Our Picks for the Best Dog Food for Pitbulls
Rocky Kanaka
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Today, Pitbulls are one of the most common pets in American homes, and a growingly popular breed thanks to their goofy looks, loving personalities, and dedication to their families. Don’t let their love of snuggling fool you–the Pitbull is still a strong, muscular breed that needs proper nutrition to maintain good form and health.
Here, we’re going over our picks for the best dog food for pitbulls. Each option is biologically appropriate, and most importantly, super delicious! Oh, and in case it wasn’t clear, this article covers the best food for American Pitbull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and any other dog that falls under the “Pitbull” umbrella.
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Pitbull Nutrition Needs
Pitbulls have the same basic nutritional needs as all dogs: a high-protein diet with a healthy portion of fat and dietary fiber. Dogs are carnivores, but not obligate carnivores like cats who exclusively get their dietary needs met by eating animal protein. Dogs need animal protein, but have adapted over thousands of years of domestication to easily process fibrous foods like fruits, veggies, and grain, and benefit from the additional nutrients.
When choosing a food for your dog, start by asking yourself these questions:
- Is your Pitbull a puppy (3–14 months), an adult (Up to 7), or a senior (7+)?
- How big is your Pitbull? Most are either medium or large.
- How active is your dog?
- Does your Pitbull have any health concerns?
These four factors will determine what and how much you feed your dog, and will help you to narrow down your decision.
Pitbull-Specific Health Concerns
It’s important to note that nutrition can also help to prevent health issues as your dog ages, particularly if you know what to look out for and how to supplement for those specific needs. Some Pitbull specific health concerns include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Kneecap dislocation
- Skin irritation
- Allergies
- Heart defects
- Thyroid disease
By choosing a diet that includes ingredients to support healthy joints, heart function, skin health, and so on, you can help to keep your dog healthier for longer and reduce the risks of your pup experiencing health issues in their golden years.
Best Dog Food for Pitbulls
Our picks for best dog food for pitbulls all include high-quality ingredients and biologically appropriate formulas compatible with the needs of a medium-large breed. Each option includes healthy sources of fat and protein, plus added nutrients that target specific health concerns like joint function, heart health, and immunity.
Without further ado, here are the best dog food brands for Pitbulls.
1. Best Raw: We Feed Raw Venison Formula
We Feed Raw is one of our favorite raw dog food brands thanks to their limited, high-quality ingredients. Each recipe is made primarily from animal proteins and includes an essential mix of vitamins and minerals.
Since Bulldogs are sometimes prone to allergies, we recommend choosing a novel protein like venison, which is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. This formula also includes added Omega-3s to help enrich your Bulldog’s skin and coat while supporting healthy joints.
We Feed Raw is also a contender for the best grain-free dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies. If your Pittie has allergies, a grain-free diet can help to reduce inflammation and itching.
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| First 5 Ingredients | Venison, Beef Heart, Beef Liver, Beef Kidney, Beef Neck with Bone |
| Food Type | Raw, grain-free |
| Guaranteed Analysis | 13% Protein – 10.7% Fat – 1% Fiber – 69.4% Moisture |
| Feeding Instructions | Feed 1 lb per day or ½ lb per meal* |
| Cost Per Meal | $5 per meal*, $49.99 for 5 lbs. |
What Reviewers Say:
2. Best Air-Dried: Sundays For Dogs Beef Recipe
If you struggle to get your pitbull to eat their food, but they love treats, they’ll probably love Sundays For Dogs. Air-dried in small pieces that look, taste, and feel like jerky, Sundays For Dogs can also be used as training treats if you’re working on teaching your pitbull new tricks, or they just deserve an extra snack at the end of a long hard day of naps.
Other than the delicious recipe, we think Sundays For Dogs deserves consideration for best food for pitbulls thanks to the turmeric to reduce inflammation, blueberries for antioxidant and immune support, and tart cherries to protect the joints. Get 35% off your first order + free shipping w/ code ROCKY35!
| First 5 Ingredients | Beef, Beef Heart, Beef Liver, Beef Bone, Quinoa |
| Food Type | Air-dried, grain-inclusive without wheat, peas, corn, or legumes |
| Guaranteed Analysis | 30% Protein – 20% Fat – 3% Fiber – 15% Moisture |
| Feeding Instructions | Feed ½ cup (2.2 oz.) per day or ¼ cup (1.1 oz.) per meal* |
| Cost Per Meal | $1.92 per meal* – $69 for 72 oz. (best option for savings) |
What Reviewers Say:
3. Best Fresh Frozen: JustFoodForDogs Beef & Russet Potato
Fresh frozen dog food is a fantastic option if your pitbull has a sensitive stomach, or needs an extra-fibrous diet. Packed full of healthy veggies and dietary fiber, JustFoodForDogs is still protein forward, and will make your dog feel like they are eating human food! If you’ve ever considered making dog food at home, this is the next best thing.
| First 5 Ingredients | Ground Beef, Beef Liver, Russet Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots |
| Food Type | Fresh frozen, rain-inclusive without corn, peas, wheat, or soy |
| Guaranteed Analysis | 9.5% Protein – 10% Fat – 1.5% Fiber – 65% Moisture |
| Feeding Instructions | Feed 1 lb. per day, or 8 oz. per meal* |
| Cost Per Meal | $3.82 per meal* – $244.65 for 31.5 lbs. (best option for savings) |
What Reviewers Say:
4. Best Healthy Kibble: Spot & Tango UnKibble Beef & Barley Recipe
Give your Pittie whole, fresh ingredients without any of the mess of fresh-frozen or raw! UnKibble includes zero meals or filler, and their Beef & Barley recipe includes flax seed and fish oil with Omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy joints, skin, and coat. Super affordable and super healthy. This healthy kibble is also suitable for growing pups and seniors.
The least expensive option on this list, Spot & Tango’s UnKibble is also our pick for the best affordable dog food for Pitbulls!
| First 5 Ingredients | Beef, Barley, Flax, Carrots, Green Beans |
| Food Type | Kibble, grain-inclusive without wheat or corn |
| Guaranteed Analysis | 26.58% Protein – 16.43% Fat – 3.18% Fiber – 2.04% Moisture |
| Feeding Instructions | Precise serving size customized according to your dog’s details! |
| Cost Per Meal | $2.05 per meal* – $72.18 for two weeks of food* |
What Reviewers Say:
FAQ
Have more questions about the best healthy dog food for for Pitbulls? Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions!
What is the best dog food for Pitbulls with skin allergies?
We Feed Raw‘s formula includes pollock oil, an omega-3 rich ingredient that can help to soothe itchy skin, promote a healthy coat, and much more. If your pooch is itchy all the time, this could be the solution for pitbulls with skin problems.
What is the best food for Pitbulls to gain muscle?
To help an underweight Pitbull gain muscle they will need a high-protein diet combined with exercise. Any of the options on this list will work well for this, but we especially recommend the option from We Feed Raw.
What is the best affordable food for Pitbulls?
Unkibble from Spot & Tango is a super-affordable high-protein option that can be customized to suit the needs of your pup!
Can you make homemade dog food for Pitbulls?
You can, but it can be difficult to get the right nutritional balance, and the process is very time consuming. Instead, try a fresh frozen dog food like JustFoodForDogs.
What is the best cheap dog food for Pitbulls?
UnKibble from Spot & Tango is a super healthy and super affordable kibble alternative! Easy to feed and easy on the wallet, you and your dog are going to love UnKibble.
What is the best dog food for one-year-old Pitbulls?
Any of the options we’ve included on this list would be excellent options for a one-year-old Pitbull. Remember to chat with your vet to learn more about increasing your Pitbull puppy’s portion sizes as they grow.
What type of dog food is best for Pitbulls?
Pitbulls require a high-protein diet with moderate to high fat content. Look for dog foods that are made specifically for large or active breeds, as they often have higher protein levels. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers or artificial ingredients, as they can be difficult for Pitbulls to digest.
What are the nutritional requirements for Pitbulls?
Pitbulls require a balanced diet that contains protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Protein should make up around 25-30% of their diet, while fat should make up around 10-15%. Carbohydrates should be kept at a minimum, as Pitbulls do not require as much as other breeds. Vitamins and minerals are also important for maintaining overall health.
Should I feed my Pitbull puppy food or adult dog food?
Pitbull puppies require a diet that is higher in calories and protein than adult dogs. Puppy food should be fed until your Pitbull reaches around 80% of their adult weight, which is usually around 12 months of age. After that, you can switch to adult dog food.
How much should I feed my Pitbull?
The amount of food your Pitbull requires depends on their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, adult Pitbulls should be fed 2-3 cups of food per day, divided into two meals. Puppies require more frequent feeding, with 3-4 small meals per day.
What ingredients should I look for in Pitbull dog food?
Look for dog foods that contain high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, turkey, or beef. If your pitbull has allergies, try alternative proteins like venison or lamb. Fat sources should be healthy and come from sources such as fish or plant oils. Carbohydrates should come from whole grains or vegetables, rather than fillers like corn or wheat. Avoid dog foods that contain by-products or artificial preservatives.
Are grain-free dog foods better for Pitbulls?
There is no scientific evidence that grain-free dog foods are better for Pitbulls or any other breed. In fact, some grain-free dog foods may actually be harmful, as they can be high in fat and calories. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best type of dog food for your Pitbull.
Is wet or dry dog food better for Pitbulls?
Both wet and dry dog food can be a good choice for Pitbulls, as long as they are high-quality and meet their nutritional needs. Wet dog food can be a good choice for picky eaters or dogs that have dental issues. Dry dog food is generally more convenient and cost-effective. We don’t recommend straight-up kibble however. If you like the convenience of kibble try an Air-Dried food like Sunday’s for Dogs, or Unkibble from Spot & Tango. For wet food, try a raw diet like the one from We Feed Raw or fresh frozen brand like The Farmer’s Dog
Can I give my Pitbull human food as a treat?
Some human foods can be given to Pitbulls as a treat in moderation, but others can be harmful. Avoid giving your Pitbull chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, or any food that is high in fat or sugar. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which human foods are safe to give to your Pitbull.
How often should I feed my Pitbull?
Adult Pitbulls should be fed twice a day, while puppies require more frequent feeding. Stick to a regular feeding schedule and avoid giving your Pitbull table scraps or treats outside of their regular meals.
What is the best brand of dog food for Pitbulls?
There are many high-quality dog food brands that are suitable for Pitbulls, such as Sundays For Dogs, We Feed Raw and others. Look for dog foods that are made with high-quality ingredients and are specifically formulated for large or active breeds. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best
What breed is a pitbull?
“Pitbull” is an umbrella term for a number of breeds including the American Pitbull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully. All originating from experimental breeding done in 19th century England, Ireland, and Scotland, the Pitbull’s ancestors were mixes of terrier breeds and early bulldogs, bred to drive livestock.
Should I choose a dog food with a high or low fat content for my Pitbull?
Pitbulls require a moderate to high fat content in their diet, as they are an active breed that needs energy. Look for dog foods with a fat content between 10-15%.
How can I tell if my Pitbull is getting the right nutrition from their food?
Look for signs of good health in your Pitbull, such as a shiny coat, healthy weight, and good energy levels. If you notice any signs of digestive problems, such as diarrhea or vomiting, consult with your veterinarian to determine if there is a problem with their diet.
Can I switch my Pitbull’s dog food brand or flavor?
It is possible to switch your Pitbull’s dog food brand or flavor, but it should be done gradually over a period of 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their old food, and gradually increase the amount of new food over time.
Should I supplement my Pitbull’s diet with vitamins or minerals?
I highly recommend using a supplement on your dog’s food, not matter what you feed them, to ensure the meal is balanced and they are getting all the right supplements to help them stay healthy (think of it as an insurance policy). The supplement I use is called The One from Front of the Pack. It has 12 ingredients that have been clinically-proven to keep your dog’s joints, skin, heart, digestion, and even their breath in tip-top shape. It’s also a powder, so easy to sprinkle on your dog’s food
What is the best pitbull raw food diet?
We Feed Raw is currently the best pitbull raw diet—at least according to my calculations!
It has taken a long time to find a dog food that all my dogs enjoy and keeps them feeling their best, but We Feed Raw is just what we’ve been waiting for! Undeniably delicious and made almost entirely from sustainably sourced animal proteins, We Feed Raw is a step above the rest in terms of quality and formula and is a perfect raw pitbull food / American bully raw diet.
Its ingredients come from trusted U.S. farmers, with two exceptions: venison and lamb. These ingredients are sourced from New Zealand, where some of the highest-quality and most ethically raised venison and lamb can be found. Pasture-raised and grass-fed and finished, we highly recommend trying these formulas if you’re interested in the best-quality ingredients.
➡️ Save 25% on We Feed Raw
The three foods that are super healthy and that almost every dog loves, even the pickiest dogs, are:
1. The Farmer’s Dog.
This is a fresh-frozen food that’s delivered to your home in just the right amounts for your dog. There are a number of fresh frozen dog foods available on the market and I tested them all. The Farmer’s Dog came up the winner with my picky dogs. You can see the fresh frozen food test here.
Save 60% on your first order
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2. Sundays Food For Dogs
This is an air-dried food. It has the convenience of kibble (just pour it in the bow) but is much much healthier. It’s like little pieces of jerky, so dogs go crazy for it. There are a number of air-dried foods on the market. My dogs tested 3 of them. You can see the results of the air-dried food test here.
Get 35% off your first order + free shipping w/ code ROCKY35
3. We Feed Raw.
This raw food for dogs comes delivered to your home is perfectly sized portions for your pup. They primarily source their ingredients from trusted U.S. farmers, with two exceptions: venison and lamb. These ingredients are sourced from New Zealand, where some of the highest-quality and most ethically raised venison and lamb can be found. Pasture-raised and grass-fed and finished, we highly recommend trying these formulas if you’re interested in the best-quality ingredients. Save 25% on your first order.
Supplements:
I highly recommend using a supplement on your dog’s food, not matter what you feed them, to ensure the meal is balanced and they are getting all the right supplements to help them stay healthy. The supplement I use is called The One from Front of the Pack. It has 12 ingredients that have been clinically-proven to keep your dog’s joints, skin, heart, digestion, and even their breath in tip-top shape. It’s also a powder, so easy to sprinkle on your dog’s food. For a limited time, when you buy one month you get a second month free.
