Edited by: Mike Powell
Reviewed by: Abby TexasLast Update:
The Rundown
Best Overall for Great Pyrenees: Wellness Core Large Breed Dry Dog Food
“This dog food offers the highest quality nutrition for your dog with a formula that’s intended for large breeds like your Great Pyr. It has joint-fortifying supplements and optimum calcium and phosphorus ratio for the bones, building a strong foundation for your dog’s large frame.”
Best with Healthy Grains: Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
“This product has gluten-free grains that make it easier for your dog to digest his food. It contains pro & prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and live yogurt culture to enhance digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs.”
Best Value for Money: Diamond Naturals Large Breed Dry Dog Food
“If you’re after an affordable dog food that’s ideal for large breed dogs at any age, this recipe from Diamond Naturals is made from premium quality ingredients and has an amazing amino acid profile to help your pooch develop strong and lean muscles.”
If you’re the dog parent of a Great Pyrenees, you will know that giant breeds like them need more calories than the average pup (around 2200 a day for a 100-pound pooch) to keep them active and full of energy all day long. They also require joint-fortifying nutrients to help support their large frame and keep them protected from diseases like hip dysplasia which is pretty common for large dogs.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up dog food products that provide proper nourishment for Great Pyrenees, while also providing added supplements that are essential for their growth and development.
Table of Contents
- The Rundown
- Best Dog Food for Great Pyrenees
- 1. Wellness Core Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- 2. Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
- 3. Diamond Naturals Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- 4. Instinct Grain Free Dog Food Topper
- 5. Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food
- 6. Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food
- 7. Prairie Dog Texas Sausages
- 8. Natural Balance L.I.D. Dry Dog Food
- 9. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- 10. GENTLE GIANTS Canine Nutrition Dry Dog Food
- 1. Wellness Core Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- Nutritional Requirements for Great Pyrenees Dogs?
- What to Look for When Buying Dog Food for Your Great Pyrenees
- Common Health Conditions in Great Pyrenees Dogs
- Questions & Answers
Best Dog Food for Great Pyrenees
Here are our top recommendations for the best food for your Great Pyrenees:
- Best Overall for Great Pyrenees: Wellness Core Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- Best With Healthy Grains: Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
- Best Value For Money: Diamond Naturals Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- Best Dog Food Topper: Instinct Grain Free Dog Food Topper
- Best For Great Pyrenees Puppies: Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food
- Best Dog Food For Seniors: Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food
- Tastiest Dog Treat: Prairie Dog Texas Sausages
- Best for Dogs with Allergies: Natural Balance L.I.D. Dry Dog Food
- Best Immune Boost: Blue Buffalo Large Breed Dry Dog Food
- Best Low Protein Diet: GENTLE GIANTS Canine Nutrition Dry Dog Food
1. Wellness Core Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Best Overall for Great Pyrenees: Complete and balanced nutrition for large breed dogs like your Great Pyr
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PROS
- Great protein count to maintain muscle mass for large frame dogs
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for hip and joint support
- Has great amounts of Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids for skin & coat health
- Good calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones
CONS
- High protein count may not be suitable for dogs who aren’t active
Wellness Core Large Breed Dry Dog Food is ideal for Great Pyrenees puppies and adults. Its nutritional profile is intended for large breed puppies who need support for growth and development as well as adult dogs who needs to maintain a strong immune system.
The calcium and phosphorus levels provide enough support for development and maintenance of strong, fortified bones. The added glucosamine and chondroitin help strengthen and stabilize your Great Pyrenees’ hip and joints. The Omega fatty acids will keep their skin hydrated and coat shiny, protecting them from allergies.
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Much Needed Joint Supplements for Large Breed Dogs
As giant breeds tend to have quite a lanky frame, even those of average weight can be prone to bone and joint weakness, simply due to the size and shape of their bodies. Glucosamine and chondroitin are found in your pet’s cartilage, and their functions are to assist with both lubrication and absorbing shock.
High-quality large breed dog foods often have a little extra dose of these two, to help keep your Great Pyrenees’s joints tough and flexible, which reduces the chances of joint problems and arthritis.
2. Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
Best With Healthy Grains: Made with pre & probiotics, fiber, and enzymes that promote digestive health
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PROS
- Larger kibble size, every bite loaded with nutrients
- Formulated for giant breeds specifically
- Contains glucosamine for the hip and joints
- Good Omega-3 fatty acid level for healthy skin & coat
CONS
- No real meat
Not all grains are bad for your Great Pyrenees. In fact, the Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food contains healthy grains (oats and oatmeal), which reduces any chance of digestive upset. It uses two meat meals (chicken and pork) as its main protein which makes up the protein content of 24%.
The higher calorie count (453 per cup) is ideal for Great Pyrenees pups who tend to eat less than other giant breeds. It will keep them satiated while providing their body just the right amount of nutrients they need.
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Grains versus Gluten
Gluten-free grains are much easier on a dog’s stomach, and although the Great Pyrenees doesn’t typically suffer from digestive troubles, it can become a problem. With its single (healthy) grain source, this food should be well received by Great Pyrenees, whether or not they are sensitive to grains containing gluten.
Formulated For Giant Breeds
Designed specifically for large breed dogs, particularly dogs 50 pounds and up, this food from Holistic Select contains good stuff to keep giants’ bodies functioning optimally. It has added glucosamine, L-carnitine, and Omegas are great for joints, and the calcium and phosphorus levels are right where they should be to promote healthy bones.
3. Diamond Naturals Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Best Value For Money: Healthy, well-rounded dog food for almost half the price
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PROS
- Nutritional profile that’s ideal for dogs at any life stage
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to foritfy hip and joints
- Contains L-carnitine for immune system support
- Good Omega-3 and -6 fatty acid content to keep your dog’s skin healthy and coat shiny
CONS
- Slightly lower in protein and calories, so may not be suitable for highly active dogs
Diamond Naturals Large Breed Dry Dog Food is a healthy and tasty dog food recipe that’s geared towards giant breeds. It provides your Great Pyr the nutrients he needs (and more) for a price that’s almost half of the high end dog food products.
Chicken and chicken meal are the main protein ingredients. The Omega fatty acid content, joint-strengthening supplements, and added vitamins also go a long way towards keeping your big fella healthy and strong.
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Lower Calorie and Protein Count
With 329 calories per cup and 23% protein, this food is more suitable for Great Pyrenees who are a little less active.
Very active dogs may require more cups in one sitting, or a couple of high-protein treats in between meals. It would also be great for seniors, as the calorie and protein counts are perfectly suitable for a slower metabolism and decreased activity while still providing essential nutrients and joint-protecting amino acids.
4. Instinct Grain Free Dog Food Topper
Best Dog Food Topper: No carrageenan
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PROS
- Excellent protein count for maintaining muscle mass of large breed dogs
- Contains no carrageenan, ideal for sensitive dogs
- Grain-free formula which reduces any chance of allergies
- Assists in keeping your pooch hydrated
CONS
- May be too rich for your pup if they aren’t used to wet food (ease them in slowly!)
Because Great Pyrenees can be fussy eaters and often eat less than they should, a great way to up their daily calories is to add some wet or canned food like the Instinct Grain Free Dog Food Topper to their dry kibble.
Not only will it improve the taste and texture of their meal, it will also add a little more protein on top of their kibble and a bit more moisture (which is great in keeping your pup properly hydrated). With this kibble topper, they’re less likely to leave their bowls half-full. You don’t need to add it to every meal – at 85 calories a pouch, you can add it as a snack in between meals.
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Carrageenan in Wet Dog Food
Carrageenan is a low-quality ingredient used as a thickener in many canned dog foods. In addition to bringing almost no nutritional value to your dog’s food, it can also cause digestion problems and gastric inflammation. Finding a wet food without it can be difficult, but it’s a sure sign that this food ticks all the boxes for being a healthy addition to your pet’s regular diet.
5. Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food
Best For Great Pyrenees Puppies: Great calorie count and protein content for growing puppies
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PROS
- Great calorie count and protein content to support growth and development
- Excellent calcium to phosphorus ratio to promote strong and healthy bones
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for hip and joint support
- Contains DHA for Proper brain and eye development
CONS
- A little on the expensive side
Your Great Pyrenees puppy will not only love the taste of Merrick Grain Free Dry Puppy Food, but their body will also love the nutrients it provides.
This dog food is packed with nutritious ingredients, and tailored specifically for large puppies with its addition of joint-fortifying supplements and growth-assisting vitamins. With a balanced diet provided by this food, your Great Pyrenees puppy should grow up strong and healthy, with bones and muscles to support their giant bodies as they grow.
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Formulated To Meet Puppies’ Requirements
Although a large and giant breed puppy needs a good calorie count as they are naturally more active than older dogs, they also need a slightly lower, more regulated protein dose to make sure they grow lean muscles without causing any trouble with their kidneys.
This food contains 381 calories per cup and 26% protein in each serving. These numbers are perfect to facilitate healthy growth. The calcium levels are enough to strengthen bones. The added glucosamine assists in keeping growing joints flexible and solid. DHA is a fantastic addition to help your pup’s eyes and brain develop efficiently. This food is very well suited to all puppies, but giant breed puppies particularly will definitely benefit from eating it as their daily meal.
6. Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food
Best Dog Food For Seniors: Easily digestible ingredients that supports aging Great Pyrs
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PROS
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for keeping joints strong
- Contains vitamins and minerals from superfood ingredients
- Contains DHA for maintaining proper brain function
- Good Omega fatty acid levels to keep coat and skin healthy
CONS
- Not suitable for seniors who are sensitive to poultry
With great quality, easily digestible ingredients, Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food is a highly recommended diet for older Great Pyrenees. Although these dogs don’t generally have sensitive tummies, as pups get older their metabolism slows down, so ingredients that are easy to digest are definitely needed in dog foods for seniors.
This dog food is slightly lower in calories and has a pretty decent protein count. The nutritional value of this food is perfectly suitable for a senior who has some decreased activity but still requires enough protein to support its bodily functions.
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Senior-Appropriate Numbers
At 316 calories a cup, this food is great for dogs who have become less active, as less activity means fewer calories burned. 26% protein means your pooch will still get a highly nutritious, filling meal, that maintains its muscle mass as he ages.
Other additions that make this the best dog food for seniors include glucosamine to keep joints young, DHA to keep the brain alert, and Omega-3 and -6s to keep the skin healthy and hydrated and the coat soft.
A healthy diet shows on the outside, and all of these things will contribute to keeping your giant breed senior happy, alert, and healthy.
7. Prairie Dog Texas Sausages
Tastiest Dog Treat: Low calorie treats your pooch will surely enjoy
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PROS
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for strong hip and joints
- Naturally preserved food that avoids any artificial ingredients
- Low calorie for dogs who need weight management
- Affordable and tasty dog treats your pooch will enjoy
CONS
- May be too low calorie to add extra calories between meals (as Pyrs tend to eat less)
Great Pyrenees tend to eat less than average, and sometimes gets distracted or become bored halfway through a meal, leaving their bowl half-full. Sometimes they even bury their food, so it can be a struggle to get your Great Pyrenees to eat enough, especially if he or she is fairly active.
Treats between meals can up their calorie count, without too much effort on your part! Prairie Dog Texas Sausages are low calorie treats that contain real meat, sweet potatoes, and a nice dose of glucosamine.
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Naturally Preserved
Treats are often kept fresh with artificial preservatives, which is sometimes considered slightly more acceptable as they aren’t your pup’s main meal.
However, it makes quite a difference if you’re going to be treating your pup every day, to have something that makes use of natural methods of preservation. These treats use mixed tocopherols and citric acid (in very small quantities) to ensure that your pet’s snacks stay fresh and healthy.
8. Natural Balance L.I.D. Dry Dog Food
Best for Dogs with Allergies: Limited ingredient diet that’s easy on the tummy and avoids common allergens
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PROS
- Limited ingredients for easier absorption
- Premium quality protein sources, ideal for sensitive dogs
- Good calorie count to provide sufficient energy for active dogs
- Great Omega-3 and -6 fatty acid content from high quality sources
CONS
- Lower in protein (great for some, not for others)
- No glucosamine
Some Great Pyrenees may be recommended a limited ingredient diet by their vet due to health concerns, age, or simply having a sensitive stomach.
Natural Balance L.I.D Dry dog Food. is highly recommended for large breed dogs because it contains very few high quality ingredients that provide the necessary nutrients while avoiding common allergens your dog may be sensitive to.
The protein content is slightly on the low side for a large breed and it contains no glucosamine. But there are some fantastic sources of Omega fatty acids in this dog food, which go a long way towards promoting skin & coat health. The added vitamins and minerals also give a little immune system boost.
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High-Quality Ingredients
The main feature of a limited ingredient food is having very few ingredients that still provide the nutrients your dog needs. An L.I.D. food sticks to the very basics, which means there’s far less chance of digestive trouble and food allergies.
Best For Less Active Dogs
Due to the lower protein count (21%), lack of glucosamine and chondroitin, and lower calcium levels, this food it’s more suitable for large breed dogs who are less active and place less stress on their bones and joints.
It would benefit Great Pyrenees who may have a weight problem and need to slim down a bit, as the calorie count is moderate.
9. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Best Immune Boost: Has LifeSource Bits with added vitamins and minerals
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PROS
- Protein count is suitable for dogs with moderate activity levels
- Contains joint supplements for keeping hip and joints healthy
- Contains L-carnitine for added immune system boost
- Contain LifeSource Bits with added vitamins and minerals
CONS
- Slightly pricey
- Lower in protein than some
Blue Buffalo’s unique formula contains a good mix of natural ingredients, various high-quality protein sources, grain and gluten-free carbs, and some great sources of Omega fatty acids.
They use proprietary LifeSource Bits that are packed with vitamins and minerals, that maintains a strong immune system and a calcium to phosphorus ratio that falls well within the recommended number to support proper bone growth and development. L-carnitine is another great addition, assisting in energy production and helping to maintain weight. It’s also been linked to healthy brain function, so Blue Buffalo Large Breed Dry Dog Food will benefit your Great Pyrenees in many ways.
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LifeSource Bits
This food contains their specially-formulated antioxidant blend, called LifeSource Bits. They’re like a little shot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in a cold-pressed pellet form, and these are scattered throughout the kibble.
Amongst other things, they contain Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, L-carnitine, yucca schidigera extract, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, all of which are great for large breed dogs like the Great Pyrenees, Great Danes, and others as they help maintain joint health and promote healthy bones. The formula also helps immune function and metabolism.
Moderate Protein Count
With 22% protein, this dog food is slightly on the lower end of the spectrum. It does mean that it would be great for adult Great Pyrenees who may be less active, or for dogs whose vets have recommended a low protein diet. If you have a very active pup, feeding him some protein-rich treats in between would do the trick.
10. GENTLE GIANTS Canine Nutrition Dry Dog Food
Best Low Protein Diet: Ideal for dogs with kidney issues
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PROS
- Specifically formulated for giant breeds
- Very affordable kibble packed with premium quality ingredients
- Good Omega-3 and -6 fatty acid levels for skin & coat health
- Glucosamine and chondroitin included to fortify hip and joints
CONS
- No real meat
Gentle Giants is highly recommended as the best food for Great Pyrenees who may be on a prescribed low-protein diet. The protein count is at 22%, which is perfectly adequate, and the calorie count (358 per cup) is still high enough to supply a giant dog the energy he needs for his day to day activities.
Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Dry Dog Food is also specifically formulated for giant breed dogs and it contains good doses of Omega-3 and -6s, glucosamine and chondroitin, to keep your fur ball’s joints healthy and strong. It’s also got one of the lowest fat contents on the market, which makes it ideal for less active dogs.
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Dehydrated Ingredients
The ingredients in this dog food are dehydrated. It contains dried kelp, sweet potatoes, peas, cranberries, blueberries, apples, carrots, parsley, spinach, and a few others.
These are really good carb sources and the process of dehydrating ingredients keeps them preserved, avoiding any need for artificial preservatives in keeping the food fresh.
Nutritional Requirements for Great Pyrenees Dogs?
Like most other breeds, the puppy stage for Great Pyrenees dogs is critical. Because they experience rapid growth, you’ll want to introduce higher levels of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D into your dog’s diet.
Remember, Great Pyrenees dogs are more susceptible to diseases like hip dysplasia and patella luxation. Carefully controlling your dog’s diet can help prevent these orthopedic illnesses from occurring.
A Great Pyrenees’ larger-than-usual muscle mass will also require increased protein levels, so you’ll want to pick out dry dog food with a minimum of 26% protein. Their minimum fat requirement lies at a more modest 8%.
As with most other dogs, you’ll also want to introduce other beneficial ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, wholesome fruits and vegetables, and added supplements. Ingredients like DHA and EPA support healthy brain development in your larger dog.
What to Look for When Buying Dog Food for Your Great Pyrenees
The top ingredients you’ll want to look out for when buying dog food for your Great Pyrenees are:
- Protein: Great Pyrenees dogs will benefit from high-quality animal proteins listed as the first ingredient in their potential diet. Whole meats such as chicken, lamb, beef, and fish help these large dogs sustain their muscle mass.
- Fat: Always ensure that the fat sources in your dog’s food are named. For instance, you’ll want to be on the lookout for ingredients like chicken fat. These fats provide other essential components, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which keep your dog’s lush coat and skin healthy.
- Fiber: Because Great Pyrenees dogs are prone to experiencing issues with their hips, spine, and joints, a healthy fiber count can prevent them from gaining extra weight. Too much weight can put excess pressure on the joints and exacerbate existing conditions.
- Vitamins and Minerals: These essential ingredients help your dog maintain a healthy and robust immune system. Inclusions such as probiotics can also help aid vital functions such as digestion.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Complex carbs such as millet, sweet potato, oats, and brown rice help maintain healthy energy levels and prevent spikes throughout the day.
Common Health Conditions in Great Pyrenees Dogs
Due to their larger size and thick, luscious coats, Great Pyrenees dogs tend to experience the following health conditions:
- Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia keeps the hip joint from forming correctly, which can cause pain and difficulty with mobility. While the condition itself is typically incurable, changes in lifestyle and diet can keep your dog healthy. Introduce low-calorie foods abundant in omega-3 fatty acids like fish oil to help your dog maintain a reasonable weight and reduce pressure on the joints. Combine a healthy diet with regular exercise to keep your dog in shape.
- Bloat: Bloat is more common in larger dog breeds and occurs when the stomach distends while eating. When left untreated, the stomach will eventually twist and make it impossible for your dog to digest its food. Carefully controlling your pet’s portions is critical to ensuring they aren’t overeating or consuming their meals too quickly.
- Skin Allergies: The key to maintaining your Great Pyrenees’ long and beautiful coat is to avoid dog foods with cheap fillers. Ingredients such as grains, animal by-products, corn, soy, and gluten can trigger severe allergies. Though these foods are typically more affordable than other, higher-quality options, taking shortcuts can become fatal for your beloved pet.
Questions & Answers
What ingredients are key for a Great Pyrenees, and which ones should I avoid?
Although Great Pyrenees don’t tend to suffer from sensitive tummies, it’s always best to select a dog food with healthy, wholesome, real food ingredients. The best dog food will always have real meat as the protein of choice, and carbs should consist of fruits and vegetables. Grains that are acceptable include brown rice, oatmeal, millet, and barley.
It’s always a good idea to avoid wheat, corn, and soy, as these tend to be difficult to digest and offer little nutritional value. Although Great Pyrenees aren’t prone to food allergies, these can develop, and chicken is the protein most often associated with allergies. If your Great Pyrenees does suffer from allergies, dog foods with grains, potatoes, and chicken should be avoided.
How can I prevent my Great Pyrenees from becoming obese?
Some dogs are naturally less active than others, but the best thing you can do to prevent your Great Pyrenees from becoming overweight is to make sure they get some exercise. Whether it’s a daily walk or chasing a ball around the yard, just a bit of activity every day can help immensely. You will have to play a part in this too – dogs love to play, but they love it even more to play with their humans.
If you have a pup who is too old, injured, or ill to be quite active, you’ll most likely need to adjust their portion size to accommodate that. Seniors and ill dogs will need fewer calories than active pets, so make sure they aren’t eating more than they’re burning.
A lower calorie food will be the best dog food for these kinds of pups. If neither of these courses of action help, it’s worth getting your pooch checked out by a vet to rule out underlying conditions, such as hormone problems.
What exercises are good for a Great Pyrenees?
Great Pyrenees pups need to be trained young – imagine having an out-of-control dog larger and heavier than you are! Training is essential, and these fluffballs are generally quick learners.
It’s recommended to enroll a puppy in training classes where he can learn the basics, and then expand upon these at home. Training classes are also great in that your pooch will learn to socialize – something that can’t be taught at home without other dogs around.
Working on training your Great Pyrenees at home can be immensely fun but has its frustrating moments. They are intelligent and tend to get bored easily, so it’s best to incorporate plenty of activity into their training exercises. Playtime can double as training time, for things like learning to come when he is called, sit down, lie down, and so on. Remember to always reward your pup when he gets something right, and he’ll soon learn.
Remember – exercise should be in conjunction with feeding your giant breed a quality dog food for Great Pyrenees.
