Complete Nutrition Guide for Giant Breed Puppies: Feeding for Healthy Growth

Giant breed puppies like Great Danes and Bernese Mountain Dogs might be big bundles of fluff now, but they grow into truly hefty hounds. That super-sized future means they need a nutritional plan tailored just for them. In this guide, we’re walking through the nutrition needs for giant breed puppies to help you support their healthy development, avoid joint problems, and keep their wagging tails strong for years to come. Because at Petdirect, We Get Pet.

Why Giant Breed Puppies Need Special Nutrition

Giant breed puppies grow fast—and we mean fast. These pups can gain two kilos or more each week during their early months. But rapid weight gain can increase the risk of bone and joint problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis, especially if their diet isn’t balanced correctly. Their nutrition should focus on steady, controlled growth instead of quick bulking up.

This is why it’s essential to choose a puppy food that’s specifically formulated for large or giant breeds. These formulas are carefully balanced with energy, calcium, phosphorus, and protein levels that support strong bones and lean muscle—without overloading their growing frames.

Essential Nutrients For Giant Breed Puppies

Feeding your gentle giant the right nutrients helps them develop properly and prevents future health issues. Look for a puppy food that includes:

• Controlled calcium and phosphorus to support proper bone development without overgrowth
• High-quality protein to build strong muscles, from reliable animal-based sources
• DHA for brain and eye development (often found in fish oils)
• Glucosamine and chondroitin for early joint support
• Omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat

You can find all-in-one formulas from trusted brands like Royal Canin, Pro Plan, and Black Hawk that are designed with giant breeds in mind.

Feeding Guidelines For Giant Breed Puppies

It’s not just what you feed, but also how you feed that matters. Here’s how to keep your pup on track:

• Feed to condition, not just to appetite. These dogs will often keep eating if food is offered. Follow the feeding instructions based on their weight and age, and adjust as they grow.
• Split meals into 3–4 feedings per day until 6 months of age, then shift to 2 meals daily.
• Use properly sized dog bowls for giant breeds to help with posture and encourage slower eating.

Slow feeders or elevated feeders can also be helpful for reducing the risk of bloat, a condition some deep-chested large breeds are prone to.

Supplements: Do Giant Breed Puppies Need Them?

If you’re feeding a complete and balanced diet designed for large breed puppies, additional supplements usually aren’t necessary. But in some cases, extra support may be helpful, especially for joints, digestion, or skin and coat health.

Speak to your vet before introducing any puppy supplements. Look for extras like joint support formulas, digestive aids, or skin and coat supplements that are made with growing pups in mind.

Top Puppy Food Picks For Giant Breeds

Our team at Petdirect has done the hard work for you (paws and all) by curating a collection of top nutrition options for your gentle giant. Here are a few favourites:

• Royal Canin Giant Puppy – specially formulated to support bone and muscle development in large and giant puppies
• Pro Plan Puppy Large Breed – features DHA for brain health and glucosamine for joint support
• Black Hawk Large Breed Puppy – a local NZ favourite that’s packed with high-quality meat proteins

All of these are available in our dedicated puppy shop, along with training essentials, comfy bedding, and chew toys to power through those teething months.

Growing Strong, Inside And Out

Raising a giant breed puppy is a rewarding journey full of big paws and even bigger cuddles. With the right nutrition, you’re laying the foundations for a long, healthy life. At Petdirect, we’re here with expert advice, premium products, and perks along the way. Don’t forget to sign up for our Pet Perks loyalty programme and earn Airpoints every time you shop.

Need help picking the perfect puppy food or supplements? Our knowledgeable team is just a bark away.