Best Dog Food for Weight Loss — Buyer’s Guide, Reviews and Comparisons

Top Dog Food For Weight Loss Comparison Table

Dog Food For Weight Loss Buying Guide

How To Tell if Your Dog Needs Dog Food for Weight Loss

Good Dog Food for Weight Loss

The Best Healthy Dog Food for Weight Loss

Conclusion

Dog Food for Weight Loss FAQs

OUR TOP PICK

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

This dog food for weight loss is a good option if you’re looking for something that’s backed up by science and recommended by vets. Low in calories, low in fat and high in fiber and protein, it includes all the key weight loss nutrients to support your dog during their diet. 

• Contains ingredients to support heart health.
• Results within 10 weeks.
• No artificial ingredients.

Whether your dog is food-obsessed, in their later years, or has gained a few too many pounds because of neutering — it means your dog could benefit from going on a diet. Dog food for weight loss is made for these situations. Typically higher in protein and lower in calories — it could help your pooch drop the excess baggage.

Dog Food for Weight Loss Buying Guide

Like us humans, dogs can put on weight. For most canines, it’s easy to understand why — they’re consuming more calories than they’re burning. This could be because they’re more sedentary, like senior dogs. Or, some breeds, like the Labrador or Golden Retriever are obsessed with food. Plus, neutered canines are prone to weight gain. 

However, carrying a few extra pounds can lead to health issues, which is where dog food for weight loss, combined with an exercise program, can help.

How To Tell if Your Dog Needs Dog Food for Weight Loss

All dogs are different. Hence, you may not be able to tell if they’re overweight. Take for example, the sleek short-haired Greyhound, or Basenji vs the fluffy Samoyed or Husky — with all that hair/fur covering their body, it’s a tough one.

However, if you feel your dog may be heavier than they should be, you can check the following:

• The rib cage test — run your hands along their body to find their ribs. If you can’t feel them, your dog is carrying extra padding around their middle.
• Assess your dog’s behavior — does your dog lounge around a lot? Do they seem to struggle walking or get out of breath quickly? These are all signs of an overweight dog.
• Check for a potbelly — a stomach that hangs down and swings when they walk indicates your dog needs to go on a diet.
• Get your dog weighed — ultimately, a weigh-in at the vets is the only way you’ll know for sure. Your vet will be able to compare your dog’s weight against your breed’s healthy weight recommendations.

Good Dog Food for Weight Loss — What To Consider

In short — dog food for weight loss should:

• Have fewer calories than regular dog food. 
• Contain higher levels of protein. 
• Include fiber-dense ingredients.
• Contain slow-release carbs for steady energy.

Protein

Food for your dog’s muscles, protein builds and preserves this all-important tissue. However, during weight loss, there is a greater chance of muscle loss. So, including higher levels of protein in your dog’s diet can ensure or reduce the risk of this happening. To give you an idea, adult dogs require a minimum of 18 percent protein. 

Fiber

This macronutrient is awesome for satiety. Hence, dog food with increased fiber will curb hunger and, hopefully, the begging for treats. Plus, fiber also helps with digestion.

Good Fats

While dog food for weight loss is typically lower in fat, you shouldn’t cut it out completely. And, healthy fats, such as omega 3 offer health benefits, so this is one fat that you’ll want to see on the ingredients label. 

Calories

One thing you should avoid is reducing the portion of your dog’s regular food. Dog foods for weight loss are formulated with fewer calories, but still include the necessary nutrients your dog needs for everyday life. 

Additional Weight Loss Ingredients

• L-carnitine — is an amino acid that’s also a fat burner. It helps turn food into fuel, which discourages the body from storing it, thus helping with weight loss. 
• Glucosamine and chondroitin — ideal if your overweight dog is suffering from joint issues because of the extra weight they’re carrying. 
• Probiotics — are friendly bacteria that keep your dog’s gut balanced. They aid digestion and increase absorption of nutrients, which promotes health benefits as a result.
• Antioxidants — free radical fighters, antioxidants aren’t just found in superfoods. Among the many health benefits, they can boost your dog’s immune system, which might be weakened during their diet.

Portion Control 

It goes without saying, stick to the manufacturer’s or your vet’s directions on how much food to offer. And, don’t guesstimate, ensure you weigh it out so overfeeding doesn’t occur. 

Talk to Your Vet

Before making any changes to your pup’s diet, speak with your vet. They will also be able to check for any potential weight-gaining medical issues and put together a diet plan for your dog.

The Best Healthy Dog Food for Weight Loss – Our Shortlist

A dry food that’s based on and developed using science and veterinary input, Hill’s Perfect Weight recipe is low in fat and calories (299 per cup) yet includes high levels of protein — to support muscle — and fiber for the fullness factor. 

It also contains l-carnitine and coconut oil — both are proven to boost your dog’s metabolism — again, helping weight loss and healthy weight maintenance. 

This is a complete-meal all-natural dry food — with chicken as the first ingredient. It also includes the required vitamins and minerals to meet your dog’s nutritional needs — as well as prebiotics to help with your dog’s digestion.

Protein: 28.6%

Fat: 11%

Fiber: 10.4%

Pros

• The bigger kibble size is great for larger dogs. 
• Brand states results within 10 weeks. 
• Supports hip health and joint function. 

Cons

• Not suitable for puppies.

Instict’s Healthy Weight could be a good one for picky eaters. One of the main sources of protein is freeze-dried raw chicken and this is also the number one ingredient of the product. 

Containing l-carnitine, which is great at helping to burn fat — aiding weight loss — but it also promotes a healthy metabolism and digestive system for your dog. And, its fiber content promotes satiety — keeping your dog feeling fuller for longer.

This dry dog food for weight loss has 25 percent less fat and 15 percent fewer calories (412 per cup) than Instinct’s regular dog food. There’s also no wheat, corn, potato, soy, or by-products, so no unnecessary fillers — just nutritious, balanced food. 

Protein: 35%

Fat: 12-15%

Fiber: 6%

Pros

• Suitable for all breeds.
• Great for dogs with food allergies.
• Comes in four and 20-pound bags.

Cons

• Expensive.

If you want to take a holistic approach to your dog’s weight loss journey, take a look at Blue Buffalo. Formulated using a multitude of natural ingredients — from chicken to carrots, brown rice to blueberries — it also supports your dog’s well-being. 

Containing a blend of antioxidants that boost immunity, plus nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joints — great for dogs with arthritis or hip issues.

At 322 calories per cup, this low-fat, high-fiber, and high-protein recipe ensures muscle is retained, energy levels are regulated and hunger is curbed. Plus, the amino acid l-carnitine makes an appearance to boost metabolism.

Protein: 20%

Fat: 9-12%

Fiber: 10%

Pros

• Wholesome ingredients — no artificial flavors.
• Antioxidant wellness blend.
• Heat-minimized processing — retains maximum nutrition.

Cons

• Difficult to reseal the bags.

If your dog doesn’t tolerate grains, take a look at Merrick’s Healthy Weight dry dog food. A grain-free recipe (352 calories per cup), over half of the ingredients are high-protein and low-fat based — first ingredient deboned beef — ideal for weight loss.

The remainder is made up of easy-to-digest carbs/fiber, like sweet potatoes, potatoes, and peas, so it’s gentle on the stomach and offers slow-release/consistent energy — meaning your pup will be up for longer walkies. And, with good fats such as omegas 3 and 6, it also encourages a healthy coat and skin condition. 

Protein: 30%

Fat: 10%

Fiber: 6%

Pros

• Ideal for dogs with sensitivities to grain. 
• Free from soy, gluten, or wheat.
• Healthy fats.

Cons

• A packaging closure strip would be an improvement.

Compared to Wellness’ regular dry food, this 366 calories-per-cup recipe is also 25% lower in fat — using turkey as its primary ingredient. 

What’s more, 42% of the contents are high-quality proteins that will help with weight loss — offering energy, satiety, and saving muscle mass — key things your dog needs to drop the pounds.

The guaranteed levels of omega fatty acids take care of your pup’s skin and coat, and the pre and probiotics for dogs support healthy digestion. And, the inclusion of taurine ensures their heart stays nice and healthy.

Protein: 33%

Fat: 10-12%

Fiber: 8.5%

Pros

• Main ingredient is low-fat turkey. 
• No fillers or by-products.
• Best senior dog food for weight loss.

Cons

• Smaller dogs may struggle with kibble shape.

Formulated for all fat dogs out there — adult large, medium, or small breeds — Natural Balance Fat Dogs is packed with protein from different sources, including chicken and salmon but it’s also generous on the fiber. 

This low-calorie (315 per cup) yet hunger-curbing combination keeps your dog’s belly feeling full so they don’t try and beg for snacks between meals. It’s also fortified with l-carnitine to help improve your dog’s metabolism and fat-burning abilities.

And, its fibrous, wholesome grains also support your dog’s digestive system, while vitamins E and C, plus zinc are included to strengthen immunity.

Protein: 26%

Fat: 7.5%

Fiber: 10.5%

Pros

• Complete balanced meal.
• Zero fillers.
• All-natural with added vitamins and minerals.

Cons

• Not suitable for dogs with grain intolerances.

Containing 600 million CFUs of the live probiotic bacillus coagulans and prebiotic fiber, Purina’s Pro Plan dry dog food is ideal if you want your dog to lose weight and tackle digestive issues at the same time. 

This recipe contains 15% less fat than the brand’s regular dry food and 362 calories per cup. Plus, it also has a well-thought-out protein-to-fat ratio — maximizing muscle retention during a weight loss program.

Purina isn’t a newcomer to dog food development. They’ve chosen each ingredient for their nutritional purpose or function towards weight loss, while creating a balanced meal. 

Protein: 27%

Fat: 9-13%

Fiber: 5.5%

Pros

• Supports a healthy immune system. 
• Comes with omegas and vitamin A for coat care.
• Includes pre and probiotics.

Cons

• Includes corn and gluten.

Eagle Pack’s Reduced Fat dog food is low-fat, high in protein, and compared to the brand’s regular kibble, it’s 11% lower in calories (343). And, it’s friendlier on the pocket than other dog foods for weight loss, making it good value.

What’s more, there are plenty of great ingredients like glucosamine for joint health, omega fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin, and antioxidants for a stronger immune system. Hence, not only will this food help your dog lose weight or maintain a healthy weight but it will also make sure they feel their best. 

Eagle Pack’s recipe also avoids wheat, corn, meat by-products, or artificial colors and flavors, so your dog will have much more energy to stay healthy and happy. 

Protein: 24%

Fat: 6-9%

Fiber: 4%

Pros

• Contains probiotics for dogs.
• Made in the USA.
• Two sources of animal protein — chicken/pork.

Cons

• Small dogs may struggle with kibble size.

If you have a pocket-sized pooch that needs to lose a few pounds, NUTRO ULTRA’s Weight Management for small dogs could be worth a look. Its kibble size is ideal for little canine mouths. 

Low in calories (325 per cup), yet there are three different types of animal protein — coming from chicken, lamb, and salmon — which are the perfect quantity to help trim down your dog’s weight.

NUTRO ULTRA’s healthy dog food for weight loss is balanced specifically for the needs of overweight dogs and ensures they have every vitamin and mineral they need in every bowl. It even includes a mix of superfoods — from kale to coconut, chia seeds to carrots for a nutritional boost. 

Protein: 28%

Fat: 12-15%

Fiber: 4%

Pros

• 100% natural ingredients.
• No corn, soy, or wheat included. 
• Supports joints, digestion, bones, and coat.

Cons

• Only comes in an 8-pound bag — could be bigger.

If your dog suffers from food intolerances or allergies, Canidae Healthy Weight is a limited-ingredient dog food for weight loss with 409 calories per cup. 

Containing only nine main ingredients, the first is real chicken, which is a great source of muscle-preserving protein for your dog. This is paired with foods like sweet potatoes and garbanzo beans for easy-to-digest/complex carbs to keep your dog energized.

Your dog’s immune and digestive system will also be well looked after with this recipe, as it includes lots of antioxidants and prebiotics. And, if you care about our planet, Canidae uses sustainably-sourced ingredients and packaging too.

Protein: 28%

Fat: 9%

Fiber: 5%

Pros

• Great for dogs with allergies.
• Zero grains, soy, and wheat.
• All-around healthy, nutritionally balanced meal

Cons

• May cause an upset stomach in some dogs.

Conclusion

If you feel that your dog has gained a few too many pounds, there are checks you can make. However, weighing your dog will provide you with the facts and figures. With this information, you can work out a diet plan for them, remember every dog’s diet journey will be different. 

Dog food for weight loss will help your buddy reach a healthy weight while still offering them all the nutrition they need for their stage in life. 

Dog Food for Weight Loss FAQs 

What Food Is Best for Dogs To Lose Weight?

Something that’s geared for weight loss or weight management. These foods are developed to be higher in protein, low in fat, and a complete, nutritionally balanced meal. This means they will support your dog’s daily dietary requirements while helping them to lose weight. 

How Does My Dog Lose Weight Fast?

While each dog will have their individual diet plan, generally speaking, dogs should only lose 1-2% of their extra weight per week. Alongside feeding them dog food for weight loss, you can encourage your dog to move more — this will help them shift the pounds. 

Is Dry or Wet Dog Food Better for Weight Loss?

Dry food would be better. This is because kibble can be weighed properly, and it’s easier to control your pup’s portions. Dry food also tends to contain a lot less fat than what you’d find in a can. 

How Long Does It Take for a Dog To Lose Weight?

Your dog should reach their ideal weight from six to eight months, depending on your breed and how much weight they need to lose. If your pup is struggling to shift the pounds, you should reassess the diet and exercise plan.

Will Walking Help My Dog To Lose Weight?

Yes, it will. But, encouraging your dog to move more in general will help them lose or maintain a healthy weight. For example, playing ball in your backyard, swimming at your local lake or beach, or for small dogs, even running around in your home will help.