Best Dog Food for Weight Gain and Muscle Building

Dogs are known to be man’s best friend, and as such, we want to ensure that they are healthy and happy. One of the ways to achieve this is by feeding them the right food. However, not all dog foods are created equal, and some may not provide the necessary nutrients to help your dog gain weight and muscle. That’s why we have researched and tested several dog foods to identify the best ones for this purpose.

When looking for the best dog food to gain weight and muscle, there are a few critical things to consider. First, the food should be high in protein, which is essential for muscle growth. Second, it should contain healthy fats that provide energy and help with weight gain. Finally, it should have a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellbeing.

After extensive research and testing, we have identified several dog foods that meet these criteria and can help your dog gain weight and muscle. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at each of these products and what makes them stand out.

Best Dog Foods for Weight Gain and Muscle Building

As dog owners, we want to ensure our furry friends are healthy and happy. For some dogs, gaining weight and building muscle can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog foods to help your pup pack on the pounds and build strong muscles. These foods are packed with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Check out our top picks below.

Royal Canin Medium Weight Care Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your slightly overweight dog lose weight while maintaining their muscle mass, then Royal Canin Medium Weight Care Adult Dry Dog Food for Medium Breeds is a great option.

Pros

• Formulated for medium-size dogs that have a tendency to gain weight
• 80% of slightly overweight dogs fed this dry food lost weight within two months
• An ideal fiber blend helps dogs feel full and helps limit additional weight gain

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe weight issues
• Some customers find the price to be a bit high

We’ve had great success with this dog food for our slightly overweight dog. Within two months, we noticed a significant improvement in their weight and overall health. The fiber blend in this food helps our dog feel full and satisfied, which has helped limit their snacking between meals.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction. Additionally, this food may not be suitable for dogs with severe weight issues, as they may require a more specialized diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Medium Weight Care Adult Dry Dog Food for Medium Breeds to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their slightly overweight dog lose weight and maintain their muscle mass.

IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that helps your furry friend gain weight and muscle, we recommend IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken.

Pros

• Contains L-carnitine and less fat to support healthy weight in adult dogs
• Provides essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy
• Supports strong, firm muscles with protein sourced from chicken and egg

Cons

• May cause excessive gas in some dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains grains, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities

We have been using this dog food for a while now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s weight and muscle mass. The L-carnitine and reduced fat content have helped him maintain a healthy weight while still providing the necessary nutrients for energy and muscle growth.

The protein from chicken and egg has also helped him develop strong, firm muscles. We appreciate that this dog food contains wholesome grains, which provide a good source of essential nutrients and carbohydrates.

However, we have noticed that this dog food may cause excessive gas in some dogs. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food, so it may take some time to transition them to this brand. Lastly, the inclusion of grains may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dogs looking to gain weight and muscle. It has helped our dog achieve a healthy weight and build strong muscles, and we appreciate the quality ingredients used in this product.

Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie -amp; Protein Dry Dog Food -amp; 11-in-1 Chews for Muscle -amp; Weight Gain Supplements Bundle for Puppy -amp; Adult Dogs, Small -amp; Large Breeds – Used by UKC, AKC, and ABKC Champions

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will help your furry friend gain weight and muscle, the Bully Max Pro Dry Dog Food and Muscle Building Chews Combo Pack is the perfect solution. We highly recommend this product for all dog breeds and life stages, including performance dogs and those needing to bulk up.

Pros

• The 31/25 Pro Series Dry Dog Food has 600 calories per cup, making it the industry leader in calorie density.
• The 11-in-1 Muscle Gain PRO Series Dog Chews are packed with 200 mg of BCAAs, high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making them a breakthrough in canine health supplements.
• The combo pack is meticulously formulated for easy digestion and maximum nutrient uptake, ensuring no discomfort from overeating.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than some other dog food options, but the quality of the product is worth it.
• The high calorie density of the dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before feeding it to your dog.
• The chews may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or dietary restrictions, so it’s important to check the ingredients list before feeding them to your dog.

We have used the Bully Max Pro Dry Dog Food and Muscle Building Chews Combo Pack with our own dogs and have seen great results. The dog food is chicken-flavored and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a delicious and nutritious option for all dogs. The chews are soft and easy to digest, and our dogs have loved them as a treat or as a supplement to their regular meals.

The advanced time-release technology in the chews ensures optimal nutrient absorption for your dog, maximizing the efficiency of each serving. This makes the chews an ideal option for dog training treats or for integrating into your dog’s diet as a food supplement.

Overall, we highly recommend the Bully Max Pro Dry Dog Food and Muscle Building Chews Combo Pack for anyone looking to help their furry friend gain weight and muscle. It is a high-quality, safe, and effective product that meets AFFCO requirements for complete and balanced nutrition.

Purina ONE Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Dry True Instinct with Real Beef and Salmon With Bone Broth and Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients – 27.5 lb. Bag High Protein Beef -amp; Salmon 27.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will help your furry friend gain weight and muscle, Purina ONE True Instinct High Protein Formula With Real Beef and Salmon is a great option. Our dogs loved this food, and we were impressed by its many benefits.

Pros

• Real beef is the number 1 ingredient in this high protein dog food, which supplies 32 percent protein for strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
• Purina ONE natural dog food made with protein-rich beef bone broth for dogs, added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients crafted by a veterinarian-recommended brand in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities.
• 100 percent nutrition for adult dogs with 0 percent fillers or animal by-product so that every ingredient in this dry Purina ONE dog food has a purpose.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• This food is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market.
• The kibble size may be too large for small dogs.

We were impressed by the high-quality ingredients in this dog food, including real beef and salmon, as well as the added vitamins and minerals. Our dogs seemed to love the taste, and we noticed an improvement in their muscle tone and overall health after switching to this food.

One of the things we appreciated about this dog food was that it contains no fillers or animal by-products, which means that every ingredient has a purpose and contributes to our dogs’ health. We also liked that it is made in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities, which gave us peace of mind about the quality of the product.

While this dog food is a bit pricey compared to some other options on the market, we felt that it was worth the investment for the high-quality ingredients and benefits it provides. Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, but we didn’t experience any issues with our dogs refusing to eat it.

Overall, we would highly recommend Purina ONE True Instinct High Protein Formula With Real Beef and Salmon to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food to help their furry friend gain weight and muscle.

Bully Max 30/20 High Protein Dry Dog Food -amp; 40/14 Dog Training Treats with Premium Chicken Bundle for Puppy and Adult Dogs of Small, Medium, and Large Breeds – 15 lb Dry Food Bag -amp; 400g Treats Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your furry friend gain weight and muscle, then you might want to consider Bully Max. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we think it’s definitely worth a try.

Pros

• Protein-rich formula for weight gain, muscle growth, and vitality
• Balanced diet with natural ingredients, including chicken meal and brown rice
• Dental health support with crispy texture that aids in teeth cleaning

Cons

• Might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs might not like the taste
• Can be a bit pricey compared to other options

Bully Max 30/20 High Protein Dry Dog Food is designed to provide your dog with the nutrients they need for healthy weight gain and rapid muscle growth. With 30% more protein and 20% more fat than traditional options, and a substantial 535 calories per cup, it efficiently nourishes your dog. Additionally, Bully Max 40/14 High Protein Premium Chicken Jerky Dog Treats has 40% protein from real chicken, supports muscle health and vitality in dogs.

Crafted from natural ingredients, rich in Chicken Meal and Brown Rice, Bully Max 30/20 High Protein Dry Dog Food provides high-quality protein for dog health. Infused with Chicken Fat for essential fats and Dried Plain Beet Pulp for fiber, plus Whitefish Meal for omega fatty acids, this formula is perfect for healthy weight management, offering a premium, balanced diet that supports overall health and vitality across all dog breeds and sizes.

Bully Max 40/14 High Protein Premium Chicken Jerky Dog Treats is a baked chicken dog treat that is not only delicious but also contributes to your dog’s dental well-being. Their crispy texture aids in teeth cleaning, diminishing plaque and tartar accumulation with each delightful bite. Perfect for pet owners prioritizing their furry friend’s dental hygiene while indulging their canine’s desires. Suitable for puppies and adult dogs of small, medium, and large breeds.

Bully Max High-Performance Dry Dog Food is suitable for both small and large breeds. This tasty chicken blend dry dog food adheres to AFFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition, making it a top choice for all breeds, including champion show dogs. Moreover, Bully Max High Protein Chicken Jerky Dog Treats is a healthy treat rich in essential nutrients, with no artificial additives, colors, or flavors and vet-approved for quality.

Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, our Bully Max Dog Food -amp; Premium Treats meet the highest quality standards. Every product from Bully Max undergoes rigorous vet approval, backed by our commitment to zero recalls. Bully Max is dedicated to high-quality pet care, providing vet-approved, high performance wet dog food and dry dog foods, along with premium puppy -amp; dog supplements, to guarantee top-quality canine nutrition for puppies and senior dogs.

The Missing Link Puppy 8oz Supplement

If you’re looking for a supplement that promotes growth and development in your furry friend, The Missing Link Puppy 8oz Supplement is a great option.

Pros

• Essential Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, dietary fiber -amp; dried egg powder protein supports proper growth and development and digestive, bone, and skin -amp; coat health
• Powders are the most potent way to deliver efficacious -amp; fresh ingredients
• LactoSpore probiotics are included in the formulation to boost absorption so your pet’s body can utilize the ingredients more easily

Cons

• Due to the high fiber content, start with small amounts and gradually increase to the recommended level over the course of a week or two
• The package arrived without a box or any outside wrapping
• Some customers have reported shipping issues

We’ve had a great experience with The Missing Link Puppy 8oz Supplement. Our furry friend has shown significant improvement in growth and development, and we’ve noticed a shinier coat and healthier skin. We appreciate the inclusion of probiotics to aid in absorption and the use of patented cold process manufacturing technology for maximum nutritional value.

We do recommend starting with small amounts and gradually increasing to the recommended level due to the high fiber content. Additionally, we were disappointed to receive our package without any outside wrapping or protection.

Overall, if you’re looking for a supplement to support your puppy’s growth and development, we highly recommend trying The Missing Link Puppy 8oz Supplement.

Adirondack Pet Food

We highly recommend Adirondack Pet Food’s Puppy Food for Puppies and Performance Dogs if you want to ensure that your furry friend is getting quality nutrition that is free from artificial flavors and fillers.

Pros

• Made in the USA with only the finest ingredients
• Slow-cooked for maximum nutrient retention
• Great tasting dog food for puppies and performance dogs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit pricier than other options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We love that Adirondack Pet Food is family-owned and operated, and all their products are made in the USA. Their unique slow-cooking process enhances flavor and maximizes nutrient retention, making this kibble a great option for dogs looking to gain weight and muscle.

The 30% protein and 20% fat content in Adirondack’s Puppy Food for Puppies and Performance Dogs make it nutritionally complete and balanced for all breeds and sizes. We appreciate that it never contains corn, wheat, soy, potatoes, artificial flavors, or colors.

Our furry friends deserve the best, and Adirondack Pet Food’s Puppy Food for Puppies and Performance Dogs delivers just that. With omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids from flaxseed and menhaden fish oil, this kibble promotes healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is made in the USA and slow-cooked for maximum nutrient retention, Adirondack Pet Food’s Puppy Food for Puppies and Performance Dogs is definitely worth considering.

Nutrition Strength Adrenal Support for Dogs

If you’re looking for a natural supplement to help your dog with Cushing’s disease, the Nutrition Strength Adrenal Support for Dogs is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Provides a blend of carefully selected organic herbs known for their beneficial health effects on the endocrine system.
• Contains a powerful 2 strain probiotic blend to provide digestive and immune support.
• Can be taken with your dog’s food or separately.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of the tablets.
• Dosage may need to be adjusted based on your dog’s weight.
• Some customers have reported that they didn’t see any significant improvement in their dog’s condition.

We’ve been using the Nutrition Strength Adrenal Support for Dogs for a few months now, and we’re happy with the results. Our dog has been diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, and we wanted to find a natural supplement to help support his endocrine system.

One of the things we like about this supplement is that it contains a blend of carefully selected organic herbs known for their beneficial health effects on the endocrine system. We feel good about giving our dog a supplement that’s made with high-quality, natural ingredients.

Another thing we like about this supplement is that it contains a powerful 2 strain probiotic blend to provide digestive and immune support. We’ve noticed that our dog’s digestion has improved since we started giving him these tablets.

We also appreciate that these tablets can be taken with our dog’s food or separately. Our dog is a picky eater, so being able to hide the tablets in his food has made it easier for us to give him his daily dose.

Overall, we recommend the Nutrition Strength Adrenal Support for Dogs to anyone looking for a natural supplement to help their dog with Cushing’s disease. While some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of the tablets and that they didn’t see any significant improvement in their dog’s condition, we’ve had a positive experience with this supplement and feel confident in recommending it to others.

Nutrition Strength Kidney Support for Dogs

We highly recommend Nutrition Strength Kidney Support for Dogs for pet owners who want to improve their furry friends’ urinary tract and digestive health.

Pros

• The supplement is formulated with organic cranberries, which are a natural source of vitamin C and strong antioxidants that can enhance your dog’s immune system and protect the skin.
• The chewable tablets are easily digestible and highly absorbable, making it easy for your dog to take.
• The supplement can help flush toxin buildups from the kidney and bladder to promote normal, comfortable urination and inflammation relief.

Cons

• The supplement is a bit expensive compared to other dog supplements in the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the supplement, and pet owners may need to use peanut butter or other food to entice their furry friends to take it.
• The tablets are relatively large, and some pet owners may need to break them into smaller pieces for their dogs to swallow.

We have been using Nutrition Strength Kidney Support for Dogs for a few months now, and we have noticed significant improvements in our dog’s urinary tract health. Our furry friend used to have frequent bladder infections, but since we started giving him this supplement, he has not had one. We also appreciate that the supplement is made in the USA and meets the strictest animal supplement manufacturing guidelines.

The supplement is formulated with organic cranberries, which have been shown to help manage some leading causes of inflammation in the stomach and small intestine. Additionally, the supplement promotes a healthy digestive function, which is essential for dogs with kidney problems.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutrition Strength Kidney Support for Dogs to pet owners who want to improve their furry friends’ urinary tract and digestive health.

Purina Beyond WILD Prey-Inspired Turkey, Liver and Duck Recipe Wet Dog Food

We highly recommend purchasing Purina Beyond WILD Prey-Inspired Turkey, Liver and Duck Recipe wet dog food for your furry friend. It is a great option for those looking to help their dog gain weight and muscle in a healthy way.

Pros

• Real turkey is the number 1 ingredient, providing high-quality protein to help maintain lean muscles.
• Prey-inspired meals that deliver nutrient-dense nutrition that dogs seek in the wild.
• Made with nutrient-rich organ meat and a grain-free recipe to meet your ingredient standards.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the pate-style wet food.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food options.
• The packaging may vary, making it difficult to identify the product in-store.

We have personally used Purina Beyond WILD Prey-Inspired Turkey, Liver and Duck Recipe wet dog food for our own dogs and have seen great results. Our dogs have gained weight and muscle in a healthy way, and we feel good about feeding them a natural dog food with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

This wet dog food is made in the USA and contains no poultry by-product meal, making it a trustworthy option for pet owners. It satisfies dogs’ cravings naturally and provides the nourishment they need to support their overall health and wellness.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Beyond WILD Prey-Inspired Turkey, Liver and Duck Recipe wet dog food for those looking to help their dogs gain weight and muscle in a healthy way.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best dog food to gain weight and muscle, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Protein Content

Protein is essential for muscle growth, so it’s important to choose a dog food with a high protein content. Look for products that have at least 25% protein, with the source of protein being high-quality meat such as chicken, beef, or fish.

Caloric Density

To gain weight, your dog needs to consume more calories than they burn. Choosing a dog food with a high caloric density can help with this. Look for products that have at least 400 calories per cup.

Fat Content

Fat is another important nutrient for weight gain and muscle development. Look for dog foods with a moderate to high fat content (around 15-20%). However, be careful not to choose a product that is too high in fat, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Nutrient Balance

It’s important to choose a dog food that provides a balanced mix of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. Look for products that have a variety of ingredients, including fruits and vegetables, to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need.

Other Considerations

In addition to the factors listed above, there are a few other things to keep in mind when choosing a dog food for weight gain and muscle development. These include:

• Avoiding fillers and by-products
• Choosing a product that is appropriate for your dog’s age and size
• Checking for any allergens or sensitivities your dog may have

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best dog food to help your furry friend gain weight and build muscle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated commercial dog foods for increasing weight and muscle?

There are several commercial dog food brands that are formulated specifically for weight gain and muscle development. Some of the top-rated brands include Purina Pro Plan Sport, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed, Royal Canin Maxi Nutrition, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection. These brands contain high-quality protein sources and essential nutrients that promote healthy weight gain and muscle development.

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

Homemade diets can be an effective way to help a dog gain weight and muscle, but it’s important to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced. Homemade diets should include high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as healthy fats like olive oil or coconut oil. It’s also important to include a variety of vegetables and fruits to provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Are there specific dog food brands recommended for weight and muscle gain in senior dogs?

Yes, there are specific dog food brands that are formulated for senior dogs who need to gain weight and muscle. Some of the top-rated brands for senior dogs include Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Large Breed, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior, and Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7 . These brands contain high-quality protein sources and essential nutrients that support healthy weight gain and muscle development in older dogs.

What should I look for in high-calorie dog foods to ensure healthy weight gain?

When choosing a high-calorie dog food, it’s important to look for brands that contain high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. The protein source should be listed as the first ingredient and should come from a named animal source like chicken, beef, or fish. Look for brands that contain healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and avoid brands that contain fillers or artificial preservatives.

Can a high-fat diet be beneficial for a dog’s weight and muscle development?

A high-fat diet can be beneficial for a dog’s weight and muscle development, but it’s important to ensure that the diet is balanced and provides all of the essential nutrients. Dogs require a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to maintain optimal health, so it’s important to choose a high-fat dog food that also contains high-quality protein sources and essential nutrients.

Is there a difference in effectiveness between wet and dry dog foods for weight gain?

Both wet and dry dog foods can be effective for weight gain, but wet dog food is generally higher in moisture and lower in calories than dry dog food. Wet dog food can be a good option for dogs who need to gain weight but have trouble eating dry food, while dry dog food can be a good option for dogs who need to gain weight but have dental issues. Ultimately, the best option will depend on the individual dog’s needs and preferences.