Best Add-Ins for Dog Food: Boost Your Dog’s Nutrition
Dog owners are always on the lookout for ways to improve their furry friend’s diet. One popular method is to add supplements or “add ins” to their dog’s food. These can come in many forms, such as powders, oils, or even fresh ingredients. The goal of these add ins is to provide additional nutrients that may be lacking in a dog’s regular diet or to address specific health concerns.
When choosing the best add ins for your dog’s food, it’s important to consider a few key factors. First, you’ll want to make sure the add ins are safe and won’t cause any adverse reactions or health issues for your pet. Second, you’ll want to choose add ins that are appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and size. Finally, you’ll want to consider the specific health concerns or dietary needs of your dog, such as joint health or weight management.
We’ve researched and tested a variety of add ins for dog food to identify the ones that provide the most benefits for your furry friend. In this article, we’ll share our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about which add ins to choose for your dog’s diet.
Best Add-Ins for Dog Food
As dog owners, we all want to provide our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. While commercial dog food can provide a balanced diet, sometimes our pets need a little extra boost. That’s where add-ins come in. Whether you’re looking to add more protein, omega-3s, or simply some extra flavor to your dog’s meals, there are plenty of options available. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best add-ins for dog food, based on expert recommendations and customer reviews.
Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers
If you’re looking to add some flavor and nutrition to your dog’s meals, the Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers might be a great option for you.
Pros
- Our dogs love the taste and always finish their meals when we add this topper.
- Made with all-natural, wholesome ingredients from premium international partners.
- Approved by a vet, so we feel confident that we’re giving our dogs the best possible meal endorsed by professionals.
Cons
- The packaging may vary, but the quality of the product remains the same.
- Some dogs may not like the texture of the chunky pieces.
- It might be a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers.
We’ve been using the Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dogs’ mealtime routine. They used to be picky eaters, but now they always finish their meals when we add this topper. We love that it’s made with all-natural, wholesome ingredients from premium international partners, and there are no harmful additives.
We also appreciate that this product is approved by a vet, so we feel confident that we’re giving our dogs the best possible meal endorsed by professionals. The topper is versatile and delicious, and we can use it as a meal mixer or as a dog topper for dry food. The added salmon oil and vitamins provide hip and joint support for dogs, which is an added bonus.
However, the packaging may vary, but the quality of the product remains the same. Some dogs may not like the texture of the chunky pieces, so it’s essential to introduce it slowly to your dog’s diet. Lastly, it might be a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers, but we think it’s worth the investment.
Overall, we highly recommend the Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for picky eaters who need a boost of flavor and nutrition in their meals.
The Honest Kitchen Pumpkin POUR OVERS Wet Toppers for Dogs (12 Pack), 5.5 oz – Salmon Stew
If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty meal topper for your pup, The Honest Kitchen Pumpkin POUR OVERS Wet Toppers for Dogs might be a great option for you.
Pros
- This recipe contains no gums, carrageenan, feed grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors or artificial preservatives.
- Made with fiber-rich and nourishing pumpkin, these chunky meal enhancers support healthy digestion for dogs of all ages -amp; breeds.
- The BPA-free box holds 2 servings -amp; can be easily opened, poured -amp; closed up. It’s made with sustainable materials certified by the FSC -amp; is recyclable in most curbside pickups.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the product has a jelly texture and does not pour well.
- The price point may be higher than other dog food toppers on the market.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this particular flavor.
We have been using The Honest Kitchen Pumpkin POUR OVERS Wet Toppers for Dogs for a few weeks now, and we have noticed that our dog’s digestion has improved. The pumpkin in the recipe seems to have helped regulate his bowel movements and he seems to enjoy the taste of the salmon stew. The BPA-free box is easy to use and environmentally friendly, which is a plus for us.
One potential downside is that the product may be more expensive than other dog food toppers on the market. Additionally, some customers have reported that the product has a jelly texture and does not pour well, which can be frustrating. Lastly, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this particular flavor, so it may take some trial and error to find a flavor that your dog likes.
Overall, we would recommend The Honest Kitchen Pumpkin POUR OVERS Wet Toppers for Dogs for pet owners who are looking for a healthy and tasty meal topper for their furry friends.
Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles
If you’re looking for a natural and tasty add-in for your dog’s meals, Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles is an excellent option.
Pros
- Made from 100% beef liver, all-natural and ideal for dog treats
- Great for training and obedience reinforcement
- Easy to use and lasts long
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste and smell
- Can be messy if not sprinkled properly
- A bit pricey compared to other add-ins
We’ve been using Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles for a few months now, and our dog loves it. It’s great for training and obedience reinforcement, and the fact that it’s made from 100% beef liver with no additives or preservatives gives us peace of mind.
The sprinkles are easy to use, and a little goes a long way. However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste and smell of the sprinkles, so it’s best to start with a small amount and see how your dog responds.
One thing to keep in mind is that the sprinkles can be messy if not sprinkled properly, so make sure to use it in a controlled environment. Also, it’s a bit pricey compared to other add-ins, but we think it’s worth it for the quality and natural ingredients.
Overall, we highly recommend Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles as a tasty and healthy add-in for your dog’s meals.
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Lamb Meal -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 33 lb. Bag Lamb -amp; Brown Rice 33 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a premium dog food that provides your adult dog with high-quality protein and promotes healthy digestion, Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food is a great choice.
Pros
- Easily digestible ingredients to fuel the energy needs of adult dogs with a savory lamb flavor
- Provides omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E for healthy skin and coat
- Made with natural ingredients
Cons
- May be more expensive than other dog food brands
- Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb
- Contains rice, which may not be suitable for all dogs
We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food for a while now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The lamb flavor is a hit with our dog, and the natural ingredients give us peace of mind that we’re feeding him a healthy diet.
One of the standout features of this dog food is the easily digestible ingredients, which fuel our dog’s energy needs without causing any digestive issues. We’ve also noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s skin and coat since switching to this food, thanks to the omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E.
While the price may be higher than some other dog food brands, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health make it worth the investment. However, we do acknowledge that some pet owners may find the cost prohibitive.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult dry dog food for pet owners looking for a premium dog food that promotes healthy digestion and provides high-quality protein for maintaining lean muscle.
Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a natural dog food with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for the maintenance of your adult dog, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Real chicken is the number one ingredient, providing high-quality protein for your dog’s muscles and overall health.
- Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, which can be harder for dogs to digest.
- Fiber helps support digestion and immune system health.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, as individual tastes can vary.
- The kibble may be too large for some smaller dogs to comfortably eat.
- The price point may be higher than some other dog food options on the market.
We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food for a few months now and have noticed a positive change in our dog’s overall health and energy levels. The real chicken as the number one ingredient provides high-quality protein, and the nutrient-dense sweet potato and pumpkin help support digestion and immune system health.
One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, as individual tastes can vary. Additionally, the kibble may be too large for some smaller dogs to comfortably eat. However, if your dog enjoys the taste and is able to eat the kibble comfortably, we highly recommend giving this natural dog food a try.
Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a grain-free dog food that’s also affordable, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option. Our experience with this product has been positive overall, and we’re confident in recommending it to other dog owners.
Pros
- Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source for optimal muscle strength.
- Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin are used 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 or texture of this food.
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health conditions.
- May cause digestive upset in some dogs.
We’ve found that our dog enjoys eating this food, and we appreciate that it contains wholesome, natural ingredients. The fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion, and the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health. Additionally, the antioxidants zinc and vitamin E help support a healthy immune system, and taurine helps support a healthy heart.
Overall, we believe that Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great choice for dog owners who want to provide their pets with high-quality, nutritious food without breaking the bank.
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, 5 lb. Bag
If you’re looking for a dog food that’s made with high-quality, natural ingredients and provides a balanced diet for your adult dog, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is a great choice.
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients for easy digestion and a healthy coat
- Provides a premium source of high-quality protein for lean muscle growth and maintenance
- Contains natural fibers to promote healthy digestion for your fully grown dog
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
- The price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market
- The bag may not last as long as other brands, depending on your dog’s feeding habits
We recently tried this dog food with our adult dog and were impressed with the results. The kibble is made with natural ingredients, which is important to us, and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture. We noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health after a few weeks of feeding him this food.
One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble. It’s important to introduce the food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Finally, the 5 lb. bag may not last as long as other brands, depending on your dog’s feeding habits.
Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for those looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that provides a balanced diet for their adult dog.
Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality and nutritious dog food for your small breed dog, then Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food is a great option.
Pros
- Whole meat as the first ingredient
- Non-GMO fruits and veggies
- Highly digestible
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- More expensive than some other brands
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
We love that this dog food is made with whole meat as the first ingredient, which ensures that your dog is getting high-quality protein. The non-GMO fruits and veggies provide additional nutrients and the food is highly digestible, which means your dog can retain and use more of the nutrients.
However, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, and it is more expensive than some other brands. Additionally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and nutritious dog food for your small breed dog, then Halo Small Breed Natural Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers Grain Free Gut Health All Natural Dog Food Topper
If you want to add some raw nutrition to your dog’s diet, the Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers Gut Health is a great option. Here’s our take on the pros and cons of this product:
Pros
- The top ingredient is responsibly sourced cage-free chicken, making it a high-quality source of protein.
- The product is made with whole food ingredients, including pumpkin, sweet potato, chicory root, apple cider vinegar, and probiotics, which are great for digestive health.
- The freeze-dried process helps to lock in nutrients and intensify flavor, making it a great topper for picky eaters.
Cons
- The product is a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers on the market.
- Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the freeze-dried pieces.
- The product contains chicken, so it may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies.
In our experience, the Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers Gut Health is a great way to add some raw nutrition to your dog’s diet. We love that it is made with whole food ingredients and contains probiotics for digestive health. The freeze-dried pieces are also a great way to add some variety and excitement to your dog’s meals.
One thing to keep in mind is that the product is a bit pricey, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the freeze-dried pieces, so it may take some experimentation to see if your dog likes it.
Overall, we would recommend the Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers Gut Health as a great option for dog owners looking to add some raw nutrition to their dog’s diet.
Wellness Tender Toppers (Previously Core Bowl Boosters), Grain-Free Natural Dog Food Toppers or Mixers, Made with Real Meat (Turkey -amp; Chicken, 8 oz Bag)
If you’re looking for a way to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your dog’s meals, Wellness Tender Toppers are a great option. They’re made with real meat and superfoods, and are free from grains, corn, soy, wheat-gluten, artificial colors, and flavors. Overall, we highly recommend this product for any dog owner looking to enhance their pup’s mealtime experience.
Pros
- Can be used as a mixer, topper, or snack along with a complete -amp; balanced food diet
- High quality turkey -amp; chicken that are nutrient-rich and full of flavor deliver an irresistible taste even the pickiest of dogs will love
- Crafted with superfoods and formulated using only premium, all natural ingredients to support whole-body health
Cons
- May be a bit pricey compared to other add-ins on the market
- Some dogs may not like the texture of the pellets
- Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies
We’ve been using Wellness Tender Toppers for a few weeks now and our dog absolutely loves them. We’ve been using them as a topper on his kibble, and he always eats every last bite. We love that they’re made with high-quality ingredients and are free from any harmful additives. The added superfoods are a nice touch, too, as they provide additional health benefits for our pup.
One thing to note is that the pellets can be a bit hard for some dogs to chew. Our dog didn’t seem to mind, but we could see how this might be an issue for some dogs, especially older ones with dental issues. Additionally, the price point might be a bit high for some dog owners, but we think the quality of the product justifies the cost.
Overall, we think Wellness Tender Toppers are a great product and would definitely recommend them to other dog owners looking to add some variety to their pup’s meals.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best add-ins for your dog’s food, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Here are some features to look for when purchasing add-ins for your dog’s food:
Nutritional Value
The first and most important factor to consider is the nutritional value of the add-in. Look for products that contain high-quality ingredients and are free from fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Some of the best add-ins for dog food include fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats like fish oil or flaxseed oil.
Digestibility
Another important factor to consider is the digestibility of the add-in. Look for products that are easy for your dog to digest and won’t cause any digestive upset or discomfort. Some dogs may have specific dietary needs or food sensitivities, so it’s important to choose add-ins that are appropriate for your dog’s individual needs.
Taste and Texture
Dogs can be picky eaters, so it’s important to choose add-ins that your dog will find appealing. Consider the taste and texture of the add-in, and choose products that your dog enjoys. Some dogs may prefer crunchy treats, while others may prefer soft or chewy treats.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the add-in. While it’s important to choose high-quality products, you don’t want to overspend on add-ins for your dog’s food. Look for products that offer good value for money and fit within your budget.
In summary, when choosing add-ins for your dog’s food, it’s important to consider the nutritional value, digestibility, taste and texture, and price of the product. By choosing high-quality add-ins that meet your dog’s individual needs, you can help ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are safe and healthy toppings I can add to my dog’s kibble?
We recommend adding cooked vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes to your dog’s kibble. You can also add some lean protein like cooked chicken or beef. Avoid adding any toppings that are high in fat, salt, or sugar.
How can I enhance homemade dog food with nutritional add-ins?
You can add nutritional add-ins such as fish oil, flaxseed, and probiotics to your homemade dog food. These add-ins can help improve your dog’s digestion, skin health, and overall well-being. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before adding any new supplements to your dog’s diet.
Which natural supplements can I include in my dog’s daily kibble routine?
Natural supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric can help improve joint health and reduce inflammation in your dog. You can also add some coconut oil or apple cider vinegar to your dog’s kibble to boost their immune system and promote healthy skin and coat.
What ingredients can I mix into dry dog food to appeal to picky eaters?
You can mix in some canned dog food or gravy to make your dog’s kibble more appealing. You can also try adding some low-sodium chicken broth or a small amount of cheese to your dog’s kibble. Be sure to avoid adding any toppings that are high in fat, salt, or sugar.
What are the recommended add-ins for puppy dry food to ensure proper growth?
Puppies need a balanced diet that includes protein, fat, and carbohydrates. You can add some cooked chicken or beef to your puppy’s dry food to increase their protein intake. You can also add some sweet potatoes or brown rice to provide some healthy carbohydrates.
What are some healthy components I can incorporate into my dog’s diet at home?
You can incorporate some healthy components such as fruits and vegetables into your dog’s diet at home. Some good options include apples, bananas, carrots, and green beans. Be sure to avoid any fruits or vegetables that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes and onions.