The correct weight for your dog plays a vital role in his overall health. Underweight puppies can have low energy levels, thin coats,s, and a generally lethargic attitude.
There are many reasons why your pet may lose weight, but reinforcing it is always the best way to solve the problem.
That said, adding unhealthy calories and fat to their diet is not the way to go. You should provide your dog with vitamins and minerals, while also increasing healthy fats and proteins to bring them back to their normal size.
The best way to do this is to find a dog food that promotes weight gain. While not that common, there are some healthy options available. Below are six of our top picks to help you choose the right one.
In this article, we will share the nutrition, flavors, important ingredients, fat content, and more of each food. A buyer’s guide will be provided with additional tips and tricks to help you get your pet’s weight back to the right level.
6 Best Dog Food For Weight Gain In 2022
The following formulas meet AAFCO’s nutrient profile guidelines. Before switching your dog to a pregnancy-friendly option, please consult with your veterinarian.
1. Purina Pro Plan Performance Dry Dog Food
Main features –
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Corn Gluten Meal, Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal
- Guaranteed Analysis: 30% Crude Protein, 20% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 4,433 kcal/kg, 527 kcal/cup
- Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
- Lifestage: Adults
- Key Feature: High-Protein, Weight Control, With Grain
Reasons to suggest–
- Purina Pro Plan Sport Formula dry dog food is our first choice. Made grain-free, this high-protein food is part of the 30/20 formula, which means it has 30% protein and 20% fat.
- This will keep your pet healthy and whet his appetite. The brand also uses real chicken as a first ingredient along with eggs to boost lean, healthy protein levels.
- Purina does not contain corn, wheat, or soy. It doesn’t even contain artificial ingredients or poultry by-products. Contains EPA, omega-3s, and antioxidants that will promote a healthy lifestyle.
- The food also contains glucosamine, which can be used to relieve joint pain and allow the dog to be more active. The formula also promotes strength and endurance.
- Made in the United States, this dog food can be given to all breeds, ages, and sizes. It’s easy to digest and will help your skinny slobber gain weight. Overall, this is our favorite dog food option for weight gain.
2. Crave Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food
CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food, White Fish & Salmon, 22 lb. Bag
- Contains one (1) 22 lb. bag of CRAVE High Protein Adult Grain Free With Protein from White Fish and Salmon All Natural Dog Food Plus Vitamins, Minerals, and Other Nutrients
- Inspired by the diets of their wolf ancestors, CRAVE adult dog food is made with real ingredients including high-quality animal protein and the full meaty flavor dogs love
- Satisfies a dog’s natural desire for animal protein with real white fish as the first ingredient
Main features –
- First 5 Ingredients: White Fish, Chicken Meal, Lentils, Split Peas, Chicken Fat
- Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 3717 kcal/kg, 422 kcal/cup
- Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
- Lifestage: Adults
- Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, No Corn No Wheat No Soy
Reasons to suggest–
- For those pet owners on a tight budget, Crave Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.
- This salmon and ocean fish recipe is gluten-free. real salmon is the first ingredient, this food provides your pet with 34% healthy protein.
- The high-quality carbohydrates in this food will also give your pet weight gain. This formula is made without chicken, corn, wheat, or soy protein byproducts. It is also free from artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, and colors.
- Contains pea protein at the top, which is used to boost protein and fill it up. However, it will still contain vitamins and minerals that will support healthy hair, skin, and digestive system. This product is suitable for dogs of all ages, including those over one year of age.
- It is high in nutritional value and has high levels of fat, fiber, and calories. Overall, it’s the best weight gain dog food for the money.
3. Bully Max High-Performance Dog Food
Bully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food (15 lbs.)
- The ONLY 5 Star rated performance dog food. Rated by the world’s #1 online dog food review site.
- The ONLY Meat Based formula in its class. Unlike other brands which are plant based, Bully Max dog food uses real meat as the #1 ingredient.
- MORE CALORIES than any other formula in its class (535 per cup). When you feed your dog Bully Max high performance dog food, you’ll feed up to 50% less food.
Main features –
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Liver, Carrots, Peas,
- Guaranteed Analysis: 30% Crude Protein, 20% Crude Fat
- Caloric Content: 535 calories per cup
- Lifestage: Adult
- Breed Size: All Breed Sizes
- Key Feature: Complete & Balanced Dog Food for Muscle & Health
Reasons to suggest–
- If you are looking for a premium option to help your dog gain weight, Bully Max High-Performance Dog Food is a great option.
- Bully Max High-Performance dog food is Made in the USA, this is another 30/20 formula that provides your pet with healthy protein and good fat levels.
- Made for both puppies and adults, this food is meat-based with real chicken, beef or fish as the first ingredient.
- There are 535 calories in a cup of food. This, along with the high levels of protein and fat, will help your dog gain weight quickly.
- This formula also contains healthful nutrients such as omega-3 and 6 vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- It also has DHA, which promotes its overall health. The recipe does not contain corn, wheat, soy, or other animal products.
- Bully Max is more expensive than regular dog food. The recipe, however, is intended to increase muscle growth, weight gain, and endurance.
- The brand has never been recalled and the all-natural ingredients are of human quality. This option is also more difficult to digest.
4. Merrick Backcountry Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Merrick Backcountry Grain Free Dry Dog Food Recipes
- #1 Ingredient Is Real Deboned Beef
- Freeze-Dried Real Raw Meat Pieces To Lock In Fresh Taste
- Grain-Free Nutrition With No Gluten Ingredients For Easier Digestibility
Main features –
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
- Guaranteed Analysis: 38% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 11% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 3,704 kcal/kg, 392 kcal/cup
- Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
- Lifestage: Adults
- Key Feature: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, High-Protein, Grain-Free, Gluten Free, Raw, Chicken-Free, Weight Control, Sensitive Digestion
Reasons to suggest–
- Merrick Backcountry Grain-Free Dry Dog Food comes with pieces made with real freeze-dried meat with real boneless beef as the first ingredient.
- Merrick dog food is made without grains or gluten. The formula is completely natural and contains 38% protein.
- Despite the good protein content, the levels of fat and fiber are not as high as they should be.
- The calorie count is 392 per cup, which is a low number for a weight gain formula. This meal does not contain poultry, making it an excellent choice for sensitive dogs.
- This formula is suitable for dogs of all ages. The ingredients contain pea protein and potato protein.
- This is used to boost protein and replenish the dog’s health. That said, you’ll also find omegas, glucosamine, and chondroitin to promote skin, coat, and joint health.
5. Wellness CORE Wet Canned Dog Food
Wellness CORE Natural Wet Grain Free Canned Weight Management Dog Food, 12.5-Ounce Can (Pack of 12)
- GRAIN-FREE ADULT WET DOG FOOD: Wellness CORE natural dog food is free from grains and packed with premium protein, vegetables, and nutrients your dog needs to thrive.
- WEIGHT MANAGEMENT PATE: This natural, grain-free recipe features real chicken and whitefish for a complete, balanced nutrition. Pate is completely smooth for an irresistible taste your dog will love.
Main features –
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Turkey Broth, Pork Liver, Whitefish
- Guaranteed Analysis: 11% Crude Protein, 3.5% Crude Fat, 2% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 900 kcal/kg or 319 kcal/can
- Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
- Lifestage: Adults
- Key Feature: Grain-Free, Weight Control, Gluten Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, High-Protein, Natural, Pea-Free
Reasons to suggest–
- Wellness CORE canned dog food is at number five. This is a grain-free formula that is also meant to be a weight control meal.
- This high-quality protein is combined with high amounts of fiber and pea flour. Although these ingredients may increase the protein content, it is not that healthy.
- You will not find wheat, meat by-products, artificial colors, or preservatives in the ingredients.
- On the other hand, to promote the overall health of your pets, you will find vitamins A, B-12, and D3; however, this food does not have as many nutrients and other essentials as other meals we have chosen. The formula is 100% natural.
- Wellness dog food is available in packs of 12 cans of 354 g. Although it has a protein level of less than 11% and a fat content of less than 3.5%, this is the norm for wet formulas.
- In general, this meal is better suited for weight loss than weight gain, although it is meant to help with both problems.
- You should also note that the calories in this meal are lower than usual to allow your pet to gain weight.
- Finally, another ingredient we found at the top of the list is carrageenan, which has no nutritional value and can be difficult to digest. Carrageenan is a filler that can be used to save money.
6. Nulo Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
Nulo Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food – Single Protein Grain Free Recipe Premium Kibble
- SALMON RECIPE – Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Dog Food features a grain-free kibble blend with single animal protein and is specially formulated to promote your pet’s happy, active, and healthy life. 24 lb bag.
- HIGH MEAT/LOW CARB – Our proprietary formula contains 74% animal-based protein, more amino acids, and better flavor. Nulo uses fewer carbs & low glycemic ingredients.
- LIMITED, NOT LESS – Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient dog food is specially formulated for dogs who prefer a simpler diet. Made without common filler ingredients like corn and tapioca, with no artificial colors or preservatives.
- PROMOTES HEALTHY COAT & LEAN MUSCLES – Along with our nutritious ingredients, Nulo features Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help promote a beautiful, shiny coat.
- MANUFACTURED IN THE USA – Based in Austin, TX, Nulo Pet foods contains no corn, wheat gluten, soy, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavoring.
Main features –
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, Chickpea Flour, Canola Oil
- Guaranteed Analysis: 30% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 5.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 3,712 kcal/kg 438 kcal/cup
- Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
- Lifestage: Adults
- Key Feature: Limited Ingredient Diet, Grain-Free, Gluten Free, Low Glycemic, Pea-Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Non-GMO, Chicken-Free
Reasons to suggest–
- Nulo Limited Plus Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is on six numbers. it is available in salmon, Alaskan Pollock, and turkey flavors. This formula is for small and adult dogs only. On top of that, this is a high protein, low carbohydrate LID food.
- When you need your pet to gain weight, it is important to have the right balance of protein, fat, fiber, and calories.
- In this case, the calories and fat content are low to gain mass. This is an excellent option for pets with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
- The formula does not contain chicken, wheat, soy, or eggs. It is also a non-GMO meal.
- Nulo also includes vitamins and minerals that support healthy digestion and immune health.
- This option has a disadvantage: all the ingredients and supplements will not help your pet gain weight.
- Not only that, but the meal is difficult to digest and the kibble can be difficult for dogs with brittle teeth to chew. This is the least preferred option for dog food to aid weight gain.
Buying Guide
Important Information About Dog Weight Gain
A dog with low body weight can be as alarming as one with a high-energy dog. Getting them to eat a better diet is a great way to strengthen and keep them active, but it’s also important to find the reason for the weight loss.
There are generally three reasons why your pet may lose weight. These are just some of the possible causes.
Infirmity: Your dog will most likely be reluctant to eat if he is sick. Chronic diseases can have this effect, and your vet can work with you to find a healthy solution. If your dog has no symptoms but is still healthy, you shouldn't worry until the intestinal bug is gone. If your dog is refusing to eat but there are no signs of stomach problems, it's best to see your vet right away. You may be dealing with a serious problem such as an infection or blockage.
Stress: Dogs are just as likely to skip a meal if they are stressed. It is common for pets to skip meals if there have been any changes in their life, such as a new pet or emotional circumstances. To calm your pet, it is best to spend quality time with them. If they stop eating, take them to the vet immediately.
Picky Eaters: You'd be surprised how often the food you provide is the reason for your dogs' lack of appetite. Some dogs are simply picky eaters. They will go on hunger strike until you give up and buy them the food they love. Many pet parents use a specific brand of food for various reasons and are reluctant to switch. However, changing the flavor can make a difference.
How To Get Your Dog To Gain Weight
It can be difficult to tell if your dog is overweight or not. The best way to get an accurate answer is to visit the vet.
Each dog is unique, so what might be considered normal in other dogs may not apply to your pet. There are some signs you can look out for. Your dog should shrink from shoulders to hips and you should see the outline of the ribs.
Finding healthy foods that help your pet gain weight is a good place to start if they are thin. You should choose meals that are high in fat and protein.
Many brands use the 30/20 formula which contains 30% protein and 20% fat. However, you can vary this based on your pet’s needs.
There are other tips and tricks you can use to help your dog gain weight.
- Secret Ingredients: In addition to standard healthy ingredients, formulas that use squash and sweet potatoes in their meals are a great way to help your pet gain weight. These items are high in fiber and healthy fats that will aid your pet’s digestion and energy levels.
- Change that: Some dogs are simply picky about what they eat. Dogs can get bored and not only are they fussy about food. You can stimulate their curiosity and increase their appetite by changing their meal times and recipe. If you are planning to change your dog’s eating habits, give him a smaller meal in the morning and a larger meal before bed. Like us, dogs are more likely to gain weight if they eat before bed. Consider giving your dog several small meals each day. Break it down into four daily dinners instead of two.
- Relieve Stress: We also mentioned above that stress can affect your pet’s appetite. This will help your pet eat better. Spend time with your pet and give them positive reinforcement. The most important thing is to find the trigger for the stress. You should also note that most dogs take emotional cues from us. This is also a great excuse to take some time off.
- Treats: Treats are a tasty way to not only whet your pets’ appetite but also to help them add the pounds they badly need. Feed your pup healthy fats like peanut butter treats and other natural foods. Avoid snacks rich in sugar and acids.
- Exercise We often associate exercise with weight loss. Your dog should have a lot of muscles. Providing your pet with foods rich in protein and healthy fats will give him the energy to run and play, and the muscle gain from these activities will fill his slim figure.
The most important thing to watch out for is a drastic change in your pet’s food consumption and weight. If they suddenly stop eating or lose a lot of body mass quickly, you should contact your vet right away to rule out other more serious conditions.
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Warning: Our reviews on the Best Dog Food For 6 Best Dog Food For Weight Gain In 2022 are mostly based on information from experts and manufacturers. We test many products, but it is impossible to test them all. That said, we ask that you remember that the recommendations above are opinions, and before using a treatment, we recommend that you consult with your veterinarian.
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