Best Food to Put Weight on Dogs: Top Picks for Healthy Weight Gain

Best Food to Put Weight on Dogs: Top Picks for Healthy Weight Gain

Woaibenjing
18 min readMay 21, 2024

Ensuring that your furry friend is healthy and happy is a top priority for any dog owner. One of the most critical aspects of your dog’s health is their diet. While some dogs may struggle with weight loss, others may have trouble gaining weight. If your dog falls into the latter category, it’s essential to find the best food to put weight on them.

When looking for the best food to put weight on your dog, it’s crucial to consider several factors. Firstly, you’ll want to look for a high-calorie dog food that is rich in protein and healthy fats. This will help your dog gain weight while building lean muscle mass. Additionally, you’ll want to look for dog food that is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and additives that can be harmful to your dog’s health.

It’s also essential to consider your dog’s age, breed, and activity level when choosing the best food to put weight on them. Puppies and younger dogs may require more calories to support their growth and development, while older dogs may require a lower calorie diet to maintain their weight. Additionally, breeds with higher energy levels may require more calories to fuel their activity.

When selecting the best food to put weight on your dog, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that you are making the right choice for your furry friend. With the right diet and care, you can help your dog achieve a healthy weight and live a happy, active life.

Best Foods to Put Weight on Dogs

As pet parents, we all want our furry friends to be healthy and happy. However, some dogs may struggle with maintaining a healthy weight. Whether it’s due to a medical condition or simply a picky eater, finding the right food to put weight on your dog can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best foods to help your dog gain weight and stay healthy. Our team of experts has researched and tested various products to ensure that we recommend only the best options for your furry friend. Check out our top picks below.

MVP K9 Formula Mass Weight Gainer for Dogs

If you’re looking to add some healthy weight to your beloved dog, MVP K9 Formula Mass Weight Gainer for Dogs is the perfect solution for you.

Pros

  • Contains 50% healthy fats, 28% whey protein, and 18 BCCA’s for overall support.
  • Great for skinny, underweight, picky eaters of all breeds.
  • Helps promote muscle growth and energy.

Cons

  • May not work for all dogs.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste.
  • May cause digestive issues in some dogs.

We have used MVP K9 Formula Mass Weight Gainer for Dogs on our underweight dog and have seen a noticeable difference in their weight and overall health. The supplement is easy to use and results can be seen within weeks of using it. Our dog loves the taste, making it great for picky eaters.

The supplement is designed to help add weight to skinny dogs and puppies using 40% crude fat in each serving. It is in powder form and easily binds onto any dog food when sprinkled on it ensuring maximum retention while none of it goes to waste sinking to the bottom of the bowl.

Formula Mass Weight Gainer for Dogs is recommended for any breed of dog — Adult or Puppy. It is also ideal for malnourished dogs. It is important to convert these calories into quality muscle, so it is recommended to combine this product with the Muscle Builder -amp; Performance and exercise daily.

MVP K9 Formula Mass Weight Gainer for Dogs contains no fillers, no salts, and no sugars. It is an all-breed formula formulated for Labrador retrievers, German Shepherds, Bulldogs, Rottweilers, Boxers, Huskeys, Terriers, Pitbulls, Beagles, Great Danes, Border Collies, Frenchies, and all other breeds.

We highly recommend MVP K9 Formula Mass Weight Gainer for Dogs to anyone looking to add healthy weight to their skinny dogs. With a weight gain guarantee and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust MVP K9 to deliver the results you’re seeking.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Perfect Weight for Healthy Weight -amp; Weight Management, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

If you are looking for a convenient way to keep your little pet at a healthy weight without a complex diet, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food is a great option. Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this weight control dog food. This healthy weight dog food is formulated with natural ingredients to be a great-tasting meal small adult dogs can truly enjoy.

Pros

  • Clinically proven for weight management
  • Helps maintain lean muscle
  • Made with natural ingredients

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • May not work for all dogs
  • Pricey compared to other brands

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food for our little furry friend for a few months now and have noticed a significant difference in her weight. The kibble is small and easy for her to eat, and she seems to enjoy the taste. We appreciate that it is made with natural ingredients and is clinically proven for weight management.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some time to transition them to it. Additionally, while it worked well for our dog, it may not work for all dogs. It is also a bit pricey compared to other brands, but we think it is worth it for the quality of the product.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food for those looking to manage their dog’s weight in a healthy and convenient way.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers — Dog Food Topper for Small -amp; Large Breeds — Grain Free, Protein Rich Recipe — 3.5 oz Bag Chicken 3.5 Ounce (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a way to add some extra nutrition to your dog’s diet, the Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers could be a great option. Our experience with this product has been positive overall, and we think it could be a good choice for many pet owners.

Pros

  • The meal mixers are made with high-quality ingredients, including 95% chicken, organs, and bone.
  • The product is grain-free and easy for dogs of all life stages to digest.
  • The mixers can be used as a meal topper or as a complete and balanced meal solution.

Cons

  • The product is fairly expensive compared to some other dog food options.
  • Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the freeze-dried pieces.
  • The feeding guidelines can be a bit confusing to follow, especially if you have a larger dog.

Overall, we think the Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze Dried Raw Chewy’s Chicken Meal Mixers are a solid choice for pet owners looking to add some extra nutrition to their dog’s diet. The mixers are made with high-quality ingredients and are free from unnecessary fillers and artificial ingredients. While the product is a bit pricey, we think it’s worth it for the added nutritional benefits. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the meal mixers, but it’s possible that some dogs may not find the freeze-dried texture appealing. Additionally, the feeding guidelines can be a bit confusing to follow, so it may take some trial and error to figure out the right amount to feed your dog. Overall, we would recommend giving this product a try if you’re looking for a way to supplement your dog’s diet with some high-quality protein and nutrition.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Perfect Weight for Healthy Weight -amp; Weight Management, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a convenient way to help your small dog maintain a healthy weight, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food is worth considering. This weight control dog food is clinically proven to help dogs lose weight and maintain lean muscle.

Pros

  • Clinically proven to help dogs lose weight
  • Helps maintain lean muscle
  • Made with natural ingredients

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • A bit pricey compared to other dog foods
  • Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried this dog food and were impressed with the results. Our little dog lost weight within a few weeks of starting this food, and he seemed to really enjoy the taste. We also appreciate that the ingredients are natural and that the food is formulated with decades of research.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some time to transition them to it. Additionally, this food is a bit more expensive than other dog foods, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Finally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, be sure to check with your vet before switching to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food for anyone looking for a convenient and effective way to help their small dog maintain a healthy weight.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a wet dog food that’s made with simple, natural ingredients, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food might be a good option for you.

Pros

  • Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
  • Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
  • Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*.

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other dog food options.
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
  • Some customers have reported that the product can clump together weirdly.

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The fact that it’s made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, is a big plus for us. We also appreciate that it’s made without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

One thing we really like about this dog food is that it can be mixed in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor. Our dog seemed to really enjoy the added wet food, and we noticed that he was more excited about mealtime than usual.

However, we do have to note that Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is quite expensive compared to other dog food options. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them. Finally, some customers have reported that the product can clump together weirdly, which is something to keep in mind.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food that’s made with simple, natural ingredients, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, 12.5 lb. Bag Chicken 12.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a way to manage your small dog’s weight without compromising on nutrition, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food could be the solution.

Pros

  • Clinically proven for weight management in small-breed dogs
  • Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks
  • Helps maintain lean muscle mass

Cons

  • Expensive compared to some other dog foods on the market
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary needs or restrictions
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

We recently tried this dry dog food with our small dog and were impressed with the results. Within a few weeks, we noticed a visible improvement in our dog’s weight and muscle tone. The kibble size is perfect for small dogs, and the natural ingredients with added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids provided all the nutrition our dog needed.

While we did find the price to be on the higher side, we felt that the results were worth it. We also appreciated that the product is backed by decades of research and clinical studies. However, we do recommend consulting with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes for your dog.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food. We recommend starting with a small bag to see if your dog enjoys it before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, if your dog has any specific dietary needs or restrictions, it’s important to check the ingredients list before buying.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food for small dogs in need of weight management support.

Open Farm Goodbowl Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for Dogs

If you’re looking for a nutritious meal to help your dog gain weight, Open Farm Goodbowl Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great option.

Pros

  • Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
  • Small-batch oven-baked kibble for optimal nutrition and digestibility
  • Non-GMO fruits, vegetables, and grains

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Only available in one flavor
  • Not suitable for dogs with grain allergies

We’ve been feeding our dog Open Farm Goodbowl Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his weight and overall health. The kibble is small and easy for him to eat, and he seems to love the taste.

One of the things we love about this food is that it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients. We feel good knowing that we’re feeding our dog a high-quality, nutritious meal that’s free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

Another great feature of this food is that it’s small-batch oven-baked, which means that each kibble is packed with optimal nutrition and digestibility. We’ve noticed that our dog’s digestion has improved since we switched to this food, and his coat looks healthier and shinier.

The non-GMO fruits, vegetables, and grains in this food provide additional nutritional benefits for our dog. We appreciate that Open Farm is committed to using only the best ingredients in their products.

While this food is on the pricier side, we feel that it’s worth the investment for our dog’s health. It’s also important to note that this food contains grains, so it may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm Goodbowl Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for dogs who need to gain weight or who simply want a nutritious, delicious meal.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your furry friend gain weight, then Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe might be the one for you.

Pros

  • Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
  • Contains fiber sources such as peas and brown rice that help support healthy digestion.
  • Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level.

Cons

  • Some dogs might not like the taste.
  • May cause gastrointestinal issues in some dogs.
  • Expensive compared to other dog food brands.

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional value of this dog food. The real beef as the main ingredient is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. The fiber sources like peas and brown rice help promote healthy digestion. We also appreciated the inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and antioxidants from superfoods, which help support a healthy body.

However, some dogs might not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s best to start with a small bag to see if your dog likes it. Additionally, some dogs may experience gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or vomiting after eating this dog food. Lastly, it’s more expensive compared to other dog food brands, which might be a concern for some pet owners.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help your dog gain weight, then Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight -amp; Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, 3.5 lb. Bag Chicken 56 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a dog food that provides nutrition for safe and effective weight loss with visible results within 10 weeks, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight -amp; Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food could be a great option for you.

Pros

  • Provides lean muscle support
  • Clinically proven nutrition for weight management
  • Supports joint function and hip health

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • Light on protein
  • Has a funny smell

We have used this dog food for our overweight dog, and we have seen visible results within 10 weeks. Our dog has lost weight and has become more active and mobile. The food provides lean muscle support and uses clinically proven antioxidants for a healthy immune system.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it supports joint function and hip health. It contains fish oil to provide EPA, an Omega-3, which helps support joint function for a mobile and active life.

However, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food. It has a funny smell, which may be a turn-off for some dogs. Additionally, some customers have reported that this food is too light on protein.

Overall, if you are looking for a dog food that provides safe and effective weight loss with visible results within 10 weeks, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight -amp; Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food could be a great option for your dog. It provides lean muscle support, clinically proven nutrition for weight management, and supports joint function and hip health.

Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food

If you’re looking for a safe and effective weight management dog food, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

  • Over 70% of adult dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this safe and effective weight management dog food.
  • Made with natural ingredients, this adult dog food supports muscle maintenance.
  • Clinically proven results in just 10 weeks.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
  • Slightly more expensive than other dog foods.
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food and were impressed with the results. Our dog lost weight within the recommended timeframe and maintained lean muscle mass. The natural ingredients made us feel good about what we were feeding our dog.

While our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs didn’t like the taste as much. Additionally, this dog food is slightly more expensive than other options on the market. Finally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food for those looking for a safe and effective weight management dog food.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best food to put weight on dogs, there are certain features that you should look for to ensure that you choose a high-quality product. Here are some things to consider:

Nutritional Content

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a weight gain dog food is its nutritional content. Look for a product that is high in protein and fat, as these are the key nutrients that will help your dog gain weight. Additionally, make sure that the food contains all of the essential vitamins and minerals that your dog needs to stay healthy.

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food can have a big impact on their overall health and wellbeing. Look for a product that uses high-quality, natural ingredients and avoid those that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives. You may also want to consider a food that is grain-free, as some dogs can have trouble digesting grains.

Feeding Guidelines

When choosing a weight gain dog food, it’s important to pay attention to the feeding guidelines. Make sure that the recommended serving size is appropriate for your dog’s size and weight, and adjust as needed to ensure that they are getting enough calories to gain weight.

Price

While price should not be the only factor that you consider when choosing a weight gain dog food, it is still an important consideration. Look for a product that fits within your budget while still meeting all of your dog’s nutritional needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best food to put weight on your dog and help them achieve a healthy weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some high-calorie foods we can feed our dog to help them gain weight?

Some high-calorie foods that can help your dog gain weight include chicken, beef, lamb, salmon, and sardines. These foods are rich in protein and healthy fats that can help your dog build muscle and gain weight. You can also add vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans to your dog’s diet to provide additional nutrients.

How can we safely increase our dog’s weight with homemade meals?

If you are planning to feed your dog homemade meals, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to ensure that your dog is getting all the necessary nutrients. You can add high-calorie ingredients like eggs, yogurt, and peanut butter to your dog’s meals to help them gain weight. However, it is important to avoid feeding your dog foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.

Which commercial dog foods are recommended for weight gain and building muscle?

There are several commercial dog foods that are designed to help dogs gain weight and build muscle. Look for dog foods that are high in protein and healthy fats, and that contain ingredients like chicken, beef, and fish. Some recommended brands include Blue Buffalo Wilderness, Merrick, and Taste of the Wild.

Are there any specific supplements to consider for a dog that needs to gain weight?

Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and digestive enzymes can help your dog gain weight by improving their digestion and nutrient absorption. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements, as some supplements can interact with medications or cause health problems.

Can feeding our dog wet food help them gain weight more effectively?

Feeding your dog wet food can be a good way to help them gain weight, as wet food is often higher in calories than dry food. However, it is important to choose a high-quality wet food that is made with wholesome ingredients and that does not contain fillers or artificial preservatives.

What human foods are safe and beneficial for dogs that need to put on weight?

Some human foods that are safe and beneficial for dogs that need to put on weight include cooked chicken, beef, and fish, as well as cooked sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans. However, it is important to avoid feeding your dog foods that are high in fat or that contain toxic ingredients, such as chocolate, onions, and garlic.

Affiliate Disclosure : We independently evaluate the products and brands we recommend, and may receive compensation if you click on links within this post.

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