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If you’ve got a picky pup, our list of the best dog food toppers for Golden Retrievers will rescue them from mealtime boredom while saving your sanity! It can stress a pup parent when their furry one turns up their nose at the dinner they once found delicious. But dog food toppers serve as an effective way to enhance the flavor of your Golden Retriever’s regular meals. Plus, they also provide an extra boost of nutrients to ensure your pup gets the maximum nutritional benefits from mealtime.

But with so many options on the market, which dog food topper is the right one for your Golden Retriever? Worry not, dog lover; that’s where our list of the best dog food toppers for Golden Retrievers comes in handy! We’ve scoured the market, consulted all the pups, and read the reviews to find the best of the best. Before we get there, though, here’s what to remember when choosing a dog food topper for Golden Retrievers.

Top Dog Food Toppers for Golden Retrievers

#1 – iHeartDogs Happy, Healthy Nutrition Boost Food Topper

Happy, Healthy Topper boosts your Golden Retriever’s diet with nutrient-dense ingredients and great taste. A simple sprinkle of this savory superfood-boosted topper will turn boring dinnertimes into a taste-filled adventure that tempts even the fussiest eaters! Freeze-dried for optimal nutrient preservation and packed with farm-raised chicken, beef, organ meat, blueberries, carrots, and kale, iHeartDogs meal toppers offer raw food benefits at a fraction of the cost while boosting the immune system, stabilizing the digestive system, and helping maintain weight.

As always, iHeartDogs uses fresh, human-grade ingredients to increase your Golden Retriever’s nutrition and help them live their best life. And our toppers are sourced and made in the USA. Plus, every bag of meal toppers purchased provides seven hungry shelter dogs with a hearty meal.

Pros

Superior, USA-sourced ingredients with no fillers
Maximizes nutrients during mealtime while adding minimal calories
Fights food boredom and tempts picky Golden Retrievers
Money-back guarantee
Highly affordable option

Cons

Your Golden Retriever will wish the bag were bigger

#2 – Brutus Bone Broth 

Brutus Bone Broth will turn your Golden Retriever’s dinnertime into a delicious event, thanks to masterfully crafted recipes made with the purest ingredients. Your Golden Retriever will love their tasty beef, chicken, pork, or salmon flavors. Plus, Brutus adds powerful glucosamine and chondroitin supplements that can reverse cartilage loss, help keep cartilage tissue hydrated and flexible for impact stress, and inhibit destructive enzymes that damage cartilage. And because it’s easily digestible, this bone broth is great for Golden Retrievers with food sensitivities and allergies.

You choose how best to serve it—reconstitute dehydrated food, serve as a frozen treat, or top your Golden Retriever’s regular food. And for senior dogs, use it to moisten dry food for ease of chewing. It’s also an excellent way to be sure your Golden Retriever gets an extra boost of hydration too. Brutus processes their broth in a human-grade facility, and their products are always non-GMO, dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, low fat, low sodium, and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Pros

Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
Added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
Collagen for healthy skin and fur
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, wheat-free
Recycled packaging
Boosts the flavor of ordinary food for picky Golden Retrievers
Hydrates and nourishes
Easy to digest and promotes natural detoxification of the gut

Cons

Your Golden Retriever might gobble it up too fast!

#3 – A Pup Above

If your Golden Retriever is bored with their regular food, try adding a little of A Pup Above dog food as a topper! Choose their gently cooked fresh food option or their Cubies dry food. Either type promises a tasty experience of 100% human-grade ingredients and non-GMO veggie superfoods that promote joint, immune, and digestive support. And because every ingredient can be traced back to its source, you can trust A Pup Above to provide a premium food option that will entice your Golden Retriever to eat their regular food.

Plus, you can make life simple and subscribe to have your Golden Retriever’s food topper brought to your door on the schedule that fits your needs best. As a special offer for iHeartDogs readers, receive $50 OFF orders of $100 or more when you use promo code: HEARTDOGS

Pros

Human-grade and non-GMO ingredients
Fresh food and Cubies’ dry food options
Veterinarian approved
Made in USDA facilities
Boasts 50% more protein than competitors
Sampler packs available
A percentage of every purchase is donated to White Buffalo Land Trust

Cons

Not a true topper, butit  can entice picky Golden Retrievers to eat their regular food

Related: Best Dry Dog Foods

#4 – Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Gut Health Freeze

Instinct Raw Boost Mixers will entice your Golden Retriever’s taste buds while promoting a healthy digestive system. This grain-free food topper includes all the natural goods your Golden Retriever needs and the great taste they want with a recipe that contains cage-free chicken, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, chicory root, apple cider vinegar, and probiotics. And by eliminating harmful ingredients like soy and artificial flavors from their recipes and using whole food ingredients, Instinct upgrades the ordinary kibble experience even further. It’s minimally processed and made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world. Plus, the resealable airlock packaging means easy storage. 

Pros

Formulated with all-natural ingredients
Made with cage-free chicken
Grain-free formula 
No soy or preservatives

Cons

Easily crumbles 

Related: Best Fresh Dog Food Brands

#5 – Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Toppers

 

Your Golden Retriever likes a little variety in their bowl, and Blue Buffalo Trail Toppers will give them just that with a variety pack of dog food toppers. These individually packaged portions of chicken and beef toppers are grain-free and use only natural ingredients to upgrade boring kibble with real meat. They satiate your dog’s appetite while also giving them an energy boost. Use it dry or wet; your Golden Retriever will love it either way. Enhanced with vitamins and minerals, Blue Buffalo is a whole nutrition that’s free of meat by-products, fillers, and artificial preservatives. Plus, it’s suitable for dogs of all ages. 

Pros

Made with real chicken and beef
Can be fed to Golden Retrievers as a snack
Enriched with all-natural vitamins and minerals
Offers two varieties in one package
Individually portioned packs

Cons

Expensive

#6 –Wellness Bowl Boosters Bare

Wellness CORE Bowl Boosters Bare are made with a single protein, making them ideal for Golden Retrievers with sensitive tummies. And because it contains only delicious freeze-dried beef, your Golden Retriever will think they’ve won a jackpot when it comes to mealtime! This convenient dog food topper is an excellent way to introduce the benefits of raw food into your Golden Retriever’s diet. Made with only premium, all-natural ingredients, you’ll never find any wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, or artificial preservatives in these yummy bits, meaning you can trust your Golden Retriever’s tummy to Wellness Core. Rich in protein and taste, this is an optimum choice for picky eaters.

Pros

Suitable for sensitive stomachs
Made with chunks of dried beef
No preservatives added
Easy to digest 

Cons

Tend to be on the crunchy side 

#7 –Wellness Bowl Boosters, Dog Food Topper

 

 

Another first-class product by Wellness Core, this dog food topper provides an excellent option for Golden Retrievers with digestive issues. It’s made using 100% fresh chicken meat and paired with probiotics that help your Golden Retriever’s gut stay healthy. The addition of healthy fruits and veggies provides fiber to help your Golden Retriever stay regular. Wellness Core uses only the finest globally sourced ingredients and prepares each of its recipes in a state-of-the-art USA facility with wholesome, non-GMO ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits.

A perfect food topper for sensitive stomachs, these tasty bites ensure good gut health and promote a healthy digestive system. Plus, picky eaters will love them too. 

Pros

Best choice for gut health
Includes natural fiber and vitamins
Made with real chicken
Suitable for all breeds and ages

Cons

Shipping tends to crush the product into dust 

#8 – Herbsmith Smiling Dog Kibble Seasoning

 

Make your Golden Retriever’s meal appetizing and irresistible with a kibble seasoning that’s delicious and easy to use. Made with human-grade ingredients, Herbsmith Smiling Dog Kibble Seasoning is packed with real meat and vegetables sourced in the USA. It tastes so good, your Golden Retriever will be smiling with every bite! And you’ll smile knowing their recipes are free of preservatives, soy, gluten, and other harmful ingredients. Plus, all of Herbsmith’s recipes were created by a holistic veterinarian with more than 30 years of experience. This seasoning provides a wealth of healthy vitamins and minerals in a single serving and pleases even the pickiest of eaters. Grain-free and suitable for all breeds and ages. 

Pros

Contains no artificial flavor or preservatives
Made with all-natural fruits, vegetables, and meat
A little goes a long way
For use on both wet and dry foods

Cons

One of the pricier options 

#9 – CLEAR CONSCIENCE PET® Paw Jus SuperGravy® 

 

Now your dog can enjoy delicious gravy with ease. Top your Golden Retriever’s kibble with this appetizing beef gravy and watch them lick the bowl clean. With a 3-way gut health complex comprised of probiotics, prebiotics, and enzymes, this wet food topper supports superior digestibility and nutrient absorption, making it ideal for Golden Retrievers with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. Artisan-crafted from whole foods, including beef liver sourced in the USA, every batch is slow-cooked at low temperatures in order to preserve nutrients.

And SuperGravy is always free of artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, and fillers. Plus, there are no GMOs, gluten, or grains. It’s also a great aid in treating dehydration.    

Pros

Includes probiotics and prebiotics
Easy to use
Aids in gut health
Free of gluten and grains

Cons

Can cause gas and stomach upset in some dogs

 

#10 – Cesar Simply Crafted Adult Wet Dog Food Meal Topper

 

 

 

Cesar Simply Crafted utilizes only the best and most flavorful ingredients to create a wholesome addition to any meal that adds flavor, not filler. This tasty wet food topper appeases the pickiest of Golden Retrievers by using only fresh meats and veggies while steering clear of anything artificial. And with no fillers or by-products, you can trust Cesar to consistently deliver beef or chicken as their first ingredient in every recipe. Plus, it’s easy to serve and offers a filling portion size for Golden Retrievers with delicate appetites.

Pros

All-natural chicken, beef, and duck
High in protein 
Variety of recipes
Ample portion size for small eaters 

Cons

Designed for adult dogs only 

#11 – Halo Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Topper

Satisfy your Golden Retriever’s meat cravings with a tasty food topper made from beef, beef liver, and salmon skin, a rich source of omega-3 and other nutritious fatty acids. Halo Freeze-Dried Raw Skin & Coat includes blueberry, sweet potato, carrots, and pumpkin to provide a wealth of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, giving your Golden Retriever a delectable experience while promoting healthier skin and a shinier coat.

Real and raw, your Golden Retriever won’t be able to resist this minimally processed topper. And all Halo’s meal toppers are made with premium ingredients sourced, harvested, and packed in the USA.

Pros

Uses only USA-sourced meats
High protein content
Supports healthy skin and coat
Contains no soy or artificial flavors

Cons

High-priced 

#12 – The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth Pour Overs

 

A succulent and enticing food topper option that brings an extra boost of nutrition and taste to your Golden Retriever’s mealtime, Honest Kitchen Bone Broth Pour Overs uses diced ranch-raised beef and carrots in a savory bone broth to mix it up at mealtime. Simply pour these slow-cooked stews over your Golden Retriever’s regular food and watch the frenzy begin!

Plus, this wholesome food topper is free of preservatives and artificial flavoring. All ingredients are natural, human-grade, and sourced from trusted suppliers in the USA and around the world. And with a 90% moisture content, it’s a great way to offer your Golden Retriever extra hydration. 

Pros

Includes only natural, human-grade ingredients
No preservatives or artificial colors
Easy to serve
Helps boost hydration levels

Cons

On the expensive side 

#13 – Ruff Greens 

 

Ruff Greens believes your Golden Retriever needs live nutrition from fruits and veggies just like you do! And instead of “dead food,” they deliver your Golden Retriever a delicious plant-based experience that’s rich in live bio-available proteins, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, digestive enzymes, omega oils, and anti-oxidants. That’s a ton of nourishment for your best friend in one easy-to-use formula. Just add a scoop to your Golden Retriever’s usual food and watch them polish off dinner in fa lash! From their puppy days to their senior years, dogs of all ages can benefit from this premium nutritional supplement.

By treating your Golden Retriever to such rich flavor and nutrition, you’re helping to support their brain, joint, heart, and immune function. Ruff Greens can also help digestion for improved breath and poop!

And when you buy now, get 10% off on Vita Smart Large Bag!

Pros

100% vegan plant-based product
 Human-grade ingredients
No GMOs, antibiotics, hormones, fillers, artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors
Made in the USA with NO Chinese ingredients
No refrigeration necessary
Easy to use; just scoop over food

Cons

One bag may not last 30 days with larger dogs

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food Toppers for Golden Retrievers

1. Should I Add a Topper to My Golden Retriever’s Food?

No one likes to eat the same food over and over, including your pup! Food toppers for Golden Retrievers are an excellent way to upgrade bland meals by adding variety, flavor, and texture. They can entice picky eaters while providing extra nutrients and minerals that support coat health, energy levels, and overall well-being.

2. Are Wet or Dry Dog Food Toppers Better for Golden Retrievers?

Both wet and dry toppers are great, depending on your dog’s preference and your convenience. Wet toppers add moisture and make meals more appealing, while dry toppers are shelf-stable and often fortified with vitamins and minerals. Alternating between the two provides variety and balanced nutrition for your Golden Retriever.

3. Do Food Toppers Work for Picky Golden Retrievers?

Yes, toppers are very effective for picky eaters. They enhance aroma, flavor, and texture, making kibble more enticing. Many toppers use real meat or vegetables, encouraging your Golden Retriever to finish their meals while maintaining healthy eating habits.

4. Can Dog Food Toppers Help with My Golden Retriever’s Joint Health?

High-quality toppers can support joint health, which is essential for Golden Retrievers prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis. Look for toppers with glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and turmeric. These ingredients reduce inflammation, support cartilage repair, and promote mobility, helping maintain long-term joint health in a tasty way.

5. Is It Ok to Put Broth in Dog Food?

Adding low-sodium chicken or beef broth is safe and enhances meals. Broth increases hydration, improves flavor for picky eaters, and supports digestion and gut health. A small amount added to kibble can make meals more enjoyable and nutrient-rich for your Golden Retriever.

6. Do I Need to Ask the Vet Before Giving Any Food Topper?

Most toppers are safe for Golden Retrievers and do not require vet approval. If your dog has chronic conditions, allergies, or a special diet, it is best to consult your veterinarian to ensure the topper is suitable for your dog’s nutritional needs.

7. Do Toppers Provide Extra Nutrients?

Yes, toppers often contain proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients that enhance overall health. Some also include supplements for coat, digestion, or joint support. A high-quality topper gives your Golden Retriever both extra nutrition and delicious flavor in each meal.

8. Can Toppers Replace Regular Dog Food?

No, toppers are meant to complement, not replace, regular meals. Dog food provides complete nutrition, while toppers add flavor and extra nutrients. Relying solely on toppers could lead to nutrient imbalances over time.

9. How Often Can I Add a Topper?

Toppers can be added daily if portion sizes are controlled. Keeping calories within your Golden Retriever’s needs prevents weight gain. Even a small amount each day makes meals more enjoyable and encourages healthy eating habits.

10. Do Toppers Improve Hydration?

Yes, wet toppers, broths, and rehydrated freeze-dried options increase water intake. Proper hydration supports digestion, kidney function, and energy levels. Adding moisture through toppers helps Golden Retrievers stay hydrated without forcing extra water.

11. Are Store-Bought Toppers Better Than Homemade?

Both options work well. Store-bought toppers are convenient, nutritionally balanced, and consistent in quality. Homemade toppers give you control over ingredients and freshness. Many owners use a combination of both to provide variety and ensure high-quality nutrition.

12. Can Puppies Have Food Toppers?

Yes, Golden Retriever puppies can enjoy toppers formulated for their growth stage. Puppy-safe toppers provide extra protein and nutrients needed for proper development and help make the transition to solid food easier and more enjoyable.

13. Do Toppers Help With Dental Issues?

Soft or moist toppers can make eating easier for Golden Retrievers with sensitive teeth or dental problems. They soften hard kibble and reduce discomfort, ensuring your dog continues to get proper nutrition even with dental challenges.

14. Can Toppers Help With Weight Management?

Yes, low-calorie toppers enhance flavor without adding excessive calories. They make meals more satisfying, reducing begging and overeating. Using the right amount of topper helps Golden Retrievers maintain a healthy weight while still enjoying tasty meals.

15. Are Freeze-Dried Toppers Good?

Freeze-dried toppers are a nutrient-dense, convenient option with a long shelf life. When rehydrated, they become flavorful and provide moisture, supporting hydration, digestion, and overall health. Many Golden Retrievers enjoy them for both taste and nutrition.

Enhancing Your Golden Retriever’s Diet with Food Toppers

Sometimes Golden Retrievers get bored with the same meal day after day and require something different and delicious to boost their taste buds. If you want to help your Golden Retriever eat more healthy food and finish their meals, toppers are just the thing to rev up dinner time. And if it’s a picky Golden Retriever you’re dealing with, food toppers are an excellent choice since they contain real meat and other nutritious ingredients, ensuring your furry one gets the nutrients they need. Whether your dog is a fussy eater or one who gobbles down their dinner, surprise them with one of these delicious dog food toppers for Golden Retrievers. They’ll show their appreciation by cleaning their bowl! 

To see all the benefits and compare brands, check out our list of the Best Fresh Food Brands and the Best Dog Foods.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.