Best Dog Food For Weight Gain

If you’re looking for a way to help your dog gain weight, you may want to consider switching to a food specially formulated for weight gain. These foods are typically higher in calories and fat than regular dog foods, which can help your dog pack on the pounds.

Dog food for weight gain is a specialized type of dog food that is designed to help your furry friend put on weight. In this case, there are some foods specially formulated with extra nutrients in order to help your pup regain lost weight or gain it in the first place.

Best Dog Food For Weight Gain

Gaining weight is necessary in conditions such as below:

  • Weight Gain for underweight dogs – When your dog is underweight or is very skinny, you will want your dog to gain weight and increase its muscle mass. Weight loss can be due to various issues such as insufficient food, poor digestion of nutrients, or medical conditions. With underweight dogs, you will also be able to see the dog’s visible rises, hips or shoulders when he is underweight. The Body Condition Score (BCS) provides a good way for you to gauge the weight condition of your dog. Underweight dogs have a score of 1 to 3 as shown in the chart below.
  • Energy Levels Maintenance – If your dog is normally active and you see a noticeable drop in energy, it could be due to less than optimal nutrition leading to this condition and possible weight loss.
  • Higher Energy Needs – When you have an active or athletic type of dog, it will need lots of energy due to its faster metabolism.  As such dogs are constantly hunting, running, jumping it will demand high energy levels for them to be healthy and active.
  • Healthy Puppy Development –  During the growing stage, active puppies need protein for their growth and development. Therefore, a high-calorie dog food would be suitable at this life stage.
  • Senior Dogs Weight Gain  – When your senior dog is experiencing muscle loss due to aging, this will contribute to weight loss. However, when your dog is losing more weight than expected, it will be beneficial to give these older dogs specially formulated dog food to gain weight.

Checking Your Dog's Body Condition Score (BCS)

BCS Score Chart

What is the best dog food to gain weight?

Most dogs can be given from the food perspective, a high calorie diet to achieve wight gain. Calories provide a measure of how much energy a body gets after eating a portion of food. Each major nutrient such as protein, fat, carbohydrate contains a specific number of calories per gram. The food you feed your dog must provide sufficient calories so his body can:

  • Produce energy to grow correctly
  • Maintain health during adulthood
  • Reproduce
  • Live to enjoy a quality old age.

In terms of meat choice for weight gain, red meat is probably the best option. Also chicken can provide healthy calories to your dog in such situation. Fat is also good for your dog, but most of fats are converted into energy. Hence, dog food for weight gain should have good balance of proteins and fats.

Quality Ingredients

Quality dog food for weight gain should have its calories coming from quality ingredients. For example, real meat should be the key protein ingredient and fats should come from quality animal sources too.

 

FAQs on Dog Food For Weight Gain

Q: I want to help my dog gain weight so he looks healthier. What kind of food should I feed him?

A: You should always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet, especially if he is underweight. A food that is high in calories and protein can help him gain weight, but it’s important to make sure the food is nutritionally balanced so he doesn’t end up with any health problems.

Q: I’ve been feeding my dog a high-calorie food, but he’s not gaining any weight. What could be the problem?

A: There are a few possibilities. First, make sure you’re feeding him the correct amount of food based on his weight and activity level. If he’s very active, he may need more calories than a sedentary dog. Second, some dogs have trouble digesting high-calorie foods, so they don’t absorb all the nutrients and calories. Finally, some medical conditions can make it difficult for a dog to gain weight, even if he’s eating enough food. If you’re concerned about your dog’s weight, talk to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems.

Q: I think my dog is overweight, but my vet says he’s at a healthy weight. How can this be?

A: Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so there is no one “ideal” weight. Some dogs are naturally slender, while others are more compact and muscular. As long as your dog is active and seems otherwise healthy, his weight is probably fine. However, if you’re concerned about your dog’s weight, talk to your veterinarian to get his professional opinion.

Q: How much food should I feed my dog to help them gain weight?

A: The amount of food you should feed your dog will depend on their age, activity level, and metabolism. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian about how much food is right for your dog. They can help you create a feeding schedule that will ensure your dog is getting enough calories to help them gain weight.

Q: What are some things I should avoid feeding my dog if they need to gain weight?

A: You should avoid feeding your dog sugary snacks or table scraps, as these can cause them to gain unhealthy weight. You should also limit their intake of high-fat foods, as this can lead to obesity. Instead, focus on giving them nutrient-rich and high-calorie foods that will help them reach a healthy weight.

 

Best Dog Food For Weight Gain

We have evaluated dozens of top-rated dog food for weight gain like PURINA, BULLYMAX, ROYAL CANIN, HILLSPET, TASTE OF THE WILD, VICTOR CLASSIC, MERRICK, RACHAEL RAY, BLUE BUFFALO, ORIJEN, CRAVE, ZIGNATURE, etc. to bring you the best ones. Here are our reviews and recommendations on high-quality dog food for gaining weight that you can choose from.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken, Corn Gluten Meal, Brewer’s Rice, Animal Fat Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols, Poultry By-Product Meal (Natural Source of Glucosamine), Whole Grain Corn, Corn Germ Meal, Fish Meal (Natural Source of Glucosamine), Fish Oil, Dried Egg Product, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • PURINA Pro Plan Sport Adult Dog Food
  • High Quality Protein – with real chicken for building your dog’s muscles.  Amino acids also nourish muscles
  • 30% protein and 20% fat –  helps fuel metabolic needs
  • Omega-3 fatty acid and glucosamine – helps joint function and your dog’s mobility
  • Antioxidants –  support strong and healthy immune system.
  • Package size: 18 lb bag.
  • Calorie content:  4250 Kcal/kg.

Key Ingredients:

Deboned Chicken, Deboned Turkey, Atlantic flounder, Cage-Free Eggs, Whole Atlantic Mackerel, Chicken Liver, Turkey Liver, Chicken Heart, Turkey Heart, Whole Atlantic Herring, Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Turkey, Whole Red Lentils, Whole Pinto Beans, Whole Green Peas, Chicken Necks, Chicken Kidney, Whole Green Lentils, Whole Navy Beans, Whole Chickpeas, Lentil Fiber, Dried Pumpkin, Kale, Spinach, Mustard Greens, Collard Greens, Turnip Greens, Whole Carrots, Whole Apples, Whole Pears, Pumpkin Seeds, Sunflower Seeds, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • Orijen Senior Dog Food
  • Blend of free-run chicken and turkey, wild-caught Fish, and cage-free eggs that deliver proper nutrition to your senior dog.
  • 38% Protein and 15% Fats formulation.
  • Protein rich quality animal ingredients to promote lean muscle and healthy body weight.
  • No grain.
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate – support hip and joint health
  • Calcium and phosphorous – supporting healthy teeth and gums
  • Fruits and Veggies – providing fiber to improve digestion in meals.
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids –  providing a healthy skin and coat for your dog.
  • 25 lb bag.
  • Calorie content of 3630 Kcal/kg. 

Key Ingredients:

Ocean Fish Meal, Beef, Pea Protein, Potatoes, Canola Oil, Dried Eggs, Peas, Tomato Pomace, Choline Chloride, Salmon Oil, Dried Chicory Root, Taurine, L-Carnitine, Carrots, Pumpkin, Apples, Cranberries, Blueberries, Broccoli, Parsley, Spearmint, Almond Oil, Sesame Oil, Dried Kelp, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • SOLID GOLD Barking At The Moon, High Protein Dog Food
  • Beef, Egg & Pea Recipe
  • High protein, low carbohydrate recipe – with 41% crude protein this is one of the highest protein dog food on the market.
  • High-quality real meat – Beef provides a dense source of protein. Whole egg provides amino acids that are vital for lean muscle development.
  • Grain-free –  grain-free & gluten-free crafted for overall health for all breeds sizes and life stages including puppy and senior.
  • Probiotics – help your dog achieve optimal digestive and gut health.
  • 24 lb bag.
  • Calorie content: 3825 kcal/kg,

Key Ingredients:

Buffalo, pork, chicken meal, grain sorghum, millet, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), cracked pearled barley, dried yeast, roasted bison, roasted venison, natural flavor, flaxseed, beef, quinoa, chia seed, tomato pomace, salmon oil (a source of DHA), Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • TASTE OF THE WILD Ancient Prairie Dog Food
  • Roasted Bison and Roasted Venison recipe
  • 32% protein and 18% fat formulation
  • High Quality Protein – with real meat from roasted bison and roasted venison.
  • Highly Digestible Protein –  from pasture-raised bison and venison.
  • Ancient grains –  such as millet, quinoa, chia seed providing  fiber and additional nutrients.
  • Proprietary Probiotics – support healthy digestive and immune system
  • Antioxidants – from blueberries, raspberries included to support your dog’s overall well being.
  • Omega fatty acid blend  – Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids support healthy skin and shiny coat.
  • Package size is 28lb.
  • Calorie content:  3920 Kcal/kg.

Key Ingredients:

Buffalo, pork, chicken meal, grain sorghum, millet, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), cracked pearled barley, dried yeast, roasted bison, roasted venison, natural flavor, flaxseed, beef, quinoa, chia seed, tomato pomace, salmon oil (a source of DHA), Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • MERRICK Backcountry Raw Infused Grain Free Adult Dog Food 
  • Great Plains Red Recipe
  • Protein-rich – with 38% protein and 17% fat.
  • Real deboned beef – is the first ingredient to help maintain healthy muscles and energy levels
  • Nutritious – with freeze dried raw meat and freeze dried raw coated kibble.
  • Grain Free
  • High in Omega fatty acids –  for healthy skin and coat
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin – for healthy hips and joints.
  • 20 lb bag.
  • Calorie content: 3704 kcal/kg.

Key Ingredients:

Beef Meal, Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Millet, Chicken Fat, Chicken Meal, Pork Meal, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Yeast Culture, Potassium Chloride, Carrot Powder, Tomato Pomace, Taurine, Salt, Choline Chloride, Dried Seaweed Meal, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • VICTOR Classic High Energy, Adult Dog Food
  • Protein-Rich nutrition giving your dog a leaner body mass and muscle tone
  • Selenium yeast –  supports metabolic function and cellular regeneration.
  • Omega 3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids –  support  your dog’s healthy skin and shiny coat.
  • Prebiotics – for immune defense
  • Probiotics – promote healthy digestion and a strong immune systems
  • Package size 40 lb.
  • Calorie content: 3870 Kcal/kg.

7. RACHAEL RAY Nutrish PEAK, Adult Dog Food

Key Ingredients:

Beef, Venison, Lamb, Chicken Meal, Peas, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Flaxseed, Vitamin E, Vitamins, Minerals, ,etc.

Highlights:

  • RAYCHAEL RAY Peak High Quality Protein – with real farm raised beef as the #1 ingredient.
  • 30% Protein and 15% Fat formulation.
  • Grain Free – with zero grain, glutens or fillers.
  • Vitamins and Minerals – such as A and E for immunity support
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids – providing a healthly skin and coat for your dog.
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin – for better joint health.
  • No artificial flavours, colors and preservatives.
  • Size: comes in 4 lb, 12 lb, 23 lb.
  • Calorie content is 3652 Kcal/kg.

Key Ingredients:

Deboned Lamb, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Pea Starch, Peas, Flaxseed (Source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Dried Tomato Pomace, Lamb Meal, Pea Protein, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Pea Fiber, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Kelp, Turmeric, L-Carnitine, Niacin, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • BLUE BUFFALO Life Protection, Adult Dog Food
  • Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe
  • High Quality Protein – with real meat from delicious deboned lamb providing for building your dog’s muscles
  • Wholesome Whole Grains – brown rice, oatmeal and barley with the meat giving this a healthy meal
  • Vegetables and fruits – peas, sweet potatoes and more for a holistic meal
  • Antioxidant-rich –  for strong immune system with special LIFESOURCE BITS formula
  • Vitamin and minerals –  like calcium for strong bones and teeth.
  • Glucosamine –  helps joint function and your dog’s mobility
  • Omega Fatty acids – from flaxseed added for a healthy dog’s skin and coat.
  • 3 Recipes available: Chicken & Brown Rice, Fish & Brown Rice; Lamb & Brown Rice.
  • Packaging sizes which includes 6 lb, 15 lb, 30 lb.
  • Calorie content:  3625 Kcal/kg.

Key Ingredients:

Beef, Chicken Meal, Split Peas, Lentils, Pork Meal, Chicken Fat, Pea Starch, Fish Meal, Dried Chicken, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite,  D-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Biotin, Vitamins and Minerals,

Highlights:

  • CRAVE Adult Dog Food, Grain Free With Protein from Beef
  • High Quality Protein – with real beef as 1st ingredient. Has full meaty flavor that your dog will love
  • 34% Protein and 17% Fat combination.
  • Grain free with no corn, wheat, or soy
  • No artificial flavors, colors.
  • Provides energy dogs with high calorie.
  • Provides Nutrition For Small and Large Adults
  • 22 lb bag
  • Calorie content is 3741 Kcal/kg.

10. IAMS Proactive Health High Protein, Adult Dog Food

Key Ingredients:

Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Turkey, Chicken Fat, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Dried Egg Product, Brewers Dried Yeast, Vitamins and Minerals.

Highlights:

  • IAMS Proactive Health High Protein Adult Dog Food
  •  Chicken and Turkey Recipe.
  • High Quality Protein – made with real chicken and turkey to support strong muscles.
  • 30% protein and 18% fats formulation
  • Wholesome Grains – support sustained energy
  • Essential minerals –  supports strong bones & joint health for an active lifestyle
  • Includes essential nutrients for heart health and function in your dog
  • No artificial preservatives or flavours.
  • 22 lb bag.
  • Calorie content is 3819 Kcal/kg.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken, Brewers Rice, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Flaxseed,  etc.

Highlights:

  • MERRICK Grain Free Puppy Dog Food
  • Real Chicken and Sweet Potato recipe
  • High Quality Protein – with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient.
  • Grain Free –  no corn, wheat, gluten.
  • Holistic Nutrition – with whole foods like sweet potatoes, peas, apples,
  • Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids – for healthy dog’s skin and coat
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate –  for joints and bones.
  • Antioxidants –  for a healthy immune system
  • Package size: 22 lb.
  • Calorie content:  3812 Kcal/kg.

12 . BULLYMAX High Performance High Protein, All Life Stages Dog Food

Key Ingredients:

Chicken meal, Brown Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Brewers Dried Yeast, Whole Ground Flaxseed, Biotin, Vitamin E, Vitamins, Minerals, 

Highlights:

  • BULLY MAX High Performance, High Protein All Life Stages Dog Food
  • 30% protein and 20% fat – to provide energy for your dog.
  • High Quality Protein – with real meat chicken  as #1 ingredient, providing amino acids for strong muscle development. 
  • Vitamin and minerals – including calcium for strong bones and teeth
  • No corn, no wheat and no soy.
  • No artificial flavours, colors, preservatives.
  • Formulated for breeds and all ages – including puppies above 4 weeks old, as well as for older dogs.
  • Packaging size – 15 lb bag
  • Calorie content:  3930 Kcal/kg.

13. CRAVE High Protein Canned Adult Dog Food

Key Ingredients:

Turkey, Turkey Broth, Chicken Liver, Chicken Heart, Chicken, Pork Broth, Dried Egg Product, Salt, Guar Gum, Fish Oil, Tricalcium Phosphate, Dried Tomato, Potassium Chloride, Carrageenan, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Iron Sulfate, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • CRAVE High Quality Protein, Wet Adult Dog Food
  • Turkey Pate – with real turkey as key ingredient in this moist dog food
  • Grain Free Wet Dog Food – with no wheat, corn, soy.
  • No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
  • Pack of  twelve (12) cans, each 12.5 oz.
  • Calorie content is 1073 Kcal/kg.

Key Ingredients:

Lamb, Lamb Broth, Lamb Liver, Peas, Carrots, Chickpeas, Lamb Meal, Calcium Carbonate, Agar-Agar, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Salt, Suncured Alfalfa Meal, Potassium Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Cranberries, Blueberries, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • ZIGNATURE Adult canned dog food
  • Lamb formula providing high quality protein
  • Limited ingredient which uses lamb and no chicken, no eggs 
  • Grain free with no grains, no corn, no soy.
  • Vitamins for immunity support
  • Antioxidants – to maintain optimum nutrition for all life stages of your dog.
  • Comes in 13 oz can in pack of 12.
  • Calorie content: 1130 Kcal/kg.
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