain & eye development
- Supports lean muscle growth with quality protein
- Uses a balanced set of minerals to promote strong bones and strong teeth in young dogs
- Made with natural ingredients
This recipe is designed for large-breed puppies, so it has the right amount of calcium for controlled bone growth, which is crucial for his potential Hip Dysplasia difficulties.
It also contains fish oil, which gives your dog the nutrition he requires for brain and eye growth as well as a healthy coat.
It’s also made using lamb, so it’s a nice change from the usual chicken dishes.
Senior Dog Favorite Dog Food
Adult Pitbulls require more calories, which should be distributed over a greater number of feedings with less nutrient-dense food.
Our adult Pitbull food recommendations are based on natural dry food ingredients, just as our puppy food recommendations.
These are likewise AAFCO-approved and have the best total nutritional value.
Adults have a higher calorie demand than children.
Instead of offering them higher-calorie foods, it should be divided down across numerous feeding periods, like with pups.
If you feed a puppy formula to an adult dog, he or she will gain weight quickly.
Here are some of our favorite foods for adult Pitbulls.
1. The Dog of the Farmer
The Farmer’s Dog is a company that makes all-natural dog food with human-grade ingredients.
Real meat and vegetables, especially when combined with cooked rice, provide plenty of energy for your Pitbull to chase and keep his slim figure.
All four recipes (chicken, beef, turkey, and pig) start with real meat and are fortified with vitamins and minerals to keep your Pittie in shape.
Take the form to get a personalized food plan for your special dog and have it delivered straight to your door.
This grain-free food is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs to rice or wheat, or if your dog is on a gluten-free diet.
2. Adult Dog Food (American Journey)
American Journey makes a low-cost dog food with a high protein content.
This will assist your Pitbull in chasing and maintaining his slim body by supplying energy.
The nutrients in this mix enable an adult Pitbull retain his or her stature, which is just what the adult Pitbull requires.
The number one ingredient is real salmon, which is high in vitamins and minerals that help the body stay healthy.
For people with sensitive stomachs, it is also grain-free.
3. Adult Blue Buffalo Wilderness
- MORE CHICKEN IS COMING: An evolution of your dog’s formula with more chicken than ever, plus wholesome grains
- PACKED WITH REAL CHICKEN: A recipe made to satisfy your dog’s natural love for meat, this high protein dog food features real chicken to help build and maintain lean muscle mass
- HEALTHY INGREDIENTS: BLUE Wilderness grain free dog food, made with healthy carbohydrates including sweet potatoes and peas, helps fuel your adult dog’s active lifestyle; It also contains omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to support skin and coat health
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
- A NATURAL DOG FOOD: BLUE dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals; BLUE contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
This contains actual bison meat, which is high in protein and essential for large breeds like the Pitbull.
It also contains its exclusive ‘Lifesource Bits,’ a precise blend of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, as well as Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint health.
Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are also present, which are beneficial to his skin and coat.
4. Adult Taste of the Wild
This recipe contains an ideal combination of amino acids that are beneficial to your Pitbull’s heart. The OMEGA fatty acids will boost the health of your dog’s skin and coat.
Your dog will receive all of the vitamins and minerals he or she requires from the antioxidant boost. For Pitbulls with sensitive stomachs, it’s extremely digestible and grain-free.
5. Adult Canidae Formula
This recipe was devised by Canidae using only eight fundamental components to make it simple and natural.
Vitamins, minerals, and probiotics are included in addition to those nutrients to support a healthy immune system.
These substances also help to keep your digestive system in good shape.
It is completely grain-free and contains no ingredients that your Pitbull does not require.
6. Earthborn Adult Holistic Formula
The first ingredient in this recipe is bison meal.
This means it’s packed with high-protein meat to keep the Pitbull’s high energy levels and muscular body in check.
Dried eggs, which are another excellent source of protein, are also included.
It’s grain-free and packed with antioxidants like apples, blueberries, carrots, spinach, and cranberries to keep your oxidative balance in check.
Last Thoughts
Because your Pitbull is a high-energy, muscular dog, it’s critical that you feed him a natural, high-quality kibble with a high protein level that’s specifically developed for a larger, high-energy dog.
If he’s a working dog, this is critical.
Nutrition is the most straightforward approach to keep your Pitbull healthy, as long as it is age-appropriate and tailored to his specific health requirements and allergies.
Keep in mind that his skin issues may determine his diet, so consult with your veterinarian.
Choosing one of our recommended snacks will keep your Pitbull happy and healthy while also ensuring that he gets the greatest nutrition possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is wet or dry food better for pitbulls?
Wet dog foods are fantastic for giving high-quality ingredients and enough of moisture in a dog’s diet, and they also have a greater protein content. They’re also a delectable treat that some dogs prefer to dry kibble crunching.
Can pitbulls eat raw meat?
Pitbulls can consume raw meat. Raw meat is one of the healthiest foods you can give your Pitbull, as it has all of the nutrients and vitamins he requires. Despite the fact that raw meat can transmit bacteria, it is nevertheless a common and acceptable food option for your Pitbull Terrier.
How can I bulk up my pitbull?
To gain muscular mass Pitbulls require a high-protein diet consisting of 40% protein, 40% carbohydrates, and 20% fat. You should buy high-quality dog food and complement it with different protein sources like chicken or fish. You can also enhance your Pitbull’s diet with food supplements that are suggested for Pitbulls.
Do pitbulls need grain-free food?
Allergy-prone dogs should eat grain-free diets, and pitbulls are among the breeds that are prone to allergies. It is not necessary to feed this formula to your pet if it is not required.
How much should a pitbull eat daily?
A huge pit bull, for example, requires three cups of dry food each day, fed at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When feeding smaller animals, feed the dog three times a day but only give her two-thirds of a cup each time.