Best Diabetic Dog Food
- Last updated on November 22, 2023
- By: Hebby Bailey
Diabetes in Dogs
This can be a serious condition in dogs. When this happen, glucose in the dog’s body is unable to be used effectively.
The 2 common types of diabetes in dogs are:
- Type I diabetes
- Type II diabetes
For these two types of diabetes although there is no cure, dogs with either type can be successfully managed through nutrition, exercise, and if necessary, regular insulin medication. With the right dog food and advice from your veterinarian, your diabetic dog can still enjoy a happy, active life.
Table of Contents
What causes Diabetes ?
Factors that increase the chances of dogs developing diabetes include:
- Bodyweight – obese or overweight dogs have a higher chance of getting diabetes
- Breed – some breeds such as miniature poodles, miniature schnauzers are more prone to diabetes
- Gender – Female dogs are more susceptible to diabetes
- Age – Older dogs are more prone to getting this.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Some of the more common signs of diabetes include:
- Increased urination
- Unexpected weight loss
- Appetite changes
- Unexplained fatigue
- Cataracts
- Chronic skin infections
- Urinary tract infections
As there is no cure for diabetes, it is important to manage this lifelong condition through specific dog food that provides nutrients that a diabetic dog requires.
Dog Food for Diabetic Dogs
If you have a dog with diabetes, it’s important to choose the right food to help manage their condition. Here is a guide to finding the best diabetic dog food.
Look for low-glycemic ingredients: When choosing a food for your diabetic dog, look for one that contains low-glycemic ingredients. These ingredients will help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in blood sugar.
Choose a high-quality food: It’s important to choose a high-quality food for your diabetic dog. Look for a food that is made with high-quality ingredients and does not contain fillers or artificial ingredients.
Monitor your dog’s blood sugar levels: Be sure to monitor your dog’s blood sugar levels closely. This will help you to determine if the food you are feeding them is working well to regulate their blood sugar. If you see any changes in their blood sugar levels, be sure to speak with your veterinarian.
For dogs with diabetes, vets do recommend a higher protein, higher fiber, and lower carbohydrate diet.
- Higher Protein – this helps promote weight loss while helping to maintain lean body mass.
- Higher Fiber – is essential to reduce the rate at which glucose is released into the bloodstream. Fiber also allows dogs to feel full for longer with their food. Other benefits are: Fiber helps keep the dog’s bowel well-regulated, that way this will reduce having bloating or constipation issues. It also enhances their immune system and stabilizes blood sugar levels. In addition, fiber is an excellent nutrient and helps with weight management. There is now convincing evidence on the role of fiber not just in gut health but also in lowering your dog’s risk of developing diseases such as diabetes.
- Lower carbohydrates – is important as this will help to prevent blood sugar spikes which is important when looking after a diabetic dog.
Also, similar to humans, when dogs have diabetes and are also obese, it is even more important to stay trim. The above diet considerations will assist your dog to manage his diabetic condition better.
Top Rated Diabetic Dog Food
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Top 10 Best Diabetic Dog Food
Key ingredients: Dehydrated poultry protein, barley, wheat gluten*, maize gluten, vegetable fibres, hydrolysed animal proteins, animal fats, beet pulp, tapioca, fish oil, psyllium husks and seeds, fructo-oligo-saccharides, minerals, marigold extract (source of lutein). Sources of carbohydrates: barley, tapioca.
Caloric content: 344 kcal/100 g
Bag available in: 7.7 lbs, 17.6 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Protein: 37.0% – Fat content: 12.0% – Crude ash: 5.3% – Crude fibres: 6.5% – Starch: 19.1% – Total sugars: 0.55% – Essential fatty acids: 2.07%.
A diet rich in fiber is essential for any diabetic dog. ROYAL CANIN Diabetic Dog Food is now Royal Canin Glycobalance and is formulated to support healthy blood glucose levels.
This food has a balanced fiber blend to moderate your pet’s glycemic response and reduce the symptoms of fiber-responsive conditions. It is a great dog food to help dogs with diabetes and the high protein content in the recipe allows your dogs to maintain muscle mass.
In addition, it is controlled in fat and fortified with vitamins and minerals to help your dog thrive.
ROYAL CANIN Diabetic Dog Food is specially formulated to help provide good nutrition to diabetic dogs and help in the management of post-prandial blood glucose levels.
Pros:
- It has moderate levels of fat content.
- It is rich in protein to maintain muscle mass.
- It has lesser levels of starch.
- it includes antioxidants to improve your dog’s overall metabolism.
- It is made in the USA.
Cons:
- It is not good for dogs with grain sensitivities.
Key ingredients: Whole Grain Wheat, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Pork Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Soybean Oil, Caramel color, Flaxseed.
Caloric content: 3,100 kcal/kg; 255 kcal/cup
Bag available in: 8.5 lbs, 17.6 lbs, 27.5 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Protein 20.7 %, Fat 13 %, Carbohydrate / NFE 45.2 %, Crude Fiber 16 %, Total Dietary Fiber 27.6 %, Soluble Fiber 1.9 %, Insoluble Fiber 25.5 %, Calcium 0.8 %, Phosphorus 0.66 %, Potassium 0.78%, Sodium 0.27 %, Magnesium 0.099 %, Vitamin C 140 ppm, Vitamin E 682 IU/kg, Total Omega-3 FA 0.35 %, Total Omega-6 FA 3.02 %, Carnitine 515.8 ppm.
HILL’S PRESCRIPTION Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Dog Food is a veterinary diet which is formulated by renowned nutritionists and veterinarians of Hill’s, in order to help your dog with healthy weight loss.
This formula is specially formulated to improve digestion and manage glucose and weight with the perfect blend of soluble and insoluble fiber with low fat and calories.
This recipe is also a great health beneficiary as the ingredients in it reduce the magnesium and sodium contents which promote smooth urinary tract functioning. Plus, the therapeutic L-carnitine in the recipe helps maintain lean muscles and metabolize fat.
When considering dog food for your diabetic dog, HILL’S PRESCRIPTION Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Dog Food is a great dog food to consider.
Pros:
- It is beneficial for smooth digestive functioning.
- The recipe helps and supports urinary tract health
- It is a great way to manage weight
- It is rich in fiber (Soluble and insoluble)
- L-carnitine promotes lean muscles.
Cons:
- Some dogs have experienced diarrhea.
Key ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Lentils, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Pea Fiber, Ground Flaxseed, Tomato Pomace, Salmon Oil, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Biotin, Folic Acid, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Caloric content: 3,300 kcal/kg or 366 kcal/cup
Bag available in: 4 lbs, 12 lbs, 26 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 33.00% min, Crude Fat 10.00% min, Crude Fat 12.00% max, Crude Fiber 8.50% max, Moisture 10.00% max, Calcium 1.90% max, Phosphorus 1.30% max, Vitamin A 25,000 IU/kg min, Vitamin E 400 IU/kg min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.20% min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.40% min, Glucosamine 250 mg/kg min.
Another great dog food beneficial for your diabetic pups is Wellness CORE Reduced Fat Grain Free Dry Dog Food!
It is a protein-rich, low-fat recipe that helps in the easy digestion and weight management of dogs suffering from diabetes.
Made with natural ingredients like real turkey, chicken, and salmon oil, it does not include any wheat, corn, soy, or meat by-products. It also has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in it which promotes only good health and wellness.
Plus, it’s made in the USA and backed by the Wellness Guarantee, so you can rest assured that your furry friend is getting nothing but the best with Wellness CORE Reduced Fat Grain Free Dry Dog Food.
Pros:
- Omega fatty acids help promote healthy skin and coats.
- The protein in the recipe helps in lean body muscles.
- It does not have any meat by-products, fillers, corn, soy, or wheat gluten.
- It has no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors included.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs that have allergies to poultry.
Key ingredients: Chicken Meal, Field Peas, Lentils, Potato, Tapioca, Duck Meal, Herring Meal, Sun Cured Ground Miscanthus Grass, Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat, Dried Apples, Menhaden Oil.
Caloric content: 3242 kcal/kg = 1474 Kcal/lb = 350 kcal/cup
Bag available in: 5 lbs, 12 lbs, 25 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 7.00% min, Crude Fat 9.00% max, Crude Fiber 3.50% max, Moisture 10.00% max, DHA 0.20% min, Omega 6 Fatty Acid 2.00% min, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 0.60% min, L-Carnitine 35mg/kg min.
The next dog food brand that makes our list of top 10 diabetic dog foods is Annamaet, a grain-free, and low-fat dog food
This product is holistic and GMO-free, ensuring the highest quality control standards.
Plus, ANNAMAET Grain-Free Low Fat Dog Food does not include corn, wheat, or soy. Its artisanal production process allows for small batches and a slow cook, resulting in a great-tasting formula that your dog will love.
And because it uses chelated minerals, you can be sure that your dog is getting the optimum mineral absorption for a healthy immune system. L-Carnitine is also added to help with fat utilization and maintaining lean body mass.
It includes omega-3 fatty acids for healthy, shiny skin and coat, and added prebiotics support better gut health and functioning.
So, if you’re looking for a high-protein, low-fat diet for your weight-conscious or diabetic dog, Annamaet is a great option!
Pros:
- It includes all-natural, non-GMO ingredients.
- It includes chelated minerals to help boost the immune system.
- The L-carnitine supports lean body mass.
- It is high in protein which supports easy digestion.
- The low-fat diet enables healthy weight loss.
- It includes no corn, wheat, or soy.
- It includes no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- It includes omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
Cons:
- It has a strong smell of fish in its kibbles.
Key ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Barley, Brown Rice, Powdered Cellulose, Dried Tomato Pomace, Pea Protein, Natural Flavor, Menhaden Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Peas, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Salmon Hydrolysate.
Caloric content: 3,224 Kcals/kg, 324 Kcals/cup
Bag available in: 4 lbs, 11 lbs, 24 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 28.0% min, Crude Fat 11.0% min, Crude Fat 14.0% max, Crude Fiber 14.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max, Calcium 1.0% min, Phosphorous 0.8% min, Vitamin E 300 IU/kg min, Taurine 0.1% min, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 0.5% min, Omega 6 Fatty Acids 2.0% min, Ascorbic Acid (source of Vitamin C) 100 mg/kg min, L-Carnitine 200 mg/kg min.
We love our furry friends and want nothing but the best for them, especially when they are facing difficulty in digestion. If your dog has been diagnosed as diabetic or if he or she is starting to gain some extra pounds, then you should definitely consider BLUE BUFFALO True Solutions Fit & Healthy Dog Food.
Formulated with L-carnitine and enriched fiber, this food helps your adult dog feel fuller and longer and maintain a healthy weight. This is not only beneficial for diabetic dogs but is also a great way to keep your furry pal in perfect shape.
Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients like fruits and vegetables to support weight control. And you’ll love the science-based recipe without any wheat, soy, or corn. It has no chicken by-product meals and no artificial flavors, or preservatives, which makes the recipe even more healthy.
So, a great way to keep your beloved pup in perfect shape by giving them a healthy diet filled with taste and love is what you surely would like and with BLUE BUFFALO True Solutions Fit & Healthy Dog Food you would see yourself your pup to be happy and healthy.
Pros:
- It is rich in fiber which helps in easy digestion.
- The wholesome ingredients provide the necessary minerals for a perfectly balanced diet.
- It has 20% less fat to manage calorie intake.
- It provides vitamins E and C to boost the immune system.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with fish allergies.
PURINA Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
Key ingredients: Chicken, chicken by-product meal, whole grain corn, soybean hulls, barley, soybean meal, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, rice, glycerin, egg and chicken flavor, beef fat.
Caloric content: 3156 kcal/kg, 341 kcal/cup
Bag available in: 6.3 lbs, 28 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 25.0% min, Crude Fat 8.0% min, Crude Fiber 9.0% max, Moisture 14.0% max, Linoleic Acid 1.2% min, Calcium (Ca) 1.0% min, Selenium (Se) 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin A 10,000 IU/kg min, Vitamin E 100 IU/kg min.
A delicious and nutritious dry food for your dog that will also help them maintain a healthy weight is PURINA Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food!
With delicious natural ingredients like real apples, carrots, and green beans and no added sugars, or potatoes, this is a complete blend of all the elements of a balanced diet. Farm-raised chicken is the first ingredient in the recipe, this recipe is made in the USA in U.S facilities.
It has no artificial flavors or preservatives and its calorie-smart nutrition technique allows your dog to enjoy the food and lets you be at ease about your dog gaining weight.
PURINA Beneful Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food is a must-try when you are in search of a dog food brand that helps in weight and sugar management to help your diabetic dog have smooth body functioning.
Pros:
- It includes real farm-raised chicken.
- It helps in healthy weight loss with 10% less calorie nutrition.
- It includes no artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Its kibble has a great taste which your dog will love.
Cons:
- It includes corn and soybean – not suitable for dogs that are allergic to these ingredients.
NUTRO Wholesome Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
Key ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Rice Bran, Split Peas, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Barley, Powdered Cellulose, Lentils, Dried Plain Beet Pulp.
Caloric content: 3048 kcal ME/kg, 231 kcal ME/cup
Bag available in: 20 lbs, 30 lbs, 40 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 24.00% min, Crude Fat 7.00% min, Crude Fat 10.0% min, Crude Fiber 11.0% max, Moisture 10.00% max, Selenium 0.35 mg/kg min, Vitamin E 60 IU/kg min.
NUTRO Wholesome Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food is specifically designed for adult dogs of large breeds, with real US farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient.
It is a complete blend of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from high-quality premium ingredients to help your furry friend support healthy weight loss, healthy digestion, a healthy immune system, and support to smooth body functioning in diabetes.
Vitamin E and other essential anti-oxidants are a great way to boost the immune system and maintain a healthy life to help your furry friend feel fuller and thrive.
This recipe includes no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. It is made with all-natural and non-GMO, high-quality ingredients that is perfect for your diabetic dog’s health.
Pros:
- It includes farm-raised chicken.
- Rich in fiber and protein.
- It consists of anti-oxidants to promote a healthy immune system.
- It does not include corn, wheat, or soy.
- It has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Cons:
- It has an inconsistent kibble size.
DIAMONDS Naturals High Fiber Dry Dog Food
Key ingredients: Lamb meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, peas, pea flour, rice bran, dried yeast, chicken fat, egg product, dried beet pulp, flaxseed, natural flavor, potassium chloride.
Caloric content: 3,035 kcal/kg; 310 kcal/cup
Bag available in: 6 oz, 15 lbs, 30 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude Protein 22.0% Min, Crude Fat 12.0% Min, Crude Fiber 5.0% Max, Moisture 10.0% Max, Calcium 1.2% Min, Phosphorus 0.9% Min, Zinc 150 mg/kg Min, Vitamin A 15,000 IU/kg Min, Vitamin E 150 IU/kg Min, Taurine 0.12% Min, L-Carnitine 300 mg/kg Min, Omega-6 Fatty Acids 2.0% Min, Omega-3 Fatty Acids 0.3% Min, Glucosamine 750 mg/kg Min.
Is your pup carrying a little extra weight? Maybe they’re not as active as they used to be. Or perhaps you’re just looking for a healthier food option for your dog. Whatever the reason, DIAMONDS Naturals High Fiber Dry Dog Food is a great choice!
This premium food is made with real pasture-raised lamb and is loaded with healthy ingredients like fruits and vegetables. It’s also highly digestible and contains proprietary probiotics to keep your dog’s GI tract healthy.
The recipe includes amino acids for overweight, less active, or diabetic dogs which help in building strong lean muscles, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy, shiny skin and coat and the added vitamins and minerals make this a completely balanced meal for your beloved pet.
Plus, there are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in this USA-made recipe. DIAMONDS Naturals High Fiber Dry Dog Food is a perfect blend of necessary nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and all the essential elements required for a diabetic dog.
Pros:
- It is made in the USA
- It includes protein, and amino acids to develop strong lean muscles.
- Includes highly digestible prebiotics to support a healthy GI tract.
- it consists of fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- It has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- It is a complete blend of necessary nutrients for a perfect balanced diet
- It helps in weight management.
Cons:
- It does not have enough protein from animal sources for your dog.
Key ingredients: Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas, Potato Protein, Pork Fat, Natural Flavor, Whitefish Meal, Pea Protein, Sunflower Oil, Flaxseed, Beef Liver, Chicory Root.
Caloric content: 3,345 kcal/kg or 354 kcal/cup
Bag available in: 4 lbs, 22 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude protein 32% min, Crude fat 10% min, Crude fiber 5% max, Moisture 11% max, Taurine 0.17% min, Omega-6 fatty acid 2% min, Omega-3 fatty acid 0.5% min, Glucosamine hydrochloride 600 mg/kg min.
MERRICK Grain Free Healthy Weight Dog Food is a grain-free dog food that will help your pet maintain a healthy weight and also help in the digestion processes if your furry friend has been diagnosed with diabetes.
With real deboned beef as the first ingredient, this formulation is packed with optimal protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients to help your pup stay slim and energetic.
Plus, it includes glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain healthy hips and joints, and omega fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat. Real deboned beef is a great protein source for the development of healthy muscle tissues.
MERRICK Grain Free Health Weight Dog Food is a great nutritious and delicious option for your dog to deal with its diabetes or to avoid excess pounds from your dog.
Pros:
- It is grain-free.
- It has real deboned beef in the recipe.
- It includes the perfect mixture of protein and fiber for healthy muscle tissues.
- Omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coats.
- It includes glucosamine and chondroitin to promote strong hips and joints.
Cons:
- The first-five ingredients include a small number of meat by-products.
DR. HARVEY'S Paradigm Diabetic Dog Food, Low Carb Ketogenic Diet
Key ingredients: Green Beans, Broccoli, Bone Broth, Red and Green Bell Pepper, Cabbage, Pumpkin, Celery, Kelp, Alfalfa, Turmeric, Ginger, Red Clover, Dandelion, Cinnamon, Crushed Eggshell.
Caloric content: 70 calories per scoop; 1 scoop is 22 grams of the Paradigm dehydrated base-mix.
Bag available in: 3 lbs, 6 lbs
Nutrition Info (Guaranteed Analysis): Crude protein 14% min, crude fat 2% min, crude fiber 9% max, moisture 12% max.
Made in the USA, DR. HARVEY’S Paradigm Diabetic Dog Food is a nutritious and delicious, low-carb, ketogenic diet perfect for dogs who need to lose weight or manage their diabetes.
With no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, and no corn, wheat, or soy, this recipe is a complete blend of six dry vegetables which are 100% grain-free.
It is extremely easy to make. Just add hot water to the base mix, your choice of protein and oil, and you’re ready to serve your dog a healthy meal.
This recipe is made with low glycemic vegetables and low carbs for easy and slow digestion to prevent high glucose levels and a ketogenic diet.
Dr. HARVEY’S Paradigm Diabetic Dog Food, Low Carb Ketogenic Diet is ideal for dogs with, allergies, health conditions like diabetes, or just a little support to get rid of the extra pounds, so it is a must-try recommendation for your pup.
Pros:
- It is made in the USA.
- It is grain-free.
- It has fresh whole foods and no by-products included.
- It is made with minimally processed fresh whole foods.
- Can be used with a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- It has no artificial colors, flavors, corn, wheat, or soy.
Cons:
- It is in the form of crushed powder.
FAQs
Question: What is diabetic dog food ?
Diabetic dog food is specially formulated to help manage diabetes in dogs. The main difference between diabetic dog food and regular dog food is the carbohydrate content; diabetic dog food has a lower level of carbohydrates which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, diabetic dog food often contains more protein and fat to help maintain a healthy weight.
Question: Do all dogs with diabetes need to be on diabetic dog food ?
No, not all dogs with diabetes need to be on diabetic dog food. However, it is often recommended by veterinarians as it can help to better control blood sugar levels. If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, please talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your dog.
Question: How do I know if my dog needs to be on diabetic dog food ?
If your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, your veterinarian will likely recommend transitioning to a diabetic dog food. Additionally, your vet may also recommend diabetic dog food for dogs that are overweight or obese, as it can help them lose weight in a healthy way.
Question: What are the benefits of feeding my dog diabetic dog food ?
Diabetic dog food can help to regulate blood sugar levels, which is important for managing diabetes. Additionally, diabetic dog food often contains more protein and fat, which can help dogs maintain a healthy weight. Feeding your dog diabetic dog food as recommended by your veterinarian can help to improve your dog’s overall health.
Question: Are there any downside to feeding my dog diabetic dog food ?
No, there are no downsides to feeding your dog diabetic dog food. However, it is important to feed your dog the recommended amount of food as specified by your veterinarian. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain, which can be detrimental to your dog’s health.
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Author:
Hebby Bailey
- Updated on November 22, 2023
Disclaimer: This article doesn’t intend to replace professional veterinary advice, nor should it be used as a substitute for veterinary services, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on this website, including information and opinions expressed herein, are intended for general informational purposes only. In case you have concerns or questions regarding your dog’s health and diet requirements, please consult your veterinarian before doing anything that might affect it.
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