Are you looking for the best dog food for boxers? When selecting between dry or wet food for your furry friend, it’s crucial to factor in their age. This becomes particularly essential when you’re catering to an adult boxer.
However, it’s a whole different story for boxer puppies. Their dietary needs are distinct, mainly due to the heightened risk of developing a severe and permanent hip disease if they consume excessive calcium during their growth phase.
It’s vital to understand that boxer puppies continue to grow and are prepared to transition to adult dog food once they’re between 15 and 24 months old.
Now, let’s dive into best dog food for boxers. The Doggo Bio has curated a list of the finest brands, each meticulously formulated with just the right balance of nutrients, including calcium, deemed safe for boxers, depending on their age. These recipes are marked as suitable for either adults or puppies.
Moreover, we’ll address the most commonly asked questions concerning Boxer feeding regimens.
Best Dog Food for Boxers
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh
Discover The Farmer’s Dog Fresh – premium nutrition for your Boxer.
It’s the top choice for your dog’s health and vitality with human-grade ingredients, customized feeding plans, and expert formulation.
Pros
High-quality, human-grade ingredients
Customized feeding plan based on your dog’s age, weight, and breed
Suitable for both puppies and adults
Cons
Relatively expensive
Pork is among the four fresh-cooked, human-grade recipes analyzed in our review of The Farmer’s Dog full product line. This formula sources its primary meat protein from fresh USDA pork, with a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 78%.
Customize a feeding plan tailored to your Boxer’s age, weight, and breed on The Farmer’s Dog website. Expertly crafted by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN), this formula boasts high-quality, human-grade ingredients suitable for puppies and adults.
- Main Ingredients: USDA Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower
- Type: Grain-free, fresh
- Protein Percentage: 36%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Boxers of all ages
Sample Buyer Review: “Lola has put on a lot of weight in her old age despite a strict diet and exercise. The weight never came off. Our vet ran every test imaginable on her. Since switching to Farmer Dog, she’s lost 10lbs and is playing again. It’s been nothing short of miraculous. I’m so happy that we found you guys!”
IAMS ProActive Health Large Breed Adult
IAMS ProActive Health Large Breed Adult
Experience IAMS ProActive Health Large Breed Adult – optimal nutrition for your Boxer.
With chicken protein, joint support, and added fiber for digestion, it’s affordable for your furry companion’s health.
Pros
Fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin
It contains natural fiber and prebiotics
An affordable option for large breeds
Cons
Contains chicken by-product meal
Large Breed Adult is among 12 dry kibble recipes evaluated in our review of the Iams ProActive Health product line. This recipe sources its animal protein primarily from fresh chicken and chicken by-product meals, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
Notably, it’s fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to aid joint health, addressing a common concern for purebred boxers. With natural fiber and prebiotics it supports healthy digestion. An affordable option for adult boxers expected to weigh over 50 pounds, this formula comes highly recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain sorghum, chicken by-product meal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 25%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Boxers
Sample Buyer Review: “Our dog LOVES Iams! It’s healthy, keeps her active, and keeps her happy. Feeding a big dog can be expensive, especially when your dog isn’t eating it all, and you throw it out. That is not the case with iams. Our dog loves both the wet and dry food! Recommend it!”
Taste of the Wild Ancient Prairie
Taste of the Wild Ancient Prairie
Discover Taste of the Wild Ancient Prairie – the perfect blend of fresh ingredients for your Boxer’s health.
A balanced fat-to-protein ratio supports optimal digestion and vitality.
Suitable for all stages of life, it’s the ideal choice for your furry companion’s well-being.
Pros
Nutrient-rich with ancient grains and probiotics
Suitable for all life stages of boxers
Cons
Some users desire a higher protein percentage.
Ancient Prairie is among 4 dry recipes examined in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line. This formula derives its animal protein primarily from fresh buffalo, pork, and chicken meal, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
Rich in nutrients and highly digestible, it features ancient grains and proprietary probiotics to promote stable digestive health. A favorite among boxer puppies and adults, it comes readily recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Buffalo, pork, chicken meal, grain sorghum, millet
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 36%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Boxer puppies and adults
Sample Buyer Review:
“Overall, I would recommend this food. I love the ingredients; they have done wonders for my dog’s coat! She used to have a dull coat and, occasionally, dry skin. After testing exclusively this food for months, I’ve noticed a drastic improvement in her coat. She also loves the Taste!! The only thing that could improve is the protein percentage; I wish it were a little higher! But overall, great ingredients!”
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult
Experience Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult – crafted with a fresh chicken and chicken meal for vitality.
Coconut and omega-rich flaxseed support skin and coat health.
Affordable and nutritious, it’s perfect for your Boxer’s well-being.
Pros
Rich in meat protein
It contains coconut and omega-rich flaxseed
Budget-friendly
Cons
Some users prefer a higher protein percentage.
Chicken and Rice Large Breed formula is among 13 dry recipes reviewed in our assessment of the Diamond Naturals product line. This dog food derives a significant portion of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
It has coconut and omega-rich flaxseed and supports healthy skin and coat, making it an excellent, budget-friendly choice for adult boxers. It is highly recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice.
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 26%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Boxers
Sample Buyer Review:
“We have had our dogs on this food for some time, and the vet is constantly saying how healthy they are (weight, energy, coat, etc.). We searched for some time to find quality food at an affordable price as we have 4 dogs (including a Siberian Husky and a Great Dane). Have never had any issues with them or their digestive systems while on Diamond!”
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy
Experience Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Puppy – crafted with fresh chicken, chicken meal, and salmon meal for optimal growth.
Free of fillers and artificial preservatives, it’s tailored for growing boxer puppies.
Pros
Rich in meat protein from fresh chicken and salmon meal
Free of fillers and artificial preservatives
Provides ideal nutrition for growing boxer puppies
Cons
None mentioned
Large Breed Puppy is among 13 dry recipes rated in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line. This formula sources its meat protein primarily from fresh chicken, chicken, and salmon, with a healthy fat-to-protein ratio of about 45%.
True to Wellness standards, it’s free of anonymous meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. Recommended by The Dog Food Advisor, it provides an ideal blend of calcium, phosphorus, and calories for growing boxer pups. It is highly recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, ground brown rice, salmon meal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 32%
- AAFCO Standards: Growth
- Best For: Boxer puppies
Sample Buyer Review:
“I must admit we researched just about every kibble on the market right now and were impressed by the quality ingredients found in the Wellness brand. We were pleased when we noticed the specifics for large breed puppies. A puppy that will be a large breed requires nutrition to support bone, muscle, and brain growth. Our shelter rescue, German Shepard, is alive and thriving. She gained 6.5 lbs in her first week with us. I think she is now off to a yummy start to her life.”
Canidae Grain-Free Pure Senior
Canidae Grain-Free Pure Senior
Experience Canidae Grain-Free Pure Senior, crafted with premium ingredients like chicken, chicken meal, and turkey meal for optimal health.
Enriched with Canidae’s HealthPLUS blend, it supports digestion and skin health, ensuring your senior Boxer stays vibrant.
Tailored specifically for senior dogs, it’s the perfect choice for their wellbeing.
Pros
Rich in animal protein
Enriched with HealthPLUS blend
Suitable for senior boxers
Cons
None mentioned
Pure Senior is among 10 dry recipes featured in our Canidae Pure product line review. This formula derives its animal protein primarily from fresh chicken and chicken meal fortified with turkey meal, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 36%.
Enriched with Canidae’s HealthPLUS blend of probiotics, antioxidants, and omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, this recipe supports digestion, skin, and coat health. With 409 calories per cup, it’s recommended for boxers over 5-6 years of age.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 31%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Boxers
Sample Buyer Review:
“I recently changed my fur baby’s dog food from a Blue Buffalo brand to Canidae Senior dog food. From the moment the food hits the bowl, she attacks it like a crow on a June bug. Before the switch, she’d let the food sit for a couple of hours or even a day before she would eat. This is not the case any longer. I cannot attest to any improvements to her overall well-being because she’s only been eating the Canidae dog food for less than a month, but I’m optimistic based on what I’ve seen so far. If you have an older dog who has slowed down a bit, I recommend this dog food, and I know you won’t be sorry.”
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult
Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult
Discover Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult – crafted with premium chicken and rice, fortified with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A.
Tailored for adult boxers, it ensures optimal muscle health, a shiny coat, and balanced nutrition.
Trust in Purina Pro Plan for your dog’s wellbeing.
Pros
Rich in meat protein
Fortified with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A
Grain-inclusive for optimal nutrient delivery
Cons
Contains poultry by-product meal
Chicken and Rice Large Breed is among 19 dry recipes in our review of the Purina Pro Plan product line. This formula sources most of its meat protein from fresh chicken and poultry by-product meal, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.
Highly digestible and grain-inclusive, it ensures optimal nutrient delivery. It is nourished with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A, which supports healthy skin and coat. It’s a classic choice for full-grown adult boxers, free from artificial flavors or colors. It is highly recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, rice, whole grain wheat, poultry by-product meal, soybean meal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 30%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Boxers
Sample Buyer Review:
“We recently switched our 1-year-old golden retriever to this food after she was on Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy for the first year. She does great with the larger morsels and seems to enjoy her food. We had no issues switching from the puppy food to this.”
Crave High Protein White Fish & Salmon
Crave High Protein White Fish & Salmon
Crave High Protein White Fish & Salmon – Ideal for Boxers.
It is packed with white fish and chicken meals and offers optimal nutrition with a high fat-to-protein ratio.
Grain-free and additive-free, it’s enriched with essential minerals for enhanced absorption.
Affordable and nutritious, it’s perfect for your Boxer’s wellbeing.
Pros
Rich in animal protein
Grain-free with no artificial additives
It contains an iron amino-acid complex and chelated minerals
Cons
None mentioned
White Fish and Salmon are among four dry recipes in our review of the Crave product line. This formula primarily sources animal protein from white fish and chicken meal, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A grain-free option with no corn, wheat, or soy, it excludes artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. It is enriched with an iron amino-acid complex and chelated minerals for optimal absorption and nutrition. Moderately priced and nutritious, it’s an easy recommendation.
- Main Ingredients: White fish, chicken meal, lentils, split peas, chicken fat
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 38%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Boxers
Sample Buyer Review:
“My Jojo has to eat no grain, no soy food, which can get pricey. I love this alternative to Blue Buffalo, and my dog loves this brand way better. He is an American Bully and has skin issues if he doesn’t eat quality food. This is quality, and he has had no skin issues since switching to this brand! Thank you!”
Annamaet Original Extra
Annamaet Original Extra
Annamaet Original Extra – Perfect for Boxers.
Packed with chicken meal protein and enriched with L-carnitine, it supports lean muscle and efficient fat metabolism.
Suitable for all life stages, it’s a trusted choice among dog owners for optimal nutrition and health.
Pros
Rich in chicken meal protein
Contains L-carnitine for fat metabolism
Suitable for puppies and adults
Cons
None mentioned
Annamaet Original Extra is among 8 kibbles analyzed in our Annamaet dry dog food product line review. This formula derives most of its meat protein from chicken meal, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
Its classic grain-inclusive design contains L-carnitine for efficient fat metabolism and lean muscle mass. Noted for its nutrient-balanced calcium, phosphorus, and calorie content, it’s an exceptional choice for boxer puppies and adults.
Prized by members of the large breed athletic and sporting dog community, it comes highly recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, sorghum, chicken fat, rolled oats
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 29%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Boxer puppies and adults
Sample Buyer Review:
“This is my favorite food. The calcium level is appropriate for raising puppies of my large breed; it feeds our active adults who are running in competition with our pregnant and lactation ladies, and we reduce the quantity to feed retired older dogs. We’ve been feeding many dogs for over 40 years, so we have much experience. In our experience, Annamaet Extra is the best food we’ve found.”
How To Choose The Best Dog Food for Boxers?
For Boxers, prioritize high-protein, grain-free options enriched with essential fatty acids. Additionally, consider limited-ingredient formulas for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
1. High Protein
Boxers thrive on a protein-rich diet due to their muscular build and active lifestyle. Opt for foods containing quality animal proteins like fresh chicken or chicken meal to support muscle health, weight management, and sustained energy levels. Given Boxers’ higher food consumption rates, ensuring adequate protein intake is vital.
2. Grain-Free Options
Grain-free diets, eliminating common allergens like wheat and corn, suit Boxers prone to food sensitivities. Brands like Merrick and Wellness offer nutritious alternatives with sweet potatoes and legumes, providing essential nutrients tailored to various life stages.
3. Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids, vital for skin, coat, joint, and brain health, should be prominently in Boxer diets. Seek out foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, notably from fish or seafood ingredients like salmon. Omega-3 supplements can further enhance a dog’s diet, especially for those with sensitivities.
4. Limited Ingredients
For Boxers with allergies or sensitivities, limited-ingredient diets minimize exposure to potential allergens. Look for formulas with fewer than 10 whole-food ingredients, avoiding fillers like wheat, corn, and soy. These diets often prioritize high-quality animal proteins and fats for muscle strength and sustained energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does your Boxer require specialized dog food?
It hinges on their age. While adult Boxers can thrive on most high-quality kibbles, Boxer puppies must consume diets tailored for large breeds to minimize the risk of hip disease.
Explore The Doggo Bio’s top picks on our best large-breed puppy foods page for further options.
What are the three feeding stages in a Boxer’s life?
Given that dog breeds age variably, these stages serve as a reference to determine the most suitable food for your Boxer’s age.
| Life Stage | Age |
| Puppy | Under 15-24 months |
| Adult | Over 15-24 months |
| Senior | Over 6 years |
What’s the best dog food for a senior Boxer?
As per the American Veterinary Medical Association, larger breeds, such as Boxers, typically have shorter lifespans than smaller counterparts.
Consequently, they’re often deemed seniors by the time they reach 5 to 6 years. If your Boxer falls into this category, explore our curated selection on the best senior dog foods page for safe and suitable options.
When is it safe to transition my Boxer puppy to adult food?
Boxer puppies continue to grow and should only switch to adult dog food once they’re between 15 and 24 months old. Hastening this transition could heighten the risk of canine hip dysplasia, a debilitating condition.
What leads to hip disease in Boxers?
This condition can stem from one of three factors:
- Genetics
- Overfeeding
- Excessive calcium intake in the diet
While genetics can’t be altered, you can mitigate risks by avoiding overfeeding your puppy. Opt for dog food with a calcium level tailored for Boxers and other large breed puppies to promote their health.
How can I decrease my Boxer’s susceptibility to hip disease?
There are two effective measures you can take.
- Firstly, avoid overfeeding your puppy, as excess calories can elevate the risk of enduring hip issues.
- Secondly, steer clear of dog foods with excessive calcium levels for large breed puppies.
How much food should I give my Boxer?
A notable study revealed that dogs maintaining their ideal body condition tend to live nearly two years longer than others.
To extend your Boxer’s lifespan, begin with the feeding guidelines provided on the bag. Then, fine-tune the quantity to ensure your Boxer maintains an optimal body condition.
Can Boxers eat grain-free dog food?
Consulting your veterinarian is crucial before transitioning your Boxer to a grain-free diet. Ensure the selected grain-free option remains nutritionally balanced for your Boxer’s health.
Explore our recommended options for the best grain-free-dog foods.
Should I feed my Boxer wet or dry food?
Deciding between wet and dry food for your Boxer depends on their nutritional needs and preferences. Dry kibble offers convenience, while canned wet dog food provides hydration, especially during hot weather or for Boxers with urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide to the best dry and wet dog foods.
Are there any harmful ingredients that I should avoid feeding my Boxer?
Yes, there are harmful ingredients to avoid when choosing your pet’s diet. Always check labels carefully before purchasing anything from store shelves. Avoid brands containing cheap fillers like corn gluten meal and soybean hulls, which can cause severe digestive upset over time.
Boxers, with their sensitive tummies and predisposition to allergies or intolerances, are particularly vulnerable to these issues.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide to the best foods for sensitive tummies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best dog food for Boxers involves careful consideration of their nutritional needs, activity levels, and any specific health concerns. Opting for high-protein, grain-free options rich in essential fatty acids can support their muscular build and overall health.
Maintaining a balanced diet with limited ingredients can help alleviate allergies or sensitivities. Whether it’s a growing puppy or a senior dog, selecting quality dog food tailored to the unique requirements of Boxers is crucial for their well-being and longevity. By prioritizing their dietary needs, owners can ensure their Boxers lead happy, healthy lives.