giant breedUpdated March 2026

Best Dog Food for Newfoundlands

Our top food picks for Newfoundlands. Fresh food delivery, subscription boxes, and kibble brands that actually work for this breed.

At 100 to 150 pounds, the Newfoundland is a moderate energy giant breed. Newfoundlands belong to the Working group, bred for physically demanding jobs, so they need fuel that matches their build. What you put in the bowl has a direct effect on how they feel and perform day to day.

Newfoundlands are prone to Hip Dysplasia, Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis, Cystinuria. Joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine help. A food that addresses these breed-specific risks goes a long way.

Newfoundlands have demanding coats that need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from their food. If the coat looks dull, diet is usually the first thing to check. We put together our top picks below: subscription food services, monthly boxes, and kibble options that work well for this breed.

Newfoundland Nutrition Profile

22–26%
Protein
10–14%
Fat
4–6%
Fiber
15 cal/lb
Calories

Best Fresh Food Delivery for Newfoundlands

These services build a meal plan around your Newfoundland's weight and age. Real food, vet-approved recipes, shipped to your door.

Best Subscription Boxes for Newfoundlands

Monthly boxes with toys, treats, and chews picked for your Newfoundland's size. Good nutrition is half the battle. Enrichment is the other half.

Feeding by Life Stage

🐶Newfoundland Puppies

Newfoundland puppies should be on a large-breed puppy formula with controlled calcium. They grow to 150+ pounds, and rushing that growth stresses developing bones. Since Newfoundlands are prone to joint issues, this is especially important.

🧓Senior Newfoundlands

Newfoundlands live about 9 to 10 years, so around age 7 you should start thinking about a senior formula. Fewer calories, easier on the stomach. Joint supplements like glucosamine become more important at this stage.

Recommended Kibble Brands

Widely available dry food brands suitable for Newfoundlands. Listed for informational purposes.

Best Overall
Orijen Large Breed
Tailored for large and giant breeds with glucosamine and chondroitin from natural sources
Vet Favorite
Hill's Science Diet Large Breed
Clinically proven antioxidants and glucosamine for large breed joint and immune health
Joint Support
Wellness Core Large Breed
Glucosamine and chondroitin built in, optimized protein-to-fat ratio for bigger dogs
Popular
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed
L-carnitine for lean muscle, glucosamine for joints, controlled calories
Budget Pick
Diamond Naturals Large Breed
Added glucosamine and chondroitin at the lowest price in the large breed category
Allergy-Friendly
Natural Balance L.I.D. Salmon & Brown Rice
Just a few key ingredients to minimize triggers for dogs with food sensitivities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Newfoundland

How much food does a Newfoundland need per day?

A Newfoundland weighing 100 to 150 lbs needs roughly 1500 to 2250 calories per day, depending on age and how active they are. Split that into two meals. Use a slow feeder or puzzle bowl to reduce the risk of bloat.

What health issues should Newfoundland food help with?

Newfoundlands are known to develop Hip Dysplasia, Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis, Cystinuria. Look for foods that address these: glucosamine and chondroitin for joints, and omega-3 fatty acids for overall health.

What protein percentage is right for a Newfoundland?

Newfoundlands do well on 22–26% protein. The first ingredient should be a named meat like chicken, beef, fish, or lamb. Skip foods where corn, wheat, or soy is listed first.

When should a Newfoundland puppy switch to adult food?

Newfoundlands are a bigger breed, so keep them on puppy food longer. 12 to 24 months is the usual range because their bones need time to finish developing. Your vet can check growth progress and give you a more exact timeline.

What foods are toxic to Newfoundlands?

Same as all dogs: chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol (check sugar-free gum labels), onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and cooked bones. Newfoundlands can get into things fast, so keep these stored where they can't reach.

When is a Newfoundland considered senior?

Newfoundlands live about 9 to 10 years, so they start hitting senior territory around age 7. That's when you might want to look at lower-calorie formulas with joint support and easier-to-digest protein.

Learn More About Newfoundlands