This updated guide lists the best dog foods for Boxers this year.
Did you know boxers were the first police dogs?
These dogs are among the few breeds known not just for physical strength but also for agility, intelligence, and obedience. It is hard to find all those attributes in one dog. And that is not the only fact that makes boxers so unique.
As pets, boxers are playful and fun. They are caring, loving, and loyal. And all they ask for in return is just some love and care. An important part of the Boxer’s care is its diet. This breed is so unique that even its dietary needs are different.
You should be mindful of what you choose to feed your best friend. Boxers can be gluttons, and they are also prone to sensitive stomachs. You don’t want your dog to suffer because of the food you are feeding it, so make sure you are feeding it right. We’ve curated the list of the best dog food for boxers based on our 40-point inspection list.
Let’s dive in.
The Best Dog Foods for Boxers Reviewed
Top Picks | Rating | Top Ingredients |
#1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Grain-Free Dog Food (Editor’s Choice) | 4.9 | Deboned Beef, Fish Meal, Peas, Pea Starch, Tapioca Starch |
#2. Royal Canin Boxer Puppy Dog Food | 4.8 | Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Oat Groats, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat |
#3. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Senior Limited Ingredient Dog Food | 4.8 | Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Garbanzo Beans |
#4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner Grain-Free Canned Food | 4.8 | Chicken, Chicken Broth, Fish Broth, Chicken Liver, Turkey |
#5. Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dog Food | 4.7 | Pork Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Chicken By-Product Meal |
#6. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dog Food | 4.7 | Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas |
#7. Purina ONE SmartBlend True Instinct Adult Dog Food | 4.7 | Turkey, Corn Gluten Meal, Soy Flour, Beef Fat, Chicken Meal |
#8. Solid Gold Fit & Fabulous Weight Control Grain-Free Dog Food | 4.7 | Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas |
#1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Grain-Free Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Beef, 2. Fish Meal, 3. Peas, 4. Pea Starch, 5. Tapioca Starch
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,641 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 30% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 6% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
Blue Buffalo is a regular on my lists because their formula seems complete. This recipe is flavorful enough to tempt the pickiest eaters while still delivering crucial nutrients.
This protein-rich formula is a good change of pace for the Boxer bored of poultry-based dog foods. Quality red meat proteins are crucial in keeping your Boxer lean and muscular. The recipe includes berries that add antioxidants to the mix. Peas and potatoes add carbs that can keep your baby up and running.
#2. Royal Canin Boxer Puppy Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken By-Product Meal, 2. Brewers Rice, 3. Oat Groats, 4. Brown Rice, 5. Chicken Fat
- Life Stage: Puppy
- Suitable for: Large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,763 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 28% | Fat (min.) 16% | Fiber (max.) 3.7% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
Feed your Boxer a healthy diet with Royal Canin’s Boxer formula made exclusively for the breed. It is not just about the recipe; even the kibble size and shape are created specifically for the Boxer.
The jaws and muzzle of Boxers are different from most dogs, and this kibble makes it easy for your puppy to chew and eat its first meal. Not to mention, it has all the nutrients needed for healthy growth and development.
#3. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Senior Limited Ingredient Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Turkey Meal, 4. Sweet Potatoes, 5. Garbanzo Beans
- Life Stage: Senior
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,300 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 28% | Fat (min.) 10% | Fiber (max.) 5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
When it comes to an all-in-one diet for senior boxers, only Canidae Pure Senior LID Dog Food checks all the boxes. This formula is for active senior dogs with sensitive stomachs. It uses gentle carbs like sweet potatoes and beans to provide energy without being upsetting. It has 28% protein to keep your Boxer lean and muscular.
This recipe is enriched with probiotics for nutrient absorption and to reduce stomach upset. It also contains essential micronutrients, including omega fatty acids for softer, healthier coat and skin. You can also be sure that your Boxer will love the taste as the recipe contains lots of chicken fat and tasty veggies!
#4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Denali Dinner Grain-Free Canned Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Broth, 3. Fish Broth, 4. Chicken Liver, 5. Turkey
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 1,046 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 10% | Fat (min.) 5% | Fiber (max.) 1.5% | Moisture (max.) 78%
- Form: Wet Food
Spoil your Boxer with this mouthwatering, energizing wet food from Blue Buffalo. The signature taste of their Wilderness Denali Dinner comes from a mix of proteins like deboned chicken, turkey, wild salmon, and venison, which are rich in amino acids and assist with muscular development.
Instead of using grains, the recipe uses wholesome veggies as a source of energy to power your athletic Boxer. It is also completely free from by-product meals, wheat, corn, soy, and artificial preservatives, guaranteeing that your allergic/sensitive dog won’t suffer from chronic stomach problems.
#5. Royal Canin Boxer Adult Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Pork Meal, 2. Brown Rice, 3. Brewers Rice, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Chicken By-Product Meal
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,891 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 18% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
It stands to reason that some foods on this list are specifically formulated for Boxers. Boxers are prone to many health issues, and this exclusive diet can play a vital role in preventing those issues.
For a healthy heart, this food has L-carnitine for a healthy muscle mass. It provides good amounts of taurine, EPA, and DHA for your Boxer’s physical and mental development. The formula is for adult dogs over 15 months. For many boxers, it can be their first adult meal. Also, your dog will love the wave-shaped kibbles.
#6. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Buffalo, 2. Lamb Meal, 3. Chicken Meal, 4. Sweet Potatoes, 5. Peas
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,719 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 32% | Fat (min.) 18% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
Taste of the Wild High Prarie has everything dogs need for healthy growth and development. It’s grain-free for dogs with sensitive tummies and includes novel protein sources like bison and venison, plus several fruits and vegetables that provide plenty of vitamins to your Boxer.
The mix of antioxidants and K9 strain prebiotics in this High Prairie dog food make this recipe a perfect choice for your Boxer’s immune system and digestive health. It is a complete meal for your beloved Boxer.
#7. Purina ONE SmartBlend True Instinct Adult Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Turkey, 2. Corn Gluten Meal, 3. Soy Flour, 4. Beef Fat, 5. Chicken Meal
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 4,040 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 30% | Fat (min.) 17% | Fiber (max.) 3% | Moisture (max.) 12%
- Form: Dry
Rich in novel proteins from turkey and venison, Purina ONE SmartBlend True Instinct is another favorite of Boxers. It has everything your grown-up Boxer needs to stay healthy and happy.
From minerals to vitamins to antioxidants, these tasty meaty morsels will care for your dog’s body, mind, and behavior. It is a highly digestible formula made only of the finest ingredients. And for those Boxers with joint problems, this recipe has plenty of glucosamine for healthy joint function.
#8. Solid Gold Fit & Fabulous Weight Control Grain-Free Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Potatoes, 5. Peas
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,155 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 26% | Fat (min.) 6.5% | Fiber (max.) 9.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
If your Boxer has put on excess weight and is becoming less active, it’s time to put them on Solid Gold’s Fit & Fabulous Weight Control Dog Food. This food is perfect for grain intolerant breeds that need to maintain their muscular form. It has a 26% protein content made from deboned chicken, sweet potatoes, and peas instead of grains as a source of carbohydrates.
The low-fat content helps promote weight loss while your dog remains active from the quality carbs. Your dog will also get micronutrients, including probiotics and omega fatty acids, to keep their sensitive skin and stomach in optimal health.
#9. Natural Balance L.I.D. Lamb & Brown Rice Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Lamb, 2. Brown Rice, 3. Lamb Meal, 4. Brewers Rice, 5. Rice Bran
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Large, giant breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,600 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 23% | Fat (min.) 14% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
For sensitive breeds like the Boxer, a limited ingredient diet like Natural Balance Lamb & Brown Rice can dramatically improve their health. It uses mild ingredients like lamb meat and brown rice, which are gentle on the stomach, but crucial for muscle repair and energy throughout the day.
Your dog will also find the larger, crunchier kibble easier to eat, and their dental health will benefit from its plaque-removing properties. It also contains essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that strengthen immunity and promote cognitive development. The food has also had great success with dogs that suffered from allergies.
#10. Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Garbanzo Beans, 3. Peas, 4. Pea Protein, 5. Salmon Meal
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,400 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 27% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
Next on my list is a salmon-based recipe that is flavorful and entirely healthy for your Boxer. Salmon is the main protein in this limited ingredient recipe for sensitive tummies.
Other key ingredients include sweet potato and pumpkin, which add a punch of carbs, vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients for your Boxer. So, if you have a sensitive tummy boxer in the house, this is a simple yet complete formula for your dog.
#11. Nutro Natural Choice Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Whole Grain Brown Rice, 3. Whole Grain Sorghum, 4. Brewers Rice, 5. Chicken Meal
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Large, giant breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,617 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 20% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 3.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
With a large number of rave reviews from owners of finicky dogs, it’s hard not to recommend Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Dog Food. It’s formulated to meet the dietary needs of large dogs and guarantee long-term health. The food uses delicious deboned chicken, brown rice, pumpkin, and other non-GMO ingredients.
These wholesome ingredients contribute to the food’s delicious and meaty taste and offer dogs a holistic diet. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health, a crucial micro for boxers as they are predisposed to hip dysplasia.
Thanks to its high-fiber content, your dog will develop a more robust digestive system and become resistant to diseases with antioxidants found in the formula.
#12. Nom Nom Beef Mash
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Ground beef, 2. Russet Potatoes, 3. Eggs, 4. Carrots, 5. Peas
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 1,239 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 8% | Fat (min.) 4% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 77%
- Form: Fresh
Preparing a daily homemade diet for your Boxer is impractical for many. Luckily, companies like Nom Nom are there to help. This fresh-food subscription service makes a customized diet plan for your dog based on its unique needs and ships it directly to your house.
We’ve picked the Beef Recipe option because it’s rich in protein with easily-digestible carbs. It’s a perfect combination for brawny and athletic breeds like the Boxer. Moreover, the diet supplies supplements to combat genetic diseases like joint dysplasia. Most importantly, your Boxer will think it’s the tastiest food it has ever eaten.
#13. Crave High Protein Chicken Grain-Free Dog Food
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Split Peas, 4. Lentils, 5. Pork Meal
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,759 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 34% | Fat (min.) 17% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
I am a strong proponent of the ancestral diet or, as most call it, the wolves’ diet for dogs.
This Crave recipe contains real chicken as the first ingredient and primary source of protein. The formula is 34% protein from animal and vegetable sources. It is free of all the allergens and impurities that can impact your baby’s digestion: no grains, no by-products, and no fillers – just pure nutrients.
#14. Holistic Select Large & Giant Breed Puppy Health Lamb Meal & Oatmeal Recipe
Ratings:
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Lamb Meal, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Potatoes, 4. Chickpeas, 5. Lentils
- Life Stage: Adult
- Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
- Caloric content (per kg): 3,759 kcal
- Analysis: Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 16% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
- Form: Dry
Your boxer pup grows quite rapidly; their needs are similar to those of giant or large breed puppies. That makes Holistic Select’s giant breed formula perfect for them.
What makes it better than other large breed varieties is a balanced blend of ingredients that aid physical and mental development. This recipe provides oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa for the energy needed to keep your Boxer pup active and playful.
How to Switch Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick
Best Dog Food for Boxers – A Buyer’s Guide
Buying dog food for crossbreeds or hybrids is never an easy feat, and boxers are no exception. Boxers, like any other crossbreed dogs, vary a lot in terms of colors, looks, height, and, often, behavior.
Eating habits, food allergies, and sensitivities also vary a lot in these breeds. The more you know about the breed, the better you can pick a dog food that is perfect for your pal.
So, I am starting this guide with a brief intro to the boxer breed, its parentage, and general needs.
The Boxer Breed and their Needs
Boxers were first bred in Germany during the 19th century. It was a cross between Bullenbeisser or German Bulldog and English Bulldog. Both breeds are now extinct but were once known for strength and agility. Boxers get both these qualities from their parents but are generally more well-behaved than either. They are highly active and very playful
Due to these two qualities, boxers, despite being mid-sized dogs, have feeding requirements similar to that of larger or even giant breeds. That is why most of the products in my best dog foods for boxers list are meant for large and giant breeds.
Caloric Requirements
Boxers may not grow huge, but they are generally muscular. Their weight, therefore, can easily range from 50 to 70 pounds, but I’ve also seen boxers that can hit 100 without being overweight.
On top of that, boxers are incredibly playful and active. They can easily need around 1,500 to 2,500 calories per day. Even the puppies need more calories than an average puppy of other breeds.
If your Boxer is healthy and active, you might have to feed around four cups of quality kibble a day. It can be six cups for dogs heavier than 75 pounds. The food should be split into three to four meals a day.
Allergies, Sensitivities, and Other Health Issues
Boxers are prone to food allergies and stomach sensitivities.
It is a good idea to give them hypoallergenic and grain-free dog food – but that is not all. The quality of food also matters a lot. Cheaper food, even if it’s grain-free, may have fillers and other ingredients that can trigger digestive problems. Boxers are prone to bloating due to those filler ingredients. So, make sure the food you buy for your Boxer has quality ingredients only.
What Ingredients Should I Look for?
The list is similar to what I have for most dogs. Boxers also need protein, fat, fiber, and carbs. However, as an active and muscular breed, it needs a lot more of everything.
I recommend looking for a dog food that is nearly 40% meat protein, 10% healthy carbs, and the rest of it is fruits and vegetables. This mix has everything, including healthy proteins, healthy carbs, plenty of fiber, and lots of minerals and vitamins.
As for fat, your Boxer may not need as much of it as a dog with a thicker coat, but healthy fats are generally good for skin, joints, and heart.
Now, let’s take a look at which ingredients can offer you the best proteins, fats, carbs, and other nutrients for your Boxer.
- Protein – Meat should be the first ingredient and main source of protein in your Boxer’s food. High-quality protein ingredients include real farm-raised chicken and turkey.
- Salmon, bison, and venison are protein sources your Boxer will thoroughly enjoy as well. They also have a lower risk of triggering an allergy. Meat by-products are not something I recommend, especially if they are the first ingredients.
- Fat – Good fats are good for your dog’s overall health. Heavier and active dogs need some fat to keep their joints running without trouble. Good sources of healthy fats include salmon oil, flaxseed oil, or quality fish oil.
- Fiber – Grains are a good source of fiber, but they can cause tummy troubles. That is why I recommend dog food with a good percentage of fruits and vegetables. They are a healthy source of fiber, and they are rich in minerals and vitamins. Besides, lentils are also a great source of fiber, as well as proteins. Flaxseeds are also rich in fiber.
- Carbs – Good carb sources include peas and sweet potatoes. Both of these are also rich in minerals such as potassium, iron, and several essential vitamins.
- Probiotics – For a breed that is known for having a very sensitive tummy, its is a good idea to choose a dog food with probiotics. These live bacteria to help maintain a healthy gut environment that, in turn, aids digestion.
Boxers are prone to heart disease, and that is why I always recommend a dog food that is rich in heart-healthy ingredients such as L-carnitine and Taurine.
To Kibble or Not to Kibble!
I always have to cover whether a breed is better off with wet food or dry kibble. And I’ve mentioned the pros and cons of both options as well.
The good thing about canned food is that it has more moisture and is more tempting for picky eaters. Luckily, boxers love to eat, and they don’t skimp on the water either. Dry food, even the premium variety, is more economical, and there is no reason to recommend canned food over dry one for your Boxer.
However:
There is a problem that needs mentioning. Boxers have a short muzzle and a brachycephalic jaw, which makes chewing slightly tricky for them. Most Boxers face difficulties when chewing large-sized kibbles. That is why dog foods explicitly created for this breed have differently shaped kibble.
Many brands have even come up with their own patented kibble shape for short-muzzled dogs. If your Boxer is still unable to chew correctly, consider switching to canned food to make its life easier.
Now, we have all the key aspects of your Boxer’s diet covered. Let’s return to my list of best dog foods for boxers.
Related:
- Guide to the Dry Dog Foods
- List of the Top Wet Dog Foods
- Dog Foods for your large and giant breed dogs
Found the one you wish to try? Maybe not!
I have a lot more to recommend – but first, let’s get all your questions out of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should my Boxer eat?
Boxers are an active breed that can grow up to 50 pounds. To cater to their big size, they can eat up to 4 cups of kibble per day. On average, a boxer needs at least 1500 calories per day to manage a healthy weight and an active lifestyle.
How much should my Boxer puppy eat?
Boxer puppies are extremely playful and active. Their nutrient requirement is different from many other breeds. They tend to eat two or more cups of protein-rich puppy kibble a day.
What should my Boxer dog eat?
Your boxer dog should eat plenty of proteins. Go for dog food with around 40% of proteins from animal sources. Most boxers enjoy chicken and poultry proteins, and it’s good for them. A good balance of healthy fats and carbs will keep your Boxer active.
Is Boxer a large breed dog or a medium breed dog?
Boxers are a medium breed dog. They are stocky and won’t grow a lot in height. However, they can weigh around 50 to 70 pounds. Plus, they are highly active. These two factors make their nutritional requirements similar to that of large or giant breed dogs.
Do boxers need large breed dog food?
Yes, while dog food labels aren’t exactly accurate, food for large breed and giant breed dogs tend to be rich in protein and fats. Because Boxers are more active than most medium-sized breeds, large breed foods are what they need.
When should Boxers start adult dog food?
Fifteen months is a good time to start the transition to adult dog food. The change should be slow and gradual. It is a good idea to use the same brand as the puppy food your Boxer was eating.
Why is eating so difficult for Boxer puppies?
Boxer puppies love to eat, but many face issues with chewing certain types of kibble. That is because of their brachycephalic jaw and short muzzle. Dog food created explicitly for boxers has a different kibble shape to encourage chewing with ease.
Why is my Boxer losing weight?
Maldigestion is often a common reason behind weight loss in boxers. It happens when your dog is unable to absorb the nutrients from its food. There can be other underlying health issues, such as diabetes or thyroid problems as well.
At what age do Boxers dogs stop growing?
Generally, boxers would be fully grown by 18 months. However, it depends entirely on the parents of your pet. Some may even continue to grow until 24 months.
How large will my Boxer dog grow?
An average boxer male can grow up to 25 inches. Even a female boxer can reach a similar size. The average weight can be around 50 to 70 pounds, but 100 pound Boxers aren’t entirely unheard of.
Do Boxer dogs have a sensitive stomach?
Yes, boxers have sensitive stomachs. They are prone to indigestion and bloating. Ulcerative colitis is also a common health risk for this breed. It is why hypoallergenic or limited ingredient variety is considered a good option for boxers.
Is grain-free dog food good for Boxers?
Boxer is a breed prone to stomach sensitivities and allergies. Grain-free dog food can play a vital role in keeping tummy troubles at bay for your Boxer.
How much exercise does my Boxer dog need?
Boxers belong to one of the most active dog breeds. They need around two hours of exercise and play to stay healthy and happy. They prefer their pet parent to play with them.
Is raw dog food good for Boxers?
Raw food isn’t exactly always recommended for crossbreeds like boxers, especially when they have sensitive stomachs. Ancestral diet variety is a better and safer alternative.
Conclusion
There it is! My absolute list of best dog foods for boxers. I’ve tried to cover healthier and safer options for adults, seniors, and puppies. You will have to try a few different products to find out the one that is best for your baby. However, whenever you decided to switch, make sure you follow a proper transition process.
References: