Is low carb better for dogs

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated November 18, 2024

Contributions sourced from

US Vet picks the 11 Best Low-Carb Dog Foods in 2024

Low-carb dog food can decrease the risk of certain health conditions such as inflammation and diabetes. However, a low-carb diet doesnt mean a no-carb diet. Thats why its crucial to select the carbs carefully so that your doggie will get all the nutrients she needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

I used my 12 years of Veterinary experience to review over 100 dog food products to find the best low-carb dog food.

After evaluating over 100 low-carb recipes, I found that ORIJEN Six Fish Grain-Free Dry Dog Food has the best overall combination of nutrients and quality sources.

But I understand that no two pups are alike, and your doggie might have a different life stage or have different needs, such as obesity or allergies. Thats why I prepared a shortlist of the best low-card dog foods that address these common conditions.

Before you pick the best low-carb dog food for Fido, its always important to consider whether its the right thing to do. Thats why I explained the reasons why a low-carb based diet is a better choice for your dog

After you decide that a low-carb is right for your doggie, you can check out these 11 low-carb foods that I shortlisted for you.

If my shortlist doesnt cover your doggies needs for some reason, I prepared a quick checklist that would assist you in finding the best low-carb food for her. I wrote the checklist in plain & simple English so that you can follow it easily.

Finally, I answered popular questions patients have asked me regarding Low-Carbl dog food recipes.

Always remember that the recommendations in this review are not intended to replace a doctor-patient relationship. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant adjustments to your furbabys diet.

Lets get started.

Why Low-Carb Is a Better Choice For Your Dog?

While domestic canines are omnivores, they did descend from wolves. Because of their heritage, dogs thrive on a high-protein diet with limited carbs. Their food should be low in refined starches and sugars. Below well discuss the benefits of a low carbohydrate dog food.

Carbohydrates macronutrients that can supply your pooch with dietary fiber, important nutrients, and energy. They come in two forms.

Simple Carbohydrates including sugars and refined starches are easy for your pups system to break down into usable energy, fiber, and essential nutrients. This type of carbs can cause spikes in blood sugar.
Complex Carbohydrates from unprocessed starch and fiber take longer to break down to provide a slower release of energy. Some fibers are not digestible for dogs, so these add bulk to the stool. Complex carbohydrates are preferable energy sources because they offer your pup a slow burn, and they make it easier to manage blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs.

While that canine diet has no specific carbohydrate requirements, your dog can benefit from the ready source of energy and essential micronutrients that they provide.

Keeping your dogs carb level under control for your dog has many benefits. As wolf ancestors, domestic canines need high protein and healthy animal fats. Too many carbohydrates can lead to obesity or other health problems. But low carb diets can help:

Reduce inflammation in dogs with digestive issues like inflammatory bowel disease
Reduce the risk of obesity or help your pooch reach and maintain a healthy weight
Cut down on the number of potential allergens by including fewer carb-rich ingredients
Provide energy for growth and activity
Protect your pal from heart disease, kidney disease, and other health conditions

Many times a high-carb diet will include simple carbs that readily break down into sugars. These ingredients lack the nutrition that fruits and vegetables have to offer, and they can contribute to health problems like:

Obesity from the excess energy stores
High blood sugar and diabetes
Inflammatory bowel syndrome
Other digestive issues like diarrhea
Allergies from simple grains that can cause ear infections and skin issues

Healthy Carbs to Feed Your Dog

Cute dog lying in a field, eating carrot.

Even low-carb dog foods have some carbohydrates, but how do you know which ones are healthy? Complex carbs will provide more nutritional value than simple sources. Some examples of healthy carbs include:

Garden vegetables like green beans, carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, and squash
Fruits including blueberries, cranberries, and apples
Whole, gluten-free grains such as buckwheat, millet, oats, and quinoa
Legumes like garbanzo beans, lentils, and kidney beans

Provide all the Nutrients with Low-Carb Dog Food Based-Diet

You can choose from various low-carb dog food formulations for different life stages, special dietary needs, and many brands. So how do you know which food is the right choice for your dog?

For your convenience, weve created a rule of thumb checklist to make it easier for you to choose the right low-carb formulation that fits best for your doggie:

Contains Less Than 30% Carbs For the food to qualify as low-carb, it should have less than 30% carbohydrates in the dry matter. Remember, most producers wont list this on their nutritional analysis. Youll probably have to calculate it as we discussed above.
Carbohydrates to Avoid Avoid simple carbohydrates that provide limited nutritional value and can contribute to obesity and blood sugar spikes. Lesser-value carbs include refined grains that have been milled to remove the bran, germ and valuable nutrients like vitamin B and iron. Some examples of refined grains are pasta such as semolina, degermed corn, and white rice. Other carbs you should avoid include potential allergens such as corn, wheat, and soy.
Life-Stage Appropriate Dogs have different nutritional needs at different ages and stages of life. Its important to feed puppy food to puppies to provide the building blocks for growth and development. Adults should have a blend suited for active adults, and seniors usually need a formula thats lower in fat and calories to prevent weight gain.
Protein is the First Ingredient As descendants of wolves, dogs need lots of protein in their diet. When youre evaluating dog food, the first ingredient should be a quality source of animal protein such as chicken, beef, or fish.
Features the Nutrients and Supplements Your Dog Needs If you have a senior pooch or a dog with a health issue, you should choose foods that include valuable nutrients and supplements such as:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Taurine to heart health
- Probiotics for digestive health
- Omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat and manage inflammation
Complete and Balanced Nutrition You want assurance that your pooch is getting the nutrition he needs. Look for a statement on the package that the formula meets AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition.
Manufactured in a Country With Rigorous Safety Standards You want assurance that your pups food doesnt contain unsafe materials. Thats why its wise to select products that are manufactured in countries with strict safety standards and good manufacturing practices that help to ensure the food is wholesome and fit for consumption.
Contains No Unidentified Meat Meals or Byproducts Avoid products that list generic meat meal or animal byproducts. These ingredients may contain parts of the animal such as the hide or hooves. Additionally, if your furbaby has a sensitivity to an animal protein like chicken, you could unwittingly be feeding him an ingredient that triggers allergies.
Doesnt Include Artificial Additives Artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives can trigger food sensitivities, and some materials may be linked to cancer. Avoid foods that include artificial ingredients. Instead, look for formulas with natural preservatives and ingredients.

Our 2024 Review For 11 Best Low-Carbohydrate Dog Food

We reviewed over 100 products by following the process presented above and classified the best low-carb dog food.

We considered each picks life stage and common dietary needs. We also ensured it has the best nutrient sources

ORIJEN Six Fish Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Whole Atlantic Mackerel, Whole Atlantic Herring, Monkfish, Acadian Redfish, Flounder
Key feature: Wholeprey Diet
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 38%; Crude Fat 18%; Crude Fiber 4%; Moisture: 12%
Caloric Content: 445 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately 24%
Type of product: Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Overall Pick
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for all life stages except the growth of large breed dogs

Featuring fresh, raw, or dried fish in the top nine ingredients, this protein-dense kibble provides the essential amino acids your pup needs to maintain lean muscle mass. Natural sources of healthy fats supply omega fatty acids, DHA, and EPA supports the brain, skin, and coat.

With about 24% carbohydrates that come from beans, garden vegetables, and other whole food sources, your pup will have adequate energy for daily activities. The formula has a blend of essential minerals and vitamins along with rich sources of antioxidants.

A freeze-dried liver coating adds to the savory appeal of this food. There are no chemical preservatives or artificial ingredients in the formula.

Wellness CORE Wholesome Grains Puppy High Protein Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Oatmeal, Barley
Key feature: High Protein
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 36%; Crude Fat 17%; Crude Fiber 4%; Moisture: 10%
Caloric Content: 457 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately29%
Type of product: Natural Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Puppy
Best for: Puppies
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for growth and lactation

Starting with three animal protein ingredients, this puppy food provides your pooch with the essential amino acids he needs to build strong muscles. The formula includes healthy fats and approximately 29% carbohydrates to supply energy for growth and play.

Chicken fat, flaxseed, and salmon oil offer essential fatty acids including EPA, DHA, and omegas to help promote a healthy brain, skin, and coat. A combination of whole fruits and garden vegetables provides digestible fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients for whole-body health.

Fortification with taurine and probiotics supports the heart and digestion. This product has no artificial ingredients or preservatives. The natural materials provide a savory flavor and support lean body mass.

Merrick Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
Key feature: High Protein
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34%; Crude Fat 17%; Crude Fiber 3.5%; Moisture: 11%
Caloric Content: 388 kcal/cup
Carbs content (maximum): approximately31%
Type of product: Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Seniors
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

The top three ingredients in this adult food from Merrick are derived from poultry to give your dog the amino acids he needs to support and maintain lean muscles. With healthy fat sources, the formula includes omega and essential fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

Featuring no grains or gluten, this food relies on garden vegetables and fruits to provide digestible fiber and carbohydrates for energy. The ingredients offer rich sources of antioxidants and important minerals and vitamins.

Fortification with natural sources of probiotics, glucosamine, and chondroitin supports your pals digestion and joints in his final years. The caloric content is lower to help prevent unwanted weight gain. There are no artificial ingredients in the formula.

VICTOR Purpose Nutra Pro Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Blood Meal Conventionally Dried, Whole Grain Millet, Chicken Fat, Yeast Culture
Key feature: High Protein
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 38%; Crude Fat 18%; Crude Fiber 3.5%; Moisture: 9%
Caloric Content: 401 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately 27%
Type of product: Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Budget
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for all life stages including the growth of large breed dogs

Packed with protein, this food from Victor offers essential amino acids to promote healthy lean muscles. A high-fat and low-carb blend provide suitable energy to power an active lifestyle.

Healthy fats from fish and chicken offer a blend of DHA, essential amino acids, and omega acids to support body functions and a healthy brain, coat, and skin. Ancient whole grains offer digestible complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

The formula includes a blend of essential vitamins and minerals along with L-carnitine and taurine for heart health. Active yeast cultures and other probiotics support healthy digestion. There are no artificial ingredients in this food.

Solid Gold Barking at the Moon High Protein Grain-Free Beef, Eggs & Peas Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Beef, Ocean Fish Meal, Pea Protein, Potatoes, Dried Eggs
Key feature: Grain and gluten-free
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 41%; Crude Fat 18%; Crude Fiber 4%; Moisture: 10%
Caloric Content: 415 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately22%
Type of product: Holistic Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Adults
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

Featuring real beef, ocean fish meal, and dehydrated eggs in the top five ingredients, this food is packed with protein to fuel your dogs muscles. It includes healthy sources of fat to supply DHA, omega fatty acids, and other essential fatty acids to support the brain, skin, coat, and everyday body functions.

The formula includes garden vegetables and fruits for rich sources of antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. There are no grains, soy, or gluten in the product.

With digestible ingredients, prebiotic fiber, and probiotics, this food is designed to be easy on digestion. There are no artificial ingredients or chemical preservatives in the product.

Visionary Pet Foods Keto Low Carb Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Chicken, Chicken Fat, Dried Egg, Miscanthus Grass
Key feature: Keto recipe
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 43%; Crude Fat 33%; Crude Fiber 7%; Moisture: 10%
Caloric Content: 658 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately1%
Type of product: Ketogenic Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Active Dogs
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

Featuring chicken meal and chicken as the top two ingredients, this formula has 43% protein to help ensure your pup has the building blocks to support healthy muscles. Rich sources of animal fat provide the essential fatty acids to foster normal body functions and fuel your pups activity level.

The limited ingredient product includes a balanced blend of essential vitamins and minerals. With no grains or other carbohydrates, your pal is more protected from allergies and inflammation.

Featuring an all-natural formula, this food is free from harmful chemicals and fillers. Its made and sourced in the USA to give you extra assurance that youre feeding your furbaby safe and wholesome food.

Brothers Complete Turkey Meal & Egg Formula Advanced Allergy Care Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Turkey Meal, Whole Eggs Dried, Pea Starch, Cassava/Tapioca, Peas
Key feature: Turkey and Egg
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 36%; Crude Fat 16%; Crude Fiber 4%; Moisture: 10%
Caloric Content:415 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately30%
Type of product: Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Allergies
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

Featuring turkey meal and egg as the first two ingredients, this food has digestible protein for your furbabys muscles. With healthy fats, the formula offers DHA, omega fatty acids, and essential amino acids to support the skin, coat, and brain.

Garden vegetables offer rich sources of antioxidants to support cellular health. Fortification with a cocktail of digestive enzymes and prebiotics helps to soothe the stomach and support healthy digestion.

Natural preservatives keep the food fresh for your pooch. There are no artificial ingredients or potential carcinogens in the formula.

Wysong Epigen 90 Starch-Free Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food bag

First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Organic Chicken, Meat Protein Isolate, Chicken Fat, Gelatin
Key feature: Starch and Grain-Free
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 63%; Crude Fat 16%; Crude Fiber 3%; Moisture: 10%
Caloric Content: not listed
Carbs content(maximum): approximately2%
Type of product: Dry Pet Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Sensitive Stomach
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

Featuring digestible chicken meal and chicken, this natural formula from Epigen is protein-rich to support your dogs muscles. Natural sources of omega and essential fatty acids provide key macronutrients for healthy skin and coat and to support the bodys daily functions.

With limited ingredients, this formula is made to be gentle on the stomach. The food includes a cocktail of probiotics and enzymes to soothe and support digestion.

A patented extrusion process helps to remove the starch from the ingredients. There are no artificial ingredients in the product. You can use this as a complete meal or topper to boost your pals protein levels.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas
Key feature: Grain-Free
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32%; Crude Fat 18%; Crude Fiber 4%; Moisture: 10%
Caloric Content: 370 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately32%
Type of product: Dry Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Grain-Free
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

The first three ingredients in this formula are from animal protein to provide rich sources of amino acids for strong muscles. With fish meal and chicken fat, the product includes omega and essential fatty acids for healthy skin, coat, and to support the bodys daily functions.

With no grains, the formula has garden vegetables and fruits to provide digestible fiber and complex carbohydrates for energy. The ingredients also offer rich sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Prebiotic fiber from chicory root and a blend of probiotic microorganisms supports healthy digestion. The product has no soy, gluten, or artificial ingredients.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management Formula Canned Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Water, Chicken, Liver, Powdered Cellulose, Rice
Key feature: Low Carb, Low Calorie
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 7.5; Crude Fat 1%; Crude Fiber 7%; Moisture: 82%
Caloric Content: 245 kcal/cup
Carbs content(maximum): approximately6%
Type of product: Wet Dog Food
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Weight Loss
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

Featuring chicken and liver as rich sources of animal protein, this food provides essential amino acids to maintain healthy lean muscles. Healthy fats provide the essential fatty acids to support body functions.

With lower fat and carbs, this food is designed to help your pooch drop unwanted pounds. Theres a balanced blend of essential vitamins and minerals for complete nutrition.

This food is packed with natural fiber to give your pup a sense of fullness. It was formulated in a collaborative effort involving nutritionists and veterinarians.

AvoDerm Chicken & Rice Recipe Weight Support Canned Dog Food,

First 5 ingredients: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chicken Liver, Rice, Ocean Fish
Key feature: Avocados
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 5%; Crude Fat 3%; Crude Fiber 5%; Moisture: 78%
Caloric Content: 329 kcal/can
Carbs content(maximum): approximately33%
Type of product: Canned Dog Food for weight support
Life stage: Adult
Best for: Canned
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional level established by AAFCO Dog food nutrient profile for maintenance

Featuring animal protein sources in the top five ingredients, this lower-carb canned food has the amino acids to support your dogs lean muscle mass. Natural sources of fat supply essential fatty acids and omega fatty acids to foster a healthy coat and skin.

Digestible complex carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables provide the energy for your poochs daily activities. The formula includes no corn, wheat, or soy that could cause food sensitivities.

Natural preservatives from tocopherols keep the food fresh and tasty for your pup. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or fillers in the product.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many carbohydrates should a dog eat?

Dogs do not have a specific carbohydrate requirement. They need some level of this macronutrient in their diet to provide energy and to generate body heat. If you have a puppy or highly active pooch, you should feed at least 20% carbs.

How to Find the Percentage of Carbs in a Dog Food Recipe?

Usually, the manufacturer will not list the percentage of carbs in dog food, so youll have to calculate it yourself. To do this, subtract the percentages of the ingredients listed on the package and the ash from 100. Ash is the non-combustible mineral content of food that remains after everything else is burned away. Its usually between 5 and 8 percent, so a good rule of thumb is to subtract 8 for ash.

The solution to your equation will be a rough estimate of the carbohydrate content in the formula. Because package labels list minimum percentages, you will only be able to get an estimate, not an exact number. If the producer undershoots the actual protein, fat, and fiber content, your number may be an overestimation of the carbohydrate percentage.

What makes a balanced dog food?

A complete and balanced food should meet AAFCO nutritional guidelines. That means it will contain enough of each key nutrient to meet your dogs needs. But the nutrients should also be balanced to make sure that the body can absorb and process them properly.

Is a low-carb diet is better for dogs with cancer?

Some people recommend feeding a low-carb diet to dogs with cancer. They claim the cancerous cells can utilize the sugars. However, clinical nutritionists from Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts tell us that there is no conclusive evidence that a low-carb diet is any better than other foods.

Can a high-carb diet cause a yeast infection?

You may have heard that a high-carb diet that has too much sugar and starch can contribute to yeast infections. However, this is not true. When a dog eats carbs, its body processes the carbs and carefully regulates the amount of glucose in the body. So, high carbs in the diet will not cause an explosion of yeast on the skin. The infections are usually the result of an immune disorder or an allergy, not carbohydrates in the food.

Do carbs make dogs fat?

Too many carbs can lead to obesity in dogs. Carbohydrates in the diet are converted to glucose which can be used for energy and to fuel body functions. When theres too much glucose, the body stores it as fat.

Whats the difference between low-carb and low-grain dog food?

While some low-grain foods are also low-carb, thats not always the case. Many grain-free or reduced grain formulas will contain other ingredients like peas, potatoes, or another starchy ingredient. In the end, the result may be more carbohydrates than dog food that includes grain. The best way to estimate the carb content is to calculate the percentage of carbohydrates as we discussed above.

Which is better, barley or rice?

Both grains are safe for dogs, and they each have health benefits. Rice is readily digestible and doesnt contain gluten, so its good for dogs with allergies. Barley has more fiber and a very low glycemic index, which makes it an excellent choice for diabetic dogs. However, barley also contains gluten, so avoid it if your furbaby has gluten sensitivity.

Low-Carb dog food-based diet: Canned food Vs. Dry Food, Whats the difference?

When finding the percentage of carbs in canned dog food, you dont count the moisture. Calculate it on a dry matter basis. For example, if you have a food that has 9% protein, 6% fat, 1.5% fiber, and 78% water, the dry matter is only 22% of the total content. So:

protein would be 9 (percent protein) divided by 0.22 (dry matter as a decimal) or about 41% of the dry contents
fat would be 6 divided by 0.22 or about 27%
Fiber would be 1.5 divided by 0.22 or about 6.8%

When you subtract these values from 100, you would have an estimated 25.2% carbohydrates.

You may be wondering if theres an advantage in one type of food versus the other. Both dry and wet foods can be equally nutritious if they use quality ingredients. Generally speaking, dry food tends to have more carbohydrates to help bind the kibble while canned food is usually higher in fat and may have added sugar. Wet food often is more palatable and could be a good choice for picky eaters, but its usually more expensive than dry food. In the end, what you choose may come down to your furbabys preferences.

The Final Woof

Woman wrapped in woollen blanket with dog in autumn fall park. Beautiful happy young Caucasian woman sitting on ground hugging domestic canine animal pet. Best friends forever.

Dogs dont necessarily require carbohydrates in their diet. However, a low-carb level helps to provide energy and protect the protein sources for muscle maintenance.

When youre looking for a low-carb diet for your pooch, you want to find products that are high in protein and have less than 30% carbohydrates by dry matter. Quality ingredients in the formula are important to ensure a complete and balanced diet.

After evaluating over 100 products on the market and comparing them to our criteria and key considerations for low-carb based diet, we recommend ORIJEN Six Fish Grain-Free Dry Dog Food as the Best overall pick.