Top 10 Best Dog Food for Boxers puppy

Top 10 Best Dog Food for Boxers

It’s no secret that nutrition plays a vital role in overall health and wellness. As dog owners, it is up to us to provide our four-legged friends with the best diet possible.

Boxers are lively, cheerful, and devoted medium to large breed dogs that like many other purebreds, suffer from some genetic health conditions. A well-balanced, nutritious diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level along with routine veterinary care, can help your Boxer live a long, happy, and healthy life.

There is no shortage of dog food options in today’s world and quite frankly, shopping for the right one can be very overwhelming. Food is never a one-size-fits-all kind of thing and you will need to work with your veterinarian to find out what works best for your dog.

We have taken the hard part out of your search by getting straight to the reviews. Here is a list of the top dog foods for Boxers on the market today.

Nutrients For Senior Boxers

Senior Boxers require a different distribution of nutrients than puppies and even adults.  At this stage of life, most boxers start to really mellow out, almost becoming couch potatoes as they hit their golden years.  Because of this, you’ll want to make sure you manage their weight carefully so they don’t become overweight.  Light walks are going to be a must to keep your Boxer active.  30 minutes per day should be enough as they age over 7 human years in age, although every boxer is different.

Just like the dietary needs of Senior Huskies, you’ll want to make sure that you have them eating food with a higher distribution of protein and fats with lower carb ratios in order to maintain lean muscle mass and keep the fat off.  It’s also good to feed them foods that contain glucosamine in an effort to keep their joints functioning properly and prevent injuries.  Having antioxidants that enhance alertness and keep the brain sharp is also an added bonus if the food you select contains it.

Nutrients For Adult Boxers

Adult Boxers require slightly different nutrients than puppy boxers, as at this stage he is fully grown, and his nutrition is solely about maintaining his energy and health. Boxers need high quality protein rich foods that are going to provide him with the nutrients for muscle repair and cellular regeneration. Ideally, adult Boxer foods should contain at least 20% to 30% of protein.

He also needs natural carbohydrates that are going to provide him with the energy that he needs to be able to exercise up to 60 minutes every day, as well as provide him with the stamina to keep him going throughout the day. Complex carbohydrates such as potatoes and peas are the best carbohydrates for any dog, and not only do they give your dog the energy, but they also help to prevent a buildup of plaque on their teeth.

Because Boxers suffer from a lot of cardiac health complaints, more so than the average dog,  it is really important to feed him food that is going to compliment his heart. Nutrients such as Taurine and L-carnitine are essential to his cardiac health; Taurine is an amino acid that is found in his heart tissue and L-carnitine is a substance that enables cells to carry fuel to the heart for normal function.

In addition to diet, having the right Boxer-specific toys on hand can also help him maintain a healthy weight and heart.

Nutrients For Boxer Puppies

The Boxer was originally engineered to be a hunting dog, whose main ancestor was the now extinct Bullenbeisser, which translates to ‘bull biter’. This dog was used to hunt bull and wild boar, and he was extremely powerful and very energetic in order for him to keep up with the wild beasts, and it is from the Bullenbeisser that the Boxer gets his intense energy.

Of course, the Boxer does not hunt wild animals now, and he is better known for being a family pet who has assumed the role of family comedian. But he still needs 60 minutes of exercise a day to be healthy, and to support this activity he needs good-quality food that will keep him energized throughout the day, and this is where nutrition comes in.

The Boxer puppy will need different kibble compared to an adult as he has different nutritional needs. He will need food that has a higher protein content, which will enable him to grow, and higher fat content. Additionally, growing is a tough job which requires a lot of calories; therefore puppies need food that will be more calorific than adult food. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are also beneficial as they have been proven to promote healthy development of brain and eye tissues.

Don’t be tempted to feed your puppy adult food, as they will suffer from nutritional deficiencies and their growth will likely be stunted, and of course this will cause further complications throughout their whole life.

When your Boxer puppy reaches the age of 12 to 16 months, he will have almost reached his full-grown size, and it is at this point that you can gradually make the switch to adult food. But be sure not to feed him puppy food for longer than necessary, otherwise those extra calories will make him obese. Of course, every puppy will be different, so it is best to consult your Veterinarian for tailored nutritional advice at this point.

What type of food do boxers need?

  • Boxers are a high energy breed that needs a lot of exercise. They also have a higher than average metabolism which means they need a food that is high in calories and nutrients. The best food for boxers will be one that is designed for active dogs and contains all of the nutrients they need to stay healthy and fit.
  • When looking for the best dog food for boxers, you should look for a food that is high in protein and fat. Boxers need a lot of protein to maintain their muscle mass, and fat is essential for providing them with the energy they need.
  • You should also look for a food that is low in carbs, as boxers can easily become overweight if they eat too many. The best dog food for boxers will also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants to keep their immune system healthy.

Do Boxers dogs need Grain Free food?

No, Boxers do not need grain free food, but they can benefit from the nutrients found in grains. Grains provide essential vitamins and minerals that can help keep your dog healthy and fit. However, if your dog is allergic to grains, then you should avoid feeding them grain-based foods.

What health issues are boxers prone to having?

Boxers are prone to having a number of health issues, including heart disease, hip dysplasia, and cancer. The health issues that Boxers are prone to can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics and poor diet. It is important to feed your Boxer a healthy diet and provide them with plenty of exercise to help prevent these problems.

How often should I feed my Boxer?

You should feed your boxer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This will help to keep their energy levels up and prevent them from becoming overweight.

How often should I exercise my boxer?

  • You should exercise your boxer at least twice a day, but preferably three times a day. Exercise is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for Boxers because of their high energy levels.
  • A good way to exercise your Boxer is to take them for a walk or run every day. You can also take them to the park to play fetch or Frisbee.
  • Providing your boxer with plenty of exercise will help them stay healthy and fit, and it will also help to prevent some of the health problems that they are prone to.

What is the average lifespan of a Boxer?

The average lifespan of a Boxer is about 11 years. However, some boxers have been known to live for up to 15 years. The key to prolonging your dog’s life is to provide them with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.

What is the best way to groom my Boxer?

  • Boxers have short, smooth coats that do not require a lot of grooming. However, you should brush your dog’s coat once a week to remove any dirt or debris. You should also trim your dog’s nails every few weeks.
  • Boxers are relatively low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming, but it is still important to take care of their coats and nails. Regular brushing and nail trimming will help to keep your dog healthy and looking their best.

Does a boxer need to eat special dog food?

While there are many different types of dog food on the market, boxers do not need to eat a special diet. In fact, most boxers will do just fine on a quality dry food that is designed for active dogs.

However, if your boxer is very active or working dog, you may want to consider feeding them a high-performance dog food that is higher in calories and nutrients. This type of food will help them maintain their energy levels and stay in top condition.

No matter what type of food you choose, be sure to read the label carefully to make sure it meets your boxer’s needs. And always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about your dog’s diet.

With so many different types of dog food available, it can be hard to know which one is best for your boxer. But by keeping these things in mind, you can be sure to choose a food that will help them stay healthy and fit.

The 10 Best Dog Foods for Boxers

Royal Canin Boxer Puppy Dry Dog Food – Best for Puppies

Royal Canin Boxer Puppy Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Puppy
Caloric Content: 3763 kcal/kg, 361 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Royal Canin gets the choice for best for Boxer puppies as well with their Royal Canin Boxer Puppy Dry Food. As you can guess, this food is formulated specifically for the little ones and is designed to meet all their nutritional needs. Recommended for Boxer puppies 8 to 15 months old, this a great choice that can easily be transitioned into the Royal Canin Boxer Adult food.

This formula contains a mixed antioxidant, including vitamins C and E for immune and growth support. The protein content and L-carnitine help keep them at a healthy weight with proper muscle support. The high quality of the protein and the added prebiotics help with digestive health. The kibble has even been specially designed so that puppies can easily pick it up and chew.

Some reviews complained that their puppies did not take to the food as they had hoped. This is a pricier option that may not be the best choice for those on a strict budget.

Cons
  • Expensive
  • Some puppies refused to eat the food
Pros
  • Made specifically for Boxer puppies
  • Helps support growth and immunity
  • Easy to transition into the adult version

Purina One True Instinct Real Turkey & Venison – Best Value

Purina ONE True Instinct with Real Turkey & Venison High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 4,040 kcal/kg, 365 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Purina ONE SmartBlend True Instinct is a lower-priced dog food that can give you the best value for your money if you are on a stricter budget. It has an excellent balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

This food is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to cover the nutritional needs of adult dogs. The omega 6 fatty acids help support healthy skin and coat. Most dogs take well to the taste of this food and not many pet parents have trouble getting them to eat it.

There are some more questionable ingredients in dog food, including artificial colors and flavors. The brand Purina has had an above-average number of recalls in the past, but they are transparent when discussing the issues surrounding the recall.

Cons
  • Purina has been subject to several recalls
  • Lower quality than competitors
Pros
  • Lower price
  • Added omega 6 for skin and coat health
  • Great balance of protein, fat, and carbs

Nom Nom Beef Mash Dog Food – Best Overall

Nom Nom Beef Mash

Lifestage: All life stages
Caloric Content: 1239 kcal/kg, 182 kcal/cup
Food Form: Fresh Food

A boxer’s expert skill of offering up their owners the “puppy dog face” has us often wishing we could give them a home-cooked meal. Well, this is as close you can get without creating a balanced diet yourself! Our best overall pick for dog food for boxers is Nom Nom Beef Mash. This fresh and limited ingredient diet is made from only the very best ingredients, such as high-quality beef, potatoes, eggs, carrots, and peas.

This recipe offers the perfect nutritional balance (veterinary nutritionist-approved) as well as special care for dogs who may be prone to dietary allergies or sensitivities, like our boxers. It contains no artificial additives or processed fillers. It does contain russet potatoes to add structure and texture, but they are easily digestible. Additionally, carrots give a boost of fiber to support the digestive system. Each ingredient is cooked separately, so contamination from other ingredients is very unlikely.

While this food is only available on a subscription basis, it does come pre-portioned for your boxer. This will help you keep their weight under control, particularly if they are lazier than the regular dog!

Cons
  • Available on a subscription-only basis
  • Potatoes offer little nutritional value
Pros
  • High percent of protein, fat, and moisture
  • No artificial additives
  • Carrots for extra fiber
  • Pre-portioned for weight control

Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 3891 kcal/kg, 335 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dog Food is tailor-made for the Boxer breed to offer them the nutrition they need to thrive. Formulated with precise protein content and L-carnitine provide a foundation for maintaining an ideal weight and proper muscle health. The added taurine, EPA, DHA, and antioxidants offer all-encompassing health support for your Boxer.

Royal Canin Boxer gets our pick for third choice because breed-specific foods are not so common but are very beneficial. This choice is a bit pricier than some of the others, but that’s typical of high-quality foods.

Royal Canin also makes wet food for Boxers for those that prefer to go the canned food route. It can also be added with dry food for some versatility. Recommended by veterinarians, this is a great choice for any boxer owner. Other than the complaints about the heavy price tag, some owners did have dogs that didn’t take well to the taste.

Cons
  • Expensive
Pros
  • Designed specifically for Boxers
  • Full of added nutrients
  • Brand recommended by veterinarians

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 3,719 kcal/kg, 422 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dog Food is a great choice for a balanced, nutritional diet for adult Boxers. The company even has a version titled Ancient Grains, for those that do not prefer grain-free options. The High Prairie Grain-Free dry dog food has no grains, corn, wheat, artificial colors, or flavors.

This dog food is fairer priced than some other competitors but also being high quality with real meat as the number one ingredient. This food also contains prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health and is supplemented with taurine for heart and muscle health.

Well-reviewed by many, the biggest complaints among dog owners are that some more sedentary dogs tend to gain weight on this food. It also has a lower level of omega 3 fatty acids than some other brands.

Cons
  • Low Level of omega 3 fatty acids
  • May cause weight gain in sedentary dogs
Pros
  • No grains, corn, wheat, artificial flavors, or artificial colors
  • Real meat is the number one ingredient
  • Supplemented with taurine for muscle and heart health
  • Excellent source of prebiotics and probiotics
  • Contains omega 3 fatty acids for coat, eye, and brain health

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner – Best Wet Food

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner with Wild Salmon, Venison & Halibut Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 1,046 kcal/kg, 370 kcal/can
Food Form: Canned Wet Food

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner High Protein Grain Free, Natural Wet Dog Food is a great choice for Boxer owners that prefer canned food or are wanting to include it in their Boxer’s diet. Not only is this food tasty for your pup, but it is also naturally grain and gluten-free and made from high-quality ingredients with protein from a blend of wild salmon, venison, and halibut. It is also packed with fruits, vegetables and is enhanced with extra vitamins and minerals.

This food is free of by-products, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives. It is created to support healthy muscle growth and promote a healthy, active lifestyle that Boxers need. The biggest complaint from some dog owners aside from the expense was that it caused unpleasant amounts of gas and had a strong smell.

Cons
  • Caused gas in some dogs
  • Expense
  • Smells like fish
Pros
  • Can be an entrée or mixed with dry food
  • Made from salmon, venison, and halibut
  • No by-products, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives

Diamond Naturals Senior Formula Dry Dog Food – Best for Seniors

Diamond Naturals Senior Formula Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 3,400 kcal/kg, 347 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Our beloved senior dogs can have some different, more specific nutritional needs as they age, and Diamond Naturals Senior Formula Dry Dog food is designed just for that. This food is formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin for the needed joint support to keep seniors comfortable.

Diamond Naturals is made in the USA by a family-owned company and they strive to use quality ingredients, with real chicken being the number one ingredient in this senior formula. The precise balance of protein and fat is geared toward older dogs to help them maintain a healthy weight.

Free from corn, wheat, and any artificial colors and flavors, this can be a great choice for senior Boxer owners. Some reviewers struggled with their dogs not finding the food appetizing. Any dog that suffers from a food allergy or sensitivity to chicken should opt for a chicken-free formula.

Cons
  • Some dogs did not find the food appetizing
Pros
  • Designed specifically for senior health
  • Added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
  • No corn, wheat, artificial flavors, or colors

Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food – Best Fresh Food

Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Breed Size: All Sizes
Food Form: Fresh

If you are looking for great fresh food for your Boxer, look no further. Freshpet Vital Fresh cuts are a great way to add fresh ingredients to your dog’s typical dry dog food diet. This can be fed and a full meal but it would get very pricey for large dogs like Boxers. Freshpet is non-GMO verified and free of preservatives and meat by-products.

Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts is full of gently cooked, nutrient-rich protein, fruits, vegetables, and tender shreds of natural fresh chicken. The antioxidant-rich sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, spinach, and cranberries provide excellent nutritional benefits for your four-legged family member(s).

This food is a bit on the pricey side and must be stored in the refrigerator and used within 7 days of opening. The expense and short shelf life were the biggest complaints on this food, but the short shelf life is expected with fresh ingredients.

Cons
  • Expensive
  • Short shelf life
Pros
  • Non-GMO verified and free of preservatives and meat by-products
  • Made from fresh chicken, fruits, and vegetables
  • Great for full meal or topper for dry food

Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Northern Woodlands Recipe

Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Northern Woodlands Recipe with Turkey, Duck & Quail Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 3,550 kcal/kg, 335 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Rachael Ray Nutrish PEAK Northern Woodlands Recipe is derived from turkey, duck, and quail with turkey as the number one ingredient. This dog food contains 30 percent high-quality protein and is formulated to be nutrient-dense. There are added vitamins, minerals, and taurine for overall health benefits.

Made without any grains, gluten, fillers, or artificial flavors or preservatives, Rachel Ray Nutrish PEAK Northern Woodlands comes at a better price than some other competitors but does have lower overall quality than some of the other competitors.

Rachel Ray has had some controversy with her pet foods in the past, but overall, this is a well-rated food that many reviewers love for their dogs.

Cons
  • Not as high quality as other options
Pros
  • No grains, gluten, fillers, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
  • Real turkey is the number one ingredient
  • Fair price

Wellness Complete Health Adult Lamb & Barley Recipe

Wellness Complete Health Adult Lamb & Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 3,655 kcal/kg or 417 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Wellness is growing increasingly popular in the luxury pet food market and the Complete eHealth Adult Lamb and Barley recipe is a great choice for Boxers and other adult dogs. Formulated for whole-body nutritional support, this food is made without any GMOs or meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.

This formula is enriched with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine, giving it all-encompassing health benefits. Wellness Complete advises that their food is made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients.

The main complaint among reviews was that this food was not appetizing for all dogs. The good news is that this brand does offer a wide variety of flavors and formulations if the lamb and barley recipe does not match with your dog’s taste buds.

Cons
  • Not appetizing for all dogs
Pros
  • Made without GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives
  • Enriched with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine
  • Lamb is the first ingredient

CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe -Best for Allergy Sufferers

CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food

Lifestage: Adult
Caloric Content: 3,560 kcal/kg, 459 kcal/cup
Food Form: Dry Food

Some Boxers suffer from food allergies or sensitivities and it’s important to be aware of foods that are best suited for those that are sensitive or suffer from food allergies. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food is formulated with eight wholesome ingredients with salmon being the number one ingredient on the list.

The added vegetables provide some extra nutrition while a blend of probiotics, antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals support their system and provide overall health. There are no fillers, and this food is free of corn, wheat, soy, grain, or artificial ingredients.

This food may be a bit pricey but it’s a great choice if you are looking for a limited ingredient dog food that is high quality. It does smell like fish, which is normal for salmon-derived foods, but it can be unpleasant for owners to smell.

Cons
  • Smells like fish
  • Pricey
Pros
  • Great for allergy sufferers or those with sensitivities
  • Free of grain, soy, wheat, corn, and other fillers
  • Limited ingredient, whole food recipe

Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Dog Food for Boxers

Boxers need a pretty specific diet to support muscle mass, heart health, and general wellbeing. Whether you choose one of the foods we’ve reviewed above, or you continue looking for other options, there are a few things you need to be on the lookout for to ensure the food you choose is adequately formulated for a Boxer’s dietary needs.

Promotes Muscle Mass

Boxers are naturally muscular and helping your pooch maintain that muscle mass will help keep them happy and healthy. While food with a high protein content will help feed your dog’s muscles, there are some additional compounds that can be beneficial for helping your pup maintain their muscularity. L-carnitine and taurine are two things you should look for in dry dog food for your Boxer, as these naturally promote muscle growth and maintenance.

High Protein Content

Dogs digest meat and protein most efficiently. Animal products that are high in protein should be of the utmost importance when searching for dog food. Boxers have a particularly high energy level, and they naturally have a lot of muscle mass; a diet that contains a large portion of protein from animal products will help maintain your Boxer’s naturally high energy levels.

Contains Antioxidants and Vitamins

Lots of dog foods include fillers like corn, wheat, and other grains. Many of these aren’t necessarily detrimental to your dog’s health, but they don’t offer many benefits either. Alternatively, finding a dog food containing antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals from fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to pack some nutrition and healthy compounds into your dog’s diet. These support overall health, which is perfect for Boxers, who are prone to different health problems.

Formulated for Your Dog’s Age

Lastly, you’ll want to choose food that is suitable for your dog’s age. Puppies need more nutrients than grown Boxers, merely because they’re growing at a fast rate and putting on muscle. More vitamins, nutrients, and joint-healthy fats like glucosamine are perfect for puppies and their developing bodies. Additionally, while adult Boxers may have difficulty picking up small pieces of food, puppies can choke on larger pieces and need overall smaller food pieces. The perfect menu for your Boxer will include the nutrients they need at their age, and it will be an appropriate size for them to eat safely.

Doesn’t Contain Small Pieces

Kibble size is often something many Boxer parents overlook, so you’ll want to pay careful attention to this one! Boxers are brachycephalic, which means they have a short muzzle. They also often have underbites. These two traits lead to the instantly recognizable and adorable Boxer face, but they can lead to problems picking up pieces of food that are too small. Dry food for Boxers should contain more substantial pieces of food that they can pick up easily out of their bowls, and certain shapes — specifically not round or flat — can also help make it easier for Boxers to eat.

Supports Heart Health

Boxers are naturally prone to heart problems, and while they can’t entirely be avoided, maintaining a proper diet can help reduce your dog’s risk of developing issues with their heart. Healthy fats like omega-3s and glucosamine help promote heart health, so these are beneficial in your Boxer’s food. Most breeds don’t necessarily need these fats in their diet, so you’ll need to look for these specific ingredients to make sure you’re helping maintain your pup’s heart health.

Final Thoughts

Nom Nom Beef Mash Dog Food is a great overall choice that gives your Boxer a high-quality food that meets all the necessary nutrition requirements at a fair price. However, Purina One True Instinct is a great value for the money coming in as the most low-cost food on the list that will give your Boxer all they need to thrive. Royal Canin Boxer is geared specifically for the breed and though a bit pricey, is highly recommended by veterinarians covers a Boxer’s dietary needs.

As you can see, there is no lack of options for your Boxer’s food and the reviews speak for themselves. Remember to consult your veterinarian for advice on your Boxer’s dietary needs.

Edward Hollon is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Edward has been writing for petdii for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners. Edward has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Edward knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.