Best Dog Food for Heart Disease: Top Brands and Ingredients to Look For
Heart disease is a common ailment that affects dogs of all ages and sizes. In fact, it’s estimated that around 10% of all dogs suffer from some form of heart disease. While there are many different types of heart disease, the most common is congestive heart failure (CHF), which occurs when the heart can no longer pump blood effectively. Dogs with CHF require special care, including a healthy diet that supports their heart health.
Choosing the right dog food for a dog with heart disease can be a daunting task. There are many different types of dog food available on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one is the best for your furry friend. When choosing a dog food for a dog with heart disease, it’s important to look for a product that is low in sodium and high in protein. A low-sodium diet can help reduce the workload on the heart, while protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
One critical factor to consider when choosing the best dog food for heart disease is the quality of the ingredients. Look for a product that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers or by-products, as these can be difficult for dogs with heart disease to digest. In addition, consider the calorie content of the dog food. Dogs with heart disease may require a lower calorie diet to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the workload on their heart.
We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to find the best options for dogs with heart disease. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide detailed information on the ingredients and nutritional value of each product. Whether you’re looking for wet or dry dog food, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the best dog food for heart disease.
Best Dog Food for Heart Disease
We understand that finding the right dog food for your furry friend with heart disease can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog food options that are specifically formulated to support heart health. Our team of experts has researched and tested various products to ensure that we only recommend the top-quality options. Keep reading to find the perfect dog food for your pup with heart disease.
Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11 Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11 Dry Dog Food for small-breed senior dogs with heart disease.
Pros
- The omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil promote joint health and mobility.
- The balanced set of minerals supports a healthy heart, kidneys, and bladder in toy breed dogs.
- The special antioxidant blend supports your mature dog’s immune system.
Cons
- The kibble size may not be suitable for dogs with severe dental issues.
- The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11 Dry Dog Food for our senior Chihuahua with heart disease and have seen significant improvements in her mobility and overall health. The small kibble size is perfect for her small mouth and the omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil have helped with her joint pain. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and a special blend of antioxidants to promote lifelong health.
One thing to note is that the kibble size may not be suitable for dogs with severe dental issues, as it may be difficult for them to chew. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog food brands on the market. However, we believe that the benefits of this dog food outweigh the cost.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11 Dry Dog Food for small-breed senior dogs with heart disease. It’s a high-quality dog food that supports your dog’s health and wellbeing.
Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Heart Healthy Wags Plenty Dog Chews
If you’re looking for a natural and vet-recommended dog chew that supports heart muscle, blood pressure, and circulation, then Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Heart Healthy Wags Plenty Dog Chews might be the right choice for your senior dog.
Pros
- Formulated for senior dogs
- Natural ingredients
- Supports heart health
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
- Not a substitute for medication prescribed by a veterinarian
- Some dogs might not like the taste
We’ve been giving these chews to our senior dog for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his energy levels. He seems more active and playful, and we’re happy to know that we’re supporting his heart health with natural ingredients.
The chews are soft and easy to break into smaller pieces, which is great for portion control. We also appreciate that they come in a resealable bag, which keeps them fresh for longer.
While our dog seems to enjoy the taste, we’ve read some reviews from pet owners whose dogs didn’t like the flavor. It’s worth noting that these chews might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so it’s best to consult with a veterinarian before giving them to your dog.
Overall, we recommend Ark Naturals Gray Muzzle Heart Healthy Wags Plenty Dog Chews for senior dogs who need extra support for their heart health. However, it’s important to remember that these chews are not a substitute for medication prescribed by a veterinarian.
Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d Heart Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a dog food that can help support your dog’s heart health, Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d Heart Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Formulated to support overall heart health with high levels of L-carnitine -amp; taurine
- Helps maintain normal blood pressure and minimize fluid retention with reduced sodium
- Helps replenish lost nutrients for dogs receiving diuretics with added potassium and magnesium
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the flavor
- Can be pricey compared to other dog foods
- Kibble size may not be ideal for all dogs
We’ve been using Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d Heart Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food for our dog with heart disease for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. The high levels of L-carnitine and taurine have helped support our dog’s overall heart health, and the reduced sodium has helped maintain normal blood pressure and minimize fluid retention.
We also appreciate that this dog food helps replenish lost nutrients for dogs receiving diuretics with added potassium and magnesium. Our dog has been on diuretics for a while, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his energy levels and overall health since switching to this food.
While the flavor may not be ideal for all dogs, our dog seems to enjoy it. However, we do acknowledge that it can be a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market. Additionally, the kibble size may not be ideal for all dogs, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s eating habits and adjust accordingly.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d Heart Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food for dogs with heart disease. It’s a high-quality, veterinarian-recommended option that can help support your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Beef, Pea, -amp; Brown Rice Recipe, 40 Pound Bag (Packaging May Vary)
If you are looking for a natural dry dog food that is both nutritious and delicious, then Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great choice. Here are the pros and cons we found after using this product:
Pros
- Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
- Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.
- Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants like those found in superfoods to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
- This product is not grain-free, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies.
- The kibble size may not be suitable for small dogs.
We found that Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great choice for dogs who need a natural dry dog food that is both nutritious and delicious. The real beef as the number one ingredient ensures that your dog is getting the protein they need to maintain lean muscle mass, while the fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion. We also love that this product includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level.
However, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and it is not grain-free, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies. Additionally, the kibble size may not be suitable for small dogs. Overall, we recommend giving Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe a try if you are looking for a natural dry dog food that is both nutritious and delicious.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe, 40 Pound Bag
If you’re looking for a premium dog food that’s perfect for dogs with heart disease, then the Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe dry dog food is a great choice.
Pros
- The #1 ingredient is real chicken, which is a good source of protein that helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
- Fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.
- No poultry by-product meal, fillers, or added wheat or wheat gluten ingredients and No artificial flavors or artificial preservatives.
Cons
- For a limited time, you may receive either bag as they update their packaging.
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small.
We have been using this product for a while now and have seen a significant improvement in our dog’s health. The high-quality ingredients in this dog food provide the necessary nutrients for our dog’s heart health. The real chicken and veggies recipe is a hit with our dog, and we appreciate that it does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.
The fiber sources in this dog food also help support healthy digestion, which is essential for dogs with heart disease. We have noticed that our dog’s stool is more consistent and healthy since switching to this product.
One downside to this product is that the kibble size is too small for some dogs. Our dog is a small breed, so this is not an issue for us, but it may be for larger dogs. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs do not like the taste of this dog food. However, we have not experienced this issue with our dog.
Overall, we highly recommend the Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken -amp; Veggies Recipe dry dog food for dogs with heart disease. It’s a premium dog food that provides the necessary nutrients for your dog’s heart health, and it’s made with high-quality ingredients that you can trust.
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)
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports heart health and is packed with protein, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe is a great option.
Pros
- The protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve
- Low carbohydrates and no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor or preservatives
- Fortified with vitamins, minerals and amino acids to improve your dog’s entire well-being
Cons
- A bit pricey compared to other dog food brands
- Some reviewers have reported issues with the bag being cut open during shipping
- The expiration date on the bag can be relatively short
We’ve been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for a few weeks now and our dog loves it. The kibble is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat, which provides a protein-rich taste that our dog craves. We also love that the recipe has low carbohydrates and no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavor or preservatives.
One of the best things about this dog food is that it’s fortified with vitamins, minerals and amino acids, which helps improve our dog’s entire well-being. We’ve noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier and his energy levels have increased since we started feeding him this food.
The only downside to this dog food is that it can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, some reviewers have reported issues with the bag being cut open during shipping, which can be frustrating. Finally, the expiration date on the bag can be relatively short, so it’s important to keep an eye on that.
Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that supports heart health and is packed with protein.
Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag
We highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food for dogs with heart disease.
Pros
- Real salmon is the number one ingredient
- Nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin help support healthy digestion and immune system health
- Taurine helps support a healthy heart
Cons
- Some customers reported that the food looked and smelled different than previous purchases
- The price may be higher than other dog food brands
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
We have been using this dog food for our dog with heart disease for several months now and have seen a significant improvement in his overall health. The real salmon as the number one ingredient provides high-quality protein, which helps maintain optimal muscle strength. The fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin supports healthy digestion and immune system health. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health. The antioxidants zinc and vitamin E help support a healthy immune system, while taurine helps support a healthy heart.
While some customers reported that the food looked and smelled different than previous purchases, we have not experienced this issue. We do acknowledge that the price may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, but our dog has not had any issues with it.
Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food for dogs with heart disease. It provides wholesome ingredients that dogs love at a price you’ll love too.
Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Blend High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and free of unnecessary fillers and artificial additives, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Blend is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Dogs will love the protein-rich taste of this food, which is packed with multiple meat sources and coated with freeze-dried raw.
- With no fillers, legumes, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, this is a very healthy option for dogs with heart disease.
- This food is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support whole body health, and includes fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health.
Cons
- Some reviewers have noted that there are not very many raw chunks in the food, so if your dog really loves those, you may want to supplement with additional freeze-dried nuggets.
- This food is a bit on the expensive side compared to some other options on the market.
- While the ingredients are high-quality, the packaging is a bit bulky and may be difficult to store if you have limited space.
Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Raw Blend as a great option for dogs with heart disease. It’s packed with healthy, protein-rich ingredients and is free of any unnecessary fillers or artificial additives. Plus, with its focus on whole body health and digestive support, it’s a great all-around choice for any dog.
Forza10 Kidney Care Dog Food, Dry Renal Dog Food for Adult Dogs, 8.8 Pound Bag, Fish Flavor Kidney Failure Dog Food for All Breeds and Sizes
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports kidney health, Forza10 Kidney Care Dog Food is an excellent choice.
Pros
- This gluten-free dog food is specially formulated to help renal and cardiac problems such as chronic or acute renal failure, congestive heart failure, and conditions requiring low protein and low phosphorus diets.
- Made with Icelandic anchovy and enriched with a mix of natural, therapeutic plants and fruits, this kidney support food for dogs tastes great. It contains omega-3 fatty acids to help kidney failure in dogs and kidney support for dogs.
- This healthy and natural kidney support dog food is corn, wheat, and soy-free and contains no harmful ingredients, no GMOs, no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors (dry dog renal food).
Cons
- Some users reported that their dogs didn’t like the pate form of the food.
- The bag is relatively small, so it may not last long for larger dogs.
- The price is higher than some other dog foods.
Forza10 Kidney Care Dog Food is an excellent option for dogs with kidney or heart issues. This dry dog food provides balanced nutrition for your pet, with special attention to kidney and heart health. The food is easy to integrate into any regular diet and is designed to be gentle on sensitive stomachs and digestive systems, making it a great food for dogs with kidney disease.
The food’s high-quality ingredients, including Icelandic anchovy, make it tasty and nutritious. The omega-3 fatty acids help support kidney health and can improve your dog’s overall well-being. This gluten-free dog food is also free from harmful ingredients, making it a safe and healthy option for your furry friend.
While some users reported that their dogs didn’t like the pate form of the food, most dogs seem to enjoy the taste. The bag is relatively small, so it may not last long for larger dogs, and the price is higher than some other dog foods. However, the quality of the ingredients and the food’s effectiveness in supporting kidney health make it a worthwhile investment for many pet owners.
Overall, we highly recommend Forza10 Kidney Care Dog Food for dogs with kidney or heart issues.
Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Adult -amp; Senior Dogs
We highly recommend Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Adult -amp; Senior Dogs as it is a nutrient-rich recipe that promotes gut health and overall immune support.
Pros
- The recipe is made with a healthy balance of ocean fish meal and a unique blend of functional superfoods, which makes for a delicious and satisfying combination for gut health and overall immune support.
- The food is gluten-free and made for all breeds of all sizes and all life stages that promotes gut health and supports immunity by providing a natural balance of protein and fiber.
- The food contains fiber-rich probiotics for improved digestive function and a balance of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals via a 20 superfood blend, all while having no fillers like corn wheat, or soy.
Cons
- The food may not be suitable for dogs with allergies to fish or seafood.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
- The food may be more expensive than other dog food brands.
We have been using Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Adult -amp; Senior Dogs for a few months now, and we are impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat is shinier, and he has more energy. The food is easy to digest, and our dog loves the taste. We appreciate that the food is made with high-quality ingredients and has no fillers like corn wheat or soy.
The food is also gluten-free and made for all breeds of all sizes and all life stages that promotes gut health and supports immunity by providing a natural balance of protein and fiber. The food contains fiber-rich probiotics for improved digestive function and a balance of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals via a 20 superfood blend.
However, the food may not be suitable for dogs with allergies to fish or seafood. Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, and the food may be more expensive than other dog food brands.
Overall, we highly recommend Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Adult -amp; Senior Dogs for its high-quality ingredients, digestive health benefits, and overall immune support.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best dog food for heart disease, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Protein Content
Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health in dogs with heart disease. Look for a dog food that has a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient. Good sources of protein include chicken, turkey, fish, and lamb. Avoid dog foods that contain meat by-products or fillers as these can be difficult for dogs with heart disease to digest.
Low Sodium
Dogs with heart disease should avoid foods that are high in sodium. High sodium intake can cause fluid buildup and lead to heart failure. Look for dog foods that have less than 0.3% sodium on a dry matter basis. You can also look for dog foods that are labeled as “low sodium” or “heart-healthy.”
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for dogs with heart disease as they can help reduce inflammation and improve heart function. Look for dog foods that contain fish oil or flaxseed oil, which are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants can help protect the heart and reduce the risk of heart disease. Look for dog foods that contain fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, cranberries, and sweet potatoes. These ingredients are rich in antioxidants and can help support your dog’s overall health.
Grain-Free
Some dogs with heart disease may have difficulty digesting grains. Look for dog foods that are grain-free or contain easily digestible grains such as rice or oatmeal. Avoid dog foods that contain corn, wheat, or soy as these can be difficult for dogs with heart disease to digest.
By keeping these features in mind, you can choose the best dog food for your furry friend with heart disease. Remember to consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations for your dog’s individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recommended ingredients in homemade dog food for dogs with heart disease?
When preparing homemade dog food for dogs with heart disease, it is recommended to include lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Vegetables like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes can also be added for added nutrition. Low-sodium broth can be used to cook the ingredients and add flavor. It is important to avoid ingredients that are high in sodium, fat, and cholesterol.
How can a dog with a heart murmur benefit from a specific diet?
A dog with a heart murmur can benefit from a diet that is low in sodium and high in nutrients. This can help reduce the workload on the heart and improve overall heart health. Foods that are rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can also be beneficial for dogs with heart murmurs.
Which commercial wet dog foods are best for dogs with congestive heart failure?
There are several commercial wet dog foods that are formulated specifically for dogs with congestive heart failure. Some of the best options include Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Canine Formula.
What are the benefits of Royal Canin Cardiac dog food for heart health in dogs?
Royal Canin Cardiac dog food is specially formulated to support heart health in dogs. It contains a blend of nutrients that can help improve heart function and reduce the risk of heart disease. The food is also low in sodium and high in antioxidants, which can help protect the heart from damage.
Why is low sodium content important in dog food for dogs with heart failure?
Low sodium content is important in dog food for dogs with heart failure because it can help reduce the workload on the heart. When the body retains too much sodium, it can cause fluid buildup in the body, which can put additional strain on the heart. By reducing sodium intake, the heart can function more efficiently and effectively.
How does diet affect the life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with heart disease?
Diet can play a significant role in the life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with heart disease. A diet that is low in sodium and high in nutrients can help improve heart function and reduce the risk of complications. By following a healthy diet, dogs with heart disease may be able to live longer and enjoy a better quality of life.