The Ultimate 2024 Guide to Choosing the Best Dog Food for Pitbulls.

What is the best dog food for pitbulls?

As a responsible pet owner, you want to ensure that your pitbull is happy and healthy. One of the most important factors in your pitbull’s well-being is their diet. Choosing the right dog food for your pitbull is crucial to providing them with the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development. But with so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your pitbull. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key considerations and recommend the best dog foods for pitbulls.

What is the best food to feed a pitbull?

Before diving into the specifics of dog food, it’s essential to understand the unique needs of pitbulls. Pitbulls are known for their muscular build and high energy levels. They require a balanced diet that provides them with sufficient protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to support their active lifestyle. Additionally, pitbulls can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and allergies. Therefore, choosing the right dog food that addresses these concerns is vital.

Best food for pitbulls puppies vs. Adult Pitbulls

The nutritional needs of pitbulls vary depending on their age. Pitbull puppies have specific dietary requirements to support their growth and development. They need a higher concentration of essential nutrients, such as protein and calcium, compared to adult pitbulls. It’s crucial to choose a dog food specifically formulated for puppies to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for healthy bone growth and muscle development.

On the other hand, adult pitbulls have different dietary needs. They require a balanced diet that maintains their muscle mass, supports their energy levels, and promotes overall health. Adult dog food formulas are designed to meet these requirements and provide optimal nutrition for adult pitbulls.

Large Breed vs. Medium Breed Pitbulls

Another factor to consider when choosing dog food for pitbulls is their breed size. Some pitbulls are genetically related to large-breed dogs, while others are related to medium breeds. Large-breed pitbulls have specific dietary considerations due to their size and growth rate. They require controlled levels of calcium and phosphorus to prevent bone and joint issues. Additionally, large-breed pitbulls have a longer growth period, and their nutritional needs may differ from medium-breed pitbulls.

Medium-breed pitbulls have their own set of nutritional requirements. While they don’t grow as large as their counterparts, they still need a balanced diet to support their muscular build and high energy levels. Choosing a dog food formulated for medium-breed dogs ensures they receive the appropriate nutrients for their size and activity level.

Best dog food for pitbulls to gain muscle

When selecting the best dog food for pitbulls, there are several key factors to consider. These factors will help you make an informed decision and choose a dog food that meets your pitbull’s specific needs. 

1. Protein Content

Pitbulls are active dogs with strong muscles, and they require a diet rich in high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and maintenance. Look for a dog food that lists a high-quality source of animal protein, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the first ingredient. Ideally, the protein content should be around 30% or higher to meet the nutritional needs of your pitbull.

2. Healthy Fats

Do you want to know the secret to the best dog food for pitbulls to help gain muscle? Include a lot of healthy fats in your American bully’s diet. All pitbulls are energetic dog breeds and fats provide a concentrated source of energy and support various bodily functions. Look for dog foods that include sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil or flaxseed, as they promote healthy skin and coat, reduce inflammation, and support brain health.

3. Carbohydrates

While pitbulls primarily thrive on a protein-rich diet, carbohydrates also play a role in providing energy. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality carbohydrates, such as whole grains or vegetables. Avoid dog foods with excessive amounts of fillers or grains that offer little nutritional value.

4. Allergies and Sensitivities

Pitbulls can be prone to allergies and food sensitivities. If you suspect that your pitbull has a specific food allergy or sensitivity, it’s crucial to choose a dog food that avoids common allergens, such as wheat, corn, soy, and artificial additives. Opting for limited ingredient formulas or grain-free options may be beneficial for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

5. Hip and Joint Health

Hip dysplasia is a common concern in pitbulls and other large-breed dogs. Choosing a dog food that supports joint health is essential to prevent or manage this condition. Look for dog foods that contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which promote healthy joints and cartilage.

AAFCO Nutrient Guidelines

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutrient guidelines for pet foods. Ensure that the dog food you choose meets AAFCO’s standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Look for statements on the packaging, indicating that the dog food meets the AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages or the specific life stage of your pitbull.

The Best Dog Foods for Pitbulls

After considering the unique needs of pitbulls and the key factors to look for in dog food, let’s explore some of the best dog food options available for pitbulls. These dog foods have been carefully selected based on their nutritional profile, quality of ingredients, and positive customer reviews.

Bully Max High Performance for Pitbulls

If you want to give your XL American bully the edge he needs in his muscle-building journey, Bully Max is the dog food to go for. Bully Max High Performance is a grain-inclusive dog food suitable for adult pitbulls and puppies. The first five ingredients include chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, dried plain beet pulp, and ground grain sorghum. This dog food provides a protein content of 33% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 67%.

Here is why you should get Bully Max; 

• Has impressive protein content- It is Max High Performance because it has more protein than average. 
• Zero fillers; Bully Max only sources high-quality ingredients and does not include fillers like wheat, corn, or soy which can cause digestive issues in pitbulls. 
• Supplemental nutrients; Besides its high protein and fat content, Bully Max High Performance for pitbulls 

Victor Classic Dog Food

Victor Classic Dog Food is one of the big dog food brands in America that offers delicious options to dogs of all ages and breeds, including American bully dogs. A notable feature of this brand is their emphasis on using the highest quality ingredients in their products. Their signature ingredient is real meat in all their products, an assurance that your pitbull puppy will be getting a protein-rich diet right off the bat. 

If you want your American bully to build lean muscle, this is one of the dog food brands to get. It is rich in the essential proteins that active or muscular dogs need, and it does not have the common fillers that cause sensitivity or allergies in pitbulls. 

Another plus of this brand is that they have a variety of dog food formulas designed for different stages in life, activity levels, and dietary needs. This variety allows you the pet parent to choose the right option for your bully puppy’s nutritional needs.

If you are interested in Victor Classic Dog Food, you can get in the following variations;

• Victor Classic Professional
• Victor Classic Multi Pro
• Victor Classic Hi-Pro Plus
• Victor Classic High Energy
• Victor Classic Elite Canine

Farmers Dog Fresh

Farmers Dog Fresh offers a grain-free option for pitbulls. The Fresh Pork recipe includes USDA pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, and cauliflower as its primary ingredients. This recipe provides a protein content of 36% and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%. Farmers Dog Fresh is suitable for puppies and adults, including large-breed puppies.

Ollie Fresh Chicken & Rice Dog Food

Ollie Fresh Chicken is a grain-inclusive dog food that offers a balanced and nutritious diet for pitbulls. The first five ingredients include chicken, carrots, peas, rice, and chicken liver. This fresh-cooked recipe provides a high protein content of 37% and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 30%. Ollie Fresh Chicken is suitable for all puppies, including large breeds.

Annamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food

Annamaet Ultra 32% Dry Dog Food is a grain-inclusive option suitable for adult pitbulls and puppies. The first five ingredients include chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole dry eggs, and herring meal. This dog food provides a protein content of 36% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 63%.

Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food

Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food offers a grain-inclusive option suitable for adult pitbulls and puppies. The Turkey Fare recipe includes ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, and spinach as its primary ingredients. This dog food provides a protein content of 36% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 50%.

Dr. Tim’s Kinesis Formula Dog Food

Dr. Tim’s Kinesis Formula Dog Food is a grain-inclusive option suitable for adult pitbulls and puppies. The first five ingredients include chicken meal, brown rice, pearled barley, whole oat groats, and chicken fat. This dog food provides a protein content of 29% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 62%.

Crave Premium Adult Chicken

Crave Premium Adult Chicken is a grain-free dog food suitable for adult pitbulls. The first five ingredients include chicken, chicken meal, split peas, lentils, and pork meal. This dog food provides a protein content of 38% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 50%.

Taste of the Wild Wetlands Dry Dog Food

Taste of the Wild Wetlands Dry Dog Food is a grain-free option suitable for adult pitbulls and puppies. The first five ingredients include duck, duck meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, and peas. This dog food provides a protein content of 36% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 56%.

Diamond Naturals All Life Stages Formula Dog Food

Diamond Naturals All Life Stages Formula Dog Food is a grain-inclusive option suitable for adult pitbulls and puppies. The first five ingredients include chicken, chicken meal, whole-grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, and chicken fat. This dog food provides a protein content of 29% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 62%.

Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal

Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal is a grain-inclusive dog food suitable for adult pitbulls. The first five ingredients include deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, and peas. This dog food provides a protein content of 27% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 50%.

Nulo Freestyle Adult Turkey and Sweet Potato Dog Food

Nulo Freestyle Adult Turkey and Sweet Potato Dog Food is a grain-free option suitable for adult pitbulls. The first five ingredients include deboned turkey, turkey meal, salmon meal, chickpeas, and chicken fat. This dog food provides a protein content of 37% and a fat-to-protein ratio of 55%.

What is the worst dog food for pitbulls?

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for pitbulls, it’s important to be aware of the worst options that can be harmful to their health. According to a list of the 21 worst dog foods for pitbulls, some brands to avoid include;

• Kibbles ‘n Bits,

• Ol’ Roy, Purina Dog Chow,

• Iams

• Eukanuba.

These brands often contain corn as the first ingredient, which is a cheap filler that does not provide any nutritional benefits for the dog and can even be harmful. In the past, there have been recalls and complaints about these brands, linking them to health problems such as kidney failure, liver disease, and cancer in dogs. It is strongly advised against feeding these dog foods to pitbulls to ensure their overall well-being.

Also, it is important to consider the specific dietary needs of pitbulls with skin allergies. We see countless testimonies online of dog owners sharing their experience with their pitbull’s seasonal allergies and their search for the best dog food for pitbulls with skin allergies. They discovered that the dog’s current diet was the root cause of the said allergies and decided to make changes.

Whether feeding commercial or homemade food, it’s crucial to ensure that the chosen diet meets the nutritional requirements of pitbulls. It is recommended to read labels carefully and choose high-quality dog food brands that exceed AAFCO guidelines. Cheap dog food brands should be avoided as they may lack essential nutrients or contain harmful ingredients.

Pitbull supplements are important!

Supplementing the diet with pet supplements or creating homemade dog food can also be beneficial. For pitbull puppies, it is recommended to feed them with their mother’s milk for at least two months before transitioning to solid foods. The mother’s milk provides important nutrients necessary for growth and development.

When creating homemade dog food, it is important to include raw ingredients such as meat, offals or organs, eggs, fresh fruits, vegetables, and yogurt to ensure a balanced diet. It is also crucial to avoid certain ingredients such as corn and meat by-products that have little to no nutritional value for dogs. By being mindful of these considerations, pitbull owners can provide their pets with a nutritious and healthy diet.

Additional Tips for Feeding Your Pitbull

Choosing the best dog food is just one part of ensuring your pitbull’s well-being. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when feeding your beloved pet:

1.     Portion Control: Follow the recommended feeding guidelines provided by the dog food manufacturer. Adjust the portions based on your pitbull’s age, weight, and activity level.

2.    Regular Meal Times: Establish a consistent feeding schedule to promote healthy digestion and prevent overeating.

3.    Hydration: Always provide fresh, clean water for your pitbull. Ensure that they have access to water throughout the day.

4.     Treats in Moderation: While treats can be a great way to reward your pitbull, be mindful of the calorie content and choose healthy options.

5.     Monitor Weight: Keep an eye on your pitbull’s weight and body condition. Regularly assess their body condition score and consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns.

Remember, every pitbull is unique, and their nutritional needs may vary. It’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your specific pitbull.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best dog food for pitbulls is a crucial decision that impacts your pet’s health and well-being. By understanding their unique needs, considering key factors, and selecting high-quality dog food, you can provide your pitbull with the nutrition they require to thrive. Remember to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance. With the right diet, your pitbull can enjoy a happy, healthy, and active life by your side.