Best Dog Food To Put On Weight

Does your dog seem a little too skinny, no matter how much you feed them? It can be worrying when your furry friend isn’t at a healthy weight. You want them to be strong and happy, but figuring out the best food to help them gain weight can feel like a puzzle.

Many dog owners face this challenge. You might be confused by all the different dog food labels, wondering which ingredients are truly helpful for weight gain and which ones might be just fluff. It’s a common problem, and you’re not alone in wanting to find the right solution for your pup’s health.

In this post, we’ll break down what makes a dog food good for putting on healthy weight. You’ll learn what to look for on the ingredient list and discover some top choices that can help your dog reach their ideal, healthy size. Get ready to find the perfect food to help your canine companion thrive!

Top Dog Food To Put On Weight Recommendations

No. 1

All American Canine Dog Weight Gainer – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement & Protein Powder for Rapid Weight Gain, Mass, and Recovery – Appetite Stimulant – 60 Servings

HELPS DOG GAIN WEIGHT: All American Canine powder helps dogs to gain healthy weight fast. Our powder is a high-calorie weight gainer and is packed with vitamins, probiotics, and other digestive, joint, and muscle-supporting components that help your pets regain energy and vitality.
HEALTHY WEIGHT SUPPLEMENT: Our premium weight gainer is formulated with a unique blend of high-quality ingredients working to promote joint health, enhance muscle growth, boost the immune system, and support a dog’s overall well-being.
USEFUL INGREDIENTS: Beef broth protein powder, whey protein, ground flaxseed, beef, liver powder, sweet potato powder, pumpkin powder, blueberry powder, sunflower lecithin, organic kelp, and essential nutrients to boost your dog's weight to stay active and play more.
ADD WEIGHT & ENERGY TO YOUR PET FAST: Our high protein and fats powered are packed with essential vitamins and minerals to help your dog gain healthy weight and increase energy levels. They are easy to feed and taste great so your pet will love them.
NONE OF THE BAD STUFF: We're dog lovers. That is why we only use all-natural, safe, and nutritious components. There is no polypropylene (which is safe for cats), glycerin, artificial colors, or trans fats.

No. 2

Bully Max Dog Weight Gainer Soft Chews for Puppies and Adults - High Calorie Dog Food Performance Supplements for Healthy Weight Gain, Immunity & Digestive Health - 75 Chews for All Breeds & Ages

EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR HEALTHY WEIGHT GAIN: Bully Max Weight Gainer Dog Chews provide a natural and effective way to support healthy weight gain in dogs. Each bag delivers 1,500 calories, ensuring your pitbull, bulldog, or any breed gets the essential nutrition for optimal health and vitality. These high-calorie supplements are ideal for underweight dogs, including growing puppies and senior dogs, helping them build muscle and maintain energy levels.
PROBIOTICS FOR DIGESTIVE & IMMUNE SUPPORT: Packed with 250 million CFUs of probiotics per bag, Bully Max Weight Gain Dog Chews promote better digestion and strengthen the immune system. Suitable for all dog life stages, these nutrient-packed chews provide comprehensive support for your pet's health. This dog weight gain supplement is ideal for all life stages, from young puppies to adult dogs, enhancing their overall health and wellbeing.
VERSATILE AS A TASTY DOG FOOD TOPPER OR TREAT: Bully Max Weight Gainer Power Chews provide a convenient and delicious way to support weight gain and energy. Ideal for dogs of all ages and breeds, these bacon-flavored chews can be given as a treat or easily crushed and used as a food topper. Perfect for walks, hikes, or play sessions, they’re packed with high calories, making them an excellent supplement for dogs needing an extra boost of energy and nutrition.
PURE & WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: Bully Max Power Chews, made with high-quality natural ingredients and enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, are ideal for dog and puppy weight gain. These dog chews for gaining weight are free from added sugar, gluten, wheat, artificial flavors, animal by-products, glycol, and glycerine, ensuring a natural, balanced diet. These chews support healthy weight gain without harmful additives, providing nutrition and delicious taste in every bite.
PREMIUM QUALITY & VET-APPROVED EXCELLENCE: Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, our Bully Max Dog Chews 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 & dog supplements, to guarantee top-quality canine nutrition for puppies and senior dogs.

No. 3

All American Canine Dog Weight Gainer Liquid – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement for Rapid Weight Gain, Mass, and Recovery – Appetite Stimulant (16 oz)

HIGH CALORIE WEIGHT GAINER FOR DOGS – All-natural liquid dog weight gainer designed to support healthy weight gain, mass, and recovery for dogs of all breeds and ages. Perfect high calorie supplement for dogs that need extra calories.
ALL-NATURAL INGREDIENTS & PURE OILS – Made with salmon oil, coconut/MCT oil, avocado oil, flaxseed oil, and olive oil. This dog weight gain supplement contains no fillers, harmful chemicals, or artificial flavoring.
SUPPORTS COAT, JOINT & MUSCLE HEALTH – Rich in essential omega fatty acids and nutrients, this dog supplement helps maintain joint health, muscle development, and a shiny coat while providing calorie-dense nutrition.
TASTES LIKE A TREAT, WORKS LIKE A SUPPLEMENT – Flavor-packed liquid dog food enhancer with a savory taste dogs love, making it easy to mix with meals. Ideal as a dog food additive and liquid dog food calorie booster.
PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA – Premium quality high calorie dog supplement manufactured with natural ingredients to provide safe and effective weight gain for dogs. Convenient serving sizes tailored for small to large breeds.

No. 4

All American Canine Dog Weight Gainer Chews – High Calorie Dog Food Supplement for Rapid Weight Gain, Mass, and Recovery – Appetite Stimulant – 60 Chews

HELPS DOG GAIN WEIGHT: All American Canine chews helps dogs to gain healthy weight fast. Our chew is a high-calorie weight gainer and is packed with vitamins, probiotics, and other digestive, joint, and muscle-supporting components that help your pets regain energy and vitality.
HEALTHY WEIGHT SUPPLEMENT: Our premium weight gainer is formulated with a unique blend of high-quality ingredients working to promote joint health, enhance muscle growth, boost the immune system, and support a dog’s overall well-being.
ADD WEIGHT & ENERGY TO YOUR PET FAST: Our high protein and fats powered are packed with essential vitamins and minerals to help your dog gain healthy weight and increase energy levels. They are easy to feed and taste great so your pet will love them.
NONE OF THE BAD STUFF: We're dog lovers. That is why we only use all-natural, safe, and nutritious components. There is no polypropylene, glycerin, artificial colors, or trans fats.
Made in USA. Manufactured in United States of America.

No. 5

Bully Max High Protein High Calorie Dog Food 30/20 Formula - 535 Cal/Cup for Muscle & Weight Gain - Small & Large Breeds & All Life Stages - No Corn Soy or Wheat, Made in USA, Chicken Flavor, 5 lb Bag

OPTIMAL MUSCLE & WEIGHT GAIN: Bully Max 30/20 High Protein Dog Food, the ONLY 5-star rated performance dog food by the world’s #1 online dog food review site, is designed 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. This results in lower serving sizes with the same major dog fuel, particularly active breeds, receives ample energy for daily activities.
HIGH PROTEIN, BALANCED DIET: Bully Max 30/20, with its meat-based formula rich in Chicken Meal & White Fish, provides high-quality protein for dog health. Infused with Chicken Fat for essential fats, Dried Plain Beet Pulp for fiber, and Whitefish Meal for omega fatty acids, plus natural dry dog food vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients. Supports healthy weight management, overall dog health and vitality across all dog breeds & sizes. Quality checked for freshness to avoid odor or spoilage.
ENHANCED CALORIC DENSITY: With 535 calories per cup, this high protein dog food is one of the most calorie-rich options available. Ideal for large breed puppies & adult dogs, it lets you feed up to 50% less while delivering optimal nutrition. Crafted to minimize metallic or lingering odors. Aroma, texture & flavor appeal to picky eaters. Formulated with premium natural ingredients, it's not just the best dry dog food for energy & growth but also a smarter, more efficient way to nourish your dog.
COMPREHENSIVE NUTRITION FOR ALL DOG BREEDS AND AGES: Designed to cater to every dog, Bully Max 30/20 Dog Food is suitable for small and large breeds at any life stage. This tasty chicken blend dry dog food meets AFFCO standards for complete & balanced nutrition, making it a top choice for all breeds, including champion show dogs. It supports a healthy, vibrant lifestyle from playful puppies to active adults. Free from these common allergens: corn, wheat, soy, by-products & artificial additives.
UNMATCHED BULLY MAX QUALITY: Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, Bully Max upholds exceptional manufacturing standards with a strict triple-check system for unmatched safety and quality, boasting zero recalls. Bully Max is dedicated to superior pet care, providing a spectrum of vet-approved, high-performance, wet dog food and dry dog foods, along with premium puppy & dog supplements, to guarantee top-quality canine nutrition for puppies and senior dogs.

No. 6

Purina ONE Plus Healthy Weight High-Protein Dog Food Dry Formula - 31.1 lb. Bag

Weight control dog food made with high-quality protein sources, including real turkey as the number 1 ingredient, to promote strong muscles including a healthy heart
Four antioxidant sources in this wholesome dog food for immune support for dogs, and natural glucosamine sources support dog joint health
Deliciously crunchy dog kibble and tender meaty morsels combine for a taste and texture dogs love and work with added calcium for a premium dog food that supports strong teeth and healthy gums
Purina ONE Plus Healthy Weight High-Protein Formula dog food features omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to support a shiny, healthy skin and coat for dogs
Adult dog food is crafted in Purina-owned U.S. facilities and supplies 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs with 0 percent fillers, meaning every ingredient has a purpose

No. 7

Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Food Topper, Raw Beef Ground Topper for Dogs | Complete Meal or Topper | High Protein, Grain Free Dry Dog Food Mix-in | 6 oz Bag

Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Food packs more quality protein in every bite than industry standard to deliver the peak vitality your dog deserves. Our dehydrated dog food is butcher cut, ultra-premium raw dog food that is high in protein. All of our raw dried dog food is responsibly sourced.
The Best Freeze Dried Dog Food on the market. Better Protein = Better Results: Butcher cut raw taps into the protein-rich natural ingredients of muscle, organs, and marrow to deliver more energetic playtimes, shinier coats, leaner muscles, and better overall health.
Proudly Made in the USA: We offer the largest variety of single ingredient dog foods and treats, relying on 13+ decades of experience to humanely source and harvest freeze dry dog food before processing.
Whole Animal Protein: We tap into the rich, natural nutrients of muscle and organs for high-quality protein from the whole animal—no dog food additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, grains or rendered by-products.
Raw Dog Food Freeze Dried for Peak Freshness: Our protein is frozen within 45-minutes of harvesting to ensure peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness. A slow-freeze-dry process removes moisture to lock in vitamins without cooking.

No. 8

Purina ONE Plus Healthy Weight High-Protein Dog Food Dry Formula - 8 lb. Bag

Weight control dog food made with high-quality protein sources, including real turkey as the number 1 ingredient, to promote strong muscles including a healthy heart
Four antioxidant sources in this wholesome dog food for immune support for dogs, and natural glucosamine sources support dog joint health
Deliciously crunchy dog kibble and tender meaty morsels combine for a taste and texture dogs love and work with added calcium for a premium dog food that supports strong teeth and healthy gums
Purina ONE Plus Healthy Weight High-Protein Formula dog food features omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to support a shiny, healthy skin and coat for dogs
Adult dog food is crafted in Purina-owned U.S. facilities and supplies 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs with 0 percent fillers, meaning every ingredient has a purpose

Choosing the Best Dog Food for Weight Gain

When your furry friend needs to pack on a few pounds, selecting the right dog food is crucial. It’s not just about feeding them more; it’s about feeding them better. This guide will help you find the perfect food to help your dog reach a healthy weight.

Key Features to Look For

When you’re shopping for weight-gain dog food, keep an eye out for these important features:

High Calorie Density: This is the most important feature. Foods designed for weight gain pack more calories into smaller portions. This means your dog eats less but gets more energy.
Increased Protein Content: Protein helps build muscle mass. Look for foods where meat is listed as the first ingredient. This ensures your dog gets quality protein to support healthy weight gain.
Healthy Fats: Fats are a great source of calories. Look for sources like chicken fat, fish oil, or flaxseed. These provide energy and also benefit your dog’s skin and coat.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Beyond calories and protein, the food should have vitamins and minerals. These support overall health as your dog gains weight.
Palatability: Your dog needs to *want* to eat the food. Great taste is essential for them to consume enough to gain weight.

Important Materials (Ingredients)

The ingredients in your dog’s food tell the story of its quality. For weight gain, focus on these:

Real Meat: Chicken, beef, lamb, or fish should be at the top of the ingredient list. This provides essential amino acids for muscle development.
Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, and barley offer carbohydrates for energy. They also provide fiber, which aids digestion.
Healthy Fats: As mentioned, chicken fat, sunflower oil, and fish oil are excellent choices.
Fruits and Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, and blueberries add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some things make dog food better, while others make it worse for your goal.

Factors That Improve Quality:

High-Quality Protein Sources: Animal-based proteins are generally more digestible and beneficial than plant-based ones.
Natural Preservatives: Look for foods preserved with vitamin E (tocopherols) or rosemary extract, not artificial chemicals.
Limited Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy can be used as fillers. While not always bad, too many can reduce the nutrient density.
Veterinarian Recommended: Brands recommended by vets often meet higher standards.

Factors That Reduce Quality:

Artificial Colors, Flavors, and Preservatives: These offer no nutritional value and can sometimes cause sensitivities.
Generic “Meat By-Products”: These can be of lower quality and less digestible than named meat sources.
Excessive Fillers: Too much of ingredients like corn or wheat can dilute the beneficial nutrients.

User Experience and Use Cases

Choosing the right food impacts your dog’s life and yours.

For Underweight Dogs: This is the primary use case. Dogs recovering from illness, surgery, or those naturally thin benefit most.
For Active Breeds: Highly active dogs, like working breeds or those who participate in sports, often need more calories to maintain their weight.
For Senior Dogs: Older dogs sometimes lose weight due to decreased appetite or metabolism. A calorie-rich food can help.
Ease of Feeding: Look for foods that are appealing to your dog. If they love the taste, they’ll eat more, making the process easier for you.
Visible Results: Users often report seeing a noticeable difference in their dog’s energy levels and appearance within weeks of switching to a quality weight-gain food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the most important thing to look for in dog food for weight gain?

A: The most important thing is high calorie density. This means the food has a lot of calories packed into each serving.

Q: Should I just feed my dog more of their regular food?

A: Not always. Regular food might not have enough calories or the right balance of nutrients for healthy weight gain. A specialized food is usually better.

Q: How quickly can I expect to see results?

A: Results vary, but many owners see noticeable changes in their dog’s weight and energy within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Q: Can any dog food be used for weight gain?

A: No. You need a food specifically formulated for weight gain, which has higher calories, protein, and fat.

Q: What if my dog is a picky eater?

A: Look for weight-gain foods with highly palatable ingredients, like real meat and appealing flavors. Some brands offer wet food options which can be more enticing.

Q: Are there any risks associated with feeding weight-gain dog food?

A: If you feed too much or choose a food that isn’t balanced, your dog could become overweight, which has its own health problems. Always follow feeding guidelines and consult your vet.

Q: What’s the difference between puppy food and weight-gain food?

A: Puppy food is designed for growth and development. Weight-gain food is specifically for adding calories to an underweight dog of any age.

Q: How do I transition my dog to a new food?

A: Mix the new food with the old food gradually over 7-10 days. Start with a small amount of new food and slowly increase it while decreasing the old food.

Q: Should I consult my veterinarian before choosing a weight-gain food?

A: Yes, absolutely. Your vet can help you determine if your dog needs to gain weight and recommend the best type of food based on their specific needs.

Q: What if my dog has a sensitive stomach?

A: Look for weight-gain foods that use limited, high-quality ingredients and avoid common allergens like corn or soy. Some brands offer sensitive stomach formulas.

Best Dog Food To Put On Weight – Top Picks & Guide