Top 5 Dog Foods for Healthy Weight Gain Review

Does your furry friend look more like a skinny twig than a happy, healthy pup? Many dog owners face the frustrating challenge of helping their beloved companions pack on healthy pounds. It is tough watching your dog look underweight, and you want the best for them. You search online, and suddenly, you see hundreds of bags promising “weight gain,” making the decision feel overwhelming and confusing.

Choosing the right food is more than just picking the bag with the highest calorie count. You need the right balance of protein, fat, and nutrients so your dog gains good weight, not just unhealthy bulk. This guide cuts through the noise. We will show you exactly what ingredients to look for and how to select a food that supports muscle growth and energy.

Keep reading to unlock the secrets to successful, healthy weight gain for your dog. By the end, you will feel confident picking the perfect food to help your pup fill out and thrive. Let’s dive into finding the best weight-gaining fuel for your best friend!

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

Bully Max Dry Dog Food for Adults & Puppies - High Protein & Fat for Muscle & Weight Gain - High Performance Dog Food Supplements - Small & Large Breed Dogs (530 Calories Per Cup), Beef, 15lb Bag

OPTIMAL MUSCLE & WEIGHT GAIN: Bully Max 30/20 High Protein Beef Dry Dog Food delivers 30% protein, 20% fat, and 530 calories per cup to support muscle growth, healthy weight gain, and lasting energy. Ideal for active, working, and underweight dogs, its calorie-dense formula helps reduce serving sizes while powering performance for small and large breed dogs.
PREMIUM BEEF + SUPERFOODS FOR TOTAL HEALTH: Powered by beef for muscle support, plus kelp for joint health, flaxseed for skin and coat, and a nutrient-rich blend of carrots, spinach, and blueberries to help boost immunity. Added probiotics and inulin prebiotics support healthy digestion and gut balance. This high protein formula delivers well-rounded nutrition for strength and vitality. Quality checked for freshness to avoid odor or spoilage.
530 CALORIES PER CUP: One of the most calorie-rich high protein dog foods available. Supports healthy weight, growth, and daily performance for large breed puppies and adults. Its rich beef flavor, aroma, and texture appeal to picky eaters. Crafted with premium natural ingredients for efficient, nutrient-dense feeding that helps maintain lean muscle and strong energy.
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 beef-flavored 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. 7

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. 8

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.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Dog Food for Weight Gain

Does your dog look a little too skinny? Many dog owners need food that helps their furry friends gain healthy weight. Picking the right food is important. This guide helps you choose the best option.

Key Features to Look For

When buying weight gain food, look for specific things on the bag. These features show the food is designed for packing on healthy pounds, not just empty calories.

High Calorie Density

The food must have more calories packed into each cup. This means your dog eats less but gets more energy.
Look for words like “high-calorie” or “performance formula.”

High Protein Content

Protein builds strong muscles, which is healthy weight gain. Avoid food where protein is the last ingredient listed.
Aim for a guaranteed analysis showing at least 25-30% protein.

Healthy Fats

Fats are the easiest way to add calories. Good fats, like Omega fatty acids, also make skin and coats shiny.
Check the fat percentage; it should generally be higher than standard maintenance food.

Important Ingredients and Materials

What is inside the bag truly matters. You want quality ingredients that support growth and energy.

Quality Protein Sources

The first few ingredients should be named meats, like “Chicken,” “Beef,” or “Salmon.” Avoid vague terms like “Meat By-Products.”
Eggs and fish are excellent, easily digestible sources of protein.

Complex Carbohydrates

These provide sustained energy for active dogs needing to gain weight. Good carbs include brown rice, oats, or sweet potatoes.
Simple sugars should be low on the ingredient list.

Digestibility Aids

For a dog to gain weight, they must absorb the nutrients. Look for added ingredients like probiotics or prebiotics. These help the tummy work better.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Food Quality

Some things make weight gain food great; others make it less effective or even harmful.

Quality Boosters (Improve Quality)

**Real Meat First:** This guarantees a strong nutritional base.
**Natural Preservatives:** Foods preserved with Vitamin E (tocopherols) are better than those using artificial colors or chemical preservatives.
**Added Vitamins and Minerals:** These support overall health while the dog gains weight.

Quality Reducers (Reduce Quality)

**Excessive Fillers:** Ingredients like corn or wheat used heavily just bulk up the food without adding much usable nutrition for weight gain.
**Artificial Colors and Flavors:** These offer no health benefit to your dog.
**Low Digestibility:** If the food passes through too quickly, the dog doesn’t absorb the needed calories.

User Experience and Use Cases

How dogs react to the food tells you a lot about its quality.

Positive User Experiences

Owners often report seeing visible weight gain within 4-6 weeks when the food is paired with proper feeding schedules.
Dogs usually find high-calorie foods very tasty, making feeding time easy.

Common Use Cases

**Recovery:** Excellent for dogs recovering from illness or surgery that need to rebuild mass.
**Working Dogs:** Ideal for dogs with high energy demands, like agility competitors or hunting dogs.
**Hard Keepers:** Perfect for naturally skinny breeds or older dogs who struggle to maintain weight.

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

Q: How quickly should my dog gain weight?

A: A healthy rate is usually 1-3% of their current body weight per week. Too fast can cause digestive upset.

Q: Can I just add extra regular food?

A: No. Adding too much regular food often causes diarrhea because the dog’s digestive system is not used to that volume or fat content.

Q: Is weight gain food only for puppies?

A: No. While puppies need growth formulas, many adult dogs, especially very active ones, need high-calorie food to maintain a healthy weight.

Q: What is the main difference between puppy food and weight gain food?

A: Weight gain food focuses heavily on high fat and high protein for muscle/fat storage in adults. Puppy food balances these with specific calcium levels needed for bone growth.

Q: How often should I feed the weight gain food?

A: Start by feeding the recommended amount divided into three smaller meals per day instead of two large ones.

Q: Should I see my vet before switching?

A: Yes. Always consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying medical issues causing the low weight.

Q: What if my dog won’t eat the new food?

A: Try mixing a small amount of warm water or low-sodium broth into the kibble to enhance the smell and texture.

Q: Are these foods bad because they are high in fat?

A: Not if the fats are high quality (like fish oil). They provide necessary calories without overfeeding on protein or carbs.

Q: How long should my dog stay on a weight gain formula?

A: Once your dog reaches their ideal weight, transition slowly (over 7-10 days) to a high-quality maintenance or performance food.

Q: Do I need to exercise my dog more?

A: Yes, exercise burns energy, which helps the dog utilize the extra calories for muscle building rather than just fat storage.