Rx Nutrition A Closer Look at Prescription Dog Food
Best Low Protein Dog Food
Every dog is different. And while many pet parents spend their time looking for a high protein dog food, a small percentage of dogs actually need a low-protein food to feel their finest.
Below, well explain what a low-protein food is, share some of our favorite low-protein foods, and explain which dogs may benefit from this kind of specialized diet.
Quick Picks: Best Low Protein Dog Food
- Royal Canin Renal Support [Best Overall Low Protein Food]: A high-quality dog food with very loiw protein content that is specifically designed to support dogs with kidney issues.
- Diamond Naturals Light Dog Food [Most Affordable Low Protein Dog Food]: A high-quality yet affordable low-protein dog food that boasts the features parents want at a budget-friendly price.
- Hills Prescription Diet [Lowest Protein Food]: A great food for dogs requiring very low protein levels, this recipe contains only 12% protein, making it one of the lowest-protein dog foods around.
What Is A Low-Protein Dog Food?
There isnt any official definition for low-protein dog food. But in practice, any food that has less protein than the AAFCO guidelines recommend can reasonably be described as a low-protein food.
Specifically, the AAFCO requirements state that adult dog foods should contain at least 18% protein on a dry matter basis. Meanwhile, food made for puppies and reproductively active females should contain at least 22.5% protein content.
This all means that foods with less than 18% protein content can arguably be called low protein.
Well share several foods that fall into this category below.
However, because there arent many super-low-protein dog foods (most are absolutely bursting with protein), we will also include a couple of food options that are hovering around the lower limit of the AAFCO guidelines.
As when selecting any food, its essential to work with your veterinarian to make sure you find a good option for your pooch.
The 9 Best Low-Protein Dog Foods
Are you on the hunt for low-protein dog food? Here are nine excellent options to consider:
1. Royal Canin Renal Support
Best Overall Low Protein Food
Royal Canin Renal Support
A prescription-only dry food featuring reduced protein content and designed to support your dogs kidneys.
About: Royal Canin Renal Support is designed to be easy on your dogs kidneys, while still providing the nutrition he deserves. Made with extra flavoring to encourage eating, this top-shelf dog food is full of omega-3s, antioxidants, and vitamins, and it is formulated with reduced phosphorus content to help avoid taxing your pets kidneys.
Features:
- Prescription-required
- Special flavor blend to encourage eating
- Low phosphoruslevels
- Good source of omega-3s
Dry Matter Protein: 15.5%
Ingredients List
Brewers Rice, Corn, Chicken Fat, Chicken By-Product Meal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp...,
Natural Flavors, Wheat Gluten, Fish Oil, Vegetable Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Powdered Psyllium Seed Husk, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Dl-Methionine, Fructooligosaccharides, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Potassium Citrate, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), Biotin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Acetate, Niacin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid], N-Butyric Acid, Magnesium Oxide, Trace Minerals [Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Copper Proteinate], L-Tryptophan, Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Rosemary Extract, Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols And Citric Acid
Pros
- Multiple pet owners reported improved kidney function tests after switching to this food
- Flavor appears to entice most picky pooches
- Great source of fatty acids and antioxidants
Cons
- This is one of the more expensive low-protein foods around
- Kibble pieces may be too large for some small breeds
- A prescription is required
2. Diamond Naturals Light Dog Food
Most Affordable Low Protein Dog Food
Diamond Naturals Light Dog Food
An affordable, lamb-based, low-protein dry dog food thats made in the USA and available without a prescription.
About:Counterintuitively, most low-protein dog foods cost more than full-protein options. However, this lamb-based recipe from Diamond Naturals is available at a very budget-friendly price. In addition to being a great option for cost-conscious owners, this US-madefood is also packed with antioxidants and fortified with probiotics to support immune function and promote problem-free digestion.
Features:
- No prescription required
- Made without corn, wheat, or soy
- Probiotic-fortified recipe
- Good source of antioxidants
- Made in the USA
Dry Matter Protein: 18%
Ingredients List
Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Cracked Pearled Barley...,
Ground White Rice, Grain Sorghum, Ground Miscanthus Grass, Millet, Dried Yeast, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Dl-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Dried Chicory Root, L-Carnitine, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Chondroitin Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid
Pros
- This is one of the only low-protein foods thats available without a prescription
- Probiotics can help promote proper elimination habits
- Many dogs loved the taste
- Very affordably priced, compared to other low-protein dog food options
Cons
- While still lower than many modern dog foods, the protein content of this food isnt especially low
- Kibbles may be too large for some small breed dogs
3. Hills Prescription Diet
Lowest Protein Food
Hills Prescription Diet
A prescription-required, chicken-flavored kibble that boasts one of the lowest protein levels of any food on the market.
About: If your furry friend struggles with kidney issues, you may need a dog food with exceptionally low protein content, such as this low-protein dog food from Hills Prescription Diet. In addition to having one of the lowest protein content levels weve found, this made-in-the-USA food also has reduced phosphorus content and high quantities of omega-3 fatty acids to combat inflammation.
Features:
- Prescription required
- Low phosphorus and sodium content
- Good source of Omega-3s
- Made in the USA
- Source of whole grains and whole protein
Dry Matter Protein: 12.0% min
Ingredients List
Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Pork Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken...,
Egg Product, Dried Beet Pulp, Whole Grain Sorghum, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Lactic Acid, L-Lysine, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Potassium Citrate, DL-Methionine, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), L-Threonine, Choline Chloride, Iodized Salt, Taurine, Magnesium Oxide, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Carnitine, L-Tryptophan, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene
Pros
- A great option for dogs who need very low protein levels
- Unlike some other low-protein foods, this one features whole proteins (chicken)
- Many owners reported coat improvement after switching to this food
Cons
- This food requires a prescription
- Some dogs did not seem to love the taste
4. Hills Science Diet for Adults
Best Low Protein Food For Seniors
Hills Science Diet for Adults
A low-protein dog food thats specifically formulated for senior dogs and doesnt require a prescription.
About: Hills Science Diet also offers a low-protein, non-prescription dog food for dogs aged 7 and up (the age at which most dogs are considered seniors). This chicken-and-brown-rice formula is made in the USA and comes packed with vitamins and antioxidant-rich ingredients to promote proper immune function.
Features:
- No prescription required
- Made in the USA
- Specifically formulated for dogs 7 and older
- Contains blueberries, carrots, and otherantioxidant-rich ingredients
Dry Matter Protein: 15.5%
Ingredients List
Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Wheat...,
Whole Grain Corn, Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Fat, Dried Beet Pulp, Soybean Meal, Chicken Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Lactic Acid, Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), L-Lysine, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, DL-Methionine, Oat Fiber, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas.
Pros
- Most dogs seemed to love the taste of this food
- A couple of pet parents remarked that this food helped reduce their dogs gassiness
- Antioxidants can be especially helpful for seniors
Cons
- This food uses chicken meal instead of whole chicken
- Some of the carbs used in this recipe are relatively low-quality
5. Purina Pro Plan Kidney Function
Best Low-Protein Dog Food With Reduced Sodium
Purina Pro Plan Kidney Function
A high-quality food thats a great option for dogs who not only require low protein levels but reduced sodium content too.
About: Providing a triple-headed approach to kidney care,Purina Pro Plan NF food is a great choice for dogs with renal system issues. Made with low protein content, low phosphorus levels, and reduced sodium content, this prescription-required dog food is a great option for some four-footers.
Features:
- Prescription required
- Made by veterinarians and nutritionists
- Reduced protein, phosphorus, and sodium content
- Serves as a great source of antioxidants
Dry Matter Protein: 12.5%
Ingredients List
Whole Grain Corn, Brewers Rice, Dried Egg Product...,
Animal Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Sugar, Dried Whey, Sodium Caseinate, Animal Liver Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Vegetable Oil, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Fish Oil, Salt, Potassium Citrate, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Vitamin E Supplement, Choline Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Garlic Oil, Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Biotin, Sodium Selenite
Pros
- This is one of the lowest protein options available
- Low-sodium content provides an additional form of kidney protection
- Many pet parents reported noticeable improvement in their dogs condition after switching to this food
Cons
- It doesnt contain any whole proteins
- This is a pretty pricey option
6. Bil Jac Reduced Fat
Best Low-Protein & Low-Fat Dog Food
Bil Jac Reduced Fat
A low-protein dry food that also contains reduced fat content to help your dog remain at a healthy body weight.
About: If your pooch needs something thats low in protein and fat, this dry food from Bil Jac is a great choice. Made in the USA and slow cooked to preserve maximum flavor, this food is available without a prescription and comes in a fairly unique, cylinder-like shape, which some dogs simply love.
Features:
- No prescription required
- Reduced fat and protein levels
- Source of omega-3s
- Made in the USA
Dry Matter Protein: 17%
Ingredients List
Chicken By-Products (organs only, source of arginine), Corn Meal, Chicken...,
Dried Beet Pulp, Oatmeal, Brewers Dried Yeast, Monocalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Flaxseed, Choline Chloride, Sodium Propionate (a preservative), DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Proteinate, Vitamin A Acetate, Copper Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Sodium Selenite, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Inositol, Manganese Proteinate, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Mixed Tocopherols and BHA (preservatives), Manganous Oxide, Cobalt Proteinate, Cobalt Carbonate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- This food has a relatively low protein content for a non-prescription food
- Some dogs go nuts for the combination of taste and texture
- Reduced fat is great for mutts managing their weight
Cons
- The protein content isnt especially low
- By-products (while not inherently bad) are the first listed ingredient
- A couple of dogs experienced GI issues after trying this food
7. Blue Buffalo Veterinary Wet Food
Best Grain-Free, Low Protein Wet Food
Blue Buffalo Veterinary Wet Food
A kidney-supporting, prescription-only, grain-free wet food that is made with whole proteins and plenty of omega-3s.
About: This low-protein wet food from Blue Buffalo is specially designed to support dogs suffering from kidney issues. With low protein content, reduced phosphorus levels, and plenty of omega-3-rich fish oil, this prescription food checks all the boxes pet owners would want. It also contains whole chicken and no meat byproducts which makes many pet parents feel better
Features:
- Prescription required
- Made with blueberries, cranberries, and other antioxidant-rich ingredients
- Packed with omega-3 fatty acids
- Low levels of phosphorous
Dry Matter Protein: 13.64%
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water, Potato Starch, Potatoes, Carrots, Peas...,
Pea Fiber, Chicken Fat, Flaxseed, Natural Flavor, Fish Oil (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Guar Gum, Potassium Citrate, Carrageenan, Cassia Gum, Calcium Carbonate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Choline Chloride, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), preserved with Mixed Tocopherols
Pros
- Unlike some other low-protein foods, this one contains whole chicken
- Wet food is easy for pups with dental issues (including many seniors) to consume
- Its pretty affordable for a canned, prescription food
Cons
- This wet food was a bit too chunky for some dogs tastes
- Some owners complained about the foods odor
8. Royal Canin Renal Support Wet Food
Best Grain-Inclusive, Low Protein Canned Food
Royal Canin Renal Support Wet Food
The wet version of Royal Canins renal support formula, this prescription-required canned food may be a better option for some dogs.
About: Royal Canin also offers a wet version of their Renal Support Dog Food for doggos who prefer eating canned foods. Featuring even less protein (on a dry matter basis) than the comparable dry version, this food features a pate-like texture and features special aromatic characteristics to help entice even the pickiest pooches.
Features:
- Prescription required
- Formula designed for kidney support with low phosphorus
- Good source of omega-3s
- Aromatic food designed to promote eating
- Soft, pate texture
Dry Matter Protein: 12.5%
Ingredients List
Water Sufficient For Processing, Brewers Rice, Pork By-Products, Chicken By-Products...,
Chicken Liver, Corn Flour, Vegetable Oil, Natural Flavors, Powdered Cellulose, Fish Oil, Potassium Citrate, Carob Bean Gum, Calcium Carbonate, Guar Gum, Taurine, Carrageenan, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Vitamins [Dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate (Source Of Vitamin E), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source Of Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Biotin, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Salt, Fructooligosaccharides, Magnesium Oxide, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Trace Minerals [Zinc Oxide, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate], Marigold Extract (Tagetes Erecta L.), Citric Acid
Pros
- Very low protein content
- One of the few grain-inclusive wet foods around
- Most dogs (even older dogs with reduced appetites) absolutely loved the taste of this food
Cons
- Its more expensive than the dry version of this food
- Contains chicken by-products, which some pet parents dont like
8. Purina Pro Plan Kidney Support Wet Food
Most Affordable Low-Protein Wet Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Kidney Support Wet Food
Grain-inclusive wet food for dogs with kidney issues
About: Purina Pro Plan also offers a low-protein, wet version of their renal support food. This wet food is a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3s, making it an excellent low-protein food for your furball.Best of all, its priced much more affordably than many other low-protein dog foods.
Features:
- Prescription required
- Good source of antioxidants and omega-3s
- It contains grains, unlike a lot of other wet foods
- Reduced sodium content
Dry Matter Protein: 14.62%
Ingredients List
Water Sufficient For Processing, Meat By-Products, Rice, Corn Grits, Beef, Liver...,
Chicken By-Products, Animal Fat (Preserved With TBHQ And Citric Acid), Calcium Sulfate, Guar Gum, Fish Oil, Potassium Citrate, Locust Bean Gum, Carrageenan, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Choline Chloride, Natural Smoke Flavor, Vitamin E Supplement, DL-Methionine, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Copper Sulfate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin A Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite
Pros
- This is one of the relatively rare wet foods that contains grains
- Most dogs loved the taste of this food
- Its the most affordable low-protein wet food weve found
Cons
- This food contains multiple proteins, which may be a problem for dogs with food allergies
- Several owners complained of the foods strong smell
Which Dogs Should Eat a Low-Protein Dog Food?
Most dogs do not need a low-protein diet.
In fact, consuming insufficient amounts of protein can cause dogs and puppies in particular serious health problems. This means that low-protein diets should only be implemented when approved by your veterinarian, who will typically only do so in response to a medical condition.
So, what sorts of dogs benefit from low-protein dog food? Here are a couple of conditions that might make low-protein dog food a good fit for Fido:
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Reduced protein levels can help dogs retain kidney function for longer, as the kidney dont have to work as hard to filter out as many byproducts from the metabolized protein. Dogs with chronic kidney disease should typically consume foods with protein levels of 14% to 20%.We have a list of some of the best dog food for kidney disease, but always consult with your vet to confirm your food selection choice.
- Liver Dysfunction: Dogs with liver problems might not be able to break down proteins as effectively as healthy doggos. In these cases, a low-protein food paired with prescribed supplements and medication is generally appropriate.
- Bladder Stones: A low protein diet can help reduce the frequency of bladder stones and prevent them from reoccurring. Accordingly, dogs who suffer from bladder stones or are at increased risk of experiencing them may benefit from a low-protein food.
- Some Senior Dogs: Senior dogs dont necessarily need less protein than the typical adult diet. However, vets do recommend that some seniors consume less protein in some cases.
Remember that low-protein diets are typically intended for dogs with specific medical needs.
You should make this decision in conjunction with your vet to keep Spot safe. Some of these foods are prescription only, so youll need to consult your pet-health professional anyway.
What Should You Look for in a Low-Protein Dog Food
Choosing a high-quality food is critical for your hounds health. Here are a few of the things youll want to look for while picking out the best low-protein food for your pooch:
- Quality Protein: Even in low-protein dog foods, the proteins used need to be high quality. Accordingly, youll want to opt for foods with whole, lean meats like chicken or lamb.
- Fitting For Your Dogs Life Stage: Your low-protein pick should be suited for your dogs current stage of life whether hes a puppy, adult, or senior.
- Omega-3s: Omega-3s and help reduce inflammation in the body which may be helpful for dogs suffering from kidney or liver disease. These fatty acids also promote a healthy, shiny coat. Look for a dog food that contains fish oil, or add your own dog-friendly fish oil supplements.
- Low Phosphorus: If your dog suffers from chronic kidney disease, talk to your vet about phosphorus consumption low phosphorus levels sometimes help dogs retain kidney function.
- Your Vets Approval: Any low-protein dog food needs to be approved by your veterinarian to make sure it provides your pooch with sufficient nutrition.
Low Protein Dog Food FAQ
Are you still struggling to find the right low-protein food for your dog? Hopefully, these questions and answers will bring you closer to ending your search:
Why would a dog need a low-protein dog food?
Dogs are prescribed low-protein dog foods typically due to any of several underlying medical conditions. For instance, dogs with chronic kidney or liver disease may benefit from a low-protein dog food.
What dog food is lowest in protein?
Any dog food that hovers below or around the AAFCOs 18% protein requirement could be considered low protein. Our list includes a range of low-protein dog foods, with some containing only 12% protein.
What dog food is low in protein and phosphorus?
Dog foods made specifically for pups with kidney disease tend to be low in protein and phosphorus. Weve discussed several low-protein options designed for kidney support above.
What percentage of protein should be in dog food?
Most dogs need at least 18% of protein on a dry matter basis according to the AAFCOs guidelines. In some cases, a dog may be prescribed a lower or higher protein diet based on a medical condition or life stage (puppies and pregnant moms, for example, require more protein than this).
***
A low-protein diet isnt for every pooch. However, some dogs with underlying medical issues can benefit from a specialized low-protein diet. Hopefully, this guide makes it easier for you to pin down a great low-protein food for your pooch.
Has your dog tried any of these foods? Which one does he like best? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below!
