Bringing home a large breed puppy is exciting and a little overwhelming. These big babies grow fast, and the food you choose now plays a critical role in their lifelong health. One of the most important decisions you can make early on is to follow a diet that supports large breed growth.
At Matter, our beef freeze-dried raw and gently baked recipes are a smart starting point for large breed puppies. Here is why...
Large Breed Puppies Have Unique Needs
Large breed puppies grow rapidly during their first year, but their bones and joints take time to fully develop. That means their food needs to strike a delicate balance, enough nutrition to support healthy growth but not so much that it speeds up development too quickly.
Overfeeding or using foods too high in certain nutrients, especially calories or calcium, can increase the risk of joint issues like hip dysplasia later in life.
Not All Dog Foods Are Safe for Large Breed Puppies
Many foods on the market are labeled for "all life stages," but that does not mean they are suitable for large breed puppy growth. To meet the needs of large breed puppies, a food must have the right calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, controlled calorie density, and nutrient balance to support steady development.
Feeding a recipe that does not meet these specific standards can contribute to skeletal issues or uneven growth.
Why Matter’s Beef Freeze-Dried and Gently Baked Work
Our freeze-dried raw and gently baked beef recipes are formulated to support healthy growth in large breed puppies when fed appropriately. Here’s what makes them a strong option:
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Balanced Calcium and Phosphorus
Our recipes are formulated to meet the guidelines for large breed puppy growth, helping support proper bone development.
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Controlled Calories
We focus on nutrient density without overloading on calories, which helps promote a steady, controlled growth rate instead of rapid weight gain.
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High-Quality Protein
Our recipes are rich in real beef, organs, and functional ingredients like flaxseed, spinach, and pumpkin to support muscle development, gut health, and immune function.
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Versatile Feeding Options
Whether you choose to feed freeze-dried raw, gently baked, or a blend of both, you are giving your puppy real, whole-food nutrition with none of the filler.
A Flexible Feeding Plan
Many large breed puppy parents find success blending our freeze-dried raw and gently baked recipes. This approach adds variety, supports digestibility, and allows you to control calorie intake while providing complete nutrition.
Start with a consistent portion size based on weight and age, and monitor your puppy’s growth and body condition closely. Start them on Nutrition for Life.
The Bottom Line
Feeding a large breed puppy is not just about finding a food that says "puppy" on the label. It is about choosing a formula that truly supports their unique growth curve, joint development, and long-term health.
At Matter, we built our recipes with intention—so that you can feed with confidence. If you are starting your large breed puppy on our beef freeze-dried raw or gently baked food, you are giving them a foundation built for strength, balance, and a healthier future.
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