“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.
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 blog 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.
Save 25% off your first subscription trial box.
| 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 DOGGO35!
| 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!
Raw Wild’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.
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 Raw Wild.
Unkibble from Spot & Tango is a super-affordable high-protein option that can be customized to suit the needs of your pup!
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.
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.
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.
Also, check out Top 3 Dog Foods for Healthy Huskies.
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