Best Dry Dog Food for Weight Gain: Top Picks for Healthy Pups

Dog owners know that maintaining their furry friend’s health is essential for their happiness and longevity. One of the most critical aspects of a dog’s health is their weight. If a dog is underweight, they may be malnourished, and if they are overweight, they may be at risk for various health problems. That’s why it’s vital to find the right food for your dog to maintain a healthy weight. In this article, we will be discussing the best dry dog food for weight gain.

When it comes to dog food, there are many options available in the market, making it challenging to choose the right one. However, dry dog food is a popular choice among dog owners because it is convenient, affordable, and has a longer shelf life than wet dog food. Additionally, dry dog food is easy to measure and can be used as a training treat, making it a versatile option.

When it comes to weight gain, the most crucial factor to consider is the number of calories in the food. Dogs need a certain number of calories every day to maintain their weight, and if they are not getting enough, they will lose weight. On the other hand, if they are getting too many calories, they will gain weight. That’s why it’s essential to choose a dry dog food that is high in calories but still provides the necessary nutrients for your dog’s overall health.

In this article, we will be reviewing the best dry dog food for weight gain and discussing the critical factors to consider when choosing the right food for your furry friend. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to make an informed decision and ensure that your dog maintains a healthy weight.

Best Dry Dog Food for Weight Gain

We understand the struggle of finding the right dog food for your furry friend who needs to gain some weight. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dry dog foods for weight gain. Our top picks are based on the quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and customer feedback. Whether your dog needs to gain weight due to medical reasons or just needs a little extra help, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect dry dog food for your pup’s needs.

Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking to help their dogs gain weight in a healthy and nutritious way.

Pros

• Packed with a remarkable 600 calories per cup, making it the most calorie-dense dog food available
• Unparalleled high-calorie formula allows you to feed your dog up to 60% less than other brands, offering exceptional value
• Promotes healthy weight gain and robust health with its carefully balanced nutrition

Cons

• May cause gas in some dogs
• Some customers have reported receiving bags that are less than half full
• Strong smell may be unappealing to some dogs

We have been using this product for our underweight dog and have seen significant improvements in her weight and overall health. The high-calorie formula allows us to feed her less while still providing her with the necessary nutrients to gain weight in a healthy way. We also appreciate that the food is made with natural ingredients and is free from cheap fillers, soy, corn, and artificial flavors.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported receiving bags that are less than half full, which can be frustrating considering the price of the product. Additionally, some dogs may experience gas after eating the food. However, overall we believe that the benefits of this product outweigh any potential downsides.

Overall, we highly recommend the Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking to help their dogs gain weight in a healthy and nutritious way.

MIRACLE VET High-Calorie Weight Gainer -amp; Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement for Dogs -amp; Cats

If you’re looking for a high-calorie weight gain supplement for your furry friend, you should definitely try MIRACLE VET High-Calorie Weight Gainer -amp; Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement for Dogs -amp; Cats. It is packed with calories and essential vitamins and minerals to support overall pet health. This supplement is formulated especially for multiple purposes, including senior dog supplements, dog prenatal vitamins, and dog electrolytes.

Pros

• This supplement is packed with 29 essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium for dogs and fish oil for cats.
• It comes packed with omega-3 fish oil, which promotes healthy skin and coat while providing a natural energy source.
• This dog and cat nutritional supplement is perfect for pet owners looking to improve their pet’s health, muscle growth, and weight gain.

Cons

• Some pets might not like the taste of this supplement.
• It might take some time to see visible results.
• The supplement might not be suitable for pets with certain health conditions.

We have been using MIRACLE VET High-Calorie Weight Gainer -amp; Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement for Dogs -amp; Cats for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our furry friend’s health. Our dog had trouble gaining weight, but after incorporating this supplement into his diet, he has gained weight and is much healthier overall.

The supplement is easy to use and can be mixed with regular dog food, used as a dog food topper for picky eaters, or added to water. It is ideal for small breed dogs, senior dogs, and puppies. The supplement is also an appetite stimulant for pets and can entice even the most finicky eaters, ensuring they get the vitamins and nutrients they need to thrive.

Overall, we highly recommend MIRACLE VET High-Calorie Weight Gainer -amp; Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement for Dogs -amp; Cats to anyone looking for a high-calorie weight gain supplement for their furry friend. It is safe, healthy, and effective, and it has been vet-reviewed and approved for pets of all ages and sizes.

Miracle Vet High-Calorie High Protein Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-calorie, high-protein dog food that can help your furry friend gain weight, we highly recommend the Miracle Vet High-Calorie High Protein Dog Food.

Pros

• Made with natural chicken and high-quality ingredients
• Designed to be energy-dense and soft, perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those recovering from illness
• Ideal for puppies, providing them with the essential nutrients they need for healthy growth and development

Cons

• May cause runny stool in some dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit pricey compared to other dog food brands

We’ve used this dog food for our own pup who has a hard time gaining weight, and we’ve seen a significant improvement in his weight and overall health. The addition of vitamins and minerals ensures that your dog receives complete nutrition in every bite.

The wholesome dog food is made with quality ingredients and is free of fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. The chicken is an excellent source of protein as well as Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids for a shinier coat and healthier skin.

The high-calorie and protein food is also ideal for working service dogs, providing sustained energy for weight gain, recovery, or strength to working dogs and dogs with high physical demands.

Miracle Vet High-Calorie High Protein Dog Food has a perfect protein -amp; fat ratio of 31/25, making it easy to digest and creating less stomach distress, making it an ideal choice for puppies with delicate digestion.

Overall, we highly recommend Miracle Vet High-Calorie High Protein Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their furry friend gain weight and improve their overall health.

Canidae All Life Stages Premium Dry Dog Food for Less Active Dogs, All Ages, Chicken, Turkey -amp; Lamb Meals, 5 lbs. Less Active 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that is perfect for less active dogs of all sizes and ages, then Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Formula with Chicken, Turkey and Lamb Meals is an excellent choice.

Pros

• This dry dog food is made with premium ingredients like chicken, turkey, and lamb along with wholesome grains that are rich in essential amino acids, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, providing an optimum level of nutrition with no corn, wheat, soy or other fillers.
• Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Formula is a nutritionally dense kibble that nourishes in every bite, crafted with chicken, turkey and lamb along with wholesome grains and made without corn, wheat or soy.
• Complete and balanced goodness for less active dogs of all ages and sizes with less fat and protein. One bag to feed them all, perfect for multi-dog homes.

Cons

• The bag has recently been reduced from 30 lbs to 27 lbs, which might be a dealbreaker for some customers.
• The price point may be higher than other dry dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.

We’ve used Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Formula with Chicken, Turkey and Lamb Meals for our dogs, and we’ve been impressed with the results. Our dogs have maintained a healthy weight, and their coat and skin have improved since switching to this dry dog food.

The kibble is small and easy for our dogs to eat, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in their digestion since switching to this formula. The bag is also convenient for us since we have multiple dogs of different ages and sizes, and we don’t have to worry about buying different types of dog food for each dog.

However, some customers may be disappointed with the recent reduction in bag size, and the price point may be higher than other dry dog foods on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble, so it’s important to introduce this food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Formula with Chicken, Turkey and Lamb Meals for less active dogs of all ages and sizes. It’s a nutritionally dense kibble that nourishes in every bite, and it’s made with premium ingredients that are good for your dog and the planet.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food that can help your dog gain weight, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat
• Contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for the maintenance of adult dogs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• Expensive compared to other brands

We have been using Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for our dog for several months now, and we have seen a significant improvement in his overall health and weight gain. The real salmon in the recipe provides a high-quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength, while the fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.

We also love that this dog food is grain-free, which is excellent for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in the recipe ensure that our dog is getting all the essential nutrients he needs for optimal health.

However, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and it may cause digestive issues in some dogs. Additionally, it is more expensive compared to other brands, which may not be suitable for pet owners on a tight budget.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their dog gain weight and improve their overall health.

Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food

If you want a high-quality dry dog food that can help your pet gain weight, then you should definitely check out Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• Made with cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Contains L-Carnitine to promote healthy metabolism and weight loss
• Grain-free and free from artificial colors, preservatives, and by-product meals

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw pieces
• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their pet gain weight. The cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient ensures that your pet is getting a high-quality protein source, while the L-Carnitine helps promote healthy metabolism and weight loss.

In addition, this dog food is grain-free and free from artificial colors, preservatives, and by-product meals, making it a healthy choice for your pet. However, some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw pieces, and it is more expensive compared to other dog foods.

Overall, Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their pet gain weight in a healthy way.

CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry 5 lb Chicken Meal -amp; Rice 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your furry friend gain weight, the CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with premium ingredients like chicken and wholesome grains that are rich in essential amino acids, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, providing an optimum level of nutrition with no corn, wheat, soy or other fillers.
• Complete and balanced goodness for all ages, breeds and sizes. One bag to feed them all, perfect for multi-dog homes.
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin and coat.

Cons

• Some users report that the protein combo in this food makes their dogs gassy.
• A few users report that their dogs didn’t like the taste of this food.
• A few users report that their dogs experienced digestive issues after eating this food.

Our experience with CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry Food has been positive. We appreciate that this food is made with premium ingredients and is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages. We also like that it’s nutritionally dense and nourishing for our dog in every bite.

One of the biggest advantages of this food is that it’s a “one bag fits all” blend, making mealtimes for multiple dog households a breeze. We also appreciate that it’s made without corn, wheat, soy or other fillers and is formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin and coat.

While some users report that their dogs experienced digestive issues or didn’t like the taste of this food, we haven’t experienced any issues with our dog. Overall, we would recommend CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their furry friend gain weight and stay healthy.

CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry 5 lbs.

We highly recommend the CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry 5 lbs. for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that helps their furry friend gain weight.

Pros

• The lamb meal and rice formula is nutritionally dense and nourishing for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.
• The kibble is made with premium ingredients like lamb and wholesome grains that are rich in essential amino acids and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, providing optimum nutrition with no corn, wheat, soy, or other fillers.
• The formula is complete and balanced, making it perfect for multi-dog households with different ages, breeds, and sizes.

Cons

• Some customers reported that their dogs did not like the taste of the lamb meal and rice formula.
• A few customers complained that the bag design was confusing and mistaken for the wrong formula.
• The product is not widely available in stores, and customers may have to purchase it online.

We recently tried the CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry 5 lbs. for our dog who needed to gain weight. We were impressed with the high-quality ingredients and the nutritionally dense kibble that nourishes our dog in every bite. Our dog loved the taste of the lamb meal and rice formula, and we noticed a significant improvement in her weight and energy level after a few weeks of feeding her this dog food.

The formula is complete and balanced, making it perfect for multi-dog households with different ages, breeds, and sizes. We appreciate that the kibble is made without corn, wheat, soy, or other fillers, ensuring that our dog gets optimum nutrition without any unnecessary ingredients. The antioxidants and probiotics in the formula also support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

However, we understand that some dogs may not like the taste of the lamb meal and rice formula, and the bag design may be confusing for some customers. Additionally, the product is not widely available in stores, and customers may have to purchase it online. Overall, we highly recommend the CANIDAE All Life Stages Lamb Meal -amp; Rice Formula Dog Dry 5 lbs. for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that helps their furry friend gain weight.

Purina Pro Plan High Calorie, High Protein Dry Dog Food, 30/20 Chicken -amp; Rice Formula – 37.5 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice 37.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-calorie, high-protein dry dog food to help your furry friend gain weight, Purina Pro Plan Performance 30/20 Chicken and Rice Formula may be worth considering.

Pros

• Concentrated nutrition optimizes oxygen metabolism (VO2 MAX) for increased endurance
• High protein formula, with real chicken as the first ingredient
• Amino acids nourish muscles, including the crucial time after exercise

Cons

• Some users found the price to be too high
• The box may arrive open during delivery
• May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Performance 30/20 Chicken and Rice Formula for our highly active dog for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his endurance and muscle tone. The high protein content and amino acids help him recover faster after exercise, and he loves the taste of the food.

One thing to keep in mind is that the price may be a bit steep for some budgets. Additionally, we’ve noticed that the box sometimes arrives open during delivery, although the bag itself is always intact.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dry dog food that can help your pup gain weight and maintain lean muscle, Purina Pro Plan Performance 30/20 Chicken and Rice Formula is definitely worth considering. Just be aware that it may not be the best fit for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

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 manage your little dog’s weight without a complex diet, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food is the way to go. Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this weight control dog food, making it a great choice for those who want to help their furry friend maintain a healthy weight.

Pros

• Clinically proven for weight management
• Made with natural ingredients
• Veterinarian recommended

Cons

• May not be ideal for dogs with allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit pricey compared to other dog foods

Our experience with Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food has been positive overall. We appreciate that it’s clinically proven for weight management and made with natural ingredients, which gives us peace of mind that we’re feeding our dog something healthy. Our veterinarian also recommended this product to us, which further reinforced our decision to purchase it.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may not be ideal for dogs with allergies, as it contains chicken. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to it. Finally, it’s worth noting that this dog food is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food to those who want to help their little dog maintain a healthy weight. While it may not be the most affordable option out there, its natural ingredients and proven results make it a worthwhile investment.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best dry dog food for weight gain, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:

High-quality protein

Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Look for a dog food that has a high-quality source of protein, such as chicken, turkey, fish, or beef. Avoid dog foods that list “meat by-products” or “meat meal” as the main source of protein, as these can be low-quality and difficult to digest.

Healthy fats

Fats are an important source of energy for dogs and can help with weight gain. Look for dog foods that contain healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These can be found in sources like fish oil, flaxseed, and chicken fat.

Limited carbohydrates

While carbohydrates can provide energy, they can also contribute to weight gain. Look for dog foods that have limited carbohydrates and avoid those that list corn, wheat, or soy as the main ingredient.

Added vitamins and minerals

A high-quality dog food should contain added vitamins and minerals to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. Look for dog foods that contain vitamins like A, D, E, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

Calorie content

When trying to help your dog gain weight, it’s important to make sure they are consuming enough calories. Look for dog foods that are higher in calories, but be careful not to overfeed your dog. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food for your dog’s individual needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dry dog food for weight gain that will help your dog achieve a healthy weight while providing them with all the nutrients they need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated dry dog foods for increasing weight in small breeds?

There are several dry dog foods that are specifically formulated to help small breeds gain weight. Some of the top-rated ones include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws, and Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Small Breed.

Which high-fat dry dog foods are recommended for dogs needing to gain weight?

High-fat dry dog foods can be an effective way to help dogs gain weight. Some recommended options include Royal Canin Medium Adult, Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food, and Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Formula.

What options are available for high-calorie dog food at major retailers like Walmart?

Major retailers like Walmart offer a variety of high-calorie dog food options. Some popular ones include Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 Formula, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, and Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight.

Are there specific brands of dry dog food that are effective for weight gain in dogs?

Yes, there are several brands of dry dog food that are known to be effective in helping dogs gain weight. Some of these brands include Royal Canin, Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

How can homemade diets contribute to a dog’s healthy weight gain?

Homemade diets can be a great way to ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need to gain weight in a healthy way. However, it’s important to work with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure that the diet is balanced and meets all of your dog’s nutritional needs.

What are the benefits of wet dog food over dry for dogs that need to gain weight?

Wet dog food can be a good option for dogs that need to gain weight because it often contains more protein and moisture than dry food. Additionally, the higher moisture content can help to keep dogs feeling fuller for longer, which can help them to gain weight more easily. Some recommended wet dog food options include Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free, and Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Weight Management.