Best Food for Diabetic Dogs: Top Picks for Managing Blood Sugar Levels

Diabetes is a common health issue among dogs, and it can be challenging to manage their diet and keep their blood sugar levels under control. Feeding the right food is crucial for diabetic dogs to maintain their health and well-being. In this article, we will discuss the best food for diabetic dogs and what to look for when choosing the right one.

When it comes to diabetic dog food, the primary goal is to maintain a low glycemic index. A low glycemic index means that the food doesn’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for diabetic dogs. The ideal food for diabetic dogs is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and rich in fiber. These factors help regulate blood sugar levels and keep your dog healthy.

When choosing the best food for your diabetic dog, there are a few things to consider. First, you should consult with your veterinarian to determine your dog’s specific nutritional needs. Your vet can help you choose the right food based on your dog’s age, weight, and overall health.

You should also look for food that is specifically designed for diabetic dogs. These foods are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of diabetic dogs and help regulate their blood sugar levels. Look for food that is labeled “low glycemic” or “diabetic-friendly.”

In the next section, we will discuss the top brands of diabetic dog food and what makes them the best choice for your furry friend.

Best Food for Diabetic Dogs

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. When it comes to diabetic dogs, finding the right food can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best food options for diabetic dogs. These products are formulated to help manage blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients for overall health. Check out our top picks below.

Ketona Chicken Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a low-carb, high-protein dog food for your diabetic pup, Ketona Chicken Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food might be worth considering.

Pros

• With only 5% carbs, this food is a good option for dogs that need to manage their blood sugar levels.
• The high protein content (46%) is great for muscle maintenance and growth.
• Made with natural ingredients and non-GMO, antibiotic-free chicken raised by American ranchers using sustainable practices.

Cons

• The price point is a bit higher than some other dog foods on the market.
• Some customers have reported finding pieces of other brands’ kibble in their bags of Ketona.
• A few reviewers have mentioned that this food did not help manage their dog’s blood sugar levels.

We’ve found that Ketona Chicken Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for diabetic dogs that need a low-carb, high-protein diet. The natural ingredients and sustainable farming practices make us feel good about feeding it to our furry friend. However, the higher price point may be a turn-off for some pet owners. It’s important to note that a few customers have reported finding pieces of other brands’ kibble in their bags of Ketona, so be sure to check the food carefully before feeding it to your dog. Overall, we recommend giving Ketona a try if you’re looking for a diabetic-friendly dog food with natural ingredients and high protein content.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality 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 may be a good 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.
• Therapeutic L-carnitine levels help metabolize fat and maintain lean muscle.
• The optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, along with low calories, helps maintain healthy weight.

Cons

• This dog food can be expensive compared to other options on the market.
• Some customers have reported issues with dry skin after switching to this food.
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.

We recently switched our diabetic dog to Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog’s glucose levels have stabilized, and she seems to have more energy and better digestion.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust, and was developed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians. This food also includes clinically proven antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system.

We also appreciate that this dog food includes an optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps maintain healthy weight and support digestive health. The therapeutic L-carnitine levels help metabolize fat and maintain lean muscle, which is important for dogs with diabetes.

While this dog food can be expensive compared to other options on the market, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits it provides make it worth the investment. However, some customers have reported issues with dry skin after switching to this food, and the kibble size may be too large for some dogs.

Overall, we would highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help manage multiple conditions and support overall health.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help manage multiple conditions, including urinary health, digestive health, blood sugar management, and weight management, Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit could be a great option for your diabetic dog.

Pros

• This dog food is specially formulated by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to help manage multiple conditions that respond to fiber, weight and glucose management, digestive issues, and urinary health.
• The optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, along with low calories, helps maintain healthy weight.
• Controlled levels of magnesium and sodium promote urinary tract health.

Cons

• This dog food can be quite expensive.
• Some customers have reported that their cans arrived dented.
• The directions indicate that dogs should eat 3.5 cans a day, which can be quite costly.

We have been using Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit for our diabetic dog for several months now, and we have seen great results. Our dog’s blood sugar levels have stabilized, and he has maintained a healthy weight. We appreciate that this dog food is formulated to manage multiple conditions, making it a convenient option for us. However, we do acknowledge that it can be quite expensive, and the recommended feeding amount can add up quickly. Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit for diabetic dogs who need a food that can manage multiple conditions.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food for diabetic dogs. This food is specially formulated for small breed dogs and is easy to digest.

Pros

• The kibble is small and easy for small dogs to chew and digest.
• Contains nourishing omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Provides high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs.

Cons

• Not recommended for puppies or mature adult dogs (-gt; 6 years of age) or pregnant or nursing dogs.
• The packaging should be kept out of the reach of pets and children to prevent suffocation.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies.

We have used Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food for our diabetic dog and have found it to be an excellent choice. The small kibble size is perfect for our small dog and easy for her to chew and digest. The high-quality protein helps her maintain her lean muscle mass, and the omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E have helped keep her coat shiny and healthy.

One thing to note is that this food is not recommended for puppies or mature adult dogs (-gt; 6 years of age) or pregnant or nursing dogs. It is also important to keep the packaging out of the reach of pets and children to prevent suffocation.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food for diabetic dogs. It is a high-quality food that is specially formulated for small breed dogs and provides the necessary nutrition to keep them healthy.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that can provide optimal digestive health while nourishing your dog’s skin, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is the perfect choice. This dog food is formulated with natural ingredients and decades of cutting-edge research to provide your dog with a great-tasting and nutritious meal.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food feeds your dog’s microbiome for optimal digestive health.
• The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breed dogs, and the nutrients in the kibble help nourish your dog’s skin and promote a lustrous coat.
• This dog food is made with highly digestible ingredients, making it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Cons

• This dog food is quite expensive compared to other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some time to find the right flavor that your dog enjoys.
• The bag size is quite small, so you may need to purchase this dog food more frequently than you would with other brands.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small and toy breed dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. This dog food provides optimal digestive health and nourishment for your dog’s skin and coat, making it an excellent choice for any dog owner who wants to give their furry friend the best possible nutrition.

IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging Wet Dog Food Classic Ground with Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced meal for your senior dog, IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging Wet Dog Food Classic Ground with Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice is a great option. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, this premium recipe is formulated to be lower in fat, higher in protein, and full of fiber to help your dog maintain strong muscles and a healthy immune response.

Pros

• Includes essential minerals like calcium, and natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for bone and joint health
• Made with DHA Gold for mental and visual sharpness in aging dogs
• Helps boost the immune response of older dogs to healthy adult levels

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains carrageenan, which some pet owners may want to avoid
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging

We recently tried this wet dog food for our senior dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no digestive issues after eating it. We also appreciated that it contains essential minerals for bone and joint health, as well as DHA Gold for mental and visual sharpness.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s always a good idea to introduce new foods slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, some pet owners may want to avoid carrageenan, which is included in the recipe. Finally, a few customers have reported issues with the packaging, such as dented cans or leaks.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging Wet Dog Food Classic Ground with Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice for senior dogs who need a complete and balanced meal that is lower in fat and higher in protein.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Adult Wet Dog Food Chicken Recipe in Bone Broth, 2 oz. Tubs, (Pack of 10) Chicken 2 Ounce (Pack of 10)

If you’re looking for a simple and natural meal complement for your diabetic dog, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option.

Pros

• Made with only 6 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient.
• Mixes well with Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

Cons

• A bit expensive compared to other dog food options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture.
• Not a complete meal, so must be used as a topper or mix-in.

Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a simple recipe with only 6 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient. This makes it a great option for diabetic dogs who need a simple and natural diet. The meal complement is grain-free and does not contain chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

One of the best things about Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is that it mixes well with Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor. This makes it a great option for picky eaters who need a little extra motivation to eat their dry food.

However, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a bit expensive compared to other dog food options. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the meal complement. It’s also important to note that Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is not a complete meal, so it must be used as a topper or mix-in.

Overall, if you’re looking for a simple and natural meal complement for your diabetic dog, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for diabetic dogs because of its optimal digestive health benefits and natural ingredients.

Pros

• Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up
• Packed with vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to help maintain a healthy, shiny coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs
• May be more expensive than other dog foods

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for our diabetic dog for several months now and have seen a significant improvement in his overall health. The prebiotic fiber in the dog food has helped to fuel his gut bacteria and support a balanced microbiome, which has greatly improved his digestive health. Additionally, the natural ingredients in the dog food have helped to nourish his skin and maintain a healthy, shiny coat.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some time to transition them to it. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs, so it is important to monitor their eating habits. Finally, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food may be more expensive than other dog foods, but we believe the benefits are worth the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for diabetic dogs looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that promotes optimal digestive health and nourishes skin.

Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm Green Superfood Dog Food

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious meal for your diabetic dog, Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm Green Superfood Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The green food pre-mix is a great base for a nutritionally complete low-carb diet.
• It’s easy to prepare a fresh, wholesome meal for your dog in a matter of minutes.
• The low glycemic vegetables digest slowly to prevent glucose spike levels and low carbs for an optimal ketogenic diet.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies.
• The cost may be higher than other dog food options.

We recently tried Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm Green Superfood Dog Food for our diabetic dog and were impressed with the results. The green food pre-mix is a great base for a nutritionally complete low-carb diet. It’s easy to prepare a fresh, wholesome meal for your dog in a matter of minutes. Simply add hot water to the base mix, your choice of protein and oil, and you’re ready to serve your dog.

The low glycemic vegetables digest slowly to prevent glucose spike levels and low carbs for an optimal ketogenic diet. We noticed that our dog’s energy levels improved and he seemed to enjoy the taste of the food. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction.

While Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm Green Superfood Dog Food is a great option for diabetic dogs, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies. Additionally, the cost may be higher than other dog food options. Overall, we highly recommend Dr. Harvey’s Paradigm Green Superfood Dog Food for diabetic dogs seeking a ketogenic diet.

Diabetic TINY Dog Treats

If you’re looking for a low-calorie, low-protein treat for your diabetic dog, Diabetic TINY Dog Treats are a great option. These treats are all-natural and herbal-based, with many certified organic ingredients. They’re also made in the USA and contain no additives, chemicals, dyes, or other by-products.

Pros

• Same great ingredients as our Regular Diabetic Dog Treats
• New size; 1’inch by 1/2 inch . Approximately 2 calories per treat. Over 225 treats per bag
• All Natural, herbal based ingredients many are certified organic. Made in USA

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with allergies to certain ingredients
• Some dogs may not find them as tasty as other treats
• May not be as effective for dogs with more severe cases of diabetes

We’ve been using these treats for our diabetic dog for a few months now, and we’re happy with the results. They’re a great size for training and rewarding good behavior, and we love that they’re all-natural and made in the USA. Our dog seems to enjoy them, although they’re not quite as tasty as some other treats he’s had in the past.

One thing to keep in mind is that these treats may not be suitable for dogs with allergies to certain ingredients. It’s always a good idea to check with your vet before introducing any new treats or food to your dog’s diet. Additionally, while these treats have been effective for our dog’s mild case of diabetes, they may not be as effective for dogs with more severe cases.

Overall, we would recommend Diabetic TINY Dog Treats for anyone looking for a low-calorie, low-protein treat for their diabetic dog. They’re a great option for training and rewarding good behavior, and we love that they’re made with all-natural ingredients.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best food for diabetic dogs, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look out for:

Low Glycemic Index

The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Diabetic dogs need foods with a low GI to prevent spikes in blood sugar. Look for foods that are specifically formulated for diabetic dogs or have a low GI.

High Protein, Low Carbohydrate

Diabetic dogs benefit from a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. Protein helps to regulate blood sugar levels and can help to prevent muscle loss. Carbohydrates can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, so it’s important to choose foods with a low carbohydrate content.

Fiber

Fiber is an important nutrient for diabetic dogs. It can help to regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and promote a feeling of fullness. Look for foods that contain high-quality sources of fiber, such as sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or green beans.

Nutritional Balance

It’s important to choose a food that is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific dietary needs. Look for foods that contain a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Consult with your Veterinarian

Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you to choose the best food for your dog’s specific needs and provide guidance on feeding amounts and frequency.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best food for your diabetic dog and help to manage their condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended ingredients in homemade food for diabetic dogs?

When preparing homemade food for diabetic dogs, it is important to use ingredients that are low in carbohydrates and high in protein. Some recommended ingredients include lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and beef, as well as vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and green beans. It is also important to avoid high-carbohydrate ingredients like rice, potatoes, and corn.

Which foods should be avoided in a diabetic dog’s diet?

Foods that are high in carbohydrates should be avoided in a diabetic dog’s diet. This includes foods like grains, rice, potatoes, and corn. Additionally, foods that are high in fat should be limited, as they can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance.

What are the top non-prescription food options for dogs with diabetes?

There are several non-prescription food options available for dogs with diabetes. Some of the top options include Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d, Royal Canin Glycobalance, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula. These foods are designed to be low in carbohydrates and high in protein, which can help manage blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs.

How can I encourage my diabetic dog to eat when they have lost their appetite?

If your diabetic dog has lost their appetite, there are several things you can do to encourage them to eat. One option is to try feeding them smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. You can also try adding low-sodium chicken broth or a small amount of canned dog food to their meals to make them more appealing.

Can you provide a list of suitable food brands for dogs with diabetes?

Some suitable food brands for dogs with diabetes include Hill’s Prescription Diet, Royal Canin, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness. These brands offer a variety of options that are designed to be low in carbohydrates and high in protein, which can help manage blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs.

How often should I feed my diabetic dog to manage their blood sugar levels?

To manage blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs, it is recommended to feed them small, frequent meals throughout the day. This can help prevent spikes and drops in blood sugar levels. Your veterinarian can provide specific recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs and health status.