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11 Best Foods for a Corgi Puppy in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Written by: Cassandra Kyser

Last Updated on December 11, 2024 by Dogster Team

Hungry Welsh corgi Pembroke or cardigan puppy eats from ceramic bowl standing on fleecy carpetCongratulations on your new Corgi puppy! These affectionate, medium-sized dogs are an excellent addition to any household. You want the best for your corgi, starting with the right puppy food. If you’re overwhelmed by all of the pet food brands on the market, you’re not alone. We’ve researched and compiled our top picks with detailed reviews and a buyer’s guide for young corgis.

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A Quick Look at Our Winners in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
The Farmer's Dog Fresh Dog Food Pork Recipe The Farmer's Dog Fresh Dog Food Pork Recipe
  • Made in USDA-certified kitchens
  • Uses fresh, human-grade ingredients
  • Customized recipes based on your dog’s needs
  • Budget Buy
    Second place
    Puppy Chow Tender & Crunchy Puppy Chow Tender & Crunchy
  • Affordably priced
  • Puppies love the flavor
  • Third place
    Solid Gold Mighty Mini Dog Food Solid Gold Mighty Mini Dog Food
  • Suitable for puppies with a beef protein allergy
  • Picky eaters might enjoy pumpkin and sweet potatoes
  • More calorie-dense than other pet food brands
  • Holistic Select Dry Dog Food Holistic Select Dry Dog Food
  • The smaller 4-pound bag makes it easy to sample
  • No prescription required
  • Holistic Select owns its dry food manufacturing facilities
  • Vet’s Choice
    Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Dry Dog Food Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Dry Dog Food
  • Corgi pups will like the smaller kibble size
  • Does not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
  • Chicken meal is the first ingredient
  • The 11 Best Foods for a Corgi Puppy

    1. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Pork Crecipe – Best Overall

    the farmers dog full recipe packaging

    Main ingredients: USDA Pork, Sweet Potato, Potato, Green Beans, Cauliflower
    Protein content: 39%
    Fat content: 32%
    Calories: 311 kcal per 1/2 lb

    Corgi puppies might be small, but as a working breed, their diet needs to not only help them grow but also support their energy levels and protect their joints. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Pork Recipe is the best overall food for Corgi puppies. You can also choose from two other recipes offered by the company—beef or turkey—to give your Corgi pup plenty of variety.

    All three available recipes use fresh, human-grade ingredients that are processed in USDA-certified kitchens to create a healthy, balanced meal plan for your dog. The Farmer’s Dog also uses a short questionnaire to learn about your dog and customize the meals based on their weight, breed, and age. This customization enables you to ensure that your puppy gets all the nutrients that they need in order to grow as healthy and strong as possible.

    The meals are in pre-made portions in eco-friendly packaging and shipped for free nationwide. However, The Farmer’s Dog is a subscription service, and the food isn’t available in physical or online stores, which can be inconvenient for many dog owners. You also need to store the fresh meals in the freezer until you’re ready to defrost and feed them to your dog, and the individually packaged meals can take up a large amount of space.

    Pros
    • Made in USDA-certified kitchens
    • Uses fresh, human-grade ingredients
    • Customized recipes based on your dog’s needs
    • Eco-friendly packaging
    • Free shipping nationwide
    Cons
    • Requires a subscription
    • Takes up space in the freezer

    2. Purina Puppy Chow Tender & Crunchy Dry Food – Budget Buy

    Purina Puppy Chow Tender

    Main ingredients: Whole grain corn, corn gluten meal, poultry by-product meal, whole grain wheat, beef fat naturally preserved with mixed-tocopherols
    Protein content: 27.5%
    Fat content: 12.0%
    Calories: 387 kcal/cup

    We think the best food for the money is Puppy Chow Tender & Crunchy with Real Beef. Many pups love this value-priced brand from Purina. Some owners report that their puppies pass over more expensive brands but gladly eat Puppy Chow.

    The kibble pieces are larger than some other puppy food brands. This size shouldn’t be a problem for most corgis, but it’s something to consider if your pup is on the smaller side.

    Puppy Chow contains added DHA and calcium, which is a perk you may not find in other value brands. While corn is the first ingredient, this food still offers a decent protein content. If cost is your first concern, but you still want a quality diet from a trusted brand, Puppy Chow is a good choice.

    Pros
    • Affordably priced
    • Puppies love the flavor
    Cons
    • Some pet owners may not like the artificial colors or GMO grains
    • Added salt

    3. Solid Gold Mighty Mini Small & Toy Breed Dry Food

    Solid Gold Mighty Mini Small

    Main ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, chickpeas, peas, pea protein
    Protein content: 30.0%
    Fat content: 18.0%
    Calories: 450 kcal/cup

    Solid Gold Mighty Mini Small & Toy Breed Dry Food has been a leader in the premium pet food market since 1974. The company bills itself as “America’s first holistic pet food.” This food appeals to pet owners’ values by only using cage-free chicken. Pumpkin might seem like an odd ingredient, but it is a canine superfood. This vegetable is a source of vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, and soluble fiber.

    While the cost is more per ounce than other brands, Solid Gold Mighty Mini Gut Health has a high caloric content. You may need to feed your dog less if you’re switching from another puppy food. Check with your veterinarian before switching to a grain-free diet. Dogs are often allergic to protein sources2, not grains. However, the added probiotics may be what your pup’s tender tummy needs.

    Pros
    • Suitable for puppies with a beef protein allergy
    • Picky eaters might enjoy pumpkin and sweet potatoes
    • More calorie-dense than other pet food brands
    Cons
    • Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet

    4. Holistic Select Adult & Puppy Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Holistic Select Adult

    Main ingredients: Salmon, anchovy and sardine meal, potatoes, peas, menhaden fish meal
    Protein content: 29.0%
    Fat content: 14.0%
    Calories: 448 kcal/cup

    Most healthy puppies can digest chicken and beef. However, some dogs will develop an allergy to common protein sources2. Holistic Select Adult & Puppy is a good option if your veterinarian recommends a grain-free food with novel protein like fish. This food is a lifelong recipe formulated for both puppies and adult canines. This convenience eliminates the trial-and-error owners face when their sensitive pups reach their first birthday.

    Holistic Select is available through retailers, and you do not need a prescription. Vegetables like pumpkin, papayas, and pomegranates provide an essential source of fiber. The addition of omega 3 and flaxseed can help your corgi maintain a beautiful, shiny coat.

    This brand probably won’t be the first puppy food that you reach for. But if your corgi struggles with a sensitive stomach or potential food allergies, ask your veterinarian about Holistic Select.

    Pros
    • The smaller 4-pound bag makes it easy to sample
    • No prescription required
    • Holistic Select owns its dry food manufacturing facilities
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Not all dogs benefit from a grain-free diet
    • Dogs that do not require a specialty food may not warrant the higher price

    5. Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Food – Vet’s Choice

    Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites

    Main ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Corn
    Protein content: 25.0%
    Fat content: 15.0%
    Calories: 374 kcal/cup

    In the 1940s, veterinarians recognized the link between the proper diet and optimum health, and Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites remains a top pick of veterinarians today. But the company knows that no matter how nutritionally sound food is, dogs won’t eat it if it doesn’t taste good. All of Hill’s dog foods must earn the approval of the canines who live at the Pet Nutrition Center3. This center is home to approximately 450 dogs whose sole job is to ensure that your pup gets tasty and nutritious food.

    One downside to Hill’s Science Diet is grocery stores, and big-box stores don’t carry it. You’ll have to go out of your way to buy it online or at a specialty pet store.

    Pros
    • Corgi pups will like the smaller kibble size
    • Does not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
    • Chicken meal is the first ingredient
    Cons
    • Only sold online and in pet stores

    6. Purina ONE Plus Healthy Dry Puppy Food

    Purina ONE Plus Healthy Dry Puppy Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken, rice flour, corn gluten meal, chicken by-product meal, whole grain Corn
    Protein content: 28.0%
    Fat content: 17.0%
    Calories: 397 kcal/cup

    Another great option for corgi puppy food is Purina ONE High Protein Plus. Purina is a household name and a staple in the pet food industry. We give this brand high marks because of its affordability, availability, and nutrition. This food is suited for most puppies, making it a no-brainer for multi-breed homes.

    Purina ONE High Protein Plus is a puppy food that will carry you through your dog’s entire first year. You can add water to create a softer food when your puppy first comes home. Older puppies can eat the kibble dry as they prepare to transition to adult dog food.

    The smaller kibble pieces are perfect for puppy-sized mouths. However, some owners report that their pups pick through the kibble pieces, favoring the dehydrated meat chunks. Purina backs its food with a 28-day challenge. The manufacturer claims that you may see positive changes such as increased energy and a shinier coat in as little as 4 weeks.

    Pros
    • Chicken is the first ingredient
    • Easy to buy: Order online or purchase wherever you shop for groceries
    • Pups may like the mix of dry kibble and “tender meaty morsels”
    Cons
    • Some people report that their pups pick through the kibble pieces

    7. Royal Canin Medium Puppy Dry Dog Food

    Royal Canin Medium Puppy Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, chicken fat, brewers rice, corn, wheat
    Protein content: 30.0%
    Fat content: 18.0%
    Calories: 393 kcal/cup

    Royal Canin is known for its breed-specific foods. While the brand has yet to release a formula just for corgis, its Royal Canin Medium Puppy Dry Dog Food is suitable for the canines. The small kibble shape accommodates a growing puppy’s mouth and teeth.

    Beef is a common canine food allergy2 and can leave pet owners scrambling for food that won’t upset their dog’s tummy. Royal Canin Medium Puppy Dry Dog Food is beef-free.

    This puppy food can be a good starting point if your veterinarian suspects a beef allergy. Many dog owners report that this food firmed up their pup’s loose stools.

    Royal Canin acknowledges that consumers want sustainable and eco-friendly products. That desire extends to pet food, as well. The company launched several healthy planet initiatives4 in the countries where it operates.

    Pros
    • Many dog breeders recommend this brand
    • Royal Canin manages its manufacturing facilities
    Cons
    • Expensive compared to other puppy foods

    8. Diamond Naturals Small & Medium Breed Puppy Food

    Diamond Naturals Small & Medium Breed Puppy Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, ground white rice, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), cracked pearled barley
    Protein content: 32.0%
    Fat content: 22.0%
    Calories: 453 kcal/cup

    Diamond Naturals is a family-owned company that abides by strict quality assurance standards. This in-house testing offers peace of mind to dog owners who are concerned about product safety. A proprietary blend of probiotics, antioxidants, and prebiotics boosts your puppy’s immunity and aids digestion.

    Diamond Naturals Small & Medium Breed Puppy Formula is a good choice for corgis who love chicken. The company only uses cage-free chicken in its pet food. This kibble is more calorie-dense than other brands, so you should be careful not to overfeed your pup. It is a good option for owners who want superfoods like kale, pumpkin, and quinoa.

    Pros
    • Contains omega fatty acids and probiotics
    • No artificial flavors or colors
    Cons
    • High caloric content may lead to overfeeding
    • More expensive compared to other brands with similar ingredients
    • High protein content (over 30%)5 does not offer any additional benefits

    9. Rachael Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Natural Dry Dog Food

    Rachael Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Natural Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Soybean Meal, Whole Corn
    Protein content: 28.0%
    Fat content: 16.0%
    Calories: 390 kcal/cup

    Rachael Ray got her start on the Food Network, whipping up tasty dishes for humans. She has since branched out to pet food with her Nutrish line of pet food. This product is your average, affordable puppy food that you can buy at most retailers. Purchasing this food helps animals in need, as a portion of all proceeds benefits the Rachel Ray Foundation.

    The company recently reformulated its Rachael Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Food. The new product contains less dried peas, more whole corn, and different amounts of added vitamins. This is a middle-of-the-road dog food in terms of price and nutrition. You may choose this food because of its availability or simply because your corgi pup loves it.

    Pros
    • Some dog owners will appreciate no artificial colors or flavors
    • Contains fish oil
    Cons
    • More expensive per ounce than other comparable brands

    10. IAMS ProActive Health Smart Puppy Original Dry Dog Food

    IAMS ProActive Health Smart Puppy Original Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, dried plain beet pulp
    Protein content: 29.0%
    Fat content: 17.5%
    Calories: 399 kcal/cup

    IAMS is a global brand trusted by pet owners around the world. Some people claim that IAMS ProActive Health Smart Puppy Original cleared up their dog’s loose stools and flatulence. This may be due to the added beet pulp, which is a source of moderately fermentable fiber. (And in case you are wondering, eating beet pulp will not turn your corgi’s fur purple.)

    This brand does not overwhelm pet owners with a variety of unnecessary choices. IAMS focuses on life stages rather than offering dog food in dozens of flavors.

    We gave this food a lower ranking because of its “natural flavor” ingredient. This vague description could make it difficult to pinpoint a potential food allergy. IAMS costs more than other brands that offer comparable ingredients.

    Pros
    • Widely available
    • Purported to clear up diarrhea and gas
    Cons
    • Added salt and caramel color
    • Non-specific “natural flavor”

    11. Pedigree Puppy Growth & Protection Dry Food

    Pedigree Puppy Growth & Protection Chicken & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, corn gluten meal, soybean meal, meat and bone meal
    Protein content: 27.0%
    Fat content: 11.0%
    Calories: 293 kcal/cup

    Since it has a lower calorie content than the competition, Pedigree Puppy Growth and Protection may not last as long as other brands. You may find a better value elsewhere if cost is your primary concern. Pedigree Puppy is only available in larger bags, so you could be stuck with food your dog does not like.

    Non-specific protein sources like “Meat and Bone Meal” and “Animal Fat” could make it difficult to pinpoint allergies. The “vegetable flavor” might be a bit of a stretch as carrots and peas are far down on the ingredient list.

    While Pedigree Puppy Growth & Protection has a lower protein and fat content than other brands, it does meet AAFCO guidelines. The company donates to animal shelters through its You Buy We Give Program.

    Pros
    • Budget-friendly
    • Contains fish oil
    Cons
    • Some pet owners may object to artificial colors and preservatives
    • Lower calorie content per cup than many other brands
    • Not available in smaller bags

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    Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Dog Food for a Corgi Puppy

    Many new owners continue to feed their pups the same brand of food, and you may not have any reason to switch if the current brand fits your budget and your pup loves it.

    However, you may want to switch food for any number of reasons. Below we answer some of the top questions that corgi owners have about puppy food.

    How Do I Switch From One Puppy Food to Another?

    If you decide to change dog food, do so slowly over 5 to 7 days. On the first day, your corgi’s diet should be about 25% of the new food and 75% of the existing food. Slowly increase this ratio over the coming days. Your puppy could experience loose stools if you switch brands too quickly.

    Does my Puppy Need Grain-Free Food?

    While there are numerous grain-free dog foods on the market, most puppies do not have a problem digesting grains. A protein allergy or an environmental allergy is more likely to cause health issues. Consult with your veterinarian before you switch to grain-free food. These foods typically cost more, and the added expense may not be necessary. You can look for organic or GMO-free dog food if genetically modified wheat or corn are a concern.

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    If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

    Is Homemade Dog Food Healthy?

    Check with your veterinarian or a certified veterinary nutritionist before you feed your dog any food that does not meet the Association of American Feed Control (AAFCO) guidelines. That includes homemade and raw diets, which may not contain all of the nutrients your corgi needs to grow.

    Our Selection Process For Best Foods for a Corgi Puppy

    To create this buyer’s guide, our writing team and editorial staff checked customer reviews, brand reputation, and veterinary approval ratings to present the best foods for a corgi puppy we think should be highlighted for our readers. In some cases, we conducted hands-on testing along with seeing how much our dogs liked the foods. All these factors were considered when selecting these listed foods to help you make the best purchase for your furry friends.

    Why Trust Dogster?

    Since 2004, Dogster has been a trusted brand for dog owners online, which means we have a lot of experience with foods. We take pride in promoting the well-being of all dogs—from toy breeds to giant canines. Our in-house veterinarians, writers, and editors examine each product on our lists, ensuring its quality and reputation. As pet owners ourselves, we only want the best for our furry companions. At Dogster, we are transparent about the products we promote. The nutritional information, overall brand reputation, and customer reviews are all considered for these lists. We inform you how we want to be informed.

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    Conclusion

    Our reviews detailed some of the best brands for your corgi, but The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food won our top award for its nutrient-rich, all-natural ingredient list. Our best value pick, Puppy Chow Tender and Crunchy, impressed us with its affordability and nutritious ingredients. Solid Gold Mighty Mini Gut Health was our premium choice, and it is a healthier option than most holistic brands. Holistic Select Adult and Puppy Grain-Free was our pick for pups with allergies, and Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Healthy Development rounded out the list as the best vet-recommended brand.


    Featured Image Credit: Masarik, Shutterstock

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