Why Feed Your Dog A High Protein Diet
A high protein diet builds muscle mass and maintains healthy muscles and joints. The nutrition of a high protein diet provides support for dogs that live an active lifestyle. If your dog enjoys running around outside in the yard or at the dog park to get their energy out, you have a high-energy dog that requires a high protein diet.
While carbohydrates are important for energy needs, muscle mass is equally essential to the overall well-being of active dogs. Imagine if a high active dog doesnt have enough muscle mass to allow their body to run around and burn off the energy, the dog would be unbalanced and ultimately become unhealthy.
You can improve your dogs life today and help them lose weight as well as build muscle mass with the dog foods mentioned on the list above. All of the dog foods have natural ingredients and protein sources that help your dog thrive throughout their lifetime.
Start making a difference in your dogs life today by choosing one of the powerful and nutritious dog foods mentioned on the list.
Benefits Of Muscle For Your Pet
Regular walks and playtime are necessary for dogs to strengthen their muscles and joints and reduce fatigue and injury. Exercise lessens the effects of arthritis and aging for dogs, and its also an excellent strategy to help tire out a high-energy pup.
- Rebuild muscle mass that was lost due to an injury
- Help an underweight dog gain weight and size
- Increase metabolism and assist in weight and fat loss
- Condition sports dogs for performance activities like weight pulling and agility
- Prepare a dog for activities like hunting, herding, and guarding
- Train dogs for specialized jobs
Its also important to keep your dogs breed in mind before adopting any muscle-building routines. Some breeds can tolerate additional muscle mass while others may develop problems if theyre forced to carry too much weight. As always, consult with your pets veterinarian before implementing a significant adjustment, such as changing their diets or beginning a more rigorous exercise regimen.
Here are some dog breeds that can build muscle appropriately:
- American Staffordshire Terriers
Hill’s Prescription Diet G/d Aging Care Turkey Flavor Wet Senior Dog Food
Image courtesy Hillâs
Hill’s Prescription Diet g/d Aging Care Turkey Flavor Wet Senior Dog Food is a high-quality, grain-free dog food that is made with real turkey. This food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of all dogs and is free from corn, soy, and wheat.
Hill’s Prescription Diet g/d Aging Care Turkey Flavor Wet Senior Dog Food is a great option for dogs who are allergic to corn, soy, or wheat. This food is also high in protein and fat, which makes it perfect for dogs who need to gain weight.
Recommended Reading: What’s The Best Rated Dog Food
Mvp K9 Supplements Muscle Builder And Performance For Dogs
Muscle Builder and Performance for Dogs is a powerhouse of ingredients for optimal muscle growth, recovery and all round condition. This natural formula from MVP K9 Supplements is vet approved and has been field tested by champions with excellent results including increased performance, focus and lower stress levels.
- Pit Bull muscle dog food reviews: Read here what other pet owners are saying
This supplement contains high quality whey protein isolate, amino acids, creatine and colostrums to promote muscle development, performance and recovery. The natural nutrient, Dimethylglycine, or DMG, further supports muscle metabolism, muscle efficiency and reduces lactic acid build up for speedy recovery. DMG is also known to boost the immune system and fight off cancerous fatty tumors.
Customer reviews of MVP K9 Supplements Muscle Builder and Performance for Dogs back up the manufacturers claims of it being a powerful supplement. The benefits observed range from increased strength, stamina and recovery to lean definition and a shiny coat. A small minority of customers report that the product made no difference to their bully despite appropriate exercise and feeding.
Muscle Builder and Performance for Dogs is the protein shake of the canine world. Used in conjunction with a suitable diet and sufficient exercise, this supplement will support your bully to meet his potential before, during and after competition or a day in the field.
How To Increase Dog Muscle With Dog Food
Your dog requires good nutrition and exercise to maintain overall good health. Using food to help your dog gain muscle mass will reduce their fat intake, increase metabolism, lower symptoms of arthritis, and many other health benefits.
For many years scientists and veterinarians have worked endlessly to create special recipes and formulas that meet the nutritional needs for various stages of life. Historically, puppies eat foods that are high in protein content so they can develop their vital organs properly and build muscles.
As dogs grow older their kidneys can have difficulty processing high protein diets. However, dog breeds that are known to be active such as the ones mentioned earlier require protein diets and are capable of handling this nutrition throughout their entire lifetime. Protein builds and rebuilds muscle at all stages of life whether your dog is a newborn puppy, adult, or an elderly senior.
Since protein is a key ingredient for building muscle its often used in most canine dry dog food. Exercise and age are the main culprits that cause muscle mass to break down and require protein to be replaced.
Active dog breeds require a high protein diet filled with pure meats to maintain and build muscle mass. For this reason, dog food manufacturers created food to bulk up your dog. Many high-protein kibble bags clearly has dog food to put on weight and dog food for bulking up written on the labels, so you know you are providing your dog with a high protein diet.
Also Check: Rachael Ray Zero Grain Dog Food
How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Underweight
A good way to tell if your dog is underweight is to feel their ribs. If you can easily feel their ribs, they are probably too thin.
Another way to tell if your dog needs to gain weight is by looking at them from above. If you can see their waistline, they are probably too thin.
If you are unsure if your dog is underweight, you can always talk to your veterinarian. They will be able to assess your dog’s body condition and give you a good idea of how much weight they should gain.
Gorilla Max Protein Muscle Supplement For Dogs
Gorilla Max is a powerful muscle building and health supplement by the dog vitamin makers, Bully Max. Whether you own a Pit Bull or a Poodle, this product will give you great results. Veterinary approved and meeting stringent FDA and AFFCO standards, its not surprising that working dog owners and champion show dog owners rate this supplement highly.
- Pit Bull muscle dog food reviews: Read here what other pet owners are saying
For dogs over the age of 12 weeks, Gorilla Max is designed to not only add mass but also provide an impressive range of health benefits. With 20g of protein per serving, owners report seeing muscle growth and improved condition in 2-3 weeks. Described by the manufacturers as containing revolutionary nutrients, Gorilla Max brings health benefits such as improvements in strength, immunity, digestion and overall vitality.
Whilst the majority of dog owners rate this best dog food for Pit Bulls to gain muscle highly, not everyone agrees. The biggest complaint is the claim that GORILLA MAX Protein Muscle Supplement for Dogs contains up to 30 servings. Customers have contested this, stating that each bag is only a quarter full. A few customers have reported that their dog doesnt like the taste and also that the product has caused diarrhea.
Most helpful dog owner’s review : Amazing product. Just after a couple weeks, I noticed a big difference with my male. Just the muscle tone and definition was
Also Check: Why Is My Dog Throwing Up Her Food
Do Dogs Need Carbs To Build Muscle
Fat and carbohydrates are preferred by hard working muscles
Carbohydrates are used for energy, including energy for exercise, or work. While certain amino acids from protein can be converted to energy during exercise, fat and carbohydrates are actually the preferred energy sources for working dog muscles.
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet
Image courtesy Blue Buffalo
Feed Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF, a high-fiber food for dogs with food intolerance problems, including grain-free dry dog food.
It’s designed for dogs with food intolerances, so it helps to decrease the likelihood of adverse responses to commonly consumed proteins. For a highly digestible protein your pal will tolerate,
Sunflower oil and flaxseed are combined for a low-allergen grain-free recipe that provides omega 3 fatty acids to help dogs achieve and maintain healthy skin and a glossy coat. It also has vitamins E and C, as well as antioxidant-rich components including pumpkin and kelp to assist your buddy’s healthy immune system.
It’s also high in fiber, which can help keep your dog regular and promote healthy skin and digestion. Plus, this nutritious, all-natural diet has both nutritional value and a flavor that your dog will adore.
Also Check: Purina Dog Food Recalls 2021
Raised Right Fresh Human
Rating:
Adult Beef is one of 11 wet recipes covered in our review of the Raised Right Fresh product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for:Adult dogs
- Other recipes: Turkey Recipe, Pork Recipe, Chicken Recipe, Turkey and Pumpkin, Puppy Growth and others
Raised Right Adult Beef gets most of its meat protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis shows the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
All recipes contain a single source of animal protein with no hidden fillers. One of the best high-protein fresh foods on the market. Easily recommended.
Rating:
Orijen Original is one of 9 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Orijen product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, chicken liver
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for:Adults and puppies
- Other recipes: Puppy Large, Six Fish, Regional Red, Senior and others
This particular Orijen recipe obtains the better part of its animal protein from fresh chicken, turkey, flounder, and whole mackerel. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 20% fat and 28% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Slowly Start Exercising Your Dog
Food is not all there is to building muscles. Muscle building and toning also means muscle straining, they must go hand in hand with dieting. So, you need to start off with struggle drills.
Take it slow with your Pitbull. Start off with lighter weights, then gradually increase the weights as your Pitbull gets used to the weight and building more muscles.
Also Check: What Is The Best Dry Dog Food For Picky Dogs
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein
Chicken meal, deboned duck, and turkey meal are the principal sources of protein. Carbohydrates are found in peas and potatoes. Additionally, it contains a nutritious blend of fruits and vegetables.
Blue Buffalos unique LifeSource pieces ensure that the dog receives antioxidants and a balanced diet of nutrients.
Pros
- Grain-free dry dog feed made without byproducts.
Cons
What Are Some Good Dog Supplements To Build Muscle
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Is your dog a lean machine, or a little bit paunchy? Some dogs are born to be muscular powerhouses while others have genes that keep them short and stout . Though genetics make a big difference in body style, there are plenty of things that you can do to help your dog become more muscular, such as boosting the protein in her diet, adding Dog Supplements To Build Muscle, and providing good exercise.
Also Check: Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food Alternative
Final Thoughts On 20 Best Dog Foods For Weight Gain In 2022
Now that you know the best dog foods for weight gain, it’s time to start stocking up! Make sure to choose a high-quality food that will meet your pup’s individual needs. And don’t forget to talk to your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
With a little effort, you can help your dog reach their ideal weight in no time.
Homemade Food Recipes To Try
Satin Balls recipe comes as highly recommended food for all canines struggling to put on some weight.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 1/3 cups of total cereal
- 1 ½ cups of uncooked oatmeal
- One package of unflavored gelatin
- Six tablespoons of wheat germ
- Two tablespoons of coconut oil
- Two tablespoons of unsulphured molasses
This meal is meant to be served raw. Its crucial to take the necessary steps and sanitize any surface when making this recipe. Since satin balls are fresh, they are quite easy to make.
You just mix all the ingredients in a large bowl until everything is combined. The final mixture should be similar to meatloaf.
Break off pieces of the loaf that are the size of a golf ball and then roll them until they are appropriately shaped. You can store the balls into a refrigerator for three days, or put them into the freezer.
Read Also: How Long Does Wet Dog Food Last
Why Is My Dog Underweight Even Though I Feed Him Enough
If youre feeding your dog according to the dog foods instructions but hes still underweight, there could be an underlying reason.
Low-quality dog food is a common one. Dog foods that use bad quality filler ingredients are most likely not giving your dog the nutrients he needs. So even though hes eating enough, hes not getting enough nutrition to build muscle.
It could also be that youre underestimating how many calories your dog needs. The guidelines on dog food are just that guidelines. Active dogs will most likely need more than whats specified, and it depends largely on your individual pup as well, and their metabolism.
If youve recently switched to a senior food, it could be that your dog is no longer getting the fat required to provide them enough energy to be active. This means instead of getting their energy from their food, theyre dipping into their fat stores, and could easily become underweight from this.
The same is true if your dog was on a weight management food and has since reached their desired weight but is still on the lower-fat food. Dental issues could also be why your pooch just doesnt want to chew on kibble anymore! If none of these could be the reason, then its worth a trip to the vet to rule out underlying illnesses such as diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or intestinal parasites.
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The Importance Of Protein
Too little protein in the diet can cause weight loss, weakness, and a dull-looking coat. What you need is a dog food that is high on protein and includes fruits and vegetables for good nutrition Look for dog food brands that are high in protein, meaning that they list real meat and fish sources as the top ingredients on the list. Real meat, eggs, dairy, and meat meal are full of protein and therefore excellent Dog Supplements To Build Muscle that are easily obtained.
Recommended Reading: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy Food
How Do The Best Dog Foods For Weight Gain Help My Dog
The best foods for weight gain help your dog by providing the right nutrients and calories to support a healthy weight. Often, these foods are higher in protein and fat than average, which helps your dog feel fuller longer and maintain their energy levels.
In addition, the best foods for weight gain usually contain added fiber to help with digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Acana Singles Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
Best High Protein Flavor Range: Excellent variety of dog food recipes with high protein content thats crucial for building and maintaining muscles
- Large variety of limited ingredient dog food recipes with exciting flavors
- Protein-rich formulation made from a mix of kibble and raw nutrition
- Grain, potato, and tapioca-free dog food to accommodate dogs with food sensitivities
- This particular flavor is made from lamb which is a highly digestible protein
CONS
- Slightly pricey
If you have a picky eater dog who needs additional muscle support, the Acana Singles Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food can help you solve two problems at the same time.
With 8 exciting flavors available, each having high protein content from a single premium animal source combined with a few well-chosen vegetables, your fussy eater can have plenty of flavors to choose from and you can guarantee theyre getting enough protein to help keep their muscles lean and strong.
It has a crude protein content of 31%, which is pretty consistent across the flavor range. This amount of protein comes from meat, organs, cartilage, and bone which deliver a concentrated blend of amino acids essential for muscle building.
Every recipe is free from potato, grains, and tapioca, so your pups stomach will be happy no matter which flavor they go for.
Also Check: Why Is My Dog Throwing Up Undigested Food
Picking Quality Protein Sources
In reality, your dog does not need protein but rather the building blocks that make up protein, which is called amino acids. There are 22 amino acids dogs need to stay strong and healthy, and their bodies produce 12 of them the other 10 must be obtained through food sources.
So, not all proteins are created equal. The levels of amino acids vary in each protein source, and each protein varies in its ability to be broken down into amino acids. Protein bioavailability refers to the relative amount of essential amino acids in the food to the total protein content, and protein digestibility refers to how much amino acid content can be broken down by the digestive system.
What this means is that you want to choose quality protein sources that are high in both bioavailability and digestibility. Egg, fish, beef, chicken, lamb, and rice all rank high on the scale. When picking your pups food, ensure one of these quality protein sources is listed in the first few ingredients. And of course, whole foods should always be a focus.