Best Low Carb Dog Food Brands 2022 - Dry Kibble/Wet Reviewed
- Last updated on November 23, 2023
- By: Caroline Stowe
Are you looking for the best low carb dog food for your Fido? With so many different types of pet food on the market, it can be difficult to know which is the best option. But not to worry, we have done the research for you.
After evaluating dozens of top-rated low-carb dog food brands on the market, here are some of the best low carbohydrate dog food for your furry friends. We have ranked our top choice for the “Best Low-Carb Dry Dog Food” and the “Best Low-Carb Wet Dog Food” here for your consideration, based on your dog’s diet needs.
Read our reviews below and be sure to check out our buyer’s guide at the end to learn more. We’ll also discuss the benefits of dog food low in carbohydrates, and provide answers to some of the frequently asked questions on low carb dog diet.
Table of Contents
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Top 10 Best Low Carb Dry Dog Foods (Kibbles)
We have evaluated dozens of top-rated low-carb dry dog food brands on the market to bring you the best ones. Here are our reviews and recommendations on the best low carb dog kibbles for your consideration, based on your dog’s diet needs.
VISIONARY KETO Low Carb Food For Dogs
Visionary Pet Foods Keto Low Carb Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food is the perfect food for dogs who need to stick to a low-carb diet. Made with 100% real chicken, this premium formula is packed with beneficial fats and low carbs to help keep your pup healthy and active.
Plus, it features a host of other health benefits, including a softer, shinier coat, better allergy management, improved digestion, and increased energy and endurance. Best of all, it is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for ALL life stages.
If you’re searching for a high-quality low-carb dog food that is keto-friendly, we recommend Visionary Pet Foods Keto Low Carb Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, which is made and sourced in the United States and doesn’t include any added digestible carbohydrates or fillers, making it an excellent option.
Key Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Dried Egg, Miscanthus Grass, Gelatin, Natural Chicken Liver Flavor
Caloric Content: 5,100 kcal/kg
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 43.0% min, Crude Fat 33.0% min, Crude Fiber 7.0% max,Moisture 10.0% max
Pros:
- Grain-Free, Gluten Free, Sensitive Digestion, High-Protein, Low Glycemic
- Keep your dog healthy and on track with a keto diet
- Softens coats, helps manage allergies and skin issues, good for digestion
- 100% real chicken with beneficial fats and low carbs
- Great for diabetic dogs
- Made in the USA with premium ingredients
- No fillers or artificial additives
- Food for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and life stages
Cons:
- One of the drawbacks is its cost
- Some dogs may not like the taste and stop consuming after a couple of days
KETOGENIC PET FOOD Keto Kibble Dry Dog Food
Ketogenic Pet Foods Keto Kibble is low in carbs and packed with protein, making it a fantastic way to get your pup the nutrients they need. This super meaty kibble is packed with the nutrients your pup needs to thrive.
The 60% protein and 16% fat recipe is designed to mimic the natural diet of dogs, who are carnivores by nature. And because it doesn’t contain any starchy ingredients, it’s easy on your dog’s digestive system.
Keto Kibble is also enriched with vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness. But the best part of Ketogenic Pet Foods Keto Kibble is that it’s absolutely delicious! Your dog will love the flavors of chicken, and other keto-friendly ingredients.
And you’ll appreciate the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re feeding your Fido a healthy, balanced meal. So if you’re looking for a food that’s good for your pup AND tastes great, Ketogenic Pet Foods Keto Kibble is the way to go.
Key Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Organic Chicken, Chicken Fat, Beet Fiber, Gelatin, Apple Fiber, Flaxseeds, Coconut Oil
Caloric Content: 4,275 kcal/kg
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 60% min, Crude Fat 16 % min, Crude Fiber 5% max, Moisture 10% max
Pros:
- Grain-Free, Gluten Free, Weight Control, High-Protein, Low Glycemic
- Helps your pup maintain a healthy weight
- High in protein and low in carbs. The carb content is 5% or less.
- Rich in organic ingredients, including chicken, this kibble is also keto-friendly
- Vitamins and minerals are added to support overall health and wellness
- Doesn’t contain any starchy ingredients, making it a healthier option
- Enriched with vitamins and minerals to support overall health
- Food for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
Cons:
- It’s rather costly
VISIONARY KETO PET FOODS, Grain-Free Beef Recipe
Visionary Pet Foods Keto Low Carb Beef Recipe Dry Dog Food is a protein-rich dog food that features 100% real beef with beneficial fats to help keep your furry friend going strong.
This carb free recipe does NOT include any feathers, feet or beaks, so you can rest assured that your furry friend is eating the best.
This low-carb dog food contains only 1g net carbohydrate per serving, so you can be sure your furry friend is getting the nutrients they need. Pet parents have reported softer and shinier coats, rapid relief for allergies, digestion, and skin issues, more solid and less frequent poops, no bloating or gas, increased energy and endurance, and much more.
So give your furry friend the gift of good health with Visionary Pet Foods Keto Low.
Key Ingredients: Beef, Pork Fat, Pork Meal, Chicken Meal, Whole Egg, Miscanthus Grass, Gelatin, Egg White
Caloric Content: 5,100 kcal/kg
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 60% min, Crude Fat 16 % min, Crude Fiber 5% max, Moisture 10% max
Pros:
- Keto food for dogs
- For dogs of all life stages
- Only 1g net carb per serving
- Grain-free and Gluten-free
- No fruit or added sugar
- No potatoes, peas, carrots or sweet potatoes
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Some comment on the price being a bit high.
KETONA Low Carb High Fiber Dry Dog Food
Ketona is the answer to your dog’s high fiber low carb and high protein diet needs. It’s scientifically formulated and designed to keep your pup energetic, lean and strong, with more than 46% protein and less than 5% carbohydrates!
This ketogenic dog food is made with non-GMO and antibiotic-free chickens raised by American ranchers to provide more than 90% of the protein in this diet.
With no fillers, grains, or artificial flavors, you can be confident that your pet is only eating healthy ingredients when you feed them this premium food.
Unlike high-starch food, which can irritate a dog’s stomach, Ketona’s low-carb recipe contains less than 5% starch, so you can make an immediate switch – no gradual transition necessary.
If you’re looking for a diet that is protein-rich, fiber-rich, and low in carbohydrates, we recommend Ketona. It’s also more affordable and convenient than most raw and fresh food diets.
Key Ingredients: Chicken, Pea Protein, Ground Green Peas, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Digest, Flaxseed Meal, Oat Hulls
Caloric Content: 3,327 kcal/kg
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 46% min, Crude Fat 16 % min, Crude Fiber 11% max, Moisture 10% max
Pros:
- Scientifically formulated to contain very low carbohydrates, only 5% digestible carbohydrates which is 85% less carbs than other leading brands
- Contains only 0.5% sugars, making this a great option for dogs with diabetes
- Made with premium ingredients using antibiotic-free & GMO-free chicken
- 11% fiber – one of the highest on the market
- A specially designed ketogenic dog food made with premium, all-natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals
- Grain-free, and does not contain corn, soy, wheat or potato
- 100% made in the USA
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with food allergies to peas
- Some picky dogs turn their noses up at it
Highlights:
- Nulo Adult Trim Weight Management Dry Dog Food. Low Carb Kibble Diet Helps Promote Healthy Weight
- Grain-Free – contains no corn, wheat, soy, white potatoes, tapioca
- Low Carb High Protein formula – has 74% animal-based protein, more amino acids and better flavor. Nulo uses fewer carbs & low glycemic ingredients
- Probiotic – supports healthy gut flora to aid digestion.
- Help reduce food sensitivities or allergies.
- No artificial colors, flavorings or preservatives.
- Suitable for All Life Stages
- 26 lb bag
Key Ingredients:
Turkey Meal, Deboned Turkey, Deboned Cod, Salmon Meal, Yellow Peas, Lentils, Sweet Potato, Chickpeas
Highlights:
- SOLID GOLD holistic natural grain-free and gluten-free high protein dry dog food recipe – for dogs of all breeds sizes and life stages including puppy and senior.
- High Protein, Low Carbohydrate Recipe – has 41% crude protein for fueling active dogs and ensuring their unique nutritional needs are met.
- High Quality Real Meat – using USA sourced beef providing essential amino acids that are vital for lean muscle development and a healthy active metabolism.
- Superfoods and Probiotics – helps your dog to have optimal digestive, gut health and immunity support.
- 24 lb bag.
Key Ingredients:
Beef, Dried Eggs, Peas, Ocean Fish Meal, Chicken Fat, Potatoes, Pea Protein, Dried Tomato Pomace, Carrots
Highlights:
- Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete – Real Meat Recipe High Protein Dry Dog Food
- High-Quality Protein – with cage free chicken providing an optimal amino acid profile for lean, strong muscles.
- Nutrients Rich – added vitamins & minerals.
- Superfoods – and highly digestible with fruits and vegetables
- Omega Fatty Acid – blend for healthy skin and coat
- Probiotics – to thrive in the GI tract for a healthy gut.
- No corn, wheat, filler, artificial flavor, color, or preservative were added.
- 40 lbs bag.
Key Ingredients:
Cage-Free Chicken, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Egg Product, Flaxseed, Cracked Pearled Barley, Ground Miscanthus Grass
Highlights:
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Dog Food – with Chicken
- Healthy Muscle Development – from deboned chicken providing high protein to help build strong muscles.
- Healthy Carbohydrates – including sweet potatoes and peas to help fuel your adult dog’s active lifestyle;
- Healthy Skin and Coat – with omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
- LifeSource Bits – a blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to support immune system health
- Joint Health – with glucosamine to support joint function and mobility.
- No corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
- 24 lb bag
Key Ingredients:
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Fat, Chicken Meal, Dried Egg Product, Peas, Pea Protein, Menhaden Fish Meal, Flaxseed
KETONA Low Carb High Fiber Dry Dog Food
Ketona is the answer to your dog’s high fiber low carb and high protein diet needs. It’s scientifically formulated and designed to keep your pup energetic, lean and strong, with more than 46% protein and less than 5% carbohydrates!
This ketogenic dog food is made with non-GMO and antibiotic-free chickens raised by American ranchers to provide more than 90% of the protein in this diet.
With no fillers, grains, or artificial flavors, you can be confident that your pet is only eating healthy ingredients when you feed them this premium food.
Unlike high-starch food, which can irritate a dog’s stomach, Ketona’s low-carb recipe contains less than 5% starch, so you can make an immediate switch – no gradual transition necessary.
If you’re looking for a diet that is protein-rich, fiber-rich, and low in carbohydrates, we recommend Ketona. It’s also more affordable and convenient than most raw and fresh food diets.
Key Ingredients: Chicken, Pea Protein, Ground Green Peas, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Digest, Flaxseed Meal, Oat Hulls
Caloric Content: 3,327 kcal/kg
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 46% min, Crude Fat 16 % min, Crude Fiber 11% max, Moisture 10% max
Pros:
- Scientifically formulated to contain very low carbohydrates, only 5% digestible carbohydrates which is 85% less carbs than other leading brands
- Contains only 0.5% sugars, making this a great option for dogs with diabetes
- Made with premium ingredients using antibiotic-free & GMO-free chicken raised by
- 11% fiber – one of the highest on the market
- A specially designed ketogenic dog food made with premium, all-natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals
- Grain-free, and does not contain corn, soy, wheat or potato
- 100% made in the USA
Key Ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Digest, Pea Protein, Ground Green Peas, Flaxseed Meal, Oat Hulls
Cons:
- It is more expensive compared to other brands
- Some of the protein may not come from meat ingredients- this could be a concern for some dog owners
- It has less meat than it seems, which could lead to finicky dogs turning their noses up at it
PURINA BENEFUL High Protein Dog Food
Highlights
- Purina Beneful natural, high protein dry dog Food – with a blend of chicken & Beef
- Real Chicken – as number 1 ingredient to support strong muscles
- High Protein – with 26 percent protein to help support your dog’s strong muscles,
- Antioxidants – to support immune system
- Vitamins and Minerals – to promote overall health and wellness.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- 26 lbs bag.
Key Ingredients:
Chicken, beef, beef fat, canola meal, oat meal, dried sweet potatoes, dried spinach
IAMS Proactive Health
Highlights:
- IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food – with Real Chicken and Turkey
- Real chicken – is the first ingredient in this delicious dog food to promote healthy energy and strong, firm muscles
- Essential Minerals – supports strong bones and joint health.
- Optimal Weight Control – 18% fat to help dogs maintain their ideal weight
- Healthy Metabolism – with L-Caritine to maintain healthy fat metabolism
- Healthy Heart – has nutrients for supporting heart health and function in active dogs
- 22 lbs bag.
Key Ingredients:
Chicken, Turkey, Dried Egg Product, Chicken Fat, Dried Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Carrots
Top 6 Best Low Carb Canned Wet Dog Foods
We have evaluated dozens of top-rated low-carb wet dog food brands on the market to bring you the best ones. Here are our reviews and recommendations on the best low carb canned dog food for your consideration, based on your dog’s diet needs.
PEDIGREE High Protein Low Carb Canned Dog Food
Highlights:
- PEDIGREE High Protein Canned Wet Dog Food – Beef & Lamb Flavor in Gravy
- High Protein – made with real beef and lamb in an irresistible texture dogs love
- 100% Complete and Balanced – nutritious soft wet food for dogs
- Adult dog food for dogs of all size
- 12 cans, each can is 13.2 oz
What are the benefits of low carbohydrate diet for dogs?
Low-carb diets are a great way to mimic the food that dogs consumed in their ancestors’ days. This can be beneficial for many aspects of your pup’s health, including appearance and energy levels!
In a low-carb diet, dogs eat high levels of protein and fat with some carbs that are less likely to cause digestive problems. The fats provide energy while the proteins help fill them up so they don’t overeat anything else!
A major part of this type of food is its ability to put your pup into ketosis mode which can have tons of benefits for their body, mind & lifespan as well.
Many dog owners believe that dogs need carbohydrates as part of their diet because they are omnivores, like people. However, this is not true as dogs can easily get all of their nutritional needs from protein and fat.
Low carb diets have many benefits for dogs. They can help to reduce weight gain, improve digestion, increase energy levels, promote better dental health, and lower the risk of disease.
1. Weight loss
If your dog is overweight, switching to a low carb diet can help them to lose weight. This is because carbs are converted into sugar in the body, which can lead to weight gain.
2. Improved digestion
A low carb diet can also help to improve your dog’s digestion. This is because carbs can be difficult to digest, particularly for older dogs. Carbohydrates are also known for causing digestive problems, such as gas and diarrhea.
3. More energy
A low carb diet can also give your dog more energy. This is because carbs can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, which can lead to fatigue.
4. Better dental health
A low carb diet can also help to improve your dog’s dental health. This is because carbs can promote the growth of plaque and bacteria in the mouth.
5. Lower risk of disease
A low carb diet can also help to lower your dog’s risk of developing certain diseases, such as diabetes. This is because a high carb diet can cause insulin resistance, which can lead to diabetes.
Switching to a low-carb diet is also an effective way to decrease the risk of obesity. Obesity is a serious issue in dogs, with more than half of them being overweight. Low-carb food can help prevent your pup from becoming obese and reduce his chances of developing various health problems, including arthritis.
Energy can come from one of three sources: carbohydrates, fat, and protein. Dogs do not need an excessive amount of carbohydrates. Excessive carbohydrates result in extra fats which can cause obesity and overweight, which will lead to heart disease, diabetes, kidney problems, and other health issues for your dog. Therefore, giving your dogs low-carb dog foods would help them lose weight, gain muscle mass, and have better health.
How to choose the best low-carb dog food brand?
There are many quality low carb dog food brands available on the market that you can choose from. The common carbohydrates found in commercial dog food includes potatoes or sweet potatoes, peas, rice, barley, oat, corn, wheat etc.
How to know if the dog food is low in carbohydrates? An easy way to check will be to read the food label to make sure there are not more than 10% carbohydrates in the food you select.
Some food labels may state that it is low carbohydrate. However, this might not be true because not all manufacturers are honest about the ingredients in their products. Some companies might put “no carbs” on the food label, but there might still be a small amount of carbohydrates. This is why it is advisable to go through the ingredients and confirm that it is low carbohydrate.
Factors to Consider When Buying Food For Your Fido:
1. Check the carbohydrate content
When buying low carb dog food, it is important to check the carbohydrate content on the label. The carbs should ideally make up no more than 10% of the food.
2. Consider the protein and fat content
The protein and fat content of the food are also important. Low carb dog food should be high in protein and low in carbs.
3. Choose a food that is grain-free
Most commercial dog foods contain grains, which can be high in carbohydrates. It is therefore important to choose a grain-free food if you are looking for a low carb option.
4. Check the ingredient list
When buying low carb dog food, it is also important to check the ingredient list. The first few ingredients listed should be meat or fish, followed by vegetables. Avoid foods that contain fillers such as corn, wheat or soy.
5. Talk to your vet
If you are unsure about which low carb dog food to choose, it is always best to talk to your vet. They will be able to advise you on the best option for your dog.
FAQs
Question: Do dogs require carbohydrates in their diet ?
No, your dog does not need carbohydrates. There is no evidence that dogs need carbs and there is evidence that they can thrive without them. Carbohydrates are unnecessary for most dogs.
Protein and fat are the two main nutrients that dogs need in their diet. Carbohydrates are not something that they need to survive. Even though some carbs can be used for extra energy, most of the time an active dog will get all of its calories from protein and fat.
Question: Are low carb diets good for dogs ?
Dogs can benefit from carbohydrate restriction. There are many benefits to using lower-carbohydrate foods in dog food, including weight loss and improved blood sugar regulation.
Carbohydrates should only make up no more than 20-30% of a dog’s diet, and they should be highly digestible carbohydrates. Carbs are not an essential nutrient for dogs, unlike proteins or fats. Dogs can get all of their needed nutrients from protein and fat.
HOWEVER, some dogs have sensitive stomachs and too much protein can cause them to throw up or have diarrhea. Speak to your vet before making the switch to a high-protein low-carbohydrate diet for your dog.
Question: What are good carbs for dogs ?
There are many different types of carbs for dogs, but the best ones have low glycemic indexes. These include fruits and vegetables like oats or lentils which can be incorporated into your pup’s diet to keep them healthy!
Though dogs don’t have a dietary requirement for carbohydrates, they still need some type of nutrients. A low-carb diet with simple sugars can provide all the necessary elements that your pup needs in order to be healthy and happy!
But because total carb-free dog food is neither practical nor cheap, the next best option is low-carb diet containing simple carbohydrates.
Question: What is a low carbohydrate diet for dogs ?
A low-carbohydrate diet consists of around 10% to 15% carbohydrates. These types of diets are similar to the ancestral food that dogs ate when they were living in the wild and usually has a ratio of 70%-80% protein, 15%-25% fat, and 5%-10% carbs.
Question: Do some dogs need a low carb diet ?
Yes. If your dog is suffering from certain health problems, it may benefit from switching to a low-carbohydrate diet. For example, dogs that suffer from diabetes can benefit from low-carb diets because they help minimize blood sugar spikes.
Obese dogs can also benefit from low-carbohydrate diets because they promote weight loss. Dogs that suffer from pancreatitis can greatly benefit from a low-carbohydrate diet which reduces the inflammation in their pancreas.
In some cases, dogs with arthritis may also benefit from low-carb diets because they contain high levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which are known to help with joint pain. Dogs that suffer from kidney disease can benefit from low-carb diets because they help protect the kidneys by reducing oxidative stress.
If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, you should talk with your veterinarian about switching them to a low-carbohydrate diet. Your vet will be able to help you choose the best diet for your dog.
Question: What are some low carbohydrate foods that dogs can eat ?
Instead of carbohydrates, these diets contain lots and lots of protein and fat. When making a homemade meal for your dog, it’s best to focus on meat and eggs as the main source of protein. Here are some proteins you can use:
- Beef
- Lamb
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Tuna
- Salmon
- Sardines
- Eggs (ranked the best protein source by the FDA)
If your dog will be getting a commercial low-carb diet, look for brands that are high in protein and fat. You may consider any of the low carb dog food that we have reviewed on this page.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, there are no ‘carb-free’ or ‘no carb’ dog foods, only ones with “low-carb” or different levels of protein/fat/fiber. If your dog is obese and needs weight loss, you should seek advice from your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist before switching to a lower carb diet for dogs.
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Author:
Caroline Stowe
- Updated on November 23, 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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