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Bored Panda enlisted one of our brightest minds on dog nutrition, a vet student,Soneye Toluwalase, to bring you a comprehensive, well-researched list of the ultimate dog foods for weight loss.
Whether your pup needs to slim down for health reasons or just to look its best, we’ve selected the formulas with the most convincing results — breaking down the best of the best, from recipes supporting healthy weight management to prescription weight loss options.
The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. Please refer to ourdisclaimerfor more details.
Our Community Picks
Best Overall:Blue Buffalo Homestyle Healthy Weight $33.49
Runner-Up:Natural Balance Fat Dogs $19.93
Also Great:Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult $45.49
Note:All prices and deals listed are accurate as of the time of publishing. Please check the provided links for the most current pricing.
Best Wet Food for Weight Loss
Wet food formulas are an excellent option if your dog has gained extra weight. They are made using lean protein sources and natural ingredients, perfect for husky canines who have difficulty chewing or simply prefer wet food.
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Type:Wet food| Life Stage:Adults| Flavors:Chicken and vegetables, hearty vegetables and chicken| Calories:247 calories per can| Size:12.5-ounce or 12.8-ounce canHill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight food is a superb formula with the perfect balance of protein, fat, and calories to support healthy weight loss. It is ideal for adult dogs with little activity and is enriched with L-carnitine and coconut oil, two powerhouse ingredients that help boost metabolism and convert fat into energy.This dog food comes in two natural flavors and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious pet owners.What We Like:• Chicken is the first ingredient• Contains prebiotic fibers for healthy digestion• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives• A significant majority of dogs fed this food experienced weight loss within a few weeksWhat We Don’t Like:• Not suitable for dogs with poultry sensitivities• Many pet owners have reported defective lids
Best Dry Food for Weight Loss
Type:Dry| Life Stage:Adult| Flavors:Chicken meal and salmon| Calories:315 calories per cup| Size:4, 5, 11, 15, 24, or 28-pound bagNatural Balance Fat Dogs low-calory formula provides a balanced approach to managing weight. This food has a protein blend to support healthy weight, preserve lean muscle, essential fatty acids for healthy skin, and a glossy coat.Natural Balance prioritizes quality, so you won’t find any fillers or mystery ingredients — just real meat, whole grains, and wholesome vegetables to ensure your dog gets essential nutrients without excessive calories.What We Like:• Omega fatty acids• L-carnitine helps support fat metabolism• Has a palatable flavor for picky eaters• Comes in a variety of packaging sizesWhat We Don’t Like:• Brewer’s yeast may trigger allergies in some dogs
Best Weight Loss Food for Large Dog Breeds
Type:Dry kibble| Life Stage:Adult| Flavors:Chicken| Calories:361 calories per cup| Size:6-pound, 18-pound, and 34-pound bagThe Purina Pro Plan Large Breed formula is a top choice for adult dogs over 50 pounds who aren’t very active. This recipe offers a well-balanced nutrition source with a high protein content and real chicken as the main ingredient. It also contains live probiotics that help to promote immune and digestive health.What We Like:• Has high-quality protein from chicken• It contains glucosamine and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which support joint health• Fortified with natural probiotic fiber• Has a protein-fiber ratio that maintains muscle mass with weight lossWhat We Don’t Like:• Limited flavors
Type:Dry kibble| Life Stage:Adult| Flavors:Chicken and brown rice| Calories:318 calories per cup| Size:30-pound or 34-pound bagBlue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is an excellent choice for your dog’s health. It is enriched with high-quality protein and L-carnitine, aiding lean muscle development and fat burning. Additionally, it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health and mobility, while Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.Real meat, whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruits are used in the recipe, along with added LifeSource Bits for a precise blend of nutrients. This ensures that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition.What We Like:• Glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health and mobility• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat• Quality protein and L-carnitine• Contains calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitaminsWhat We Don’t Like:• Not a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs
Type:Dry kibble| Life Stage:Adult| Flavors:Chicken, lamb, and rice| Calories:355.8 calories per cup| Size:15-pound, 29-pound, and 40-pound bagIAMS Proactive Health Large Breed recipe with real chicken is customized to manage the weight of oversized dogs. The formula is enriched with chicken protein, which helps to maintain strong muscles and provides the necessary protein levels for a healthy diet.IAMS recipe also has antioxidants that boost your furry friend’s immune system and seven essential nutrients that specifically target the cardiovascular system and keep the heart in check.What We Like:• Chicken is the first ingredient• Made with essential antioxidants• Comes in a variety of flavors• Free from molassesWhat We Don’t Like:• Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies• It can cause diarrhea and vomiting in some dogs
Best Weight Loss Food for Small Dog BreedsDog food for small breedsmust have controlled calorie content, lean protein sources, and smaller kibble sizes. Below are our top picks in this category.
Best Weight Loss Food for Small Dog Breeds
Dog food for small breedsmust have controlled calorie content, lean protein sources, and smaller kibble sizes. Below are our top picks in this category.
Type:Dry kibble| Life Stage:Adult| Flavors:Lamb, Chicken, Salmon| Calories:416.7 calories per cup| Size:8-pound, 11-pound, and 30-pound bagNutro Ultra Small Breed formula is an excellent option if you’re looking for dry kibble that can help your small breed dog lose weight. This food comprises high-quality ingredients and contains 14 superfoods, meaning it’s super rich in nutrients.Real chicken is the first ingredient in the Nutro recipe, providing your pet with the protein it needs to build strong muscles and maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, chicken is combined with lamb and salmon to create a powerhouse of antioxidants that can help to keep your dog’s immune system in top shape.What We Like:• Real chicken is the first ingredient• Has essential nutrients to promote a healthy immune system• Great kibble size for small breeds• Includes superfoods like blueberries, chia seeds, and coconutsWhat We Don’t Like:• Some dogs have reportedly experienced loose stool, gas, and diarrhea when switching to this recipe
Type:Dry kibble| Life Stage:Adult| Flavors:Chicken meal and rice, Lamb meal and rice| Calories:358 calories per cup| Size:4-pound bagWhen it comes to weight loss in small breeds, Hill’s Science Diet Small and Mini formula is one of the best options for pet owners. Crafted with easy-to-digest ingredients, including pumpkin, Hill’s recipe supports healthy digestion and stool quality in your dog.But that’s not all — this food is also packed with high-quality protein to help maintain lean muscle and keep your dog at an ideal body weight. And with a natural antioxidant blend, it supports your furball’s immune system for lifelong wellness.What We Like:• Small-size kibble• Contains easy-to-digest, natural ingredients• An antioxidant blend for a healthy immune systemWhat We Don’t Like:• Picky eaters may reject it
Best Weight Loss Food for Senior DogsWe have selected the best senior dog foods for aging canines with weight control and mobility issues. These formulas contain joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are easily digestible.
Best Weight Loss Food for Senior Dogs
We have selected the best senior dog foods for aging canines with weight control and mobility issues. These formulas contain joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are easily digestible.
Type:Dry kibble| Life Stage:Senior| Flavors:Chicken| Calories:349 calories per cup| Size:7-pound, 15-pound, and 29.1-pound bagIAMS Proactive Health Healthy Aging Chicken and Whole Grain Recipe is a perfect choice for senior dogs. It contains real chicken as the first ingredient, providing them with proteins to maintain strong muscles. IAMS recipe is a low-fat diet rich in vitamin E and beta-carotene, essential for elderly dogs.In addition, this formula is loaded with vital minerals like calcium and natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, which aid in supporting bone and joint health for senior dogs. Finally, its high antioxidant content helps to fortify your furry friend’s immune system response.What We Like:• Has real chicken as the first ingredient• The recipe includes essential minerals like calcium• Good source of glucosamine and chondroitin• Has DHA that supports your senior dog’s mental healthWhat We Don’t Like:• Not suitable for small breed dogs under 10 pounds
Type:Wet food| Life Stage:Senior| Flavors:One flavor| Calories:301 kcal/can| Packaging Sizes:12.5-ounces or 12.8-ounces canEvanger’s Heritage Classics Senior Weight Management formula is designed for older, less active dogs that need to shed a few pounds. This meal is formulated with added chelated trace minerals and vitamins that are more bioavailable and easier for your dog to absorb. Chelated trace minerals also support joint health, mobility, cognitive function, and overall vitality in your canine companion.What We Like:• Has chelated trace minerals and vitamins• Free of preservatives, salt, fillers, corn, and soy• Delicious meat-based formula• This food is Kosher-certifiedWhat We Don’t Like:• Slightly pricey• Comes in one flavor
See Also on Bored Panda
Key Things To Evaluate When Choosing Dog Food for Weight Loss
If you want to help your furry friend lose weight with proper nutrition, make sure tot check the following.
AAFCO Nutritional Standard
Although AAFCO doesn’t have an official standard for weight loss food for dogs, it has established criteria for labels indicating that a food is “light,” “low calorie,” or “low fat.” Look for the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement on the dog food packaging to ensure your dog gets essential nutrients while on a weight-loss diet.
Caloric Density
Calorie control is the basis of any ideal weight loss regimen. When choosing foods, look for those with controlled caloric content. This allows your pet to drop its extra weight gradually while still providing essential nutrients. Consult your veterinarian to determine the proper caloric intake for your dog’s weight loss goals.
Ingredient Quality
The quality of ingredients in your dog’s food plays a significant role in their overall health. Choose dog foods made with natural ingredients and avoid those containing artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Also, look for whole food ingredients, such as lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables, to help support your dog’s immune system.
Any weight management food should contain high-fiber ingredients like vegetables, fruits, and grains. Opt for foods with fiber to help your dog with stress-free digestion.
Protein-to-Fat Ratio
Protein helps maintain muscle mass during weight loss, while moderate fat levels provide energy. The ideal protein-to-fat ratio in dog food for weight loss depends on your dog’s age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health.
Adult dogs generally need a minimum of 18% protein in their diet. However, if your dog needs to lose weight, it’s best to aim for a higher % protein content of about 20%. Fat levels of 12% or lower are necessary for food to help shed weight.Experts recommend a protein-to-fat ratio of 20% protein to 12% fat in adult dog food for effective weight loss.
Balanced Diet
When helping your dog lose weight, provide necessary nutrients. Never starve your dog. Choose dog food with balanced nutrition, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Opt for whole food ingredients and weight management formulas.
Life Stage
As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. For example, senior dogs require ingredients to support joint health, cognitive function, and overall health. Look for dog foods and treats that suit your dog’s life stage, and when in doubt, consult a veterinarian.
Breed and Size of Your Dog
Choose weight-loss dog food based on your dog’s breed and size. Look for breed-specific formulas with tailored calorie and nutrient levels.
Vet Recommendations
Consult with your vet for personalized weight loss recommendations based on your dog’s health condition, breed, size, and the amount of weight to be lost. They may recommend a prescription food formulated for weight management and advise on the proper amount of food to feed your dog, monitoring progress closely.
Tips for Optimal Weight Management in Dogs
Here are some practical tips you can apply to improve your approach.
Tip 3.Stick to a regular feeding schedule. Resist the urge to feed your dog table scraps or excessive treats, as these can contribute to weight gain.
Tip 4.Regularly monitor your dog’s body condition and weight. Consult your vet to determine the appropriate diet and exercise routine using a body condition scoring system.
Tip 5.Opt for low-calorie treats or use small portions of their regular food as rewards during training.
Tip 6.Invest in slow-feed bowls or puzzle feeders. These encourage slower eating and help your dog feel full.
FAQ
What can I feed my overweight dog to lose weight?
To help your overweight dog lose weight, feed them high-quality weight management dog food with controlled caloric content. Look for foods with lean protein sources and a balanced protein-to-fat ratio—around 20% protein to 12% fat for adult dogs. This will support weight loss while providing essential nutrients.
What is the fastest way for a dog to lose weight?
Quick weight loss isn’t safe for dogs because it can cause health complications and disrupt muscle mass. Instead, focus on gradual changes through controlled portions, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.
Is dry or fresh food better for weight loss in dogs?
Both can work, depending on your dog’s preferences and needs. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your dog.
What dog food will help my dog gain weight?
Choose a high-quality dog food formulated for weight gain and muscle development. Also, look for foods with higher protein and fat content to support healthy weight gain.
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