12 Best Dog Foods for Weight Loss Compared & Reviewed

 

Top Rated Dog Food for Weight Loss List in 2023 + Buying Guide

 

If you are interested in acquiring the best dog food for weight loss for your four-legged friend, we are here to help. Because we know that purchasing such a product is not particularly easy, we took it upon ourselves to do the needed research on the topic, and we have determined that the Hill’s Science Diet is the product you should invest in. This model was made using a special formula that is suitable for neutered, less active dogs that are prone to gaining weight. Moreover, this product is said to help pets lose weight within ten weeks when fed this type of food. The unit was made from imported ingredients, and it includes no preservatives or added flavors. If this product is unavailable, feel free to check out the Wellness Complete Health as it is a reliable alternative.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

12 Best Dog Foods for Weight Loss (Reviews) in 2023

 

 

If you are unsure what is the best weight loss dog food out there, and you have no time to lose doing research, we recommend that you check out this following list of products as it includes many healthy alternatives that are worthy of your attention.

 

 

1. Hill’s Science Plan Canine Light Senior Chicken Dry Mix

 

If you are searching for a product that is efficient and that has received excellent reviews from prior buyers, take a good look at this product. This dry food is made from chicken, and it was specially formulated to be fed to dogs that have been neutered and that, consequently, are less active and, thus, inclined to put on weight.

As a plus, the model can also be used on pets that are slightly overweight, and that need a change in diet in order to reach the desired weight. Consequently, by using the model, your furry friend will live a healthy, improved life. According to the seller, over 70% of dogs that have eaten this product for over ten weeks have lost weight.

The main ingredient of this product is chicken, a component that is known for helping pets maintain lean muscles. Besides, the model includes a mixture of antioxidants as well as vitamin C and E for enhanced immunity.

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2. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Healthy Weight Dog Food

 

Another product that might also stir your interest is the Wellness Complete Health. This item aims to balance and complete the daily nutrition of your small sized pet. This product is made out of natural ingredients, and it includes no wheat, corn, meat-by-products or soy. Additionally, this model does not feature artificial colorants or preservatives.

By feeding this type of food to your dog, you are likely to notice that its skin and coat are looking better and that its digestive health has improved. Also, the manufacturer claims that this product is right for your pet’s eyes, teeth, and gums.

As a plus, this model could also be considered as a good senior dog food, because it can suit the needs of older pets that have a slowing metabolism. The product features added vitamins and minerals that can help the pet stay active.

This product contains 26% less fat and 10% fewer calories than the regular kind of dog food sold by the same manufacturers.

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3. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Healthy Weight Adult Natural Dry

 

If you are interested in organic dog food, we recommend that you consider the product developed by NUTRO. This model was made using non-GMO ingredients such as farm-raised chicken, sweet potatoes, and lentils and it was formulated in such a way so that the needs of your pet are cared for. What is more, this product includes no preservatives or artificial flavors.

The seller suggests that one feeds this food to his/her pet alone or mixed with wet food. While serving this product, it is best that you provide fresh water to the pet at all times. Also, the portions that you give to the dog should depend on the size of the canine as well as on its activity level.

The food supports healthy skin, and it comes supplied with many vitamins and minerals that nourish the strong immune system of the pet. On top of that, healthy digestion is also encouraged. According to previous buyers, this item is well liked by pets.

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4. Chicken Soup for the Soul Weight Care Dog Food

 

Another product that you simply should not ignore is the Weight Care model. This item was manufactured using real chicken, salmon, duck, and turkey as well as wholesome vegetables, herbs, and fruits.

The product has also been enriched with antioxidants, and it can help promote vigor and health. As the seller points out, the model does not feature corn, soy, wheat, artificial colorants or added synthetic flavors. The product has a low-fat content of 6%, and it also includes 21% protein and 10% fiber.

As other dog owners that have used this model to help their pets lose weight claim, this product is highly efficient, as one can see the results in no time. Even more so, pets like this food very much.

Last but not least, this model is usually recommended by vets to be used by dogs that are slightly out of shape. Because of this, it is safe to think that this product is worth the investment.

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5. Hill’s Science Plan Canine Light Senior Chicken Dry Mix

 

Another item that you should take a good look at is the Hills’ Healthy Weight Management. This is one of those quality dog foods with probiotics that can cater to all of your dog’s needs while still helping it lose the extra pounds.

The model was made in such a way so that it offers your pet a balanced nutrition and it adds to the quality of life and increases life expectancy. What is more, this type of food was developed using wholesome ingredients and no artificial preservatives and/or colorants.

As a plus, it is vital that you understand that this product consists of 5.5% crude protein, 4% crude fiber, 2% crude fat, and 78% moisture. The model is recommended for those dogs that require fewer calories. However, this is not appropriate for young dogs, and, thus, you should not feed it to the small ones, but search for healthy and delicious food for puppies instead. Also, the product is not suitable for pregnant or nursing dogs.

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6. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Healthy Weight Dog Food

 

If your pet is a fan of products made by Wellness, you should check out the Wellness Natural Dry. This item was created by using a formula that guarantees complete and balanced nutrition that can support your pet’s healthy weight.

As a plus, the unit features reduced calories, so that your pet is not prone to gaining more weight. However, the peas and chicken included in the mix can satisfy the hunger of the pet throughout the diet.

The product is all natural, and it contains no wheat, soy or corn.  On top of that, this kind of food lacks artificial colors or preservatives. If you decide to use this with your dog, you will notice that it has more energy and a stronger immunity.

Likewise, the product is good for a pet’s digestive health and its coat. Also, the model promotes joint and hip health so that your furry friend can keep active and be healthy.

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7. Purina Pro Plan Low Fat Weight Management Gravy Wet Dog Food

 

If you are interested in dog food for pitbulls that are not that active, we recommend that you check out the Pro Plan Focus Weight. This product is made from real turkey, and it contains the optimal protein level that can help dogs maintain a lean muscle mass.

When shipped, the buyers will receive no less than 12 cans of 13-ounce with tasty food.  Each can is filled with a product that has been made using high-quality ingredients. In fact, the model was developed using a special formula that can support the needs of different breeds.

When fed to a dog, you should have in mind the pet’s weight, age, and level of activity. The unused portions should be refrigerated in between uses.

The product is highly appreciated by both pets and their owners, and it is spoken highly of by the specialists and the vets. For instance, many of the prior buyers of the product were happy to report that this type of food is liked by pets.

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8. Nutro Ultra Adult Weight Management Dry Dog Food

 

Another tasty type of food that might help your pet lose the extra weight is the Nutro ULTRA Weight. This dry dog food includes chicken, quality protein, whole grains as well as a mix of superfoods and nutrients that help your pet be energetic and, overall, thrive. As a plus, the item does not feature preservatives or artificial flavors.

What is more, it is imperative that you understand that, to develop and sell a type of food that is GMO-free, this manufacturer has partnered with trusted farmers that raise healthy animals. Because of this, the product is suitable to be used with all types of dogs.

The product also features ingredients such as vitamins and minerals that are known for promoting healthy skin and shiny coats. Additionally, the food helps the pet have a strong immune system and a healthy digestion.

Therefore, if you choose to invest in it, you will be able to enjoy playing with your pet as it will surely become more agile and playful.

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9. Eagle Pack Natural Dry Reduced Fat Dog Food

 

If you want a product that won’t require you to wash the food container too often, this following unit sold by Eagle Pack Natural might be just what you want. The item was manufactured from pork, chicken, and fish and it has substantially fewer calories than the Eagle Pack Original.

As a result, your pet is more apt to lose weight when eating this product. Moreover, the manufacturer of the item has said that the unit does not contain meat by-products, artificial colors or preservatives. Still, because of the ingredients that it includes, this food is very tasty. Hence, your pet will surely eat it.

The results of using this model include a shiny coat, bright eyes, and better digestion. Given these outcomes, it is safe to assume that your pet will be more energetic and playful. On top of that, this product has added antioxidants that can fortify and support the immune system of your furry friend.

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10. Hill’S Prescription Diet R/D Canine Weight Loss

 

Another product that you should not ignore is the Hill’s Prescription Diet. This dog food for huskies and for other types of dogs that might be chubby is clinically proven to reduce a pet’s body fat by 20% in up to three months.

Because it is low in fat and rich in fibers, this food is capable of satisfying the pet’s appetite while still helping it lose the extra pounds. Also, high levels of carnitine have also been added in order to help the pet burn fat while still maintaining a lean muscle mass.

According to previous pet owners that have tried this product, the model is worth the investment as results are visible in a short amount of time. What is more, the unit is quite tasty, as most pets take to it in no time. Given all the positive feedback comments that the product has received, it is easy to understand its popularity. So, give it a go and convince yourself!

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11. Hill’s Prescription Diet Canned

 

Another price-efficient product that you should not overlook is the Hill’s Prescription Diet Canned. This model aims to cater to the needs of overweight dogs that have lost their desire to play and that have a sedentary lifestyle.

In order to do so efficiently, this product includes healthy ingredients that can help your pet lose weight in less than eight weeks. The formula utilized in producing the unit has been developed by a team of veterinarians and nutritionists that took the time to consider the importance of weight management.

Furthermore, because this is wet canned food, the chances that your loyal furry friend will like it are greatly improved. Therefore, by feeding the product to your pet, you can be sure that it won’t refuse to eat it.

At the time that we have carried out our research, this item had not received many reviews from former buyers. However, two customers have pointed out that this food is preferred by the pets and that it actually works when it comes to weight loss.

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12. Hill’s Science Diet Dog Treats

 

If you are trying to help your dog lose weight, but you are determined to encourage it through the process by offering it treats from time to time, we recommend that you take a look at the Hill’s Science Diet Dog Treats.

However, before you place an order, if your dog is still young enough, you should know that this might not actually be the product for you. In fact, these treats were specially formulated to be used with adult pets. Furthermore, because they are light in fats, these biscuits won’t make your pet gain extra weight.

Even more so, each of these treats is made from real chicken, and it is said to be quite appealing to the pets. Also, no artificial flavors and preservatives were used in the manufacturing of the product. Last but not least, you should not forget that treats should not be more than 10% of the caloric intake of your pet.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

To be honest, we know that the task of picking good dog food for weight loss is not easy. Given this situation, we have decided to lend you a hand by putting together a list of features that you should take a good look at before you place any orders.

How can one tell if his/her dog is overweight?

Before investing in the best wet dog food for weight loss, it is essential that you determine whether or not your pet is actually overweight. To do so efficiently, it is best that you measure the pet’s body and that you compare the result against a chart that depicts the ideal shape and weight of a dog that has belongs to the same breed.

Apart from doing so, it might be wise to look for tell-tale signs that might be an indication of the pet’s condition. For instance, you should check if there is noticeable fat that covers the base of the tail and lumbar area of the pet.

Also, don’t forget that fat usually deposits itself over the neck and the limbs of the dog, as well as in its thorax and spine area. However, if you are not 100% certain that your pet has packed some extra pounds, we strongly advise that you ask the pet’s vet for a specialized opinion. This way, you can avoid the risk of underfeeding your dog and, thus, unintentionally causing it harm.

Moreover, the issue of extra weight should not be overlooked as it can also cause challenging medical problems that you should be aware of. For example, an obese dog can develop arthritis, joint pain, diabetes as well as heart-related issues.

On top of that, you should understand that the reason why many pets end up suffering from obesity is that their owners do not feed them correctly. Therefore, you should avoid giving your pet juicy bones and fattening treats, as these extra meals also add up to the pet’s calories intake.

 

What type of food is recommended for weight-loss in dogs?

According to weight loss dog food reviews, whenever you are planning on purchasing a product of this kind, you should select one that is high in proteins and fibers. The reason for this has to do with the fact that high-protein foods are usually not rich in fat and they can increase the muscle mass of the pet without adding unnecessary weight.

Additionally, dog probiotics should also be included in such a diet as they can help with the digestive process. To put it differently, fibers are great when it comes to helping the pet go to the toilet, even though it has consumed less food. Still, before you settle for that product that is up for sale, you should make sure that it does not include inferior ingredients such as excess fiber-fillers.

Another way to reduce the fat coverage on your dog is by purchasing food that is low in fat. Yet, you should not avoid healthy fats such as omega three acids as they are good for the pet’s skin and kidneys.

What is more, as a rule of thumb, you should serve your pet 300 to 400 calories per cup of food. However, these measurements might vary depending on the pet’s age and breed. Still, you should not purchase only foods that have the lowest calories intake, as this is also not necessarily beneficial to the pet.

Furthermore, just like when shopping for flea products for dogs, you should consider the pet’s needs. Therefore, it is best that you understand that the food that you purchase has to be tasty so that your pet is able to enjoy eating it. From this point of view, you should remember that dogs love the taste of meaty food. Consequently, invest in a product that is rich in chicken, turkey, beef or other meats low in fat.

Lastly, before you purchase the best weight loss dry dog food that you believe can help your pet get in shape, you should spend some time considering the dog’s age and overall health.

With this in mind, if your pet is rather old, you should not put it through the additional stress of a new weight loss diet. Still, if its life is in danger because of obesity you might want to buy the best senior dog food for weight loss available.

 

Extra aspects that are worth considering

Before you start implementing the diet, remember that there are a few additional steps that you should also incorporate. First things first, you have to come up with a realistic weight loss goal that won’t put the health of the pet in jeopardy.

Next, you should construct a well thought out, low-calorie feeding plan, and you should stick to it. As you know, once it becomes a routine, you will no longer feel like feeding the pet unhealthy treats that are high in fat.

Besides, your pet should also get plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Therefore, you should take it on long walks, or you could help it burn calories by spending quality time with it on the playground.

Then, you should make sure that you track the progress that the dog is making so that you can have a better understanding of the evolution of its physical condition. Hence, if the pet is not starting to lose weight after the first two to three months, you can consider a change in diet.

Last but not least, it is important that you do not give up on your pet. In other words, you should not feel unmotivated if you fail to see dramatic results right away. Instead, stand by your pet and help it have a smooth transition from being obese to becoming a lighter and happier dog, although this process might take a few months.

All in all, we are sure that if you decide to follow our recommendations, you will be capable of selecting the right product for your pet’s weight loss. Even more so, we are confident that you will be able to help your dog lose the extra pounds and, as a result, be happier and more playful. So, don’t waste any more time, start shopping and devise a diet that your pet can benefit from!

 

 

How To Help Your Dog To Lose Weight

 

With summer just around the corner, everyone is doing their best to get in shape and achieve those “beach bodies” they’ve always dreamt of. It’s also the perfect time to start exercising with your pet and help it get rid of those extra pounds gained over the winter.

However, getting your dog in shape is not always an easy task, especially since there are many temptations along the way or simply because your dog is lazy. Luckily, there are a few methods to build up strength and help your pooch lose some weight.

 

Feed your dog multiple times a day

Feeding your dog just one large meal per day may be the number one reason why it’s gaining weight instead of losing it. Instead, try to adopt a more balanced eating plan, based on at least three smaller meals served around the same time each day.

Discipline is the key to success and you will see results after just a few days. Moreover, your dog will have more energy and will be ready to pick up new outdoor activities.

As for the food, try buying organic dog food for weight loss with natural and premium-quality ingredients. The food should be low in calories but high in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants.

You can also combine commercial dog food with raw homemade recipes that include a reliable source of animal protein (preferably chicken, beef, lamb or turkey) complete with edible bones, vegetables, fruits, eggs, and fish products.

Skip on extra treats

Another reason why your dog is not losing weight is that you give it too many treats. Sure, treats are perfect for training activities but you should make your dog earn them. Forget all about sad puppy eyes and try to impose a strict diet. Give up on sweets and processed foods and replace all these treats with organic and natural foods instead.

Fresh fruits and veggies are a reliable source of vitamins and minerals and are extremely low in calories. Thus, you can replace your dog’s regular sweet treats with seedless apples and watermelons, pumpkin, strawberries, bananas, sugar snap peas or carrots.

Increase exercising time

The most efficient way to help your dog lose weight is to determine it to be more active. However, you need to take into account the dog’s age and breed, as well as the temperatures outside. Puppies and young adults are the best candidates to lose weight while senior dogs will first require a visit to the vet.

And, if your dog is lazy, you should start with longer walks. Take your dog out at least twice a day and let it run or move at its own pace. You can also enjoy a little game of fetch.

Lastly, set realistic goals instead of having your dog lose 5 pounds per month. We suggest you talk to a veterinarian first and establish a strict diet combined with at least one hour of physical activity per day.

 

 

How To Manage Your Overweight Dog’s Eating Habits

 

 

All dog owners want what’s best for their pets but, often enough, they cannot resist the urge of feeding their pets an extra portion of food. Whether it’s out of too much love or simply because you cannot handle the puppy eyes, overfeeding your dog could not only lead to obesity but also to more serious health problems.

Unfortunately, most of the commercial food sold in stores won’t help you too much either when it comes to looking after your dog’s weight. Most affordable brands include alarming quantities of “empty calories” from products such as soy, meat by-products, corn, wheat or fats.

So, if you’re looking for some good advice on dog food for weight loss, here is everything you need to know about the subject.

 

Ask the Vet

The first thing you need to do if you think your dog is gaining weight fast is to talk to the vet. Only a doctor could determine whether or not your dog simply eats more or is dealing with a more serious health problem. A bloated stomach is not necessarily the result of eating too much but can hide a series of health problems that need to be thoroughly investigated.

Choose only one member to be in charge of your dog’s food

If you have a big family, then chances are high that more than one member is feeding the dog. In most cultures, giving food is a sign of love but, unfortunately, this practice could lead to serious consequences in the long term. Thus, it would be best to vote for just one member to be in charge of your dog’s diet.

We know that sad puppy eyes and drooling at your food can help you easily give in, but you need to be stronger than this. Most dogs don’t know when to stop eating and this is why it is dangerous if each of the family members feeds the pet.

If this task is not possible, at least you should try to make sure that your dog is only fed light snacks and treats. A fresh fruit or a low-calorie biscuit represents the perfect choice to please everyone.

Follow the feeding instructions

Most owners opt for commercial food which, luckily, comes with strict instructions on how and when to feed your dog. You should carefully read the label and offer your dog as much food as required for its own size, breed, weight, and age.

However, keep in mind that some dog breeds like Pugs, Siberian Huskies or French Bulldogs are more prone to overweight and obesity problems, so the food-per-dog-pound formula is not always the most accurate way to calculate the right amount of food.

As a general rule, if your dog is a senior or has a tendency of easily gaining weight, don’t exceed 60-70% of the daily amount of food indicated by the product label. And, if you still have doubts, consulting a veterinarian is always a good option.

 

 

4 Tips on Getting Your Dog’s Weight Within Normal Limits

 

Most dog owners claim they cannot refuse their pets some forbidden snacks once in a while. Unfortunately, a chaotic diet often leads to overweight and obesity problems, especially for senior dogs and certain breeds.

French bulldogs, as well as Siberian Huskies, Pugs, Dachshunds, and Labradors, are all prone to obesity, thus you need to pay close attention to their diets. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to keep your dog’s weight under control or to help him or her lose a few pounds. Here are some of the most efficient methods.

 

Measure meals

Dogs owners can rarely resist the sad puppy eyes and easily give in to their dog’s requests for more food. But studies show that feeding your dog as much as 10 extra kibbles per day can help your pooch gain one pound by the end of the mouth. Thus, the easiest way to ensure your pet maintains a healthy weight is to measure its meals.

There are online resources that can help you easily calculate the exact number of calories your dog should be eating daily and after you figured that out, all you have to do is measure the food portions with a scoop.

Another easy tip is to eliminate foods that are rich in calories and low in nutrients and vitamins and switch to specific organic dog food for weight loss.

Choose only one person to deal with your dog’s daily diet

Living in a house with multiple owners can be confusing for your pet since all members have the tendency to feed the dog and offer it treats after training sessions.

To avoid this, we suggest picking just one member of the family that will be in charge of your dog’s diet and not allow the rest of the members to feed the pet, even on special occasions. This will keep all hands on the table at dinners and will teach your pooch not to beg for food anymore.

 

Feed regular meals

Most dog owners prefer to feed their dogs only once a day or, even worse, offering them an “all you can eat buffet” throughout the day. Needless to say that your dog will end up overeating and gaining weight regularly. Cut off this bad habit by teaching your pet to eat at regular hours, preferably three times a day.

Avoid snacks or replace them

Another reason why your dog is gaining weight is the number of snacks or treats he or she is rewarded. If you were used to offering your pet a sweet reward after each training session, you should stop doing that.

And, if eliminating treats is out of the question, you could at least replace them with healthier foods. You could opt for a fresh fruit or a veggie. Carrots, strawberries, bananas, watermelon or seedless apples are all great choices, sweet and low in calories.