Top 5 Dog Foods for Healthy Weight Gain Review

Does your beloved dog seem a bit too skinny? Maybe you worry they are not getting enough energy or that they look frail. It is tough when you want your furry friend to be at their healthiest weight, but they just won’t pack on the pounds. Finding the right food to help them gain weight safely can feel like a confusing puzzle.

The market is full of dog foods, and many claim to be the answer for weight gain. But how do you know which one truly works and is good for your dog’s overall health? Picking the wrong food might cause tummy troubles or lead to unhealthy weight gain. You want clear answers, not more questions!

This post cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what ingredients to look for and which types of food work best for healthy weight gain in dogs. By the end, you will feel confident choosing the perfect meal plan for your underweight pup.

Ready to help your dog reach their ideal, strong physique? Let’s dive into the best dog foods for putting on healthy weight.

Top Dog Food For Weight Gain Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

Bully Max Dry Dog Food for Adults & Puppies - High Protein & Fat for Muscle & Weight Gain - High Performance Dog Food Supplements - Small & Large Breed Dogs (535 Calories Per Cup), Chicken, 5lb 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.

Bestseller No. 2

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.

SaleBestseller No. 3

PetAg Dyne High Calorie Liquid Nutritional Supplement for Dogs & Puppies 8 Weeks and Older - 16 oz - Supports Performance and Endurance - Sweet Vanilla Flavor

HIGH-CALORIE SUPPLEMENT FOR DOGS & PUPPIES 8 WEEKS AND OLDER - Dyne is a powerful nutritional supplement that provides additional calories to support dogs in all life stages: active, pregnant, lactating, underweight, and senior.
POWERFUL NUTRITION - This high-calorie, low-volume formula supports performance and endurance for working and active dogs; and provides pregnant/lactating dogs with important nutrients.
DENSE FORM OF ENERGY - The concentrated calories in Dyne don’t limit stomach capacity for a dog’s normal diet.
DIRECTIONS - Shake well prior to feeding. Can be fed directly or poured over food. With high fat and a sweet vanilla flavor, Dyne is highly palatable.
ABOUT US - PetAg is a trusted leader in pet wellness, with science-backed formulas in our milk replacers, health supplements, and grooming products helping pet owners to proactively enhance the lives of their pets, for more healthy years together.

Bestseller No. 4

Pedigree High Protein Wet Food Beef Lamb & Chicken Turkey in Gravy Variety Pack 13.2 oz. Cans 12 Count

100% Complete and Balanced For Adult Dogs: This wet dog food is 100% complete and balanced for adult dogs, providing the nutrients they need to grow
Made With Real Beef, Lamb, Chicken or Turkey: This Pedigree High Protein Adult Canned Wet Dog Food Variety Pack is slow cooked with real beef, lamb, chicken or turkey
Quality Recipe: Pedigree High Protein Adult Wet Dog Food In Gravy is fortified with vitamins & minerals to support a healthy immune system
Mix-it-Up: Pedigree High Protein Adult Wet Dog Food leaves no messy leftovers and can be served as a topper, mixed with dry dog food, or enjoyed as a complete meal for adult dogs on its own
High Protein: This wet dog food is made with 35% more protein than Pedigree Choice Cuts

Bestseller No. 5

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.

Bestseller No. 6

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food, Helps Build and Maintain Strong Muscles, Made with Natural Ingredients, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 5-lb. Bag

REAL CHICKEN FIRST: Blue Buffalo's premium dog food features high quality deboned chicken as the primary ingredient; brown rice, cranberries and vegetables for a balanced diet; and high quality protein that promotes strong muscles
HIGH QUALITY NATURAL FOOD: BLUE's natural dry dog food is made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat or soy
THE PERFECT BALANCE OF FLAVOR AND NUTRITION: Formulated with essential proteins and carbs for energy needs and Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat
CONTAINS IMMUNITY-BOOSTING LIFESOURCE BITS: LifeSource Bits contain a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
Contains: One (1) 5-lbs bag of BLUE Life Protection Formula Natural Chicken and Brown Rice Flavor

Bestseller No. 7

Bully Max Pro 2X High Calorie & High Protein Dry Dog Food for Puppy & Adult Dogs - Healthy Weight Gain & Muscle Building for Small & Large Breeds - Slow-Cooked, 600 Calories/Cup, Chicken Flavor, 4lb.

ULTIMATE HIGH-CALORIE DOG FOOD: Discover the power of Bully Max 31/25 Pro Series 2X High Calorie Dog Food. Packed with a remarkable 600 calories per cup, this premium dog food leads the pack in calorie density. Its robust formula contains 31% protein and 25% fat, enriched with heart-healthy flaxseed and 19 essential vitamins & minerals, making it not only calorie-dense but possibly the most nutritious performance dog food available. Its nutrient-rich blend helps support digestion and reduce gas.
MAXIMIZED CALORIE DENSITY FOR HEALTHY WEIGHT GAIN: Bully Max Pro Series Dog Food’s unparalleled high-calorie formula allows you to feed your dog up to 60% less than other brands. A single bag offers double the longevity, delivering exceptional value. This dry puppy dog food is ideal for performance dogs & also perfect as a healthy weight gainer. Packed with high-quality nutrients for substantial weight gain and robust health. Free from corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, and preservatives.
ENHANCED DIGESTION & SUPERIOR NUTRIENT ABSORPTION: Bully Max Pro 2X Calorie Dog Food ensures easy digestion and optimal nutrient uptake. Formulated with natural ingredients, this calorie-rich food efficiently delivers essential proteins and nutrients, avoiding overeating discomfort. Ideal for dogs of all sizes and breeds, it promotes a healthy, energetic lifestyle with its carefully balanced nutrition, making it an excellent choice for maintaining your dog's overall well-being.
SUITABLE FOR ALL BREEDS: Bully Max 2X Calorie Dog Food kibble is ideal for all breeds, offering a delicious chicken flavor. Formulated with premium proteins and high-quality ingredients, this kibble is free from cheap fillers, soy, corn, and artificial flavors. Perfect for dogs from 4 weeks, including pregnant or nursing ones, it's naturally enhanced with essential vitamins and minerals, providing a balanced diet for every canine stage. It’s free from poultry by-product meals or fillers.
PREMIUM QUALITY, ZERO RECALLS: Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, our Bully Max Pro 2X Dry Dog Food meets 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.

SaleBestseller No. 8

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food - 8 lb. Bag

Purina ONE chicken and rice dog food offers a microbiome balance and a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, including prebiotic fiber for dogs, to help your dog live his best life
With real chicken as the first ingredient, this high quality dog food supports strong muscles, including a healthy heart, and helps fuel healthy energy with high-quality carbohydrate sources
This chicken and rice dry dog food for skin and coat care provides omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, plus four antioxidant sources for a strong immune system
Is Purina ONE good for dogs? Purina ONE red bag dog food delivers 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs and features natural glucosamine sources to promote joint health for dogs
Is Purina ONE made in the USA? Every digestive care dog food bag is crafted in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities and delivers with a combo crunchy bites and tender, meaty morsels dogs love

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Food for Healthy Weight Gain

Is your dog too skinny? Does your vet recommend gaining a few pounds? Choosing the right food is key. Not all weight gain is healthy. We want your dog to gain muscle and healthy weight, not just fat. This guide helps you pick the best food for your furry friend.

Key Features to Look For

When you look at dog food bags, check these important things first. These features show the food is made for gaining weight the right way.

High Calorie Density

What it means: These foods pack more energy (calories) into a smaller serving size.
Why it matters: Picky eaters or dogs with small stomachs need high-calorie food so they don’t have to eat huge amounts to gain weight.

High Protein Content

What it means: Look for foods with a high percentage of quality animal protein (like chicken, beef, or fish).
Why it matters: Protein builds strong muscles. Healthy weight gain means more muscle, not just fat.

Healthy Fat Sources

What it means: Good weight gain food includes healthy fats like fish oil or flaxseed.
Why it matters: Fats are the most concentrated source of calories. They provide the extra energy needed for weight gain.

Important Ingredients: What’s Inside Matters

The ingredients list tells the real story. Focus on whole, quality components.

Top-Tier Protein Sources

The first few ingredients should be named meats. Avoid foods where “meat by-products” are the main ingredient. Real meat sources provide the best building blocks for your dog.

Complex Carbohydrates

Good weight gain foods use quality carbs for sustained energy. Look for ingredients like brown rice, oats, or sweet potatoes. These release energy slowly.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are vital. They support skin, coat, and overall cellular health while adding necessary calories.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Food Quality

Quality varies greatly between brands. Knowing what boosts quality and what lowers it helps you make a smart choice.

Quality Boosters:

Named Meat Ingredients: “Chicken” is better than “Poultry Meal.”
Natural Preservatives: Foods preserved naturally (like Vitamin E) are generally better than artificial preservatives (like BHA or BHT).
Digestibility: Highly digestible formulas mean your dog absorbs more of the nutrients provided.

Quality Reducers:

Excessive Fillers: Too much corn, wheat, or soy can fill up your dog without providing dense nutrition needed for weight gain.
Artificial Colors and Flavors: These add nothing beneficial to the diet.
Unknown Meat Sources: If the label just says “Meat Meal,” you do not know the quality of the source.

User Experience and Use Cases

How the food works in real life matters. Consider your dog’s situation.

Use Cases:

Recovering Dogs: Dogs recovering from illness often need highly palatable (tasty) food that is easy to eat and digest.
Working or Active Dogs: These dogs need high-calorie density to maintain energy and build lean mass.
Puppies: Growing puppies need specific nutrient ratios (like calcium) for healthy development alongside weight gain.

User Experience Tips:

Most owners report positive results when switching slowly. Watch your dog’s stool; firm, healthy stools show the food digests well. If your dog refuses to eat it, even if it is high-calorie, it won’t help them gain weight!

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dog Food for Weight Gain

Q: How quickly should my dog gain weight?

A: A healthy rate is usually about 1% to 2% of their current body weight per week. Talk to your vet for a specific goal.

Q: Is “puppy food” the same as “weight gain food”?

A: Not exactly. Puppy food is high in calories for growth, but weight gain food is specifically balanced for adult dogs needing extra energy and muscle support.

Q: Should I feed wet food or dry kibble for weight gain?

A: Dry kibble is usually more calorie-dense by volume. However, wet food can be more appealing to very picky, underweight dogs.

Q: What is the best way to transition to the new food?

A: Mix a small amount of the new food with the old food for about seven to ten days, slowly increasing the ratio of the new food each day.

Q: Can I just add gravy or toppers to regular food?

A: Toppers help with taste, but they often do not provide the balanced, dense nutrition required for sustained, healthy weight gain.

Q: What should I do if my dog eats the food but doesn’t gain weight?

A: First, check the feeding amounts against the bag’s recommendation. If they are still not gaining, consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.

Q: Are grain-free weight gain foods better?

A: Grain-free is not automatically better. Quality grains like oats are excellent energy sources. Focus on the quality of the main protein, not just the absence of grain.

Q: How much protein is enough for weight gain?

A: For weight gain formulas, aim for a minimum of 25% protein on a dry matter basis, but higher percentages (up to 30%+) are often beneficial for building muscle.

Q: Does feeding frequency affect weight gain?

A: Yes. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals (three or four times a day) can sometimes work better for dogs with sensitive stomachs or small appetites.

Q: How do I know if my dog is gaining healthy weight (muscle) instead of just fat?

A: Healthy weight gain shows as increased muscle tone, especially around the shoulders and hindquarters. Your vet can perform a body condition score assessment.