Bonjour, Bernedoodle buddies! With tons of teddy bear charm and a splash of Swiss sweetness, your Bernedoodle is undoubtedly one top-notch, adorable doggo. And, as her loyal human, you’d move mountains (maybe even the Swiss Alps) to find the best chow for your posh pooch.
Fear not, fellow Bernedoodle-adorer! We’re here to narrow down the litany of dog food options – leaving you with only the best options for your furbaby’s nutritional needs.
Best Dog Food for Bernedoodles: Quick Picks
How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Bernedoodles
Navigating the dog food market can feel like a fluffy minefield with endless options. How do you know which formula fits your floof’s needs? Does she need hip support? A touch of tummy help? A skin-friendly recipe?
To hit the bullseye with your Bernedoodle’s dietary needs, it’s essential to know common health concerns of the breed. The right ingredients aid in overall woofer wellness and may even address some of these health issues head-on.
Seek the following features in your Bernedoodle’s food for a healthful fit:
- Joint-Friendly Finds: Thanks to both their poodle and Bernese mountain dog parents, Bernedoodles are known to grapple with osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Foods with joint-supportive supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can be beneficial, along with keeping your woofer at a healthy weight, as carrying around too much weight can compromise your pup’s joint health.
- Focused Ingredient List: Like humans, Bernedoodles may suffer from food allergies or food intolerances, brought on by any of several ingredients. Opting for limited-ingredient diets or those free from common allergens like chicken, wheat, and soy is recommended for pups with known sensitivities.
- Ample Antioxidants: Antioxidants support canine eye health, a major win for Bernedoodles, who may develop vision-altering cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy. Antioxidants also boost your barker’s immune system, potentially helping her fight off common illnesses that every doggo may encounter.
- Heart-Healthy Happenings: Unfortunately, the Bernedoodle’s big heart is susceptible to heart disease and other cardiac conditions. Serving your pooch a food with lean proteins and omega-3 fatty acids can improve overall heart function and health. Another wonder ingredient for heart heart? The amino acid taurine!
- Plenty of Omega-3s: Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that help to reduce inflammation. This can lead to reduced joint pain, problem-free skin, and a healthy coat. Omega-3 fatty acids are often found in things like salmon and fish oils.
Remember: Every dog is unique! What works for one might not work for another, so it’s important to consider your individual pooch’s needs. Also, be sure to consult your vet before making significant changes to your Bernedoodle’s diet.
It is crucial to change your dog’s food gradually to avoid any potential digestive upset or tummy trouble.
To transition your dog to a new food, start by mixing a small amount of the new food with your dog’s current food. Gradually increase the amount of new food while decreasing the amount of the old food over a period of 7 to 10 days.
This slow transition will allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust to the new food comfortably and healthily.
The 9 Best Dog Foods for Bernedoodles
With the right food features now front and center, we can dig into the best dog food options for Bernedoodles. From fresh dog food to crunchy kibble, we’ve rounded up something for every pooch’s palate.
1. Nom Nom [Best Overall Dog Food for Bernedoodles]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
A personalized touch and palate-pleasing taste make this food a great match for most Bernedoodles.
About: Try Nom Nom’s Fresh Dog Food for a unique take on canine cuisine, as this four-footer feast is gently cooked in the USA with only US-sourced ingredients. Pre-portioned for your specific Bernedoodle’s needs, Nom Nom considers your Bernedoodle’s breed, age, and even activity levels to ensure your fluffy companion doesn’t gain (or lose) too much pudge. As a cherry on top, these mutt meals are sustainably sourced and packaged in recyclable materials — that’s good for your pup and the planet.
First Five Ingredients: Turkey, Brown Rice, Eggs, Carrots, & Spinach
Features:
- Vet-Approved Recipes: Nom Nom recipes are designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist to ensure complete, balanced nutrition.
- All Life Stages Nutrition: All Nom Nom recipes meet the AAFCO nutrient profile for all life stages of nutrition, ensuring your Bernedoodle baby can grow with her favorite food for years to come.
- Dog Food Delivery: Nom Nom dog food is fresh-frozen and shipped right to your door, making it one convenient doggy diet. Not ready to subscribe just yet? Try a sampler pack!
- Plentiful Protein Picks: Each recipe starts with a high-quality protein, providing your darling Bernedoodle with key energy and nutritional requirements. Choose from turkey, pork, beef, or chicken recipes.
- Real Produce: Every Nom Nom meal features a fresh produce source for fiber and nutrients, including everything from carrots to squash.
Ingredients List
Turkey, Brown Rice, Eggs, Carrots, Spinach...,
dicalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, beef fat, citric acid, salt, vinegar, calcium carbonate, water, fish oil, choline bitartrate, iron amino acid chelate, vitamin e supplement, taurine, natural flavor, zinc gluconate, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), riboflavin (vitamin B2), cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement.
Pros
- Personalized and pre-portioned to your Bernedoodle’s individual dietary needs
- Flavor and texture are beloved by most doggos (including canines with missing teeth!)
- Brand’s eco-friendly packaging is a major plus for green pawrents
- One of the rare dog foods made only of US-sourced ingredients in the USA
Cons
- Pricing is on the higher side
- Must be refrigerated, which can take up heaps of fridge space when feeding a big ol’ Bernedoodle
Like the fresh stuff?
If fresh dog food is your jam, be sure to check out our list of the best fresh dog food brands — they’re mouth-watering options that will please even the prissiest picky eaters.
2. Wellness Large Breed Dry Food [Best Kibble for Bernedoodles]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Bernedoodle parents after a shelf-stable food featuring joint-friendly ingredients and extras like probiotics.
About: Pamper your larger-than-life Bernedoodle with Wellness Large Breed Dry Food, a crunchy kibble crafted to fulfill the nutritional requirements of dogs weighing 70 pounds or more. Free from wheat and corn, this grain-inclusive concoction energizes your dog’s day with a bounty of brown rice, barley, oats, and more. The aim? To keep your dashing Bernedoodle active and satiated between meal times,
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Barley, & Peas
Features:
- Primed with Protein: Deboned chicken leads the ingredient list of this dry dog food, followed by chicken meal for more muscle-pleasing protein.
- Tummy-Friendly: With probiotics and fiber in the mix, your doggie’s digestion gets a hefty helping hand.
- Plentiful Produce: A hearty combination of produce, including carrots and spinach, offers natural vitamins and minerals.
- Joint Caring: Glucosamine aims to keep your canine’s joint cartilage healthy, while omega-3s battle inflammation with every meal.
- American Made: Wellness prides itself on crafting its foods in the USA with ingredients from trusted global suppliers.
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Barley, Peas...,
Oats, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salmon Meal, Tomato Pomace, Oatmeal, Tomatoes, Carrots, Natural Chicken Flavor, Ground Flaxseed, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Chicory Root Extract, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Garlic Powder, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract. This is a naturally preserved product
Pros
- Catered to the unique needs of large-breed doggos
- Excellent source of joint-friendly glucosamine
- Fatty acids support your Bernedoodle’s coat and skin health
- Probiotics give your pup’s belly a boost
Cons
- We wish they offered more protein options
- Mixed proteins can be an issue for Bernedoodles with sensitive tummies
Bernedoodles are prone to bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).
It’s a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, causing pain and potentially cutting off blood flow. It can even prove fatal, so it is definitely something you want to avoid.
Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise right after eating can help prevent this scary situation.
3. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Chicken Dinner [Best Wet Dog Food for Bernedoodles]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Bernedoodle owners seeking a softer, easy-to-mix food for picky pups or doggos with dental issues.
About: Pamper your Bernedoodle’s taste buds with the smooth and silky Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe, a canned creation heavy on hydrating broth and flavorful meat, including real liver. These meats nourish your bouncing buddy’s muscles and keep her full as she conquers life’s obstacles. Added grains offer fiber and energy, while omega-3 fatty acids promote healthier skin and a shinier coat.
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, & Peas
Features:
- Pâté Palate Pleaser: A smooth pâté texture mixes into kibble without a fuss and can be fed with Bernedoodles with dental concerns.
- Free of Common Culprits: Corn, soy, wheat, by-products, artificial flavors, and preservatives have no place in this food party.
- Veggie Bonanza: This meaty pâté has a fresh crop of garden vegetables you can spot — like carrots and peas.
- Variety of Proteins: Blue Buffalo Homestyle’s menu includes four tasty protein picks: chicken, beef, lamb, and turkey.
- Made in the USA: Blue Buffalo is a US-born brand that uses globally sourced ingredients in its recipes.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Peas...,
Sweet Potatoes, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Flaxseed, Blueberries, Cranberries, Carrageenan, Cassia Gum, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Pros
- Loaded with high-quality ingredients, including real meat, grains, and produce
- Soft texture works great for dogs with dental issues
- Most dogs seem to enjoy the taste
- It can work as a tasty dry dog food topper
Cons
- Some pawrents would rather stick to a pea-free dog food
- Some dogs prefer gravy-rich, stew-style canned dog foods
4. Diamond Naturals (Large Breed Adult) [Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for Bernedoodles]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Bernedoodle pawrents on a budget yet still wanting high-quality kibble for woofer wellness.
About: Diamond Naturals Large Breed Adult is a premium dog food that delivers top-notch nutrition that won’t break the bank. Designed with large breeds like your Bernedoodle in mind, this kibble boasts a blend of glucosamine and chondroitin – both of which support joints. The first ingredient? Always meat. Then comes an array of fruits and veggies like spinach, pumpkin, and papaya, dishing out essential fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
First Five Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Oatmeal & Grain Sorghum
Features:
- Gala of Grains: Energize your fluffy Bernedoodle with brown rice, barley, oatmeal, and grain sorghum to keep her running strong between meals.
- Gentle on Tummies: Thanks to included probiotic strains and prebiotic fiber, your sniffer’s stomach gets a friendly boost.
- Meaty Meals: Real, labeled protein always comes first in this food, leaving mystery meat in the dust. Choose from chicken or lamb-based recipes.
- Oh My Omega: With the help of flaxseed and chia seeds, your Bernedoodle’s skin and coat are nourished from within.
- Homegrown Goodness: Diamond Naturals takes pride in crafting all its kibbles in the USA, using globally sourced ingredients from dependable suppliers.
Ingredients List
Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Oatmeal, Grain Sorghum...,
Dried Yeast, Rice Bran, Egg Product, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Dried Chicory Root, L-Carnitine, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Chondroitin Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms
Pros
- Affordable price point given the food’s quality and cost-saving extras, like probiotics
- Great source of joint-friendly compounds
- Made with a slew of real fruits and vegetables
Cons
- Pickier pups may refuse to give this food a try
- Additional protein picks would be great for dogs with sensitivities
Need more affordable dog food options?
Want a tasty, nutritious food that won’t break the bank? Check out our list of the best budget-friendly dog foods to see some more options that’ll save you a few bucks!
5. Nutro Chicken & Brown Rice (Large Breed Puppy) [Best Food for Bernedoodle Puppies]
- Designed for large-breed dogs
- Made with nutritious grains
- Loaded with fiber
- Chicken alternatives would be nice
- Doesn’t contain any probiotics
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pawrents of Bernadoodle puppies seeking kibble catered to healthy growth and development for large-breed puppies.
About: Nutro Natural Choice Chicken & Brown Rice Large Breed Puppy is a nutritious nosh that meets the standards set by AAFCO for pups poised to hit the 70-pound mark or more. Real chicken stars at the top of the ingredient list, with protein-rich chicken meal coming in a strong second. Hearty brown rice and whole-grain barley also appear, offering energy and a satisfied tummy between meals.
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Brown Rice & Whole Grain Barley
Features:
- Joint-Friendly Formula: With glucosamine and chondroitin, this pup-tastic recipe helps support your Bernedoodle puppy’s joints and sets her on the path to a healthy life.
- Non-GMO Recipe: This kibble touts a list of wholesome, non-GMO ingredients and leaves out the usual suspects — corn, wheat, and soy.
- Brain Boosters: Packed with omega-3s, particularly DHA, this food aids your pup’s brain and eye development — essential for those early Bernedoodle years. Of course, your cutie’s skin and coat also get a paw of support from these fatty acid favorites.
- Fruit and Veggie Vibes: Boost your puppy’s fiber intake and antioxidant levels with included fruits and veggies like kale and dried pumpkin.
- USA Food: This crunch-a-licious kibble is cooked up in the United States using ingredients sourced from trusted worldwide suppliers.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Barley...,
Potato Protein, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Brewers Rice, Natural Flavor, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
Pros
- Carefully formulated to foster healthy growth in large-breed puppies
- Rich in brain-boosting omega-3s
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
Cons
- More protein options are necessary
- Lacks of probiotics is a bummer
6. Nutro Natural Choice (Large Breed Senior) [Best Dog Food for Senior Bernedoodles]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pawrents of senior Bernedoodles in need of extra joint support to maintain mobility and zoomability.
About: Nourish your silver-haired sweetie’s joints with Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Senior, a kibble delivering generous helpings of glucosamine and chondroitin. This premium pupper chow also contains inflammation-fighting omega-3s from chia and flaxseed that benefit skin and coat health – another major win for your furry friend. Real chicken takes center stage as the main ingredient, with a solid backup from chicken meal to supply crucial protein for keeping your canine’s muscles strong for new adventures.
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Brewers Rice & Split Peas
Features:
- Embracing the Grain: Healthy grains like whole grain brown rice keep your senior Bernedoodle energized and satiated between meals.
- Sensitivity Care: With no corn, soy, wheat, or chicken by-products, this recipe is a boon for sensitive Bernedoodle systems.
- Non-GMO Promise: Nutro sticks to non-GMO ingredients, including antioxidant-rich kale and spinach, pleasing pawrents aiming for natural eats.
- Fiber Fill: Thanks to super high-fiber foods like coconut and pumpkin, your senior pup’s digestion gets a helping hand and, hopefully, firmer, more regular poops.
- American Pride: Nutro whips up this crunchy senior kibble in the USA with ingredients from global partners.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Whole Grain Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Split Peas...,
Rice Bran, Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Whole Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, DL-Methionine, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Expertly formulated to meet the nutrient needs of large-breed senior dogs with joint support and lean, muscle-building protein
- Made without potentially problematic ingredients like corn, soy, and wheat that may upset sensitive systems
- Non-GMO ingredient lists are a rare find in the dog food world
Cons
- Additional proteins, including chicken-free and exotic options, would be ideal
- Probiotics would be a nice addition for more tummy support
7. Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Skin & Coat [Best Food for Bernedoodles with Sensitive Skin]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Bernedoodle owners seeking skin and coat-conditioning ingredients to ease itchiness, dull fur, and similar concerns.
About: If your Bernedoodle bestie struggles with skin woes, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Perfect Coat might be the answer with its omega-rich recipe. It skips common sensitive ingredients like chicken, corn, and eggs, making it a friendly fit for pooches with skin prone to problematic outbreaks or touchy tummies. The recipe also incorporates real fruits such as cranberries and blueberries for an organic sprinkling of important vitamins, fiber, and flavor.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Brown Rice & Barley
Features:
- Designed by Experts: A team of animal nutritionists and veterinarians formulated this recipe to bolster skin and coat health in canines.
- Antioxidant-Enriched: Blue’s patented LifeSource Bits appear in this food, with these cold-pressed nuggets loaded with immune-supporting vitamins C and E.
- Flavor, Au Naturel: This recipe doesn’t include artificial flavors or preservatives that can clash with sensitive systems.
- Promotes Digestive Wellness: This recipe’s pop of probiotics and fiber-rich pumpkin give your Bernedoodle’s belly a boost, promoting comfier digestion and firmer poops.
- Made in the USA: Blue Buffalo is an American-made dog food featuring quality ingredients sourced globally.
Ingredients List
Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Barley...,
Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Canola Oil, Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Natural Flavor, Peas, Pea Protein, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Fish Oil (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Potassium Chloride, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Salt, Pumpkin, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Pea Fiber, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, DL-Methionine, L-Threonine, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Tryptophan, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Taurine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), L-Lysine, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary
Pros
- Crafted by experts to promote healthier skin and a shinier coat in canines
- Great source of belly-boosting fiber and probiotics
- Antioxidants help bolster your Bernedoodle’s immune system
Cons
- Some pawrents prefer pea-free dog food
- LifeSource Bits aren’t liked by every doggo
8. Merrick Texas Beef + Sweet Potato [Best Grain-Free Food for Bernedoodles]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Owners of Bernedoodles with vet-diagnosed grain allergies requiring alternative carb sources for fueling tail-wagging adventures.
About: Satisfy your Bernedoodle’s need for grain-free goodness with Merrick Texas Beef & Sweet Potato, a kibble relying on carbs like sweet potatoes for lasting pup energy. Digestion-friendly probiotics sneak in to give your barker’s belly a boost along with ample fiber. Omega-3s also rule the roost in this food, ensuring your curly-haired cutie gets the healthy fats necessary to nourish her gorgeous skin and coat.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal & Barley
Features:
- March of Meats: Deboned beef leads the ingredient list, providing a palate-pleasing protein hit for your mutt. Pork and salmon meals make an appearance later, reinforcing the protein powerhouse that benefits your Bernedoodle’s mighty, play-ready muscles.
- Poultry-Free: This poultry-free recipe is a match made in heaven for Bernedoodles with allergies to this prevalent protein in pupper foods.
- Antioxidant Warriors: Apples and blueberries lend their antioxidant powers to keep your doggo’s immune system in tip-top shape.
- Joint-Caring: Glucosamine and chondroitin support joint recovery in active woofers or give mature Bernedoodle joints a boost toward everyday mobility and comfort.
- All-American: Merrick proudly crafts this recipe in the USA with global ingredients.
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley...,
Turkey meal, Chicken fat, Quinoa, Natural flavor, Flaxseed, Salmon oil, Potassium chloride, Salt, Apples, Carrots, Sunflower oil, Organic dehydrated alfalfa meal, Choline chloride, Iron amino acid complex, Zinc amino acid complex, Zinc sulfate, Sodium selenite, Manganese amino acid complex, Copper amino acid complex, Potassium iodide, Cobalt proteinate, Cobalt carbonate, Taurine, Yucca schidigera extract, Mixed tocopherols, Vitamin E supplement, Vitamin B12 supplement, Riboflavin supplement, Vitamin A acetate, d-Calcium pantothenate, Thiamine mononitrate, Folic acid, Niacin, Biotin, Pyridoxine hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 supplement, Citric acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product
Pros
- Grain-free recipe perfectly suited to pups with vet-diagnosed grain allergies
- Great source of omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat support
- Most dogs enjoy the taste
Cons
- Mixed proteins are not ideal for dogs with meat sensitivities
- Recipe can be too rich for some pup stomachs
Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before selecting a grain-free food for your doggo.
Veterinarians have established a correlation between grain-free foods and increased rates of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
It isn’t yet clear whether grain-free foods are causing these problems or if it is coincidence.
Nevertheless, caution is warranted.
Additionally, the overwhelming majority of dogs digest grains without issue, and few four-footers are actually allergic to grains (most food allergies are caused by things like chicken, beef, or dairy products).
9. Blue Buffalo Life Protection (Large Breed Adult) [Best Food for Bernedoodles with Joint Problems]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Bernedoodle parents looking for joint-boosting food featuring a multi-pronged approach to promoting mutt mobility.
About: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is designed with larger breeds like Bernedoodles in mind, as it’s packed with joint-friendly glucosamine and chondroitin, boasts L-carnitine to foster lean muscles, and has amounts of calcium and phosphorus to strengthen bones. It also includes Blue Buffalo’s patented LifeSource Bits, which are tiny nuggets teeming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Top things off with a generous dash of omega-3s, and you have a perfect formula for battling inflammation and promoting skin and coat wellness to boot.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal & Barley
Features:
- The Meaty Main Course: Blue Buffalo believes in starting with a solid base of protein-rich meats, and this food is no different, with deboned lamb clocking into the top spot, followed by fish meal
- Fruit and Vegetables Galore: Real fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, cranberries, and peas combine to provide your Bernedoodle with vital fiber and antioxidants – just as nature intended.
- Protein Pickin’: Lamb or chicken? Take your pick. Blue Buffalo offers delectable recipes to match your mutt’s preferences and nutritional requirements.
- Stomach-Friendly Formula: Give your Bernedoodle’s belly a boost with added probiotics and ample fiber.
- Proudly American: Produced in the USA, Blue Buffalo uses globally sourced ingredients from suppliers they trust.
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley...,
Pea Starch, Peas, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Pea Fiber, Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein, Fish Oil (source of EPA-Eicosapentaenoic Acid), Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Potassium Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, DL-Methionine, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamin E Supplement, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Garlic, L-Carnitine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.
Pros
- Packed with joint-pleasing glucosamine and chondroitin
- Specially formulated for large-breed barkers
- Omega-3 fatty acids help combat inflammation — a major concern for canines with joint issues
Cons
- Mixed-protein recipe can upset sensitive systems
- Picky pups may eat around the LifeSource Bits
General Advice for Picking the Right Dog Food
Regardless of your dog’s breed, the food-selection process can feel as complicated as training a shred-happy hound to fetch your morning newspaper. But don’t howl in despair just yet! There’s no need to jump through hoops or sniff through endless labels; hiqh-quality dog food meets three cardinal rules:
- AAFCO Compliance: Always look for foods that meet the AAFCO nutrient profile for your dog’s current life stage. These guidelines certify that the food packs in all the vital nutrients needed for your tail-wagger to thrive, whether she’s a peppy puppy, adventuring adult, or slow-and-steady senior.
- Health Focus: If your furkid battles health hurdles like a sensitive stomach or achy joints, it’s vital to seek foods tailored to address these concerns to manage her symptoms and support overall wellness. Many brands cook up specialized formulas targeting common canine health issues, making your search easier than you’d think.
- Vet’s Approval: Discuss your dog food options with your vet before making a purchase. Your vet’s advice, based on your pooch’s health history, breed-specific needs, and dietary restrictions, can help you unravel the riddle of dog food labels and pick the most paw-fect option for your pupperino.
A food that nails these areas likely provides the nose-to-tail nutrient support your sniffer needs, so you can easily stop your search here if your pup likes and tolerates the food.
Beyond the Basics of Dog Food
Getting a high-quality food that satisfies the “must-haves” discussed above is crucial, but there’s no shame in aiming for your mutt’s meals to go from good to GREAT! After all, we all want what’s best for our furry companions. Fetching these best-of-the-best eats starts by digging a little deeper.
Check for these telltale signs of a top-notch nom for dogs:
- On-Staff Canine Nutritionist: Did a canine nutritionist have a paw in devising the brand’s recipes? The expertise of these pet food professionals assures you that your pup’s diet is balanced and nourishing.
- Focus on Safety: Brands that commit to frequent safety inspections constantly work to ensure facilities meet hygiene standards and that ingredients are fresh and toxin-free.
- Treated Proteins: Confirm that the brand cooks or pasteurizes its proteins to kill off harmful pathogens that spell trouble for your pooch. These uncooked eats can also sicken you and other family members handling the food.
- Western Production: Dog foods manufactured in Western countries often meet stringent quality standards thanks to beefed-up regulations. This list of nations includes the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, England, and Western Europe.
- Western-Sourced Ingredients: Ingredients from Western nations usually comply with stricter quality regulations, ensuring your pup’s food is made with quality, uncontaminated products.
To take a deeper dive into understanding the world of dog food labels, check out our comprehensive guide: How to Choose a Dog Food
Best Dog Food for Bernedoodles: FAQ
Finding the right food for your Bernedoodle isn’t always easy, and it can be hard to separate the fluff from fact when checking out labels. Let’s dig into the most frequently asked questions surrounding the topic to break the process down into bite-size pieces.
What kind of food should Bernedoodles eat?
Ideally, your Bernedoodle should eat food that meets the AAFCO nutrient profile for her current life stage, addresses any health conditions she has, and receives the seal of approval from your vet. Because the Bernedoodle is a large-breed dog, you must also seek out a large-breed recipe carefully catered to the nutrient needs of pups expected to weigh 70 pounds or more in adulthood. These foods ensure your puppy grows at a slower, healthier rate and that her bones and joints receive support in adulthood.
Do Bernedoodles have sensitive stomachs?
As with any breed, Bernedoodles may occasionally suffer from sensitive tummies, leading to gassiness, vomiting, or diarrhea. The best way to avoid tummy trouble is to slowly transition your dog to a new food and avoid table scraps. Another option is to feed dog food for sensitive stomachs or a limited-ingredient diet if your pup has multiple food sensitivities.
Are Bernedoodles allergic to chicken?
Chicken is a common protein allergy in dogs, including Bernedoodles. Switching your Bernedoodle chicken-free dog food is a must in these cases, though always scan the ingredient list carefully for hidden chicken proteins, like eggs and chicken meal, that may upset her system.
Symptoms of a food allergy in dogs include a skin rash, excessive itching, chronic ear redness or infection, coughing, eye discharge, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pup has a food allergy, contact your vet to get to the bottom of what’s bothering your barker.
What is the life expectancy of a Bernedoodle?
As a relatively new designer mixed breed on the scene, there isn’t much long-term information about the average Bernedoodle’s lifespan, but as a large breed, 10 to 12 years is a safe bet in most cases. The best way to keep your Bernedoodle bud happy and healthy for as long as possible is to feed her quality dog food, offer ample physical and mental exercise, and keep up on regular care, including vet checkups and grooming.
Do Bernedoodles need grain-free food?
While a small percentage of dogs have bona fide grain allergies or intolerances, most dogs can digest cooked grains without issue. Accordingly, it is wise to choose a high-quality dog food that’s made with grains, to help avoid the potential issues sometimes associated with grain-free diets.
Should Bernedoodles eat raw food?
While raw food diets are currently trendy, they’re not a good idea, according to the AVMA. Raw food may be contaminated with a variety of pathogens that’ll endanger your dog’s health. Additionally, you may expose your family to these same pathogens, if you don’t handle the raw food in a safe manner.
What health issues are Bernedoodles prone to?
Unfortunately, Bernedoodles are susceptible to the same health conditions as their parenting breeds, which include shared risks of hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy, and heart disease. From the Bernese mountain dog side, they inherit a risk of cancer, Von Willebrand’s disease, and cataracts, while the poodle part has a propensity to develop kidney disease, luxating patella, and allergies.
And there we have it, the gourmet guide to keeping your Bernedoodle’s belly blissful! Remember, behind every great Bernedoodle is a human who refuses to compromise on kibble quality!
Now it’s your turn to bark back – what recipe do YOU think is the best dog food for Bernedoodles? What food tickles your Bernedoodle’s taste buds? Does she love fresh foods or prefer crunchy kibble? Does she need a grain-free formula or have specific dietary requirements you must keep in mind?
Hit us up with your Bernedoodle’s favorites in the comments!
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