Best Dog Food for Puppies to Gain Weight: Top Picks and Tips

Puppies are cute and cuddly, but they require a lot of attention and care, especially when it comes to their diet. Choosing the right dog food for your puppy is essential for their growth and development. If you’re looking for the best dog food for puppies to gain weight, there are a few things to consider.

First, it’s important to understand the nutritional needs of puppies. Puppies require a diet that is high in protein, fat, and calories to support their rapid growth and development. However, it’s essential to choose a dog food that provides balanced nutrition and doesn’t overdo it on any one nutrient.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for puppies to gain weight, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the quality of the ingredients. Look for a dog food that uses high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog foods that use fillers like corn or soy, as these provide little nutritional value and can be difficult for puppies to digest.

Another important factor to consider is the calorie content of the dog food. Puppies need a lot of calories to support their growth, but it’s important to choose a dog food that provides the right amount of calories without going overboard. Overfeeding your puppy can lead to obesity and other health problems down the line.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for puppies looking to gain weight. We’ll take a closer look at the ingredients, calorie content, and overall quality of each dog food to help you make an informed decision.

Best Puppy Food for Weight Gain

As pet owners, we all want to see our puppies grow up healthy and strong. However, some puppies may struggle with weight gain, which can lead to a host of health issues. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best puppy food options that are specifically designed to help your furry friend pack on some pounds. These products have been carefully selected based on their high-quality ingredients, nutritional value, and positive customer reviews. Whether you have a picky eater or a pup with a fast metabolism, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

PET CARE Sciences Dog Weight Gainer

If you’re searching for a reliable dog weight gain supplement, PET CARE Sciences Dog Weight Gainer is worth considering.

Pros

• The product is packed with protein and other natural supplements that your dog needs to regain lost weight or increase muscle size.
• It contains vitamins such as amino acid that help with joint strain, reduce inflammation, and support your dog’s skin and coat condition.
• The supplement is easy to use and comes in sweet bacon flavor powder, which most dogs love.

Cons

• The product may not work for all dogs, and some may not like the taste.
• It’s essential to follow the recommended portion suggestion to avoid overfeeding your dog, which can lead to health issues.
• The product may not be suitable for dogs with specific allergies or dietary restrictions.

We recently tried PET CARE Sciences Dog Weight Gainer on our puppy, and we were impressed with the results. Our puppy had lost weight due to an illness, and we were struggling to get her to eat enough food to regain the weight she had lost. After adding the supplement to her food, we noticed an improvement in her appetite and energy levels within a few days.

The supplement is easy to use, and our puppy loved the sweet bacon flavor. We also noticed an improvement in her coat condition and joint health, which we attribute to the supplement’s natural ingredients.

Overall, we highly recommend PET CARE Sciences Dog Weight Gainer to anyone looking for a reliable weight gain supplement for their dog. It’s made in the USA from naturally sourced ingredients, and the company offers a 100% money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with the product.

Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-calorie dog food that promotes healthy weight gain and muscle building, Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive.

Pros

• With 600 calories per cup, this premium dog food is the most calorie-dense on the market.
• Its high-calorie formula allows you to feed your dog up to 60% less than other brands, making it an excellent value.
• It’s suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages, including pregnant or nursing ones.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the bag was less than half full upon delivery.
• The smell of the food may be unappealing to some dogs.
• The quantity of food for the price may be considered too small by some customers.

Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie Dry Dog Food is enriched with heart-healthy flaxseed and 19 essential vitamins -amp; minerals, making it not only the most calorie-dense but possibly the most nutritious performance dog food available. Its optimal blend of high-quality nutrients promotes a healthy, energetic lifestyle with its carefully balanced nutrition, making it an excellent choice for maintaining your dog’s overall well-being.

We’ve noticed that our dog has gained healthy weight and muscle mass since we started feeding him this food. It’s also easy to digest and doesn’t cause any discomfort or overeating. Our dog loves the chicken flavor, and we appreciate that it’s free from cheap fillers, soy, corn, and artificial flavors.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-calorie dog food that promotes healthy weight gain and muscle building, Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. We highly recommend it.

Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Chews

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to help your puppy gain weight, then the Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Chews are a great option to consider.

Pros

• These chews are an effective and natural solution for healthy weight gain in dogs, providing your canine with the essential nutrition they need for optimal health and vitality.
• Packed with 250 million CFUs of probiotics per bag, these chews promote better digestion and strengthen the immune system, making them ideal for all life stages, from young puppies to adult dogs.
• Made with high-quality natural ingredients and enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, these chews are ideal for dog and puppy weight gain, and they’re free from added sugar, gluten, wheat, artificial flavors, animal by-products, glycol, and glycerine.

Cons

• Some dogs may not find the bacon flavor appealing, and it may take some time to get them used to the taste.
• These chews are not a substitute for a balanced diet, and you should always consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.
• While these chews are suitable for all breed sizes, you may need to adjust the dosage based on your dog’s weight and individual needs.

We’ve been using the Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Chews for a few weeks now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our puppy’s weight and overall health. The chews are easy to administer, and our puppy loves the bacon flavor, making it a tasty treat during walks, hikes, or play sessions.

We appreciate that these chews are made with pure and wholesome ingredients, free from harmful additives, and enriched with essential vitamins and nutrients. The probiotics also help improve our puppy’s digestive health and strengthen his immune system, which is especially important during his growth and development stages.

Overall, we highly recommend the Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Chews to anyone looking for a natural and effective way to help their puppy gain weight and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that promotes healthy growth and development, Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, this protein-rich recipe is crafted with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to support your pup’s overall health and vitality.

Pros

• Made with real chicken
• Crafted with high-quality, recognizable ingredients
• Supports healthy brain and eye development, digestion, and immunity

Cons

• Some trace amounts of potential allergens may be present due to manufacturing cross-contact
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or restrictions
• Higher price point compared to some other puppy foods

We’ve been using Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food for our own furry friend, and have been impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the noticeable improvements in our pup’s coat and overall health. The chicken and brown rice recipe is not only delicious, but also provides essential nutrients like DHA to support healthy brain and eye development.

One of the standout features of this puppy food is the fact that it’s crafted with recognizable, high-quality ingredients – there are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein. While there may be trace amounts of potential allergens due to manufacturing cross-contact, we appreciate the effort that Nutro puts into sourcing their ingredients from trusted farmers and suppliers.

That being said, the higher price point may be a turn-off for some pet owners, especially if you’re feeding a large breed puppy. Additionally, if your dog has specific dietary needs or restrictions, this may not be the best option for you. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality puppy food that promotes healthy growth and development, Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 7 lb. Bag Chicken 7 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for an affordable and nutritious option to help your puppy gain weight, IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great choice.

Pros

• Contains 22 key nutrients like those found in mother’s milk
• Omega-3 DHA for smarter, more trainable puppies
• Supports muscle growth with high-quality protein

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• Bag size is small for larger breeds

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our puppy’s overall health. The high-quality protein has helped support muscle growth and the 22 key nutrients have helped keep our puppy healthy and playful.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the inclusion of Omega-3 DHA, which has helped make our puppy more trainable and responsive to commands. The antioxidants in the food have also helped support our puppy’s immune system development.

While the small bag size may not be ideal for larger breeds, it’s perfect for smaller puppies and makes it easy to store in a small space. However, some dogs may not like the taste of the food and it may cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for anyone looking for an affordable and nutritious option to help their puppy gain weight.

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, natural, and tasty way to add some variety to your dog’s diet, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck
• Can be used as a mix-in, topper, or snack
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Cons

• More expensive than some other wet dog food options
• Some clumping may occur
• Not a complete meal on its own, as it is meant to be used as a supplement to dry food

We’ve been using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement as a topper for our puppy’s dry food for a few weeks now, and we’ve been really happy with the results. Our puppy seems to love the taste, and we appreciate that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial additives.

One thing to keep in mind is that this product is meant to be used as a supplement to dry food, rather than as a complete meal on its own. It’s also a bit more expensive than some other wet dog food options, but we think the quality of the ingredients justifies the price.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement to anyone looking for a natural and tasty way to add some variety to their dog’s diet.

Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim Formula Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that helps your puppy gain weight, Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim Formula Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• This dog food is grain-free, which makes it a great option for puppies with grain allergies or sensitivities.
• It contains 74% animal-based proteins, which helps your puppy maintain lean muscle growth and development.
• The addition of L-Carnitine helps support fat metabolism, which is great for puppies that need weight loss support.

Cons

• This dog food is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
• Some puppies may not like the taste of this dog food.
• It may not be suitable for puppies with certain health conditions, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian before switching your puppy’s food.

We recently switched our puppy to Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim Formula Dry Dog Food and have been pleased with the results. Our puppy has been able to maintain a healthy weight while still getting the nutrients she needs to grow and develop.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it’s grain-free, which makes it a great option for puppies with grain allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, the high animal-based protein content helps our puppy maintain lean muscle growth and development.

Another great feature of this dog food is the addition of L-Carnitine, which helps support fat metabolism. This is especially important for puppies that need weight loss support.

The only downside to this dog food is that it’s a bit pricey compared to other options on the market. Additionally, some puppies may not like the taste of this dog food. Finally, it may not be suitable for puppies with certain health conditions, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian before switching your puppy’s food.

Overall, we highly recommend Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim Formula Dry Dog Food for puppies that need to gain weight. It’s a great option that provides your puppy with the nutrients they need to grow and develop while still supporting weight loss goals.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that will help your puppy gain weight, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, making it a great source of protein for your puppy’s muscle growth and weight gain.
• The nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin are a great alternative to corn or wheat, which can be harder to digest and less nutritious.
• The added fiber helps support digestion and immune system health, ensuring that your puppy is getting all the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food looks and smells different than expected, which could be a concern for picky eaters.
• While the price isn’t the highest on the market, it’s still on the higher end for a 24-pound bag of dog food.
• While most customers have reported that their puppies love the taste of this food, there are always some dogs who may not enjoy it as much.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe dry dog food for puppies who need to gain weight. With high-quality ingredients, added fiber, and a great taste, it’s a great choice for any puppy owner looking to help their furry friend grow and thrive.

Bully Max Weight Gainer Liquid for Puppies -amp; Adult Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-calorie dog supplement that also doubles as a multivitamin, then Bully Max Weight Gainer Liquid is an excellent option. We recommend this product for dogs of all ages and breeds who require additional nutrition to gain weight in a healthy way.

Pros

• The formula is packed with high-quality proteins and essential nutrients that expedite weight gain in underweight dogs.
• It’s a nutrient-rich blend of whey protein and omega-3 fish oil that supports overall health and promotes lean muscle gain -amp; vitality in dogs.
• It’s a potent high-calorie enhancer for your dog’s regular meals, offering 150 calories per ounce primarily from healthy fats.

Cons

• The product is relatively expensive compared to other weight gain supplements in the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the supplement, and it may take some time to get them used to it.
• The packaging may not be suitable for long-term storage, and it may leak during shipping.

Bully Max Weight Gainer Liquid is a veterinarian-recommended supplement that is effective for dogs of all sizes, with no known side effects, from as young as 4 weeks to seniors. It’s ideal for pregnant or nursing dogs, and this formula is a delicious way to help your dog achieve a healthy weight.

The product is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, and every product from Bully Max undergoes rigorous vet approval, backed by their commitment to zero recalls.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality weight gain supplement that also promotes overall health and vitality in your dog, then Bully Max Weight Gainer Liquid is an excellent choice.

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

If you’re looking for a nutritional supplement that helps your furry friend gain weight and stay healthy, then MIRACLE VET High-Calorie Weight Gainer -amp; Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement for Dogs -amp; Cats is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Packed with 29 essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium for dogs and fish oil for cats
• Contains omega-3 fish oil, which promotes healthy skin and coat while providing a natural energy source
• Easy to use and suitable for pets of all ages and sizes

Cons

• May cause digestive issues in some pets
• Not suitable for pets with certain health conditions
• May not be as effective for extremely picky eaters

We’ve been using MIRACLE VET High-Calorie Weight Gainer -amp; Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement for Dogs -amp; Cats for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our furry friend has gained weight and is more energetic than ever before.

The supplement is easy to use and can be mixed with regular dog food or added to water. We’ve also used it as a dog food topper for picky eaters, and it works like a charm.

One of the best things about this supplement is that it’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support overall pet health. The omega-3 fish oil is also a great addition, as it promotes healthy skin and coat while providing a natural energy source.

However, we did notice that our pet experienced some digestive issues when we first started using the supplement. We also had to be careful about giving it to our pet, as it’s not suitable for pets with certain health conditions.

Overall, we would highly recommend MIRACLE VET High-Calorie Weight Gainer -amp; Multivitamin Nutritional Supplement for Dogs -amp; Cats to any pet owner looking to improve their pet’s health, muscle growth, and weight gain. It’s a natural and healthy supplement that’s safe for pets of all ages and sizes.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for puppies to gain weight, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting the right product for your furry friend:

Nutritional Content

The nutritional content of the dog food is the most important factor to consider. Look for a product that is high in protein and fat, as these are essential for healthy weight gain in puppies. Additionally, the food should contain a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals to support your puppy’s overall health.

Ingredients

It’s important to check the ingredients list to ensure that the dog food does not contain any harmful additives or fillers. Avoid products that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, as these can be harmful to your puppy’s health. Instead, look for foods that contain natural ingredients such as whole meats, vegetables, and fruits.

Age and Breed

Puppies have different nutritional needs depending on their age and breed. Be sure to choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for puppies, as these products will contain the right balance of nutrients for your furry friend. Additionally, consider your puppy’s breed when selecting a product, as some breeds may require more or less protein and fat in their diet.

Feeding Schedule

Establishing a regular feeding schedule is important for ensuring healthy weight gain in puppies. Feed your puppy small, frequent meals throughout the day rather than one or two large meals. This will help to prevent overeating and promote healthy digestion.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your puppy to gain weight and support their overall health and wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most nutritious homemade foods to help puppies gain weight?

Homemade dog foods can be a great way to help your puppy gain weight, but it is important to ensure that you are providing a balanced and nutritious diet. Some healthy homemade food options for weight gain include boiled chicken, sweet potatoes, brown rice, and green beans. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist before making any changes to your puppy’s diet.

Which small breed puppy foods are recommended for healthy weight gain?

For small breed puppies, it is important to choose a high-quality puppy food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Look for puppy foods that are high in protein and fat, as these nutrients are essential for healthy weight gain. Some recommended brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Blue Buffalo.

How can I safely increase my puppy’s muscle mass and weight with their diet?

To safely increase your puppy’s muscle mass and weight, it is important to provide them with a balanced diet that is high in protein and fat. Incorporating lean meats, such as chicken or turkey, into their diet can help to build muscle mass. Additionally, adding healthy fats, such as fish oil or coconut oil, can help to promote weight gain.

What high-calorie wet dog foods are effective for puppy weight gain?

Wet dog foods can be a great option for puppies who need to gain weight, as they are often higher in calories and moisture than dry kibble. Some effective high-calorie wet dog foods for weight gain include Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Chicken -amp; Barley Entrée, Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Puppy Chicken Dinner, and Royal Canin Puppy Canned Dog Food.

Where can I find specialized dog food for weight gain at retail stores?

Specialized dog food for weight gain can often be found at pet supply stores or online retailers. Look for brands that offer puppy-specific formulas that are high in protein and fat. Some popular brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Blue Buffalo.

What ingredients should I look for in dog food to ensure proper weight gain in puppies?

To ensure proper weight gain in puppies, it is important to choose a dog food that is high in protein and fat. Look for ingredients such as chicken, beef, fish, and eggs, as well as healthy fats like fish oil and coconut oil. Avoid dog foods that are high in fillers, such as corn or wheat, as these ingredients provide little nutritional value.