High-calorie dog food supplements can be life-saving. There are several reasons a dog may need help to gain or maintain weight, so let’s take a look at what they are as well as the pros and cons of using high-cal supplements, exactly how they work, and how they help dogs gain weight.
Keep reading for a list of the best weight gain supplements for dogs and answers to some of the most frequently asked questions!
10 Best High-Calorie Supplements For Dogs
These are the best high-calorie supplements for dogs. We have devised this list by researching trusted brands and top products, using all of the key features listed above as criteria.
1. Buddy & Lola Weight Gainer for Dogs
Buddy&Lola‘s weight gain supplement is a yummy chicken-flavor powder. It contains essential nutrients and high-calorie proteins for underweight dogs and picky eaters. It also aims to increase energy levels and reduce fatigue. The supplement doubles up as a muscle builder and aids muscle recovery, performance, and endurance. It also helps to support ATP levels, normalizes blood glucose levels, and promotes healthy skin and fur.
It contains vegetable powder, soy protein, flaxseed, coconut milk powder, and pumpkin powder. It’s all-natural, filler-free, and easy to digest. The only dogs it isn’t suitable for are those with soy allergies. The product is suitable for all dogs, including growing puppies, rescue dogs, older dogs, sick dogs, and nursing mothers.
It’s also made in the UK and comes in a 330g resealable bag. The brand is passionate about high-quality and manufacturing standards, and reviews highly recommend the product.
Pros
- Highly recommended for Bully breeds
- Promotes lean muscle development
- Contains healthy fats for a shinier and healthier coat
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs with soy allergy
- There’s a change in the flavor which some dogs do not like
2. Tomlyn Nutri-Cal Puppy Dietary Supplement
This supplement gel by Tomlyn is formulated by vets, especially for puppies. It’s ideal for rescue pups, picky pups, sick pups, and those recovering from illness. The malt-flavored gel supports and encourages a healthy appetite, and contains concentrated sources of vitamins and minerals.
It also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and is an Amazon’s Choice product. It is available to buy in 4.25 oz tubes, and reviews are overwhelmingly positive from both owners and breeders alike. It contains Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are essential fatty acids that promote healthy heart, skin, and joints.
Pros
- Highly palatable and easy to administer
- Easily digested gel
- Supports proper digestion
Cons
- The smell may not be enticing to some dogs
- Contains corn syrup which can add to the cause of diabetes if given too much
3. Tomlyn Nutri-Cal High-Calorie Dietary Supplement For Dogs
Another supplement by Tomyln is specially formulated for adult dogs. It uses the same good-quality ingredients as the product above, only with a recipe more suited to adults. It provides extra energy and has more Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for a healthy heart and joints, which is perfect for senior dogs.
The product is also approved by NASC (The National Animal Supplement Council) and comes in 4.25 oz tubes. There are almost no negative reviews, and buyers say it’s great for older pooches going through tough times.
Pros
- Stimulates appetite
- It is great for hunting or working dogs
- Highly accessible and easily digestible supplement
Cons
- Can create a gooey mess
- It is not suitable for other pets
4. Rogue Pet Science Dog & Cat Natural Weight Gaining Supplement
This powder supplement by Rogue Pet Science uses all-natural, high-quality ingredients like egg, barley, sweet potato, and more. It is also free from fillers, preservatives, by-products, sugar, and synthetics. It contains 43% protein per serving, which is perfect for active pets, working dogs, and those that compete and perform in competitions.
Plus, it contains natural vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes to support your dog’s entire body, especially its digestive system. It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs and comes in a huge 2lb resealable bag, which reviews call excellent value for money.
Pros
- Great for high-performing dogs
- Made with high-quality ingredients
- Contains prebiotics and probiotics
Cons
- The scent is unappealing to some dogs
- Can cause vomiting and mild diarrhea to some dogs
5. Vetoquinol Nutri-Cal
This high-calorie supplement gel by Vetoquinol is suitable for dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens and comes in a 4.25 oz tube. It provides essential calories, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids and is easy to digest. It is also made with finicky eaters and has a tasty malty flavor that pets love.
The product is even good for high-performing dogs, and reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with several buyers saying how easy it is to get pets to eat.
Pros
- Easy to administer
- Good for fussy eaters
- Provides comfort for dogs and owners
Cons
- The taste is not enticing to some dogs
- It has a strong smell
6. Tomlyn Nutri-Stat Malt-Flavored High Calorie-Nutritional Gel
This high-calorie nutritional gel supplement by Tomlyn is suitable for dogs and cats of all ages. It contains essential calories for pets that are off their food. As well as essential omega fatty acids and high levels of protein and fat for quick energy and nutrient delivery.
It also contains important electrolytes for rehydration, such as potassium, sodium, and calcium, and is super tasty for fussy eaters. It’s an Amazon’s Choice product that comes in 4.25 oz tubes. Reviews love the supplement, with some buyers saying it saved their pets’ lives.
Pros
- It’s very affordable
- Ideal for dogs refusing their food
- It has highly concentrated vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Not good for pets suffering from cancer
- The greasy texture may not be appealing to your dog
7. Doc Roy’s Forti Cal- High-Calorie Nutritional Energy Supplement
This gel supplement by Revival Animal Health comes in 4.25 oz tubes and is available to buy in convenient packs of 3. It’s highly palatable and suitable for dogs and cats of all ages. It is chock full of vitamins and minerals as well as being high in calories and an extra source of energy.
The supplement can even help to provide a concentrated source of energy and stimulate appetite. It’s also super affordable, and reviews praise the effectiveness of the product. It is great for dogs recovering from sickness or to increase the chance of their survival.
Pros
- Supports healthy weight gain in dogs and cats
- Stimulates appetite
- Contains antioxidants
Cons
- Can melt on the fingers quickly
- The gel can be too sticky
8. Beaphar Multivitamin Paste for Dogs
Beaphar‘s high-calorie paste supplement for dogs and puppies is designed to help promote a shiny and healthy coat. It has vitamins and minerals that your dog needs. Apart from this, it actively stimulates the healthy intestinal flora of your dog.
It is free from all common allergens and comes in a 100g tube. It’s also an Amazon’s Choice product and it’s super affordable. Reviews say it works well with even the pickiest of eaters.
Pros
- The paste makes it easier for owners to administer it to their dogs
- Contains multivitamins
- Has an enticing flavor
Cons
- Some packaging does not have feeding instructions
9. Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gainer for Dogs & Cats
This unflavored liquid supplement by Miracle Vet contains 150 calories per ounce. Over 85% of which are from all-natural healthy fats like fish oil, the number 1 ingredient. It also contains whey protein isolate, the highest quality protein in the world, with a biological value rating of 159.
It has zero trans fats, artificial colors, glycerine, or polypropylene. The supplement is suitable for use with both dogs and cats at any stage of life. It comes in 16 fl oz bottles, is easy to use, and doesn’t require shaking or mixing.
Simply mix the recommended dosage listed on the bottle into your pet’s daily meal! Reviews are highly complimentary of the product and praise the high-quality ingredients.
Pros
- Provides extra energy for working dogs
- Promotes immunity
- Increases dog energy level
Cons
- Can cause vomiting in some dogs
- The product can be greasy
10. Under the Weather Ready-Cal Dog Supplement
Under The Weather makes products for dogs who are feeling poorly that help to nurse them back to health. This high-calorie gel supplement provides essential calories, stimulates appetite, promotes weight gain, and gives an energy boost to dogs who are not eating due to sickness or stress.
It contains 9 vitamins, 7 minerals, and essential fatty acids. The supplement has malt and natural fish flavors from real fish that dogs love. It’s also made in the USA, and the brand claims that its animal-based ingredients are ethically and sustainably sourced.
It comes in a 100cc dial-a-dose tube for accurate dosing, and reviews love the product, with several buyers calling it excellent value for money and also mentioning how quickly it made a significant difference to their pets.
Pros
- Has nutrients and calories not found in a normal diet
- Has a dial-a-dose tube for accurate dosing
- Boosts appetite
Cons
- Some dogs do not like the taste of it
- It can be sticky and hard to swallow for some dogs
| Product Name | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Buddy & Lola Weight Gainer for Dogs | It contains essential nutrients and high-calorie proteins for underweight dogs and picky eaters. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Tomlyn Nutri-Cal Puppy Dietary Supplement | It contains Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are essential fatty acids that promote healthy heart, skin, and joints. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Tomlyn Nutri-Cal High-Calorie Dietary Supplement For Dogs | It uses the same good-quality ingredients as the product above, only with a recipe more suited to adults. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Rogue Pet Science Dog & Cat Natural Weight Gaining Supplement | It is also free from fillers, preservatives, by-products, sugar, and synthetics. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Vetoquinol Nutri-Cal | It provides essential calories, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Tomlyn Nutri-Stat Malt-Flavored High Calorie-Nutritional Gel | It also contains important electrolytes for rehydration, such as potassium, sodium, and calcium. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Doc Roy’s Forti Cal- High-Calorie Nutritional Energy Supplement | The supplement can even help to provide a concentrated source of energy and stimulate appetite. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Beaphar Multivitamin Paste for Dogs | It has L-carnitine, vitamins, and minerals that your dog needs. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gainer for Dogs & Cats | It contains whey protein isolate, the highest quality protein in the world, with a biological value rating of 159. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Under the Weather Ready-Cal Dog Supplement | It is a high-calorie gel supplement that provides essential calories, stimulates appetite, promotes weight gain, and boosts dogs’ energy. | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
What Are High-Calorie Supplements For Dogs?
High-calorie supplements for dogs are dietary additives that help underweight dogs to gain weight. They can also prevent dogs with certain conditions from losing weight.
They contain super-dense ingredients that are naturally high in calories to increase or maintain the dog’s weight at a steady, safe rate. High-cal supplements should also contain key nutrients that support the entire body to help it accommodate the influx in calories.
Most high-calorie supplements come in the form of tasty liquids, gels, pastes, and powders that can be either eaten off the end of a finger or mixed in with food, which is especially useful for fussy eaters.
Generic Supplements
There are also generic supplements suitable for different pets, which are ideal for animal shelters, and dog-specific supplements, which are great for owners. Some dog-specific supplements are suitable for all dogs, while others are designed for puppies or adults.
When looking for a supplement for your dog to stimulate their appetite, consider their needs, too. For example, high-fat supplements are best suited to dogs who need to gain a lot of weight. Others double up as muscle builders for large and active dogs, and some focus primarily on weight gain/maintenance during illness or illness recovery. There are even appetite builders for anxious dogs and those with added nutrients for joint support for senior dogs.
You will have to tailor your dog’s dosage according to their size via the instructions coming with the product. If your dog is severely underweight, your vet may advise that you build up their dosage gradually so as not to overwhelm their body.
Key Features
Key ingredients to look out for include:
- Healthy fats from natural sources (e.g., fish oil and coconut)
- Protein from natural & high-quality sources
- Key vitamins and minerals
- Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
- Probiotics & other digestion aids such as flaxseed and pumpkin
Things to avoid include:
- Allergens
- Chemicals & synthetics
- Fillers
- Artificial additives & preservatives
- By-products
- Added sugar
- Trans fats
Other things to you may also want to consider:
- Vet-recommended or trusted brands
- Products approved by official bodies
- High ratings & good reviews
- Ethically & sustainably sourced ingredients
Pros & Cons
Although you should still (and always) feed your dog a sufficient, nourishing diet, the biggest pro of using a weight gain supplement is that it gives you peace of mind. You know that your dog is getting the number of calories they need to gain weight in one convenient product.
If you do give your dog a weight gain supplement, you must make sure you give them the recommended dosage every day and stick to it until they’re healthy. Otherwise, you could wreak havoc with their body.
Another con is that weight gain supplements, like all supplements, can also have side effects, so make sure you read about the possible side effects of the product online or in the pamphlet that comes with the product.
Dogs & Weight
Like all animals, dogs can become overweight or underweight. Their ideal weight range depends on their breed, size, and age. Your vet will tell you your dog’s ideal weight and monitor it at annual check-ups, but the American Kennel Club also has a weight chart that you can use.
Weight Loss
Dogs can lose weight from illness and stress. Metabolic disorders such as diabetes, cancer, diseases involving the major organs, such as liver disease, parasites, gastrointestinal conditions, dental diseases, maldigestion disorders, and malabsorptive disorders can all cause dramatic weight loss and prevent weight gain.
When there is no apparent cause for weight loss, owners should look for other unusual physical symptoms such as changes in the coat and ask their vet for an examination.
Stress can also cause dogs to lose their appetite and therefore lose weight. Other symptoms of stress include panting, pacing, and destructive behavior. Common causes of stress include separation anxiety, boredom, being underexercised, phobias, trauma, life changes, and illness or death in the family.
Underweight Dogs
A good way to tell if a dog is severely underweight is if its ribs and lumbar vertebrae are easily felt and visible, and its waist and pelvic bones are prominent.
One of the most common reasons dogs become underweight is malnourishment from starvation. Malnourishment often occurs in rescue dogs and is usually a result of abuse or neglect, but it can also be due to homelessness.
Preventing Weight Loss & Gaining Weight
When a dog is underweight, vets often prescribe a special diet of high-calorie, high-protein, high-fat, nutrient-rich food to help them gain weight. This food should be given on a regular feeding schedule, which may include slightly smaller but more frequent meals than usual. Light dog exercise is usually suggested to increase appetite, and for those that need a little extra help, vets may recommend using a weight gain supplement as well.
If a dog is at risk of becoming underweight, vets may suggest a special diet, using a supplement, or both, depending on the situation.
If your dog’s weight loss has an underlying cause such as illness or stress, you should address the underlying issue first. Once your vet has diagnosed your dog, you can start to treat or manage their condition and focus on gaining back the weight. If your dog is experiencing stress and you cannot eliminate the cause, try to do some positive association training or invest in some anti-anxiety products. A fixed routine, lots of interaction, affection, exercise, play, and mental stimulation will also help too.
High-Calorie Supplements For Dogs: FAQ
Dogs can lose weight from illness and stress. If you’ve noticed a dramatic change in your dog’s weight that you can’t identify the cause of, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.
Metabolic disorders such as hyperthyroidism, cancer, diseases involving the major organs, such as kidney disease, parasites, gastrointestinal conditions, dental diseases, maldigestion disorders, and malabsorptive disorders can all cause sudden or dramatic weight loss. Stress can also cause dogs to lose weight from a lack of appetite.
If you have tried familiar favorites and new, exciting foods, talk to your vet about Entyce. Entyce is a prescription oral solution for dogs that contains the chemical capromorelin, a strong appetite stimulant.
High-calorie diets and/or weight gain supplements are typically prescribed or recommended to dogs who need to gain weight. Food should be given on a regular feeding schedule and light exercise is also often suggested to increase the dog’s appetite. A vet should always oversee significant dietary changes and the implementation of supplements.
If you’re feeding your dog more food and they are not gaining any weight, you’re either not feeding them enough, or there is an underlying medical issue going on. Either way, you should contact your vet and let them get to the bottom of it.
Your vet will tell you your dog’s ideal weight and monitor it at annual check-ups, but the AKC also has a weight chart that you can use online. A severely underweight dog has a prominent waist, as well as ribs, lumbar vertebrae, and pelvic bones that are very visible and easily felt.
Dogs will lose weight naturally as they age, and their muscles begin to waste away, especially if they have arthritis. However, it shouldn’t be significant enough to make them underweight, and you should be adjusting their diet, medication, and exercise as per your vet’s advice.
There are several types of weight gain supplements for dogs. Which one is best for you depends on your dog’s needs and personality. For example, powders and liquids that can be mixed into food may be better than pastes and gels for fussy eaters.
You should also consider the ingredients of a supplement. Weight gain supplements with especially high-fat content are well suited to malnourished and seriously underweight dogs. Those with added electrolytes and probiotics are great for dogs recovering from illness, and high-protein supplements are ideal for active dogs. There are also appetite enhancers for stressed dogs and some even have added nutrients for older dogs.
Those are our top ten high-calorie supplements for dogs. If your dog needs to gain or maintain weight, try out one of our recommendations & always consult your vet first.