Best Weight Loss Food for Dogs: Top Picks and Tips

Dogs are a beloved part of many households, and as such, their health and well-being are of utmost importance to their owners. One aspect of a dog’s health that can often be overlooked is their weight. Obesity is a common problem among dogs, and it can lead to a host of health issues, including joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes.

Thankfully, there are many options for weight loss food for dogs on the market. These specialized dog foods are designed to help dogs lose weight while still providing them with the necessary nutrients to stay healthy. When choosing the best weight loss food for your dog, it is important to consider factors such as the ingredients, calorie count, and the specific needs of your dog.

One critical thing to pay attention to when selecting a weight loss food for your dog is the calorie count. It is essential to choose a food that is lower in calories than your dog’s current diet, but still provides them with the necessary nutrients. Additionally, it is important to choose a food that is high in protein and fiber, as these nutrients can help your dog feel fuller for longer, reducing their overall caloric intake.

We spent hours researching and testing various weight loss foods for dogs to identify the ones that are the most effective at promoting weight loss while still providing dogs with the necessary nutrients to stay healthy.

Best Weight Loss Food for Dogs

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We understand how important it is to keep our furry friends healthy and happy. One of the ways to achieve this is by ensuring they maintain an ideal weight. Obesity in dogs can lead to various health problems, including joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease. The good news is that there are plenty of weight loss foods for dogs available on Amazon. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best options to help you choose the right one for your furry friend.

1. Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Weight Management Dog Food, Chicken & Rice Formula

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for a weight management dog food for your large breed dog, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Weight Management Dog Food, Chicken & Rice Formula is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • High-quality protein, with real chicken as the first ingredient
  • Contains natural prebiotic fiber to promote digestive health
  • 15% less fat than Pro Plan ESSENTIALS Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice Formula for Adult Dogs

Cons

  • May not be suitable for small breed dogs
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • A bit expensive compared to other dog foods

We have been using Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Weight Management Dog Food, Chicken & Rice Formula for our overweight Labrador Retriever for a few months now, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in his weight. The high-quality protein, with real chicken as the first ingredient, helps him maintain his muscle mass while losing weight. The natural prebiotic fiber in the food has also helped improve his digestive health.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may not be suitable for small breed dogs, as the kibble size is quite large. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, if you’re looking for a weight management dog food for your large breed dog, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Weight Management Dog Food, Chicken & Rice Formula is definitely worth considering. It’s a bit expensive compared to other dog foods, but the high-quality ingredients and noticeable results make it worth the investment.

2. Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Weight Management Dog Food

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for a weight loss food for your dog, Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Weight Management Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

  • Real chicken is the first ingredient
  • Contains natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health
  • Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health

Cons

  • Some customers reported receiving bags with crushed kibble
  • Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies
  • Some dogs may not like the taste

We recently switched to Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Weight Management Dog Food for our overweight dog and have seen a noticeable improvement in her weight and overall health. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass during weight loss. The natural prebiotic fiber nourishes specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health, and the guaranteed live probiotics support digestive and immune health.

One downside is that some customers have reported receiving bags with a lot of crushed kibble, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the food may not be suitable for dogs with poultry allergies. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s worth trying a small bag before committing to a larger size.

Overall, we recommend Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Weight Management Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and effective weight loss support.

3. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Large Breed Dry Dog Food

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for a weight management dog food for your large breed dog, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Large Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

  • The larger kibble size is perfect for large breed dogs.
  • Provides nutrition for safe and effective weight loss with visible results within 10 weeks (USA Study).
  • Supports joint function and hip health.

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste.
  • Not suitable for small breed dogs.
  • More expensive than other weight management dog foods.

We recently tried this dog food for our large breed dog and we were happy with the results. The larger kibble size was perfect for our dog and he seemed to enjoy the taste. We noticed a difference in his weight within a few weeks of switching to this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than other weight management dog foods. However, we believe that the benefits outweigh the cost. The nutrition for safe and effective weight loss with visible results within 10 weeks (USA Study) and the support for joint function and hip health make it a great choice for large breed dogs who need to lose weight.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Large Breed Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a weight management dog food for their large breed dog.

4. Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small & Mini Dry Dog Food

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for a convenient way to keep your little pet at a healthy weight without a complex diet, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small & Mini dry dog food is a great option. Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this weight control dog food. Aside from long-lasting weight support, this adult dry dog food made with natural ingredients helps tiny dogs maintain lean muscle.

Pros

  • Clinically proven for weight management
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Veterinarian recommended

Cons

  • Some customers may find the price higher than other dog foods
  • Comes in a small bag
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small & Mini dry dog food for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s weight. The kibble is small and easy for our dog to chew and digest. Our dog loves the taste and we feel good about feeding her a high-quality product that is recommended by veterinarians.

One thing to note is that the price may be higher than other dog foods, but we believe the benefits are worth it. Additionally, the small bag size may be inconvenient for some customers, especially those with larger dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small & Mini dry dog food for anyone looking to help their small dog maintain a healthy weight.

5. Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food for those who want to help their dogs lose weight.

Pros

  • Clinically proven for weight management
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Supports muscle maintenance

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • More expensive than some other dog foods
  • Contains chicken, which may cause allergies in some dogs

Our experience with Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food has been positive. Our dog lost weight within 10 weeks of eating this food, and we appreciate that it is made with natural ingredients. The protein content helps maintain lean muscle, which is important for weight loss.

One downside is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. It is also more expensive than some other dog foods, but we believe it is worth the investment for the health benefits. Additionally, this food contains chicken, which may cause allergies in some dogs.

Overall, we believe that Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food is a great choice for those looking to help their dogs lose weight in a healthy way.

6. Hill’s Prescription Diet r/d Weight Loss Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for the best weight loss food for dogs, Hill’s Prescription Diet r/d Weight Loss Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • Clinically proven nutrition for healthy weight loss in just 8 weeks
  • Therapeutic L-carnitine levels help metabolize fat and maintain lean muscle
  • Optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber helps your dog feel full and satisfied

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other dog food
  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • May cause digestive issues in some dogs

We’ve been using Hill’s Prescription Diet r/d Weight Loss Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food for our overweight dog for a few months now, and we’ve seen great results. Our dog has lost weight and has more energy than before.

The nutrition in this dog food is clinically proven to support healthy weight loss in just 8 weeks, which is impressive. The therapeutic L-carnitine levels help metabolize fat and maintain lean muscle, which is important for dogs who need to lose weight. The optimal blend of soluble and insoluble fiber also helps your dog feel full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating.

However, this dog food is more expensive than other options on the market, which may be a drawback for some pet owners. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food or may experience digestive issues when switching to this new diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet r/d Weight Loss Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food for dogs who need to lose weight. It’s a great option for pet owners who want to see real results in their dog’s health and well-being.

7. Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Chicken & Rice Formula – 34 lb. Bag Dry Food Chicken 34 Pound (Pack of 1)

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help your furry friend lose weight, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Chicken & Rice Formula. This formula is packed with essential nutrients, and the high protein content helps to maintain muscle mass during weight loss.

Pros

  • The formula contains 15% less fat than Purina Pro Plan ESSENTIALS Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice Formula for Adult Dogs.
  • The protein-to-fat ratio is optimized to maintain muscle mass during weight loss.
  • The formula is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health.

Cons

  • This product is only available for shipping within the United States.
  • The price may be higher than some other weight loss dog food options.
  • Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this formula.

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Chicken & Rice Formula for several months now, and we’re very impressed with the results. Our dog has lost weight and maintained muscle mass, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his overall health and energy levels.

One thing we love about this formula is that it’s made with high-quality ingredients that are carefully chosen for their nutritional value. The chicken is the first ingredient, which means that your dog is getting plenty of protein to support muscle growth and repair.

Another great thing about this formula is that it’s fortified with guaranteed live probiotics. These probiotics help to support digestive and immune health, which is especially important when your dog is losing weight.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Chicken & Rice Formula. It’s a high-quality dog food that can help your furry friend lose weight and maintain muscle mass, and it’s packed with essential nutrients that support overall health and wellness.

8. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food for those looking for a safe and effective weight loss solution for their furry friends. This dog food not only helps with weight management, but also supports joint function and mobility.

Pros

  • The nutrition in this dog food is clinically proven to provide safe and effective weight loss with visible results in just 10 weeks.
  • The dry dog food is specifically designed to help with healthy weight maintenance and long-lasting weight and mobility support.
  • The added fish oil provides EPA, an Omega-3, which helps to support joint function for a mobile and active life

Cons

  • The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
  • Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of the chicken flavor.
  • The price point may be higher than other weight loss dog food options.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who are looking for a safe and effective weight loss solution for their dogs. The nutrition in this dog food is clinically proven to provide safe and effective weight loss with visible results in just 10 weeks. Additionally, the dry dog food is specifically designed to help with healthy weight maintenance and long-lasting weight and mobility support.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the added fish oil which provides EPA, an Omega-3, which helps to support joint function for a mobile and active life. This is especially important for overweight dogs who may have joint issues.

While there are some potential downsides to this product, such as the kibble size being too large for smaller dogs and some dogs not enjoying the taste of the chicken flavor, we believe that the benefits of this dog food outweigh the cons. Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality weight loss solution for their furry friends.

9. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Perfect for Weight Management, Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew Recipe, 12.5 oz Cans, 12-pack Chicken & Vegetable | Loaf 12.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew for dogs that require fewer calories. This dog food is made with natural ingredients and clinically proven technology for healthy weight maintenance and long-lasting weight support in your adult dog.

Pros

  • Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this dog food made with natural ingredients.
  • A good source of protein to help your grown dog maintain lean muscle.
  • Clinically proven for adult canines.

Cons

  • Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs.
  • Some cans may arrive damaged.
  • A bit more expensive than other dog foods.

This dog food is a great option for dogs that are less active, neutered, or otherwise prone to weight gain. It is also a good source of high-quality protein to support lean muscle in your dog. However, it is not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs. Some cans may arrive damaged, but overall, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew is a great choice for weight management in adult dogs.

10. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your furry friend lose weight while also supporting their joint health, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

  • Nutrition for safe & effective weight loss with visible results within 10 weeks (USA Study)
  • Supports joint function and hip health
  • Clinically proven nutrition for weight management

Cons

  • Not suitable for puppies or pregnant or nursing dogs
  • Some picky eaters may not enjoy the taste
  • More expensive than some other dog food options

We recently tried this dog food with our overweight dog and were impressed with the results. Within a few weeks, we noticed a visible difference in his weight and mobility. The added fish oil also seemed to help with his joint function, making him more active and playful.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is not suitable for puppies or pregnant or nursing dogs. Additionally, some picky eaters may not enjoy the taste, so it may take some time to transition them to this food.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food that can help your furry friend lose weight and support their joint health, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

11. VICTOR Purpose – Senior/Healthy Weight, Dry Dog Food 40 lbs 40 Pound (Pack of 1)

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you are looking for a weight management dog food that promotes joint health and supports lean muscle development, VICTOR Purpose – Senior/Healthy Weight, Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • This super premium weight management dog food is formulated with gluten-free grains and L-Carnitine to aid in converting fat to energy for lean muscle development.
  • VICTOR Purpose – Senior/Healthy Weight, Dry Dog Food provides glucosamine and chondroitin to help support long-term hip and joint health.
  • Every VICTOR dog kibble formula begins with our exclusive mix of supplements, vitamins, and minerals that have been designed to help maximize the genetic potential of every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level.

Cons

  • The kibble size may not be suitable for all dogs.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
  • It may not be budget-friendly for some pet owners.

We have been using VICTOR Purpose – Senior/Healthy Weight, Dry Dog Food for our less active older dog, and we have seen positive results in his weight management. The nutrient-dense dry dog food contains premium-quality beef, fish, and chicken meals along with glucosamine and chondroitin to promote long-term hip and joint health, and L-Carnitine to aid in converting fat to energy for lean muscle development. We are also impressed with the fact that this weight management dog food is formulated with gluten-free grains and fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, and amino acids, promoting healthy immune and digestive systems, and a healthy skin and coat.

Our dog loves the taste of this dog food, and we are happy to know that every bag of VICTOR kibble is produced in their own Texas-based facility, and each ingredient used is carefully selected and serves a nutritional purpose. We also appreciate that a majority of the ingredients in their super premium quality dog foods come from ranches, farms, and other trusted suppliers who are within a day’s drive of their East Texas plant.

Overall, we highly recommend VICTOR Purpose – Senior/Healthy Weight, Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a weight management dog food that promotes joint health and supports lean muscle development.

12. IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

Best weight loss food for dogs: top picks and tips

If you’re looking for a healthy weight control dry dog food for your furry friend, IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

  • This dog food is designed to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.
  • It contains real farm-raised chicken and a wholesome blend of fibers and natural prebiotics for healthy digestion.
  • It has premium-quality protein to help promote strong muscles.

Cons

  • Some customers have reported that the kibble is hard and large, which makes it difficult for their dogs to chew.
  • This dog food is quite pricey compared to other options on the market.
  • Some customers have reported that their dogs experienced flatulence after eating this food.

We have used this dog food for our furry friend who had weight issues, and we were happy with the results. Our dog maintained a healthy weight while still enjoying the delicious taste of real chicken. The wholesome blend of fibers and natural prebiotics also helped with digestion, and the premium-quality protein helped to promote strong muscles.

One thing to note is that the kibble is quite hard and large, which may make it difficult for some dogs to chew. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive than other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Finally, some customers have reported that their dogs experienced flatulence after eating this food.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food to help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, IAMS Adult Healthy Weight Control Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying weight loss food for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best product for your furry friend. Here are some features to look for:

Calorie Count and Nutritional Content

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a weight loss food for your dog is the calorie count and nutritional content. Look for food that is low in calories but high in protein and fiber. This will help your dog feel full while still getting the nutrients they need.

Ingredients

It’s also important to pay attention to the ingredients in the food you choose. Avoid food that contains fillers, artificial colors, and preservatives. Look for food that contains high-quality ingredients like lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables.

Portion Control

Portion control is essential when it comes to weight loss for dogs. Look for food that comes in pre-portioned packages or use a measuring cup to ensure you’re giving your dog the right amount of food.

Consult with Your Veterinarian

Before starting your dog on a weight loss diet, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you determine the right amount of food to give your dog and may recommend a specific brand or type of food.

Conclusion

By keeping these features in mind, you can choose the best weight loss food for your dog. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before starting any weight loss diet for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What food is best for dogs to lose weight?

When it comes to weight loss for dogs, feeding them a balanced, low-calorie diet is key. Look for dog food that is high in protein, low in fat, and has plenty of fiber. Avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates, as these can contribute to weight gain. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best weight loss food for your dog’s specific needs.

What is the fastest way for a dog to lose weight?

While it may be tempting to drastically reduce your dog’s food intake or increase their exercise regimen, this can actually be harmful to their health. Rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss and other health problems. Instead, aim for a slow and steady weight loss of 1-2% of their body weight per week. This can be achieved through a combination of portion control and regular exercise.

What protein can I give my dog to lose weight?

Lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs are great options for dogs looking to lose weight. These proteins are low in fat and calories but high in essential nutrients. Avoid fatty meats such as beef and pork, as well as processed meats like hot dogs and deli meats.

How long does it take for a dog to lose weight?

The amount of time it takes for a dog to lose weight depends on a variety of factors, including their starting weight, age, and activity level. In general, a healthy weight loss goal for dogs is 1-2% of their body weight per week. With consistent effort and a healthy diet, most dogs can achieve their weight loss goals within a few months.

What are some good low calorie dog food options?

There are many low calorie dog food options available on the market. Look for brands that are specifically designed for weight loss, and make sure they are high in protein and fiber. Some popular options include Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Healthy Weight, and Purina Pro Plan Weight Management.

Which brands make the best weight loss dog food?

There are many reputable brands that make high-quality weight loss dog food. Some of the most popular options include Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, Purina Pro Plan, and Royal Canin. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best brand and formula for your dog’s specific needs.