Best Dog Food for Diabetes: Top Picks for Managing Your Pet’s Health

Diabetes is a common health condition that affects not only humans but also our furry friends. Just like humans, dogs with diabetes require a specialized diet to manage their condition. Choosing the right dog food for your diabetic dog can be a daunting task, but it is crucial to ensure their health and well-being.

When looking for the best dog food for diabetes, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the food must have a low glycemic index. This means that the food should not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels after consumption. Secondly, the food should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This will help your dog maintain a healthy weight and prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the ones that are best for dogs with diabetes. In this article, we will share our findings and recommendations to help you make an informed decision for your furry friend.

Best Dog Food for Diabetes

If your furry friend has diabetes, it’s important to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet that can help manage their condition. We’ve researched and tested various brands to bring you a list of the best dog food for diabetes. These products are made with high-quality ingredients and are designed to regulate blood sugar levels while providing essential nutrients. Check out our top picks below.

Ketona Chicken Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend purchasing Ketona Chicken Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food if you’re looking for a natural, low-carb, high-protein, and grain-free dog food.

Pros

• With only 5% total digestible carbohydrate, Ketona has 85% less carbohydrate than other leading “grain-free” brands.
• The dog food is made of natural ingredients and contains more than 46% protein. All of the chicken used is non-GMO, antibiotic-free, and raised by American ranchers using sustainable practices.
• Created by the author of “Dogs, Dog Food, and Dogma,” Ketona is a dog’s natural diet. Fat and protein are essential, and carbs aren’t. Your dog’s ancestors ate meat, fat, and nothing else for 99.9% of their evolution.

Cons

• The dog food is pricey, making it difficult to make it your dog’s only kibble.
• Some customers have reported finding random pieces of another brand’s kibble in the bag.
• One customer reported that their dog’s blood sugar didn’t go down after eating the dog food, despite being diabetic.

Ketona Chicken Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for those looking for a natural, low-carb, high-protein, and grain-free dog food. The dog food is made of natural ingredients and contains more than 46% protein. All of the chicken used is non-GMO, antibiotic-free, and raised by American ranchers using sustainable practices. Additionally, with only 5% total digestible carbohydrate, Ketona has 85% less carbohydrate than other leading “grain-free” brands.

However, the dog food is pricey, making it difficult to make it your dog’s only kibble. Some customers have also reported finding random pieces of another brand’s kibble in the bag. One customer even reported that their dog’s blood sugar didn’t go down after eating the dog food, despite being diabetic.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural, low-carb, high-protein, and grain-free dog food, Ketona Chicken Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. Just be aware of the price and potential for random pieces of another brand’s kibble in the bag.

Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help manage glucose and weight, support urinary health, and improve digestion, then Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• This dog food is specially formulated by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to help manage multiple conditions that respond to fiber, weight -amp; glucose management, digestive issues, and urinary health.
• It contains an optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, along with low calories, which helps maintain a healthy weight.
• The food also includes clinically proven antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system.

Cons

• This dog food is relatively expensive compared to other brands.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs experienced dry skin after consuming this food.
• The product is only available in one flavor (chicken).

We recently tried Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food and were impressed with the results. Our dog, who has struggled with weight and glucose management, saw improvement in both areas after switching to this food. Additionally, we noticed that our dog’s digestion improved, and she had fewer urinary tract issues.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps maintain a healthy weight. We also appreciated that the food contains clinically proven antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system.

However, it’s worth noting that this dog food is relatively expensive compared to other brands. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs experienced dry skin after consuming this food. Finally, the product is only available in one flavor (chicken).

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a dog food that can help manage glucose and weight, support urinary health, and improve digestion.

Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that is packed with high-quality protein and superfoods, then the Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food is an excellent option.

Pros

• This dog food is made with responsibly sourced turkey and other nutrient-rich superfoods that provide all the essential nutrients your dog needs to thrive.
• With 42% protein content, this dog food is perfect for dogs that need to maintain lean body mass and muscle tone.
• This dog food supports digestive health, weight management, and a healthy heart.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food is relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs.

We have been using this dog food for a while, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The high protein content has helped our dog maintain a healthy weight, and the omega fatty acids have made his coat shiny and soft.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is made with all-natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial colors, preservatives, or poultry by-products. Plus, it is grain-free, which is essential for dogs with grain sensitivities.

The only downside to this dog food is that it is relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits it provides to our dog make it worth the price.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food for any dog owner looking for a high-quality dog food that supports their dog’s overall health and well-being.

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 simple and natural dog food topper, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great choice. It’s made with only seven natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, and is free from grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. It’s a great way to add some flavor to your dog’s dry food and keep them healthy at the same time.

Pros

• Made with only seven natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck
• Free from grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives
• Can be used as a mix-in, topper, or snack

Cons

• Some customers may find it expensive compared to other dog food toppers
• The packaging may not be very eco-friendly
• Some customers may find that their dogs don’t like the taste or texture

We’ve been using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for a few weeks now, and our dog loves it. We’ve been using it as a mix-in with his dry food, and he seems to enjoy the added flavor. We also appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial additives.

One thing to note is that the packaging isn’t very eco-friendly. The tubs are made of plastic and can’t be recycled in some areas. Additionally, some customers may find that their dogs don’t like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be the best choice for picky eaters.

Overall, we think that Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great choice for dog owners who want to add some flavor to their dog’s dry food while keeping them healthy. It’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial additives, making it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag Ocean Recipe 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend purchasing the Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe.

Pros

• Dogs will love the delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat coating on each bite of kibble
• The recipe includes six fish protein sources, making it perfect for dogs with poultry allergies
• The recipe is packed with whole prey ingredients, with 86% of the recipe’s protein coming from animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat

Cons

• The price may be higher than other dog food options
• The expiration date may be shorter than other dog food options
• Dogs who are not used to a high protein diet may experience digestive issues during the transition period

We have been using this product for our dogs and have seen a significant improvement in their overall health and well-being. The grain-free recipe is easy for dogs of all life stages to digest, and the nutritious ingredients provide all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for whole body health.

The recipe is also fortified with fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health. Antioxidants from fruits and veggies help support a healthy immune system, while naturally occurring glucosamine and chondroitin help support hip and joint health.

We love that this recipe has NO white potatoes, legumes, peas, lentils, or by-product meals, and never any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. The small-batch production process ensures that each bag is made with responsibly sourced, premium ingredients.

Overall, we highly recommend the Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for any dog owner looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food option.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Chicken -amp; Barley Recipe, 5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for adult dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is a great option. We highly recommend it!

Pros

• Provides a precise balance of omega 6 and vitamin E for a beautiful skin and healthy coat.
• Uses high-quality, easy-to-digest ingredients to fuel the specific energy needs of your full-grown dog.
• Packed with natural fibers to promote healthy digestion for your fully grown dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and barley recipe.
• The price is a bit higher than some other dog foods on the market.
• The 5 lb. bag may not last very long if you have a larger dog.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The high-quality protein source helps maintain lean muscle growth and maintenance in adult dogs, which is especially important as they age. We also appreciate that Hill’s uses natural ingredients and never includes artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in their dog food.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and barley recipe. However, we haven’t had any issues with our dog not wanting to eat it. The price is a bit higher than some other dog foods on the market, but we think it’s worth it for the quality of ingredients and the positive impact it has had on our dog’s health.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for adult dogs. It’s a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, nutritious diet.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

We highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dogs suffering from diabetes.

Pros

• The formula supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient and is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors or preservatives.
• The recipe supports nutrient absorption and helps to keep pets healthy for life.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food and may refuse to eat it.
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew, especially those with dental problems.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands on the market.

We have been using IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our diabetic dog for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The prebiotics and guaranteed live probiotics have helped to maintain his healthy digestive system, while the natural fiber and prebiotics in the recipe have supported his regularity and healthy stools. We appreciate that the formula is made with real, farm-raised chicken and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.

We have also noticed that our dog’s nutrient absorption has improved since switching to this food, which has helped to keep him healthy and playful for life. While some dogs may not like the taste of this food, we have found that our dog enjoys it and eagerly eats his meals. The only downside we have found is that the kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew, especially those with dental problems. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog food brands on the market. Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dogs with diabetes.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious dog food for your furry friend with diabetes, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great option.

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 maintenance of adult dogs

Cons

• Some users have reported that the food smells and looks different than they expected
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands
• Not suitable for puppies or dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe with our diabetic dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real salmon and nutrient-dense sweet potato and pumpkin provide our dog with the protein and fiber he needs to maintain optimal muscle strength, healthy digestion, and a strong immune system. We also noticed that his skin and coat health improved after switching to this food.

One thing to note is that the food may look and smell different than some users expect, but this is likely due to the natural ingredients used in the recipe. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for dogs with diabetes or other dietary restrictions. It provides a delicious and nutritious option that your furry friend is sure to love.

Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management with Chicken Wet Dog Food, Veterinary Diet, 13 oz. Cans, 12-Pack Chicken 13 Ounce (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management with Chicken Wet Dog Food for dogs with diabetes. This dog food is specially formulated to benefit your pet on multiple levels, including urinary health, digestive health, blood sugar management, and weight management.

Pros

• The blend of balanced nutrients and soluble and insoluble fibers works on multiple fronts to help pets live a healthy life.
• Controlled levels of magnesium and sodium promote urinary tract health.
• The optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, along with low calories, helps maintain healthy weight.

Cons

• This dog food is expensive compared to other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this wet dog food.
• It may take some time for dogs to adjust to this new diet.

We have been using Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management with Chicken Wet Dog Food for our dog with diabetes for several months now, and we have seen a significant improvement in his health. The blend of balanced nutrients and soluble and insoluble fibers has helped him maintain a healthy weight while also managing his blood sugar levels.

One of the things we appreciate most about this dog food is that it is formulated to benefit our pet on multiple levels. The controlled levels of magnesium and sodium promote urinary tract health, while the optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber helps maintain healthy weight. Additionally, the therapeutic L-carnitine levels help metabolize fat and maintain lean muscle.

While this dog food is more expensive than other options on the market, we believe it is worth the investment for the health benefits it provides. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this wet dog food, and it may take some time for them to adjust to this new diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management with Chicken Wet Dog Food for dogs with diabetes. It is a high-quality dog food that is formulated to benefit your pet on multiple levels, and we have seen firsthand the positive impact it can have on your pet’s health.

Ketona Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food, Natural, Low Carb (Only 5%), High Protein (46%), Grain-Free, The Nutrition of a Raw Diet with The Cost and Convenience of a Kibble; 4.2 lb 4.2 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for the best dog food for diabetes, Ketona Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option that we highly recommend.

Pros

• High protein, low carb: With more than 46% protein and less than 6% carbohydrate, Ketona has 90% less carbohydrate than other leading brands.
• Natural: This dog food follows a dog’s natural diet. Fat and protein are essential, while carbs are not. Your dog’s ancestors ate meat, fat, and nothing else for 99.9% of their evolution.
• Keeps dogs lean: Ketona burns body fat instead of storing it, and builds strong lean muscles. It also lowers blood sugar levels while reducing itching and inflammation.

Cons

• Strong smell: Some customers have noted that this dog food has a strong smell.
• Not suitable for all dogs: While this dog food is great for dogs with diabetes, it may not be suitable for all dogs. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes.
• Price: Ketona is more expensive than some other dog food brands.

Ketona Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a natural, low-carb, high-protein dog food that is perfect for dogs with diabetes. It’s made with only the highest-quality ingredients and is designed to keep your dog lean and healthy. The best part? It’s easy to transition your dog to Ketona’s low-carb recipe, so you can switch all at once without any problems.

If you’re looking for a dog food that will help your diabetic dog stay healthy and happy, Ketona Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. With its high protein, low carb formula, it’s a great choice for dogs of all sizes and breeds.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for diabetes, there are a few key features to look for. We recommend considering the following factors when making your selection:

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of your dog’s food is a critical factor to consider. Look for food that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates and sugar. This will help your dog maintain a healthy weight and prevent blood sugar spikes.

Ingredients

Check the ingredients list carefully to ensure that the food does not contain any harmful additives or fillers. Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, as well as any by-products or meat meals.

Fiber Content

Fiber is an essential nutrient for dogs with diabetes, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes healthy digestion. Look for food that contains high-quality sources of fiber, such as sweet potatoes, peas, or brown rice.

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand that has a proven track record of producing high-quality, nutritious dog food. Look for brands that have been recommended by veterinarians or have received positive reviews from other dog owners.

Feeding Schedule

It’s important to establish a regular feeding schedule for your dog with diabetes. This will help regulate their blood sugar levels and prevent overeating. We recommend feeding your dog small, frequent meals throughout the day, rather than one or two large meals.

By considering these factors and choosing a high-quality, nutritious dog food, you can help manage your dog’s diabetes and ensure that they stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated non-prescription dog foods for diabetes management?

There are several non-prescription dog foods that are highly recommended for dogs with diabetes. Some of the top-rated options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Digestive/Weight/Glucose Management, and Wellness CORE Grain-Free Reduced Fat Formula.

Which ingredients should be avoided in food for diabetic dogs?

When selecting food for diabetic dogs, it is important to avoid ingredients that can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. These include high-glycemic index carbohydrates like corn, wheat, and rice, as well as added sugars and artificial preservatives. Instead, look for foods that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

How does Royal Canin’s diabetic dog food compare to other brands?

Royal Canin’s diabetic dog food is a popular choice for many pet owners, but it is important to compare it to other brands to determine which is the best fit for your dog. Some other popular brands for diabetic dogs include Hill’s Prescription Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets.

Can homemade dog food recipes provide proper nutrition for dogs with diabetes?

Homemade dog food recipes can be a great option for dogs with diabetes, but it is important to work with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the recipes provide proper nutrition. Homemade diets should be balanced and include appropriate amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

What are the benefits of Purina’s formula for diabetic dogs?

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DM Dietetic Management Formula is a popular choice for dogs with diabetes. This formula is designed to help manage blood sugar levels and promote healthy weight loss. It is also highly palatable, which can be beneficial for dogs who are picky eaters.

What diabetic dog food options are available at major retailers like Walmart?

Major retailers like Walmart offer a variety of diabetic dog food options. Some popular brands include Hill’s Prescription Diet, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, and Blue Buffalo. It is important to read the labels carefully and select a food that is appropriate for your dog’s specific needs.