10 Best Puppy Foods in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Veterinarian

Prioritize puppy food containing at least 22% high-quality animal protein, such as chicken, lamb, or fish. This level ensures your growing pup receives the complete set of essential amino acids crucial for building strong muscles, bones, and supporting healthy organ development. 

Remember, the source of protein matters greatly: animal-based protein is generally more digestible and packed with all the essential building blocks your puppy needs to thrive.

A puppy's body cannot produce omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, so they must obtain them through diet. These fatty acids play crucial roles in various physiological functions. They aid in brain development, reducing inflammation, immune system support, and even heart and coat health.

Large and giant breed pups should consume diets that contain at least 8% fat (dry matter basis), while small-breed puppies also need nutrient-dense, energy-rich puppy food with vitamin-rich fish oils. 

It's best to opt for puppy food with specified by-products, such as chicken liver, which can provide essential amino acids. This contrasts with generic terms like "meat by-products" or "poultry by-products," which may lack clarity about the specific parts used.

Besides specified by-products, puppies will also benefit from carbohydrates and fiber. Carbohydrates are a primary source of energy for puppies, providing them fuel for activities. Fiber, on the other hand, is vital for keeping the digestive system healthy and preventing constipation in puppies.

Although mainly used as preservatives and moisture-retaining agents, some studies have linked BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole), BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), Propylene Glycol, and Ethoxyquin to potential health issues.

On the other hand, excessive sweeteners in pet food may contribute to obesity and dental issues, while artificial colorings can unnecessarily trigger dogs with sensitivities or allergies to certain artificial colorings. Fillers are also best to avoid, especially low-quality ones, as these can lead to an imbalanced diet or excessive caloric intake without providing adequate nutrition.

Smaller dog breeds, due to their higher metabolic rates, burn through energy quicker compared to larger breeds. This means they require more calories per pound of body weight to maintain their energy levels and body temperature. Additionally, their smaller stomachs limit the quantity of food they can consume at once.

Therefore, opting for food formulated with 40 calories per pound of body weight is crucial for meeting the energy needs of smaller breeds in smaller, manageable portions. This calorie-dense food ensures they receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth, development, and activity.

Puppy food with fewer calories can help manage the growth rate of larger dog breeds, preventing them from growing too quickly. Rapid growth, especially in terms of body weight, can lead to developmental issues, including bone and joint problems.

Larger breed puppies have larger digestive systems and may be more prone to gastrointestinal issues. The inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics can help support a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall digestive well-being.

Compared to smaller dog breeds, larger breeds are more prone to joint issues, such as hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis. Hence, opting for puppy food with glucosamine and chondroitin can help support the development of healthy bones and cartilage, promoting joint health and reducing the risk of skeletal disorders.

If your puppy doesn’t drink as much water as it should, you may opt for wet foods as they have a higher moisture content than dry food. They can also be easily ingested because they commonly come with softened meat chunks.

Wet foods are also more flavorful and aromatic for dogs, which is why most of them prefer them, especially picky eaters. Moreover, if your fur baby is sick and has less appetite, wet food can entice your pup to eat because of its flavorful smell and taste.

Dry food encourages your pup to chew on its food, which helps remove tartar buildup and encourages the development of stronger teeth.

Moreover, compared to wet food, dry food or kibbles do not spoil easily and can be pre-portioned. They are also cheaper, making it a more cost-efficient diet for your puppy.

When choosing puppy food, consider both your pup's breed and their individual needs. Here's how size plays a role:

・Small breeds: For Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, Shih Tzus, and similar breeds with tiny mouths, choose a food labeled "small breed" or with visually smaller kibble. These smaller pieces are easier to chew and swallow, promoting healthy digestion, especially for puppies with sensitive stomachs.