The five rules that matter most
| Rule | Why | How |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Feed a complete & balanced diet | Prevents deficiencies | Look for an AAFCO statement for the right life stage |
| 2. Puppies eat large-breed growth food | Controls calcium and energy for steady skeletal growth | Label should say “including growth of large size dogs (70 lb or more as an adult)” |
| 3. Measure every meal | Labs overeat; lean dogs lived 1.8 yrs longer (Kealy 2002) | Kitchen scale + our calorie calculator |
| 4. Count treats | Treats add up fast | Keep treats ≤10% of daily calories (a common vet guideline) |
| 5. Pick a maker with nutrition expertise | WSAVA recommends checking who formulates and tests the diet | Ask: is there a qualified nutritionist on staff? |
Reading an AAFCO statement
A label that says “formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles” means the recipe meets the targets on paper. One that says “animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures” means it was also fed to dogs in trials. Either is acceptable. What matters is the life stage: growth, adult maintenance, or “all life stages”. For an “all life stages” food, check that it covers large-size growth if you’re feeding a puppy.
Grain-free and DCM
In 2018 the FDA began investigating reports of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain diets, many of them grain-free and high in peas, lentils or potatoes. The FDA hasn’t established a cause. Many veterinary cardiologists still advise caution with these diets unless there’s a medical reason. Labs don’t need grain-free food.
Fresh vs kibble
Both can be complete and balanced. Fresh subscriptions like The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie come pre-portioned, which some owners find makes weight control easier. They usually cost more than kibble. See our fresh food comparison and best food for Labs.
Edible chews (bully sticks, yak chews, dental treats) all carry calories. See safe chews for Labs for options and how to budget them.