Obesity is a common problem with domesticated dogs and you need to keep a close eye on their diet. In contrast to that, senior dogs can find it difficult to gain weight. There are several reasons (age, medical issues, etc.) that can leave your pup in need of some surplus calories.
Fortunately, many commercial products can help your canine to bulk up. Sometimes, all these options can complicate the decision-making process. To solve this issue, we have compiled a list of some of the most effective weight gain dog foods that you can use.
Do you need senior dog food for your small breed dog? Check out our post Best Senior Dog Food for Small Breeds.
Best Wet Senior Dog Foods for Weight Gain
Quality and digestibility are the most important factors to determine a suitable dog food. Even if you are looking for a product that could provide more calories, it must be nutritionally balanced. Therefore, the dog food that you select for your pup should have digestible carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and other nutrients.
New Zealand Beef Dog Food by Ziwi
This moist dog food gives your pup the best of New Zealand as it’s designed to mirror a whole-prey. It comprises of fresh meat, organs, and even bones. In addition to that, this recipe also contains green-lipped mussels for a source of Chondroitin and Glucosamine.
The presence of all these ingredients means that this canned dog food is extremely rich in protein and fats. The protein content makes sure that the extra pounds your dog gained are NOT in the form of fats. The lack of carbohydrates in this dog food means that it is completely safe for canines that have diabetes. Similarly, this wet food is an excellent alternative for those senior dogs that are suffering from dental issues.
Wet Dog Food by Purina Beyond
The use of high-protein animal sources and quality ingredients make this product a great alternative for malnourished dogs. This canned food is also safe for canines with sensitive stomachs because it is grain-free. Every serving has an ample amount of amino acids to keep maintaining your pet’s lean muscles.
Other than protein-rich beef and turkey meat, this recipe also includes organ meat. This ingredient is filled with several useful nutrients (like Vitamin A and iron) that are vital for your dog’s wellbeing. Last but not least, this dog food doesn’t contain any artificial flavor, preservatives, or poultry by-product.
Chicken and Broccoli Canned Dog Food by Wellness
Do you need protein-focused nutrition for your weak dog? This dog food is made from 95% animal protein to give a boost to your pup’s weight. The real pieces of chicken are complemented by high-quality vegetables to ensure a balanced meal for your companion. These veggies provide essential vitamins and minerals to improve the overall health of your pet.
This all-natural canned food is made from premium ingredients and is free from grains, such as wheat and corn. Other than a full meal, you can also mix this product with dry dog foods.
Best Dry Senior Dog Foods for Weight Gain
When you are searching dog foods for weight gain, you must look for recipes that rich in proteins, fats, and calories. For instance, a diet with at least 30% protein and 20% fat can increase the mass of your canine. Similarly, include a lot (10-15%) of high-calorie snacks in his/her daily diet. The following are some of the dry dog foods that are good for weight gain.
Pro Plan Sport Formula by Purina
This dog food is packed with energy, and it can help your senior companion to keep his/her weight on. It uses chicken as the #1 ingredient that serves as a natural source of Glucosamine. This natural chemical is extremely beneficial for joint health and mobility.
The abundant supply of amino acids (in this recipe) nourishes the muscles and helps in maximizing oxygen metabolism. These strong muscles allow your canine to have an active routine even in his/her old age. At nearly 500 calories per cup, this amazing formula is nothing less than a blessing for underweight dogs.
Grain-Free Dry Dog Food by Wellness
Chicken and turkey are the primary sources of animal protein in this kibble. In addition to that, some wholesome ingredients are also used that are helpful for weight gain. The list of these high-calorie commodities includes flaxseed oil, chicken liver, and salmon oil. All these sources of protein and fat are complemented with sweet potatoes, broccoli, and blueberries for other nutrients.
This dog food offers the perfect combination of convenient kibble and raw nutrition. It contains chunks of freeze-dried 100% raw turkey that provide your pup with a sufficient quantity of nutrients. According to Wellness, this grain-free dog food carries 423 calories per cup.
Senior Dog Food by Blue Buffalo
Premium animal protein is the best platform for a healthy diet in canines. Not only does it keep your pup active, but it also helps an underweight dog to gain some pounds. This duck recipe is an excellent source of animal protein as it contains fresh duck, turkey meal, and chicken meal. According to Blue Buffalo, 34% of this senior dog food is made from these protein sources.
This balanced kibble has an optimal quantity of Omega-3 and Omega-6 that are beneficial for the dog’s skin and coat. Similarly, ingredients like cranberries and carrots provide useful fiber and probiotics for healthy digestion. Lastly, this dog food is supplemented with beneficial minerals that support nutrient absorption.
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