Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, especially when it’s a large breed with unique growth and development needs. Ensuring your young dog receives the right nutrition from the start is crucial for their long-term health. The Brit Care Grain-Free Formula Salmon & Potatoes is specifically designed for junior dogs aged 3 months to 2 years, particularly those destined to be over 25 kg. This complete dog food prioritizes healthy development, optimal growth, and robust immunity, making it an excellent choice for discerning pet owners. You can learn more about Brit Care’s comprehensive range of grain-free options, including formulas for different life stages and breeds, on their Brit Care Dog Grain Free 2022 page.
Supporting Healthy Growth and Development
Large breed puppies experience rapid growth, and their nutritional requirements are distinct from smaller breeds. This formula is crafted with a balanced protein and fat level to support controlled growth, preventing the accelerated development that can lead to skeletal issues. The inclusion of essential chondroprotectives, such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, plays a vital role in maintaining healthy joints and cartilage, which is particularly important for large breeds throughout their lives.
The composition features salmon as the primary protein source (52%), including both dehydrated and hydrolyzed salmon, ensuring high nutritional value and digestibility. Potatoes (26%) provide a grain-free carbohydrate source, ideal for puppies with potential sensitivities. Salmon oil, a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), is included at 3% to promote healthy skin and coat, enhance cognitive function, and contribute to overall physical condition. These fatty acids are fundamental for the healthy development of puppies and junior dogs.
Key Nutritional Components:
- Salmon (52%): High-quality protein source for muscle development and overall health.
- Potatoes (26%): Grain-free carbohydrate for energy and digestibility.
- Salmon Oil (3%): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) for skin, coat, and brain health.
- Chondroprotectors (Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate): Support joint and cartilage health, essential for large breeds.
- Probiotics (Lactobacillus helveticus): Aid in digestive health and immune system support.
- Antioxidants & Vitamins: A comprehensive blend including Vitamin A, D3, E, C, and various B vitamins to boost immunity and protect cells.
Addressing Specific Needs with a Grain-Free Formula
The grain-free nature of this food makes it an excellent option for puppies that may have adverse reactions to common grains, or for those requiring demanding coat care. Dogs needing to maintain optimal physical condition also benefit from this carefully balanced diet. The formula avoids grains, utilizing potatoes as the primary carbohydrate source, which can be easier to digest for some dogs and reduces the risk of common allergies.
The inclusion of brewer’s yeast, pea flour, and hydrolyzed yeast contributes to a healthy gut microbiome. Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and Mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) act as prebiotics, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and further supporting digestive health. Additionally, ingredients like milk thistle seed and β-glucans are incorporated to bolster the immune system and provide antioxidant support.
Nutritional Breakdown and Energy Content
Analytical Ingredients:
- Crude protein: 28.0%
- Crude fat: 15.0%
- Moisture: 10.0%
- Crude ash: 7.0%
- Crude fibre: 3.2%
- Calcium: 1.2%
- Phosphorus: 0.9%
- Sodium: 0.5%
- Omega-3 fatty acids: 1.2%
- Omega-6 fatty acids: 1.9%
- EPA (20:5 n-3): 0.12%
- DHA (22:6 n-3): 0.16%
Nutritional Composition (Vitamins and Minerals):
The formula is enriched with essential vitamins, including Vitamin A (23,000 IU), Vitamin D3 (1,700 IU), Vitamin E (550 mg), and Vitamin C (350 mg), alongside vital minerals and amino acids like Taurine (1,500 mg) and L-carnitine (300 mg). Trace elements like iodine, zinc, manganese, copper, iron, and selenium are provided in organic forms for better absorption. EU-approved antioxidants, including tocopherol extracts, ascorbyl palmitate, and rosemary extract, help preserve the food’s freshness and provide additional health benefits.
Metabolizable Energy:
The food provides 3730 kcal/kg, offering substantial energy to fuel the active growth and development of junior large breed dogs.
This thoughtfully formulated food ensures your large breed puppy receives the foundational nutrition needed for a healthy, active life. For owners looking for other Brit Care options, such as formulas for different life stages or dietary needs, exploring the Brit Care mini adult or their large breed adult formulas can provide further choices.
