9 Best Dog Foods for Rottweilers 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks
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Rottweilers are working dogs, bursting with energy and strength. However, unless they are working in the fields every day or enjoy regular, high-intensity exercise, you will need to watch their weight. They are particularly prone to obesity, and it is far more difficult to get rid of the weight than it is to prevent it in the first place.
While ensuring your companion gets the necessary protein levels in their diet, you should avoid feeding unnecessary, unwanted, extra calories.
Although it can be difficult to find the best food for your Rottweiler, we have written reviews of nine of the best foods you can feed your Rottie. Hopefully, the list will help you settle on a brand that your pup appreciates.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites (Updated in 2024)
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Best Overall
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The Farmer's Dog Chicken Recipe (Fresh Dog Food Subscription) |
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Budget Buy
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Iams ProActive Health Adult Large Breed |
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Best for Puppies
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Royal Canin Rottweiler Puppy |
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Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free |
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Royal Canin Rottweiler Adult |
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The 9 Best Dog Foods for Rottweilers
1. The Farmer’s Chicken Recipe (Fresh Dog Food Subscription) – Best Overall
Our first-place pick for the best dog food for Rottweilers comes from The Farmer’s Dog. It makes home-cooked meals with human-grade foods so you can feed your beloved pup fresh food all the time without all the work. As a meal delivery company, The Farmer’s Dog lets you set up a subscription online with a meal plan personalized exclusively to your pup.
All you have to do is confirm or change the recipe choices, then sit back and wait for it to be shipped. As the best overall dog food recipe for Rottweilers, the chicken recipe is our favorite. It contains 49% protein (11.5% crude protein) to keep your dog healthy and active, as well as a wealth of other nutrients and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D3, and vitamin E.
Besides chicken, this recipe also contains ingredients such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, and fish oil, delivering a taste your pet will adore. If you are looking to give your Rottweiler the very best, you can’t go wrong with The Farmer’s Dog.
- Fresh
- Delivers to your home
- High protein
- Personalized meal plan
- Requires refrigeration or freezing
2. Iams ProActive Health Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food – Budget Buy
Iams ProActive Health Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food’s recipe is aimed at large breed dogs, including the Rottweiler. It has 23% protein, which could be a little higher to meet your dog’s nutritional requirements but is still considered acceptable. It contains meat-based nutrients as well as grain, but it has very few controversial ingredients.
It has ground whole corn as one of its main ingredients. This is only a contentious ingredient because it is inexpensive, but it has helped keep the cost down to less than half the price of others on the list and makes this the best dog food for Rottweilers for the money. It also contains dried beet pulp and brewer’s yeast, which may cause some problems, but only if your dog is allergic to them.
One other ingredient is caramel color. Although the FDA considers it safe for pet consumption, there is no real reason to put artificial coloring in dog food when it could have easily been left out. Vitamin E and vitamin B-12 supplements are included, while omega-6 fatty acids are also found, thanks to the chicken fat.
- Cheap
- Chicken fat provides omega-6 fatty acids
- Vitamin E and B12 supplements
- Designed for big dogs
- Could have higher protein levels
3. Royal Canin Rottweiler Puppy Dry Dog Food – Best for Puppies
The Royal Canin Rottweiler food at the top of the list is aimed at adult dogs aged 18 months or older, but Royal Canin also creates a formula specifically for Rottweiler puppies. The Royal Canin Rottweiler Puppy Dry Dog Food has the same 24% protein level as the adult food. It has been designed for the Rottweiler’s broad jaws, which ensures that they chew it properly before swallowing.
The main ingredients are chicken by-product meal, brewer’s rice, wheat gluten, brown rice, and chicken fat. Chicken fat is beneficial because it is high in omega-6 fatty acids. Other ingredients include supplements to enhance the levels of niacin, vitamin C, vitamin B6, riboflavin, vitamin B12, and folic acid.
If your dog is known to have allergies, be aware that the ingredients contain yeast and corn. It may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies or intolerance. Royal Canin Rottweiler is around the same price as most premium brands.
- Reasonable price for puppy food
- Plenty of added vitamins
- Formulated specifically for puppies
- Kibble designed for Rottweiler jaws
- Contains grain and other potential allergens
- Related Read: 13 Best Dog Foods for Rottweiler Puppies
4. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food attempts to mimic the diet of wild dogs and uses buffalo and bison as novel proteins. The recipe includes peas and sweet potatoes in place of grains.
The use of water buffalo as the primary ingredient helps give the Taste of the Wild food a 32% protein level, which is especially beneficial to breeds like the Rottweiler. You will also find ocean fish meal, which is a good source of omega fatty acids, and the recipe is fortified with additional vitamins and minerals.
Prebiotics and probiotics aid your Rottie’s digestive system, and all of Taste of the Wild’s foods use chelated minerals. Chelated minerals more easily attach to protein, which ensures that they are fully digested when eaten. The high level of meat protein in this recipe and its price is reasonable, considering the use of natural ingredients. The only minor quibble is that it contains tomato pomace.
- Chelated minerals
- Contains probiotics and prebiotics
- Natural ingredients
- 34% protein
- Contains tomato pomace
5. Royal Canin Rottweiler Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin’s Rottweiler Adult Dry Dog Food has been formulated specifically for Rottweilers. Rottweilers have very strong jaws and tend to tear through food too quickly. This can lead to bloat and other digestive problems. Royal Canin’s kibble has been designed to be tougher to chew, slowing your Rottie down while they eat.
The formula contains chicken by-product meal as its primary ingredient. Chicken fat, brown rice, and corn are the next items on the ingredient list. Royal Canin has 24% protein, which is slightly lower than average. It contains fish oil, which is a beneficial source of omega-3 and omega-6 oil.
It has several vitamin supplements, including B12 and D. The minerals are chelated, making them easier to digest, and the ingredients include prebiotics for good gut function.
- Designed for Rottweiler’s strong jaws
- Fish oil supplements
- Vitamin B12 and D supplements
- Meets a Rottweiler’s nutritional needs
- Could have a higher protein ratio
- Not good for dogs with grain sensitivities
6. Eukanuba Breed Specific Rottweiler Adult Dry Dog Food
Eukanuba Breed Specific Rottweiler Adult Dry Dog Food is another dry food formulated especially for Rottweilers. It has 25% protein, putting it at the higher end of our list, and the protein is sourced primarily from chicken, so it is considered a high-quality animal protein. Rottweilers are prone to joint problems, and a decent level of protein helps protect their joints from injury.
It is also packed with calcium, which will help keep your Rottie’s bones strong and healthy, along with their teeth. The food is made using Eukanuba’s 3D DentaDefense System, which reduces tartar buildup and helps maintain good dental hygiene for your dog. It has high levels of beta-carotene and vitamin E, which support the immune system.
Like many dog foods on the market today, the Eukanuba has been fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. One of the main ingredients is chicken by-product meal. This can prove unpopular because it is made from unspecified parts of the chicken, typically leftovers.
- Reduces tartar buildup
- 25% protein
- Protein sourced from chicken
- Extra calcium for joints and bones
- Contains cornmeal
- Uses chicken by-product meal
7. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Like the Taste of the Wild food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is 32% protein, sourced primarily from deboned chicken and chicken meal. Other major ingredients include peas and pea protein, menhaden fish meal, chicken fat, and flaxseed. Menhaden fish are related to herring and are a beneficial source of omega fatty acids.
Flaxseed further fortifies the levels of omega fatty acids. Although it sounds unappealing, chicken fat is considered a high-quality ingredient in premium dog food. It is high in omega-6 fatty acids. Taurine has been added to the ingredients because, while it isn’t an essential vitamin for dogs, some animals, especially those on a grain-free diet, are deficient.
There are some controversial ingredients in this formula. Blue Buffalo uses alfalfa meal, which is considered a reasonably low-quality filler that is more commonly found in horse feed than in dog food. Yeast is considered safe for dogs unless they have allergies, but Blue Buffalo still contains the ingredient.
- Chicken is the primary protein source
- 32% protein
- Packed with omega fatty acids
- Contains additional taurine
- Uses alfalfa meal and pea nutrients as cheap fillers
- Contains yeast
8. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Large Breed Dry Dog Food is one of a host of dry foods from this company that also includes large breed puppy food. Nutro’s Large Breed formula contains 21% protein, which is low, but the primary ingredient is chicken, along with a chicken meal, so most of the protein comes from a good animal-based source.
Chicken meal and lamb meal are concentrated forms of meat with a higher-than-normal protein level, so they are considered quality ingredients for this type of premium dog food. The recipe relies on inexpensive fillers, including brown rice and brewer’s rice, which are considered only to have moderate nutritional value.
A meat-based source of protein would be preferred, but it isn’t a major problem. The formula includes grains and is unsuitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
- Uses chicken as the primary protein source
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Plenty of vitamin E
- 21% protein is low
- Uses rice variants as fillers
9. Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dry Dog Food
Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dry Dog Food uses chicken meal as its primary protein source. Chicken meal is considered a high-quality ingredient because it has a high protein concentration. The next ingredient is oatmeal, which is a good quality ingredient, and it’s followed by brown rice and beet pulp, which contain protein but are also considered low-cost filler ingredients.
Other low-quality and low-cost fillers in this food include barley and alfalfa meal. Despite these lower-quality fillers, Dr. Gary’s Best Breed Holistic German Dry Dog Food includes chicken fat, which is a good source of omega-6. You will also find a menhaden fish meal. Menhaden are high in protein as well as omega-3 fatty acids.
Another controversial ingredient found in this food is canola oil. Canola oil is often sourced from genetically modified rapeseed, but it is considered a source of omega-3. Finally, the recipe lists garlic. Garlic is controversial because it can be toxic and has been linked to Heinz body anemia.
- Chelated minerals are more easily absorbed
- Chicken is the primary protein source
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
- Contains canola oil
- Contains garlic
- Uses a lot of inexpensive fillers
Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Dog Foods for Rottweilers
The Rottweiler has specific dietary requirements that help maintain their bones and joints, build and retain muscle, and help their immune and digestive systems. All dogs indeed need a good diet, but it is especially true of breeds like the Rottweiler that have such high energy demands but are prone to obesity and other weight-related issues. So, how do you find good dog food for Rottweilers?
The Importance of Protein
Dogs are omnivores, but meat is the most important food source for your dog, especially for the whole protein that it offers. This protein is responsible for everything from maintaining a healthy coat to building and sustaining muscle. The Association of American Feed Control Officials dictates that dog food should contain a minimum of 22% protein, but big, muscular, energetic dogs, like Rottweilers, benefit from higher protein levels.
Ideally, you should look for food made up of at least 25% protein, which should ideally be high-quality protein from animals. Protein is just one of several amino acids and essential ingredients that should be incorporated into their diet.
Grain-Free vs Grain-Inclusive
In our list, we have included grain-free and grain-inclusive foods. In some cases, it is a simple decision of which is best. If your dog has a grain allergy or has proven sensitivity to grain-based foods, give them a grain-free formula.
If your dog does not have an allergy, it is best to serve food with grains. Grains are a good source of fiber, omega fatty acids, and essential minerals.
Controversial Ingredients
All dog food must include ingredients on the label or packaging, which ensures that you are giving your dog high-quality food. When reading the label, some ingredients are considered controversial. Look out for the following:
- Inexpensive Fillers – Ingredients like alfalfa meal and beet pulp contain protein, but they are considered to have low nutritional value. They have usually been chosen because they bulk out the food and increase the protein ratio, but they do not add much to the cost of the food. Most foods include at least one of these ingredients. As long as they are found further down the list of ingredients, signifying that they do not make up the bulk or a large portion of the food, they shouldn’t be a problem. If they are at or near the top of the list, or there are many inexpensive fillers in the ingredient list, it could be a sign that the food is cheap and does not provide the vitamins and minerals your dog needs.
- Canola Oil – Canola oil is not toxic and is not considered dangerous for dogs. However, it is likely to have come from genetically modified crops. It is also heavily processed. Natural oils, like olive oil, are generally preferred.
- Garlic – Garlic, on the other hand, is considered toxic when fed in large doses. Like an onion, garlic contains aliphatic sulfites. These can cause a condition known as hemolytic anemia. Garlic poisoning can also lead to gastrointestinal complications and may even cause collapse. Subclinical signs that cannot be seen by the naked eye include permanent damage to red blood cells. Although manufacturers are legally allowed to include small doses of garlic, you may want to avoid this ingredient wherever possible.
- Yeast – This is another ingredient that proponents feed their dogs because they state it fends off fleas and worms. However, there is no scientific proof to back up this claim. Similarly, opponents claim that it can increase the likelihood of a dog contracting bloat,but that claim also lacks scientific grounding. Yeast is known to contain a host of essential amino acids that are essential for your Rottie. Some dogs, however, are allergic to yeast. In that case, it can lead to itchiness and gastrointestinal distress and should be avoided.
Conclusion
As well as foods formulated specifically for the Rottweiler breed, there is an extensive list of brands suitable for large breeds. You will also have to choose between grain-free and grain-inclusive while deciding on the primary source of protein for your dog food. With such a wide selection, finding the right food for your dog can be challenging, but we hope our reviews have helped you find your best friend’s next meal.
While compiling our reviews, we found The Farmer’s Dog to be the best overall. Despite its relatively high cost, it has ingredients that support the unique requirements of your dog. If you’re looking to spend less, Iams Proactive Health Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is an excellent value for the money and is loaded with omega fatty acids and vitamins to aid your dog’s healthy development.
See also:
- Golden Irish (Irish Setter & Golden Retriever Mix): Info, Pictures, Facts
- Can Dogs Eat Bread? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ
Featured Photo Credit: EvGavrilov, Shutterstock
