Reducing the intake of calories is one of the main functions of weight loss dog food. However, like any other product, there are a variety of brands to choose from, each offering more than one benefit. How do you identify the best weight loss dog food? This review has 10 brands that are worth buying for your overweight dog.
Home 10 Best Weight Loss Dog Food (Review)
10 Best Weight Loss Dog Food (Review)
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Our Top Choice: Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low Calorie
This is the top dog food for weight loss. This formula helps support healthy digestion, has high fiber content and low calorie. Your dog will feel full because of high protein.Customers love this food, many happy dog owners said that this food helps chubby dogs.
Comparison Table
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Qualities of the Best Dog Food for Weight Loss
Even after reading the dog food review, you might have a few questions. What are the qualities you should look out for when buying weight loss dog food?
- Protein as a first ingredient – during weight loss, your dog might lose muscle. To prevent this, the best weight loss dog food must have a dense protein composition. Chicken, lamb, fish, and beef are good for this purpose.
- Low caloric count – weight loss is impossible with a high-calorie intake; therefore, all food must have less than 300kcal per serving.
- Fortification – food that aid weight loss must be fortified with vitamins, antioxidants, probiotics, and omega acids to ensure healthy gut, skin, and fur.
- Good taste – if the food does not taste good, your dog might refuse it and starve. Flavorful options are preferable.
- Free from artificial ingredients – all components of weight loss food should be natural and low in additives.
5 Signs of an Overweight Dog
How do you tell if your dog is overweight? There are a few indicators of obesity that you must look out for:
- High body condition scores – consulting a body scoring chart is one of the best ways of knowing whether your dog is overweight. If she ranks higher above the standard weight for her breed, she is overweight.
- Labored breathing – heavy dogs breathe slower due to the weight exerted by the fat on their vital organs.
- Lethargy – because of how much effort it takes to move around, an overweight dog might prefer to lay down the whole day.
- Inability to distinguish between the chest and stomach – you should be able to feel your dog’s ribs and visibly distinguish between his chest and stomach.
- Itchy skin and rashes – the folds on an overweight dog provide an area for sweat and dirt to accumulate. This might result in itchiness and shedding of fur.
Contents
- 1 Comparison Table
- 2 Qualities of the Best Dog Food for Weight Loss
- 3 5 Signs of an Overweight Dog
- 4 Top 10 Dog Foods for Weight Loss
- 5 Best Overall – Natural Balance Dog Food
- 6 Runner Up – Hill’s Science Weight Loss Food
- 7 Budget Buy – Iams Weight Loss Dog Food
- 8 Purina Pro Plan Weight Loss Formula
- 9 Nutro Dog Food for Weight Loss
- 10 Pedigree Weight Loss Dog Food
- 11 Victor Dog Food for Weight Loss
- 12 Earthborn Weight Loss Natural Meal
- 13 Eukanuba Weight Loss Food for Small Dogs
- 14 Diamond Care Weight Loss Formula
- 15 What is the Ideal Weight for Dogs?
- 16 How to Encourage Weight Loss in Dogs
- 17 Why is Excessive Weight Gain in Dogs a Problem?
- 18 What Causes Rapid Weight Gain in Dogs?
- 19 Final Take
Top 10 Dog Foods for Weight Loss
Product Information
Brand Name – Natural Balance
Main Ingredients – Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal, Garbanzo Beans, Peas & Oatmeal
Age – Adult
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $$
This dog food aids weight loss by having low quantities of fats, high protein, and high fiber composition. It offers a balanced diet while reducing caloric intake. The combination of salmon, chicken, beans, and peas makes for a high protein diet that caters to your pup’s nutritional needs. Beans, peas, and oats are high in fiber and keep your dog full for longer.
Unlike filler food that is quickly digested, leaving your dog hungry for more, these fiber-rich inclusions will keep your dog from snacking constantly. To ensure a balanced diet, this dry food is filled with vitamins and probiotics, which improve the immune system and health of your dog’s gut.
The constituents of this food enhance its flavor, which most dogs love. It is also quite affordable and has the desired caloric content of 300kcal per cup. The only downside to this food is it does not have a treatment option, so you will have to come up with healthy, low-calorie alternatives whenever your dog wants a treat in between meals. The high fiber content will cause frequent bowel movement in dogs, but that is a slight inconvenience that does not interfere with healthy weight loss.
Features:
- Low calorie
- High fiber
- High protein content
- Dry formulation
Pros
- Affordable
- Filling
- Aids healthy digestion
- Made for adult dogs
- For All dog sizes
Cons
Product Information
Brand Name – Hill’s Science Diet
Main Ingredients – Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Pea Bran Meal
Age – Adult
Dog Size – Small Breed
Price – $$
If you have a small dog breed, you might be worried about safely reducing their caloric intake without denying them nutrients. This dry dog food specifically caters to small breeds by helping them maintain lean muscle and shed the extra pounds of fat. It is manufactured in the USA, which guarantees the quality of its ingredients.
For aiding weight loss, this food contains a high amount of chicken meat as a base. The chicken is combined with high fiber starch, including barley, brown rice, and corn gluten, and pea bran. All of these constituents make up for a filling meal that provides comprehensive nutrition. For flavor, the food contains chicken and pork liver additives that give it an enticing taste.
To keep the meal fresh, it comes in a bag with a Velcro seal. This allows you to reseal the food each time you take out a portion. The weight guide on the side of the pack helps dog owners decide how much to feed their dogs to aid weight loss. One major flaw of this dog food is that the kibbles are very small in size. Some dogs might have a hard time eating these without choking.
Features:
- Dry presentation
- High fiber content
- Velcro seal for maintaining freshness
Pros
- Has great flavor
- Comes with a guide for portion control
- Vet recommended
Cons
Product Information
Brand Name – Iams
Main Ingredients – Ground Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Dried Plain Beet Pulp
Age – Adult
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $
If you are looking for affordable yet healthy weight loss dog food that is made from natural ingredients, Iams is the right brand for you. Its protein base is a chicken meal made from free-range chicken and has a very low-fat content. It also contains barley, sorghum, beet pulp, vitamins, antioxidants, and rosemary extract. These components give it a nice flavor that most dogs love.
This dog food comes in a big bag at a very low price when compared to the other weight-loss food in this review. Being a famous brand, you can rest assured that quality is not compromised despite the affordable price. However, because of the variety of grain in this food, there is a possibility of allergic reactions. Your dog might exhibit symptoms like diarrhea, itchiness, and irritation. You should watch out for signs of allergies after introducing the food.
Features:
- High grain content
- High fiber content
- Low-calorie content
Product Information
Brand Name – Purina Pro Plan
Main Ingredients – Chicken, Brewers Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal, Whole Grain Corn
Age – Adult
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $$
Have you been wondering, “what is the best dog food for weight loss from a reputable brand?” This is one of the most popular dog food brands in America, and with good reason. Its dog food is made of fresh, natural meat and processed in local factories that guarantee safety and quality. This particular weight loss formula contains a chicken base, fish meal, rice, wheat, corn, vitamins, and other micronutrients. As a result, it is a wholesome meal that is balanced.
The formulation of this dog food makes it perfect for weight loss. It has very few calories per cup and is often recommended by vets for weight loss. However, the high carb content might get in the way of your weight loss initiative. Additionally, the carbs might not be very filling, which will force your dog to snack frequently. It is better to have healthy snacks that do not increase daily calorie intake.
Features:
- Low fat
- Natural ingredients
- High protein content
Product Information
Brand Name – Nutro
Main Ingredients – Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice
Age – Adult
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $$$
This is the best weight loss dog food with high protein content. It is made specifically for the smaller dog breeds; to aid weight loss while retaining muscle mass. It has a combination of chicken, salmon, and lamb, which makes it very filling and the best alternative to high-fat commercial diets. It is free of corn, wheat, and soy, which are known allergens.
To make certain that your dog gets all the nutrients he needs, this meal is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and flavors from organic sources. It is not only delicious but also nutritious. The only criticism of this product is that the size of the kibbles might be too small for dogs that eat in a hurry.
Features:
- High protein content
- Rich flavors
- Free of corn, wheat, and soy
Pros
- High nutritional values
- Low carb content
- Made from natural components
Cons
Product Information
Brand Name – Pedigree
Main Ingredients – Sufficient Water for Processing, Chicken, Pork Liver, Meat By-Products
Age – Adult
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $$
This is the best canned dog food for weight loss that has a wet presentation. Some dogs cannot eat dry kibbles for one reason or the other. They prefer wet food that is easy to chew. Furthermore, wet dog food is a great way to hydrate your dog. So, this meal by Pedigree is a great choice. It contains chicken and rice soaked in a flavorful juice. It is chopped into fine pieces for easy digestion.
To aid in weight loss, this meal has low fat and calorie content. It also has a low carb content that ensures your dog does not pack on pounds by consuming a lot of carbs. It comes in a sealed container for freshness and stays fresh days after the can has been opened. It has lots of flavors from the pork and chicken liver components; most dogs love these.
Features:
- Pork and chicken liver flavor
- Wet presentation
- Low carb content
Pros
- Enhances hydration due to wet presentation
- Flavorful
- Low carb content
Cons
Product Information
Brand Name – Victor Super Premium Pet Food
Main Ingredients – Beef Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Millet, Grain Sorghum
Age – Senior
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $$
Old dogs must have a special diet. Due to joint wear and tear, they need food packed with glucosamine and joint-health enhancers. They also need food that is low in gluten and other allergens. Victor is the best weight loss dog food for senior and ailing dogs because it meets all these requirements. It is grain-free, low in gluten, and high in nutrients that nourish bones and joints.
The protein base of this food is made of beef, chicken, pork, and fish meal. It is protein-dense to ensure retention of muscle mass during weight loss. It is also packed with probiotics which enhance digestive health and help your dog to digest food efficiently. Its combination of meaty flavors makes it a favorite for most dogs.
Due to its low caloric content, it is a great choice for weight loss in dogs that cannot exercise as much as they should. They are less likely to have an allergic reaction to it.
Features:
- Dry presentation
- High protein
- Gluten-free
Pros
- Does not have allergens
- Has low-fat content
- Probiotics improve the digestive system
Cons
Product Information
Brand Name – Earthborn Holistic
Main Ingredients – Chicken Meal, Peas, Tapioca, Pea Fiber
Age – All Ages
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $$$
If you have a dog that is sensitive to most food, you will need a weight-loss food that is customizable to his unique diet. This meal by Earthborn Holistic is the best weight loss dog food that has minimal fats, little calories, and no allergens. It has a grain-free, gluten-free, and healthy formula that caters to nutritional needs without causing sensitivities.
Its formulation contains a chicken meal that acts as a protein base. It also contains lots of fiber from fresh fruits and vegetables. Due to the high fiber content, it keeps your dog full for longer and reduces the need for constant snacking. It is also high in antioxidants and omega acids, which improve the overall health of your dog. If you are keen on environmental preservation, the recyclable BPA free bag is an added advantage.
Features:
- Grain-free
- Gluten-free
- Recyclable packaging that is BPA free
Pros
- Does not contain allergens
- Provides wholesome nutrition
- Environmentally conscious packaging
Cons
Product Information
Brand Name – Eukanuba
Main Ingredients – Chicken, Chicken by-product Meal, Wheat, Corn
Age – All Ages
Dog Size – Small
Price – $$$
This meal has a rich chicken base to provide proteins that preserve lean muscles. Its combination of beet pulp, fish oil, and natural flavors make it tasty and easy to eat. It is packed with vitamins that nourish the dog and give it a smooth coat and shiny fur. The low caloric content is made with small dog breeds in mind, making it the best weight loss dog food for pups that need to lose weight but retain healthy muscle mass.
Because it is grain-free and low in fat, it is a good inclusion in customized diets. It comes in an airtight, resealable bag that has feeding guidelines. Using these guidelines, you can tell the amount of food you should offer your dog based on his weight.
Features:
- High nutrient density
- Low-calorie count
- Resealable packaging with feeding guidelines
Pros
- Natural components
- Great flavor
- Aids weight loss
Cons
Diamond Care Weight Loss Formula
Product Information
Brand Name – DIAMOND CARE
Main Ingredients – Lamb meal, peas, chickpeas, lentils
Age – Adult
Dog Size – All Sizes
Price – $$$
This dry formulation contains superfood, insoluble fiber, and is rich in antioxidants that ensure gut health. The protein base is lamb meat that does not make your dog prone to allergic reactions. It is a composition that is free of grain and gluten and also provides fatty omega acids for healthy coats. Most dogs find their taste pleasant due to the lamb flavor. Also, it contains glucosamine for boosting bone and joint strength.
Some reviews have mentioned that these kibbles might have a high sodium content that causes dogs to drink more water. You might want to mix the kibbles with water before offering them to your dog.
Features:
- Lamb protein
- Grain-free
- Gluten-free
Pros
- Less risk of an allergic reaction
- Gentle on gut
- Flavorful
Cons
What is the Ideal Weight for Dogs?
The ideal weight for dogs varies from one breed to the other. Some breeds have large bodies and dense bones. Such breeds are bound to weight much more than smaller ones. There are other breeds, often referred to as “toy breeds” that are naturally tiny and should not weight past a certain amount.
To know how much your dog should way, you should consult the chart published by professionals. This chart indicates the weight for each breed and will help you to identify whether your dog needs a weight loss program.
How to Encourage Weight Loss in Dogs
Like for any other animal, weight loss in dogs is enabled by reducing caloric intake and increasing the breakdown of body fats. Provided that the calories used up are more than those your dog consumes, he is bound to lose weight. Although the specific weight loss approach you take should be determined by the health of your dog, there are two main ways of helping a dog lose weight:
- Offer low-calorie food – putting your dog on a diet that is low in fat and high in proteins and fibers is one of the best ways of reducing weight gain.
- Encourage daily exercise – letting your dog stay active, especially outdoors, is a sure-fire way of aiding weight loss. Your dog should get several hours of exercise each day. The amount of exercise he gets is determined by his health and physical capabilities.
Why is Excessive Weight Gain in Dogs a Problem?
Just like human beings, dogs can suffer from obesity. The unhealthy weight gain comes with many issues that reduce the quality of life for your dog. Some of these issues include:
- Heart diseases – obesity causes fat to pile on the heart, leading to labored operation and heart disease.
- High blood pressure – blood vessels are constricted by fatty deposits that hamper normal blood flow. This results in high blood pressure and associated complications.
- Diabetes – insulin production is affected as the pressure on organs increases. Diabetic dogs are at risk of blood sugar spikes and death.
- Arthritis and joint pains – the joints are unable to bear the added weight, leading to aches and pains. The extra weight causes wear and tear of cartilage, resulting in arthritis that affects mobility.
- Skin irritation and shedding of fur – the folds on obese dogs accumulate sweat and dust. This results in skin irritation and bald spots on the dog’s coat.
What Causes Rapid Weight Gain in Dogs?
Several factors increase the risk of obesity in dogs. Some of these factors are preventable, while others are not.
Genetics
Some dog breeds are more likely to gain weight rapidly due to genetic predisposition. Dog breeds like dachshunds, cocker spaniels, Scottish terriers, and labrador retrievers are more likely to become obese.
Senior Dogs
As dogs grow older, their digestive systems slow down. This causes food to stay longer in the digestive tract and eventually leads to excessive weight gain. Senior dogs are also less active, and this might contribute to their inability to shed weight.
Inactivity
Dogs that are not very physically active will gain weight faster. Some dog breeds Chihuahuas are not suited for outdoor play and prefer to stay indoors. When combined with other factors, inactivity can lead to weight gain.
Injury or Illness
Dogs that have had surgery or are recovering from injury might not be physically active. As a result, they can gain weight fast.
Health Conditions
Some illnesses interfere with a dog’s digestive system and slow down metabolism. Other illnesses interfere with thyroid function and cause digestive issues. Over time, these diseases cause rapid weight gain.
High-Calorie Diets
If your dog is constantly eating human food or commercial snacks with unhealthy ingredients, he is bound to gain weight fast. Dog food that has a high carb and fat content can cause obesity
Medication
Some medicines cause an abnormal increase in dog appetite. Your dog might consume much more food while also being incapacitated due to the illness. These two factors cause weight gain.
Physical Alteration
Some physical alterations like neutering affect your dog’s appetite and love for physical activity. They might cause him to eat more or exercise less.
What are the Calorie Requirements for Your Dog?
Curious about just how many calories your dog should consume daily? The accepted standard is 3okcal per pound. Therefore, the amount of calories your dog can consume depends on the standard weight for his breed. A weight-loss diet is recommended for meeting calorie requirements while ensuring your dog gets all the nutrients.
Final Take
Obesity in dogs can have disastrous consequences. To improve your pet’s quality of life, you must consider a low-calorie diet that is nutritious and tasty. So, what is the best dog food for weight loss? Although we highly recommend the kibbles by Natural Balance as our top pick, all the brands in this review are great for weight management. The specific dog food brand you choose should be determined by your dog’s preference and your budget. If you’re interested in dog food, try to read about the best cheap dog food.
Images credits: Amazon.com
