Is salmon low fat for dogs

5 Best Low Fat Dog Foods (2024)

How to Choose the Best Low Fat Food for Dogs

Since dogs love food, it is the natural tendency of most owners to slip them a few extra treats every now and then. Unfortunately, this habit can quickly to lead to weight gain, and getting pounds off a dog is far harder then putting them on in the first place.

Unfortunately, even a modest weight gain can cause significant health problems in dogs. Excess weight can contribute to the development of more serious illnesses and can even alter the dogs lifespan. Thankfully, a commitment to daily exercise and a low-fat diet can help get Fido back in shape again.

Sadly, veterinary professionals indicate that as many as 60 percent of the pets they see carry excess weight with some of their patients falling within the category of obese. It is important for dogs that fall within these parameters to begin a program to remove excess pounds before their health is permanently impacted.

Among the health problems that can plague overweight or obese dogs are inflammation, type two diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoarthritis, bladder stones, exercise intolerance, and more.

Though obesity is one of the most frequently seen problems in dogs, it can be treated with an excellent quality low-fat diet and moderate daily exercise. Once a healthy body weight is achieved, this body condition must be maintained for the dog to continue to enjoy improved health.

The best low-fat food for dogs can be a powerful help in achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for Low-Fat Dog Foods

Low-fat foods are carefully crafted to ensure dogs remain satisfied even though the diet contains fewer calories. One of the most important elements of any low-fat food is that it remains extremely flavorful to encourage hearty eating. Through the use of lean proteins, low-fat diets can maintain a delicious taste while bulking up on fiber-rich vegetables to help dogs feel full on fewer calories.

Care must be taken to carefully measure the dogs food to ensure overeating does not occur. When feeding a low-fat diet, treats should be eliminated or at least severely restricted, so as not to interfere with weight loss efforts. Many owners like to set aside a portion of the dogs kibble to use as treats throughout the day.

To determine how much of the best low-fat food to feed a dog, it is a good idea to follow the suggested serving sizes found on the side of the bag. Use these as a starting point, making adjustments based on the dogs weight or visual appearance until the correct amount is found.

Do not use the dogs appetite as a guide as dogs who are overweight often do not understand when they have eaten a sufficient amount of food and will eat far beyond the point of satiation if permitted to do so. For dogs that regularly seem hungry in spite of adequate meals, choose instead to bulk up the dogs portions through the addition of fiber-rich, low-calorie vegetables such as canned pumpkin, green beans, or carrots.

Dietary Requirements for Low-Fat Dog Foods

It is very important when starting a dog on a low-fat food that the amount of food given should not be drastically altered within the first week. Feeding too few calories can lead to setbacks and can also encourage the development of poor manners such as excess begging. Just as with people, physical and emotional satisfaction are important components to the diets success.

Not all low-fat dog foods are created equally. It is important to select a food that is comprised of the highest quality ingredients included in the correct ratio to encourage eating satisfaction. To this end, the primary ingredient in any low-fat food suitable for dogs who need to lose weight is a lean protein from animal origins. Whole meats are preferred, but meat meals also are an excellent dense source of high-quality protein.

By-products are low quality and offer far less nutritional value, and thus, should be avoided. Plant-based proteins such as corn, wheat, and soy are very hard to digest and can cause stomach and skin distress in many dogs. The best low-fat foods for dogs do not contain any of these items.

Carbohydrates play an important role in low-fat foods, providing the necessary dietary fiber that helps dogs to feel full. Fruits and vegetables are often the best sources as they offer not only staying power through their fiber but also antioxidants to help fight disease. Since digestion and elimination are critical components of any weight loss program, high-quality carbohydrates are an absolute must; whether they are derived from whole grains, fruits, or vegetables.

Healthy fat also plays a role in weight loss. Fats contributed through such ingredients as salmon oil or chicken fat provide dogs with the energy they need to remain active and well. These fats also benefit the dog through maintaining good skin and a healthy coat.

As a general guideline, low-fat foods should contain at least 18 percent protein. Fat totals generally range between 5-10 percent with slightly more acceptable but not less.

Low-fat food is not restricted just to dogs that need to lose a little weight. It is also an excellent choice for dogs suffering from such problems as pancreatitis or irritable bowel disease.

Things to Look for in the Best Low-Fat Dog Food

Here is a basic list of the most important things to look for in a low-fat dog food:

• Whole meat or meat meal proteins heading up the ingredients list
• Prepared without the addition of chemicals, flavorings, fillers, or mystery ingredients
• Enriched with probiotics and helpful supplements
• Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food
• Contains 5-10 percent fat

8 Best Dog Foods For Pancreatitis: Non-Prescription, Low-Fat, Wet, Dry & More

If your dog has been diagnosed with pancreatitis, feeding her the ideal diet is crucial to manage this condition and keep her as healthy as possible for years to come. Your veterinarian may have suggested a prescription dog food, but is that your only option? While a handful of prescription diets are effective in managing pancreatitis, theyre pricey and may not work out if your pup has food intolerance or allergies to certain ingredients.

Fortunately, you have several non-prescription options, which may be less expensive and super healthy alternatives. Weve done our research and have determined that Ollies fresh chicken recipe, Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim formula, SquarePet VFS low-fat formula, and several others are among the best dog food for pancreatitis.

At A Glance: Best Dog Food For Pancreatitis (Non-Prescription)

What Is Pancreatitis?

A vital organ in the abdomen, the pancreas produces many of the enzymes dogs need to properly digest their food. Pancreatitis is fairly common in dogs and occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, causing pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Pancreatitis can either be mild or severe and acute or chronic.

I have diagnosed many cases of pancreatitis in dogs over the years, says Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed, BSAVA, PGCertSAM, a companion animal veterinarian in Gloucester, United Kingdom. The cases of pancreatitis that I tend to see need initial supportive treatment such as intravenous fluids, anti-nausea medication, and pain relief after we have diagnosed their condition. Theres no specific cure for pancreatitis, but we can make dogs much more comfortable and help to manage their condition through a long-term diet change. One dog I treated lived until the ripe old age of 16 years when carefully controlled on a prescription low-fat diet.

Did You Know?

Pet insurance

may cover testing, treatment, medications, and even prescription dog food for pancreatitis as long as no signs or symptoms appear until after your policy enrollment and waiting periods have passed. Even if you missed the window for pet insurance to cover your pups pancreatitis, securing a policy can still be worth it. Why? Your furry friend could develop future covered health problems that require costly treatment.

What To Feed A Dog With Pancreatitis

In some dogs, pancreatitis can be triggered by consuming high-fat meals or fatty treats/table scraps, explains Dr. MacMillan. Therefore, these dogs do best when managed on a highly digestible, low-fat diet. The diets your vet will usually recommend are prescription or veterinary-approved dog foods, as many pet shop ones still contain levels of fat that are too high.

Some affected dogs need to be fed a diet that contains less than 10% fat on a dry matter basis, though other patients can be managed on diets up to 15%. Some of these diets also contain additional ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids to help with inflammation, antioxidants, and prebiotic fibers [e.g., flaxseed, beet pulp, chicory root], which help to keep gut bacteria healthy.

Best Dog Food For Pancreatitis

Keeping in mind that low-fat (under 10%) or moderate-fat diets (up to 15%) are best for dogs with pancreatitis, weve chosen our top picks based on fat content, other healthy ingredients to help with this condition, customer feedback, pricing, and other factors. However, every dog with pancreatitis has different dietary needs. Therefore, its crucial to consult with your veterinarian about any dog food you plan on feeding your special-needs pup.

Nutritional Notes

All of the dog foods weve included in our reviews are all-natural and meet or exceed Association of American Feed Control Officials(

AAFCO

) nutritional guidelines (unless otherwise noted). They contain no fillers, by-products, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.

Several of the dog foods we often recommend are grain-free. While the FDA has not found a significant

link between grain-free dog food and heart health

, its wise to talk with your vet before switching your dogs diet. You might also consider using a fresh, grain-inclusive food as a topper on grain-free kibble or mixing in rice to add more nutrients.

Best Wet Dog Food For Pancreatitis: Ollie Chicken Recipe Review

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We believe that fresh dog food is one of your healthiest options to feed dogs with many needs. Fortunately, Ollies chicken recipe may satisfy requirements for dogs who dont require a strict low-fat diet. This grain-inclusive formula has 11.54% (min.) fat content on a dry matter basis and contains such easy-to-digest, whole-food ingredients as rice, carrots, peas, potatoes, spinach, and cranberries.

Whats more, all of Ollies meals are all-natural, human-grade, and personalized for your pups age, breed, current and ideal weight, activity level, and more. And theyre formulated by specialized veterinarians. This chicken recipe also includes salmon oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omegas are particularly beneficial for pancreatitis because they can help reduce inflammation of the pancreas. While Ollie requires a subscription, you can cancel at any time.

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Best Dry Dog Food For Pancreatitis: Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim Review

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With a crude fat maximum of 9%, prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and omega fatty acids, the Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim formula is a fantastic option for dogs with pancreatitis. This gluten and grain-free dog food is made from 74% animal-based proteins (cod, turkey, and salmon meal), low-glycemic carbs, and real fruits and veggies, including tomatoes, carrots, blueberries, and apples.

With plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, this formula supports your pups immune and whole-body health. Another plus is the addition of L-carnitine, an amino acid derivative that helps the body metabolize fats more efficiently. Many owners of pups with pancreatitis say this diet works well for their dogs dietary needs.

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Best Low-Fat Dog Food For Pancreatitis: SquarePet VFS Low Fat Review

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Vet-formulated specifically for dogs with digestive problems, this SquarePet formula is an excellent alternative to prescription dog food for pancreatitis (particularly for those allergic to chicken). It only contains 8% (max.) crude fat, making it a fantastic choice for dogs needing a strict low-fat diet. And at 384 kcal/cup, its excellent for pups who can benefit from higher calories than weight control dog food.

Featuring cod, ocean whitefish meal, and no chicken products, this grain-inclusive recipe is crafted with dietary fiber sources, prebiotics, and probiotics for overall healthy digestion. To top it all off, this limited-ingredient formula also includes antioxidants and omega fatty acids for immune health and to reduce pancreas inflammation as well as L-carnitine for optimal fat metabolism.

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Best Moderate-Fat Dog Food For Pancreatitis: JustFoodForDogs Venison Recipe Review

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Another excellent human-grade, fresh dog food option with a moderate fat level is JustFoodForDogs venison and squash recipe. Formulated by veterinarians and pet nutritionists, this gluten, grain, and chicken-free recipe contains 11.11% (min.) fat content on a dry matter basis. Its limited ingredients include ground venison, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, cranberries, and anti-inflammatory Icelandic premium fish oil, all fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.

While JFFD doesnt personalize your pups food for her life stage or other factors, you can figure out how much food to buy and how much to feed your dog each day based on her age, weight, and activity level. If you want a personalized diet for your pooch, you can have the companys nutrition team formulate a custom dietbased on your dogs medical records (requires a one-time $250 fee).

Price

Get35% off your first order at JustFoodForDogs. Just usethis linkto get started.

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What About Annamaet, Solid Gold & More?

The following non-prescription, low-fat dog chow didnt make our top picks. But if you havent found the best option for your pups dietary needs, you may want to consider these formulas. Weve included grain-free, grain-inclusive, and beef and chicken-free options for a variety of dietary needs. Theyre also worth considering if you cant afford prescription food or our other top picks (as long as your vet gives you the green light).

Annamaet Grain-Free Lean Low Fat Review

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Made with chicken meal, duck meal, and herring meal* as the primary protein sources, this grain-free, high-protein formula features a maximum of 9% fat content and 350 kcal/cup. Its fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and chelated minerals to support optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

This recipe also contains cranberries and blueberries as natural antioxidant sources, L-carnitine to boost fat metabolism, and taurine for heart health. Many owners of dogs with chronic pancreatitis say this formula is a fantastic alternative to prescription food for their pups.

*A note about meat meal:Quality pet food brands often use meat meal in their recipes, which can be a very healthy source of protein for your pup (as long as the meat is named, e.g., chicken meal, lamb meal, etc.). A meal can be made from the meat, tissue, organ meat, bone, stomach, and intestines of the named animal. But meal doesnt include by-products like hair, feathers, beaks, heads, blood, hooves, hide trimmings, etc.

Price

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Review

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If your pup doesnt require a strict low-fat diet and youre looking for an affordable option, Blue Buffalos Healthy Weight formula could be a good fit. Featuring a crude fat content of 9% min and 12% max, this chicken recipe is also a great option if your pup could benefit from fewer calories (324 kcal/cup) or youre wary of grain-free food. It contains such easy-to-digest grains as brown rice, barley, and oatmeal and is fortified with prebiotic fiber and probiotics for enhanced digestion.

The inclusion of flaxseed gives your pup the omega-3 fatty acids she needs to help with pancreas inflammation. It also contains antioxidant and fiber-rich blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potatoes, andL-carnitine to aid with fat metabolism. Finally, it features Blue Buffalos patented LifeSource Bits, a blend of vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants for immune and whole-body health.

Price

Eagle Pack Reduced Fat Adult Review

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Another grain-inclusive, low-fat (9% max) kibble that many owners find effective in managing their dogs with pancreatitis, Eagle Packs Reduced Fat formula features pork meal and chicken meal as primary animal protein sources. This limited-ingredient recipe includes barley, oat groats, and brown rice as easily digestible grain sources, dried beet pulp and chicory root for prebiotic fiber, and probiotics. Its also fortified with flaxseed, an excellent source of omega fatty acids to help with inflammation.

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Solid Gold Fit And Fabulous Weight Control Review

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Solid Golds Weight Control formulas are available in grain-free chicken or grain-inclusive Alaskan Pollock, both containing a maximum of 9.5% crude fat. Theyre also high in dietary fiber (10% max) and fortified with pumpkin, prebiotics, and probiotics to support healthy digestion. Natural antioxidants include carrots, blueberries, and cranberries, and they both also contain anti-inflammatory omega fatty acids. Customers say its a fantastic diet for pancreatitis, sensitive tummies, and weight loss.

Price

Prescription Food For Dogs With Pancreatitis

What are the best prescription dog foods for pancreatitis? Hills Prescription Diet, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets are the top vet-prescribed brands for dogs with pancreatitis. Each comes in dry or canned formulas. Heres a quick table to help you briefly compare these prescription dry formulas to the non-prescription formulas we review above. All contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and prebiotics.

Top Prescription Dog Foods For Pancreatitis	Fat Content	Grain-Free	Wheat-Free	Corn-Free	Chicken-Free	Starting Price
Hills Prescription Diet i/d Low Fat Dry Dog Food	9.0% max					$52.99 (8.5lb bag)
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food	8.5% max					$43.99 (6.6lb bag)
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Formula Dry Dog Food	10.5% min					$39.99 (6lb bag)

What Treats Can I Give My Dog With Pancreatitis?

For dogs with pancreatitis, its crucial to avoid fatty treats and table scraps as they can cause flare-ups. Fortunately, you have many healthy snack options for your furry friend. Some fruits like apples, bananas, blueberries, and watermelon can make excellent low-fat and low-calorie treats. Its best to steer clear of citrus fruits as they may upset your pups tummy. You can also safely give your pup carrots for a crunchy, healthy treat.

Be sure to read the labels of any store-bought treats. Again, low-fat treats are necessary, and you may also want to look for low-calorie treats to avoid weight gain. A few of our favorite commercial treats that are suitable for dogs with pancreatitis include:

Should I Consider A Daily Dog Probiotic?

Dogs with chronic pancreatitis can certainly benefit from a daily probiotic supplement, as long as you get the green light from your veterinarian. Probiotics introduce billions of beneficial living bacteria into your dogs gut to restore her tummy health, which can get out of whack with pancreatitis flare-ups. Probiotics also help to strengthen your dogs immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties, which are both beneficial for this condition.

Our Methodology

We analyze hundreds of dog food brands and individual formulas to provide our recommendations for the best nutrition. Each of the following elements helps us determine the best dog food for any dietary need. Our in-depth research includes:

• Scrutinizing all ingredients included in every formula
• Having firsthand experience with our dogs for many of the foods we recommend
• Assessing the guaranteed analysis for every formula, including protein, fat, fiber, and caloric content
• Investigating the latest scientific studies on dogs nutritional needs and benefits of ingredients
• Researching the specific dietary needs for breed sizes and health conditions
• Reading hundreds of customer reviews
• Staying informed on every dog food recall
• Diving into every pet food brands history and reputation
• Keeping on top of pet food trends

Unlike many other review sites, we give unbiased reviews based on countless hours of research. Our goal is to provide our readers with the healthiest options for their pups.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Sally has researched and reviewed hundreds of different dog food brands and specific formulas. Shes an expert at analyzing dog food ingredients based on current nutritional guidelines and scientific studies for the healthiest food for our pups. Shes part of a team of dog specialists at Canine Journal who have over a decade of experience in researching, testing, and writing about everything you need to know to keep your pup healthy and happy.

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