8 Best Low Protein Dog Food Brands in 2023 – Reviews & Top Picks

Protein is an essential part of a dog’s diet. However, there are instances when a high protein diet can do more harm than good.

Hence, switching to the best low protein dog food is required – besides, it’s even non-negotiable considering that a dog’s health and safety are at stake.

However, before you make the transition, it’s best to consult your veterinarian first since you will be reducing a vital nutrient that will make or break your dog in case there’s no need for him to make the switch.

What is Low Protein Dog Food?

Low protein dog food is exactly what its name says. But how low is low exactly? What would qualify as low protein food for our canine companions?

According to some veterinarians, normal dog food usually contains 25% dietary protein on a dry matter basis. So, expect that a low protein dog food contains lower protein content than this. To be more exact, it should be lower than 20% on a dry matter basis.

You should be mindful, though, that the “as fed” value listed in the guaranteed analysis is different from the “dry matter” basis. The former includes the moisture in the product, while for you to determine the dry matter value for these nutrients, you have to remove the moisture. Good thing, you can use the dry matter calculator to compute this value.

Moreover, a low protein dog food doesn’t mean that it is a substandard pet food since it contains lower protein than the standard dog food. So, it doesn’t mean that you should just head on to the nearest pet store and purchase the cheapest dog food that you can find with the lowest protein.

Instead, when shopping for a low protein food for your dog, the more that you should pay attention that the product uses premium animal protein. This way, your pup can get the most from the minimum protein content that he is receiving from his diet.

And for the record, not all dogs need a low protein dog food. Again, before switching to this diet, you should first consult your veterinarian since this is only prescribed during very special cases. Dogs with kidney and liver disease may be required to be on this diet permanently while dogs with bladder stones may need to stay on this temporarily.

OUR TOP 3 PICKS FOR BEST LOW PROTEIN DOG FOOD

Importance of a Low Protein Diet for Dogs

Protein is an essential nutrient for a dog’s growth and development. Dogs need protein for cellular and tissue reproduction, as well as for the synthesis of several hormones and enzymes that play a huge part in the different bodily functions.

Like all nutrients and substances, proteins need to be processed from many organs but most commonly the liver, small intestine, and kidneys. In the intestine, the food is digested and broken down into pieces, which are then absorbed into the dog's blood. The liver processes the byproducts of protein metabolism, and the kidneys remove nitrogen waste from the body, as well as unnecessary compounds.

So, we can understand how problems in these organs may require a low protein diet. The primary purpose of reducing the amount of protein in a dog's diet is to give the affected organ time to heal itself, and so as not to worsen its already compromised state.

Our Top Picks for The Best Low Protein Dog Food

1. Hill's Science Diet 7+
2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet
3. Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken
4. Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care
5. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support S
6. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function
7. Diamond Naturals Light Formula
8. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight

 

1. Hill's Science Diet 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe

Rating: 5/5
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn

Guaranteed Analysis:

Hill’s Pet Nutrition, the manufacturer of this top-rated low-protein dog food, has helped strengthen and lengthen the relationship of pet parents and their pets for over 70 years with their passion to produce high-quality pet products. They even partner with shelters to provide Hill’s food to millions of shelter cats and dogs.

Proud of being a #1 vet-recommended brand, Hill’s Science has a wide selection of diets that meet the needs of our furry companions.

And this recipe, with a minimum crude protein of 15.5%, is specially formulated for adult dogs age 7 and above who need a low protein diet. What’s more, it uses high-quality protein for lean muscles, which is also important for dogs who have a reduced protein intake.

Aside from its low protein and phosphorus content, which is critical for dogs with liver and kidney disease, this recipe is also low in sodium, and it is packed with omega-6s and vitamin E for beautiful skin and coat, as well as antioxidants, and vitamin C to support a healthy immune system.

Formulated for aging and senior dogs, this low-protein recipe contains a synergistic blend of ingredients to provide optimal nutrition, and support activity and energy level. And it is made from natural ingredients without artificial preservatives, synthetic colors, or artificial flavors.

Pros:

• Complete and balanced diet for mature dogs 7 years and older
• Low protein content from a high-quality animal protein source
• Low in phosphorus and sodium
• Meat first ingredient
• High in omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin C, vitamin E, and antioxidants
• More affordable than many low-protein dog foods
• Made in the USA using high-quality and easy-to-digest natural ingredients
• Great-tasting
• No artificial preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors

Cons:

• Contains grains
• Not the lowest amount of protein you can find among pet food brands
• Not good for sensitive stomachs, and dogs with allergies or sensitivities to grains

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2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat

Rating: 4.7/5
First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Wheat, Barley, Natural Flavors

Guaranteed Analysis:

Royal Canin is a global leader in the pet health industry. With their wide assortment of dry and canned foods, as well as high-quality treats, every cat and dog is sure to find something that delights their senses and promotes their overall health and wellness.

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Prescription Diet with low protein content is an easily digestible low-fat dry dog food, specially formulated for dogs with stomach sensitivities, and dogs with difficulties digesting fat in their diet. And with its reduced protein content, it’s also a top choice for dogs that are required to be on a temporary or permanent low-protein diet.

This prescription dog food formula is packed with highly digestible proteins, and a balanced blend of dietary fibers, as well as prebiotics, EPA, and DHA to promote digestive health.

It also contains omega fatty acids from fish oil to soothe the gastrointestinal tract and is loaded with a healthy blend of antioxidants to promote immune health.

Pros:

• Low in protein, and fat content
• Pea-free, and good for dogs with sensitive stomachs
• Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, DHA, and a healthy blend of antioxidants
• Features highly digestible proteins and prebiotics to promote digestive health
• Promotes a healthy immune system
• Formulated for dogs with short-term or long-term digestive sensitivities

Cons:

• Needs veterinary authorization
• Expensive

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3. Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Chicken

Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Peas

Guaranteed Analysis:

Gentle Giants Products make all-natural dog foods specially formulated with abundant nutrients to help promote active lifestyle, longevity, and happiness of our canine companions.

Their products are made in the USA without fillers, by-products, colorants, or preservatives. And they also provide 24/7 telephone support to all their gentle giant customers.

For only $34 for a big 30-lb bag, there’s no doubt why this is our top pick for the best low protein dog food for the money. Its first ingredient is chicken meal, which is a concentrated protein source that is made from the skin and bone of chicken, including meat and other parts such as the neck, feet, and intestine.

This recipe is complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all breeds, and sizes. It contains non-GMO natural ingredients, nutritious fruits, and vegetables, as well as New Zealand mussels, which deliver a powerful source of glucosamine and chondroitin for bone and joint health.

It is also packed with omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, as well as prebiotics and probiotics for healthy digestion and nutrient absorption. And it is filled with vitamins and minerals to help promote overall health and wellness.

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4. Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care with Chicken

Rating: 4.9/5
First 5 Ingredients: Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Pork Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken

Guaranteed Analysis:

Hill’s Prescription Kidney Care is another top-rated low-protein dog food that is specially formulated to protect vital kidney and heart functions, while also supporting the body’s ability to build lean muscles. Aside from having lower protein content than most low-protein diets, this recipe is also low in phosphorus and sodium, which is important in preventing further kidney damage.

It’s also made with high levels of essential amino acids, plus therapeutic levels of L-carnitine and omega-3 fatty acids that help promote healthy weight, skin, and coat health.

And if these are not enough, this recipe also features Enhanced Appetite Trigger (E.A.T.) technology that promotes good appetite and food intake.

This low-protein and low-phosphorus diet is made in the USA and it is clinically proven to lengthen and help improve the quality of life of aging dogs suffering from acute or chronic kidney problems.

Pros:

• Low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium
• Contains essential amino acids, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health
• Clinically proven to improve mobility and lengthen a dog’s quality of life

Cons:

• Needs veterinary authorization
• Expensive
• Hard kibbles, which can be problematic for dogs with dental issues

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5. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support S 

Rating: 4.9/5
First 5 Ingredients: Corn, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Brown Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal

Guaranteed Analysis:

Made by one of the most trusted pet nutrition brands worldwide, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support S is another prescription diet that vets often prescribe for dogs with kidney and liver problems.

It has the lowest protein content among all the low-protein dog foods mentioned in this list, plus it is also low in phosphorus.

It’s also enriched with EPA, DHA, antioxidants, and essential nutrients to support your dog’s overall health. And it’s specially formulated to stimulate appetite in dogs with its tasty flavor, tempting aroma, and crescent-shaped kibbles.

This recipe also features energy-dense formula to compensate for a dog’s reduced appetite, which is common among canines with kidney problems.

Pros:

• Lowest protein content in this list from high-quality protein sources
• Low in phosphorus
• Promotes appetite with its unique aromatic profile and crescent-shaped kibbles
• Adapted energy content to compensate for decreased appetite
• Enriched with EPA+DHA, and antioxidants
• Specially formulated for dogs with renal problems
• Can be combined with Royal Canin’s other wet and dry renal formulas to find the right combination for your dog’s taste

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Needs veterinary authorization

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6. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function

Rating: 4.6/5
First 5 Ingredients: Whole Grain Corn, Brewers Rice, Dried Egg Product, Animal Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Sugar

Guaranteed Analysis:

This list wouldn’t be complete without featuring a low-protein dog food from Purina, another leading and trusted brand in pet health and nutrition worldwide.

This great-tasting special diet is formulated by nutritionists, veterinarians, and researchers to help support kidney function in dogs.

It uses the powerful triple action of a restricted high-protein diet, restricted phosphorus content, and reduced-sodium in supporting kidney health. And it uses premium ingredients sourced in the USA, Canada, and New Zealand.

Pros:

• Restricted high-quality protein
• Low in phosphorus and sodium
• Contains antioxidants
• Available in dry and canned formulas
• Made in the USA
• Less expensive than other veterinary diets

Cons:

• Scores average compared with other low-protein veterinary diets
• Kibbles are too big
• Some dogs don’t like it

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7. Diamond Naturals Light Formula

Rating: 4.6/5
First 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Ground White Rice

Guaranteed Analysis:

Diamond Naturals Light Adult Dog Food is one of the few inexpensive dog foods in the market with low protein content.

Diamond Naturals have a wide assortment of dog food formulas crafted for varying stages and conditions, and this recipe happens to be one of the closest to prescription dog foods for kidney and liver health.

It combines all-natural ingredients formulated to promote good health and healthy weight with the most effective digestive enzymes, active probiotics, and high-quality natural ingredients.

Its primary protein is pasture-raised lamb, which can help dogs with allergies to beef and poultry. Compared with other “regular” dog food brands, this can be considered a premium choice at a reasonable price.

Pros:

• Reduced amount of high-quality protein content
• Nutrient-rich recipe; contains omega fatty acids for skin and coat health; enriched with vitamins and minerals
• Contains L-carnitine to promote healthy weight, as well as glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate to promote joint health and mobility
• Packed with antioxidants to support immune health
• Contains probiotics and prebiotics for gut health
• Made without corn, wheat, soy, fillers, and artificial preservatives
• More affordable than most low-protein dog foods

Cons:

• Contains grains, which can be problematic for dogs with food sensitivities
• Some dogs don’t like its taste

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8. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight

Rating: 4.5/5
First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Pea Fiber

Guaranteed Analysis:

Enhanced by LifeSource Bits technology, this low-protein dog food is specially prepared to meet the special nutritional requirements of certain dogs.

It's significantly low in protein, fat, and carbohydrate, so it would suit dogs that are required to stay on a low-protein diet temporarily, or permanently. This product also contains similar nutrients to other Blue Buffalo pet meals.

In addition, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight is packed with L-carnitine and contains reduced calories from fat to help promote healthy weight and lean muscle development. It is enriched with essential vitamins, chelated minerals, and important antioxidants to support the immune system.

It is also packed with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health, and omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health. What’s more, this recipe is devoid of corn, wheat, and soy, plus its ingredients start with real deboned chicken meat.

Pros:

• Low in protein; with real chicken meat as the first ingredient
• Enhanced by Blue’s exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits technology
• Reduced calories from fat, and contains L-carnitine to promote healthy weight
• Packed with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health
• Good for overweight and less active dogs
• More affordable than many low-protein dog foods
• No corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives

Cons:

• Tiny kibbles, which would not be appealing to larger dogs
• Some dogs refuse to eat it, which can be attributed to its strong smell

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Low Protein Dog Food

Looking for good low-protein dog food can be extremely tough. Most pet parents don't think pet food should be low in protein. To provide a better understanding of the nutritional requirements of some dogs, our blog has devoted this section to talk about the most common concerns of pet owners when finding a dog food that has low protein content.

Things to Consider When Buying Low Protein Dog Food

Quality

Always read the ingredient list. Good quality is better than quantity, especially since your dog will be having limited protein in his diet. As you reduce his protein intake, the selected protein must be of high quality.

Phosphorus Level

The high levels of phosphorus are known to cause serious complications in dogs that are suffering from a variety of ailments such as liver disease, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease.

Always check whether your choice of low-protein dog food contains omega 3, B-complex vitamins, amino acids, as well as antioxidants because these nutrients compensate for the low levels of phosphorus in the blood.

Age Appropriateness

Make an extra note to see if the food is appropriate for your dog's age. It would be such a terrible mistake to give your pup dry dog food or canned food that is not intended for his life stage.

Amount of Protein

Dietary guidance states canine meals should contain 18% of protein. When your dog has no health problems that need fewer proteins, a non-prescription diet may provide a suitable solution.

Animals at high risk for kidney disease or renal failure may require a prescription dog food that has fewer proteins. Veterinary low-protein diets may contain as little as 10% of total protein.

Choosing the appropriate formula assures that low-protein diets are veterinarian-approved. Wet foods have a low nutrient percentage because they contain high moisture. Wet food low protein formulas contain about 4% crude protein.

 

High-Quality Protein Source

Ensure the dog's food contains high-quality protein sources to keep them healthy. High-level protein sources give dogs the essential amino acids needed for muscular development. Even though meat isn't the first ingredient, find recipes incorporating animal protein sources.

Meat that utilizes whole animals provides an excellent source of essential amino acids. The dog's gastrointestinal tract is optimized to digest meat. Animal proteins are, therefore, much more beneficial to dogs biologically.

Balanced Nutrition

Despite containing reduced protein, a low-protein diet must have sufficient nutrients to maintain overall health. Balanced levels in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients are important for dogs who have conditions that require calorie-restricted diets.

Nutrient-rich whole foods can provide a concentrated micronutrient source without altering the ratio between protein and fat. For dogs with liver or kidney disease, choose a low-protein dog food with a reduced phosphorus content.

Palatability

Kidney problems also affect picky pups. Low protein diets may not be as appealing to dogs as normal dog food, but the addition of tasty fats and aromas are sure to increase its palatability. In addition, concentrated nutrients in smaller portions may help dogs with reduced appetites.

Benefits of Low Protein Dog Diet

Many dogs benefit from consuming low protein diets. Lower levels of protein allow for better functioning of metabolism-associated organs. Some dog owners may notice the relief of symptoms from impairment of organ function.

The accumulation of waste in protein metabolism may cause other health problems such as encephalopathy. In addition, excessive protein may cause urine crystal growth in the urinary bladder causing a blockage. Low protein diets can reduce toxin production and help prevent these disorders.

Are There Dogs That Should Avoid a Low Protein Diet?

A low protein diet is only appropriate for dogs with an underlying medical condition, such as acute or chronic kidney disease, liver disease, and bladder stones. It’s best to stay away from low protein foods if your pup is generally healthy.

The majority of dogs should avoid a low protein diet at all costs, especially growing puppies and pregnant dogs. This is because their nutritional requirements during this stage, especially for proteins, are in high demand for optimum growth and development. Lack of any essential nutrients in their diet can lead to malnutrition and impairments.

Are There Any Side Effects From Switching to Low-Protein Dog Food?

Yes, there are, because protein is one of the essential macronutrients in a dog's diet. Hence, decreasing the amount of protein in the foods that they eat can cause health complications. It would be best not to use such a diet unless recommended by your veterinarian.

Choosing the cheapest low-protein pet food is a personal decision based on your dog and his specific needs, which are evaluated by your vet. Low protein diets have been shown to weaken the immune system, cause muscle loss, and weight loss. However, there are low-protein dog foods that are also packed with nutrients that help compensate for the effects of reduced protein.

Unfortunately, for dogs with kidney and liver disease, staying on low-protein dog food is necessary to prevent further damage to the affected organ, and ultimately prolong one's life.

Conclusion

A low-protein diet is not intended for all dogs, but some canines benefit a lot from it, and it is one of their few options that can keep them living and thriving for many years to come. Hence, this special diet was formulated.

Switching to low-protein dog food is not the same as shifting to another standard kibble or wet food. So, while it’s always advisable to consult your vet first before changing your dog’s diet; it’s especially important to talk to him before starting your dog on this special diet.

And besides, if your dog’s condition would require the intake of the least amount of protein as possible, then, he will most probably need a veterinary diet. As mentioned earlier, all prescription dog foods require veterinary authorization. And your vet will only give this after he has evaluated your dog’s condition to determine whether he needs this special diet or not.