The Best Low Sodium Dog Foods for a Healthy Pooch
Salt seems to be everywhere, including human and dog food. And, just like with humans, a dog’s age, it is important to monitor the ingredients in their food, such as sodium levels.
Here, we will discuss some of the best low-sodium dog foods on the market. We will look at the benefits of these foods and whether or not they are a good fit for your pup.
Top Dog Foods with Low Sodium Content
1. Benefits of Low Sodium Dog Food
Low sodium dog food can help keep your dog healthy. If your dog has health conditions, low sodium food can help. Low sodium food can also help dogs genetically predisposed to health conditions like heart disease, liver disease, and kidney disease.
When deciding if the low sodium dog food is the right choice for your dog, think about the following:
- Veterinarians often recommend low sodium food for dogs with heart and kidney conditions.
- Heart problems like heart failure are more common in dogs than one might think.
- Many small dogs, such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshires, have heart problems by the time they reach 10 years old.
2. Downsides of Low Sodium Dog Food
Low sodium dog food is good for some dogs because it can help with health problems. But it’s important to know that this food also has some possible downsides.
Hyponatremia is a condition that can occur if you feed your dog low-sodium food.
Hyponatremia can be difficult to diagnose because of its nature. However, being aware of the symptoms can help promote a discussion between you and your vet if you suspect it—symptoms such as:
- Lack of energy
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Disorientation
- Loss of appetite
- Lowered muscle strength
Low sodium diets are not recommended for dogs who have hyponatremia. Dogs usually need between .25 grams and 1.5 grams of sodium per 100 grams of dog food.
Even though this might seem like a good idea, always consult with a Veterinarian before picking any specialized diet for your pup.
Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection formula is a great, natural option for low-sodium dog food. It is a popular choice from a reputable brand.
This food is packed with nutritional support. It is free of artificial flavors and preservatives. You are getting great quality food for your pup. This food has a low sodium content. Your dog can also benefit from other nutritional benefits.
- Lean muscle development
- Reduced calories from fat
- Improved strength in bones and teeth
- Immune system support
- Healthier coat and skin
Pros
Cons
This organic Whole Grain Chicken Custers Recipe from Honest Kitchen contains no artificial preservatives and is minimal in sodium. It is made with high-quality ingredients.
This recipe for a healthy dog contains natural fiber and live probiotics. Your pup will see benefits to their digestion, as well as antioxidants. This recipe is full of beneficial elements, including:
- Flaxseed
- Coconut oil
- Salmon oil
- Pumpkin
- Apples
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Kale
Pros
Cons
Veterinarians recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin formula for its reduced salt content. This food is formulated specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
This recipe contains approximately 0.29 percent sodium per cup. It is made with chicken, brewer’s rice, chicken meal, yellow peas, and barley as its main ingredients. This is a great, healthy choice that is made from quality ingredients.
Hill’s Science makes dog foods for nursing dogs and puppies. However, this formula is not recommended for those groups of dogs.
Pros
Cons
Royal Canin’s Early Cardiac formula is a good low-sodium dog food recommended by vets. The salt content is approximately 0.33 percent. It is formulated to help cardiac health and efficiency in dogs with heart conditions.
This food is made with chicken meal and fish meal as the main sources of protein, rather than just chicken or fish. This is important if you want to give your dog whole-food ingredients.
Pros
Cons
Purina’s Pro Plan brand of dog food is a good low-sodium option. It is made with quality ingredients free from corn, wheat, and soy.
This mix contains oatmeal benefits your dog’s digestive health and nutrient absorption. Oatmeal also contains several other important vitamins and minerals for your pup’s overall health.
Pros
Cons
This formula from Taste of the Wild has a high protein/high nutrient content and a low sodium level. The main ingredient is sustainably sourced salmon, making it a good choice for your pet.
Your pup is also getting a special probiotic blend (called “K9 Strain”) to add nutrient-rich foods like sweet potatoes, peas, lentils, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, and raspberries.
Pros
Cons
The blend of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in Hill’s Prescription Diet Kidney Care dog food is ideal. And omega fatty acids that doctors and nutritionists have recommended. This food has been clinically proven to help dogs with chronic kidney disease live longer and be more mobile.
Remember to get vet approval if you want to buy this formula. You can’t just order it in a store or online. Given the precise formulation and conditions it is intended to treat, it is crucial to determine if this mix is appropriate for your dog.
Pros
Cons
The European pet food producer ARION offers this Fresh Senior Light mix for senior dogs. The food is designed to help keep older dogs healthy and active.
ARION uses fresh meats, whole grains, quality oils and fats, and natural plant fibers in their dog food. They use only the best ingredients to help senior pups stay healthy and fit. This is especially important for those less active pups as they age.
Maintaining your dog’s weight is important to prevent heart conditions. One of the primary causes of heart issues in dogs is obesity. Older dogs, especially, need to be kept at a healthy weight.
The formula includes glucosamine and chondroitin to help support your joints and L-carnitine to help with your energy levels.
Pros
Cons
If your dog has reduced heart, kidney, and liver functionality, SPECIFIC CKD Heart and Kidney Support formula is a good option.
There are several reasons to pick this formula beyond its low sodium content. These reasons include:
- Reduced protein (primarily to lessen kidney workload)
- High levels of Omega-3 fatty acids
- L-carnitine and taurine for healthy heart function
This mixture is composed of natural, high-quality components. It offers guidelines for feeding your dog based on its weight in kilograms. This great option can help improve your pup’s quality of life.
Pros
Cons
The Orijen Freeze-Dried formula contains various nutritious nutrients, including liver, heart, marrow, and cartilage from poultry and fish. These compounds give vitamins and minerals from natural sources, eliminating the need for synthetic substances. It also contains an assortment of fruits and vegetables.
This formula can be consumed in different ways. You can eat it by itself or put it on top of other food.
Cage-free eggs are one of the ingredients in this food, so if your dog is allergic to eggs or has food sensitivities, be careful.
Pros
Cons
Honest Kitchen makes a portion of human-grade dog food low in sodium. It is a whole grain formula that is good for your dog if you are also concerned about the quality of the food.
This dog food is good for all kinds of dogs and for all different ages. You can serve it to your dog dry or with some warm water.
This all-natural dog food is a great choice because it has a lot of different flavors to choose from, like turkey, chicken, and beef. And it’s made with natural ingredients, so your dog will love it.
Pros
Cons
The Complete Health line from the people at Wellness Natural Pet Food is a great option for low sodium foods. This line has a lot of different options, and all of the ingredients are healthy.
This formula is made without by-products, filler, or artificial preservatives. It comes in multiple flavors. This helps with:
- Joint and bone health
- Digestion
- Immune health
- Dental hygiene
- Skin and coat health
There are three types of dog food formulas, Puppy, Adult, and Senior. All three have small changes to ensure the dog gets the right nutrients for their age.
Pros
Cons
This Purina recipe is specifically for dogs whose kidney function must be monitored.
This is a high-quality, low-sodium dog food that is recommended by vets. It has restricted amounts of phosphorus and limited protein amounts.
The flavor doesn’t seem to be a problem for dogs, as they enjoy the taste. This can make transitioning from old diets to new ones a bit easier.
Pros
Cons
Earthborn Holistic has a lot of healthy low, sodium dog food options. We chose this Adult Vantage combination, which is ideal for all adult dog breeds with care.
This food has quality, turkey-meal protein as the number one ingredient. It also contains superfoods like flaxseed, blueberries, and cranberries. The food is easy to digest and good for your heart health.
Pros
Cons
Zignature’s Whitefish Grain-Free Dog Food is a good choice for your dog. The food is made with Pacific-caught whitefish, a good protein source. The food also has Omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients. But it doesn’t have many ingredients.
Some people are worried that this dog food might cause heart disease. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported this in 2019, but there haven’t been any recalls. The FDA issued a fresh report stating there is no definitive link between the food and heart disease. However, getting a second (or third) opinion is still prudent.
Pros
Cons
Solid Gold Hund-N-FLocken is a great food that has been around since 1974. It is a low sodium food, but it also has other benefits.
This formula is made with pasture-raised lamb meat as the main ingredient. It also has nutrient-rich sources, including superfoods like carrots, pumpkin, and plenty of Omega fatty acids.
Pros
Cons
This weight management formula from Fromm Family can help if your pet has organ issues. In addition to helping with weight issues, this formula also has a low sodium content.
Fromm Family dog food is made with high-quality ingredients that provide a well-rounded diet for your pet. The food also meets all nutritional requirements, as verified by the “Guaranteed Analysis” package. This section breaks down the percentages of each ingredient in the food.
Pros
Cons
Considerations for Low-Sodium Dog Food
Whether your dog is healthy or not, there are several factors to consider while choosing dog food. You need to consider your pup’s future health and the health of dogs suffering from heart, liver, or kidney conditions.
Some dog foods have harmful ingredients in them. This is bad for all dogs, but it is especially bad for dogs with organ problems. You can’t avoid all harmful ingredients, but you should try to avoid them as much as possible.
Always Look for Natural Ingredients When Possible
Most people believe that natural ingredients are better than artificial ingredients. Fortunately, many brands are now using better quality ingredients in their products. However, you should always check the label to see what is in the product before buying it.
Some ingredients in select commercial dog foods can be difficult to understand. However, here are some general ones you should look out for:
- Ethoxyquin
- Propylene Glycol
- BHT/BHA
- Monosodium Glutamate (also known as MSG)
- By-products
- Artificial colors
Considerations for Low-Sodium Dog Food
Whether your dog is healthy or not, there are several factors to consider while choosing dog food. You need to consider your pup’s future health and the health of dogs suffering from heart, liver, or kidney conditions.
Some dog foods have harmful ingredients in them. This is bad for all dogs, but it is especially bad for dogs with organ problems. You can’t avoid all harmful ingredients, but you should try to avoid them as much as possible.
Always Look for Natural Ingredients When Possible
Most people believe that natural ingredients are better than artificial ingredients. Fortunately, many brands are now using better quality ingredients in their products. However, you should always check the label to see what is in the product before buying it.
Some ingredients in select commercial dog foods can be difficult to understand. However, here are some general ones you should look out for:
- Ethoxyquin
- Propylene Glycol
- BHT/BHA
- Monosodium Glutamate (also known as MSG)
- By-products
- Artificial colors
Be Mindful of Age-specific Formulas and Switch When Appropriate as Your Dog Ages
Many dog foods are made for different age ranges of dogs. Puppy food is usually different than adult dog food, and there is also senior dog food.
There are sometimes exceptions to the rule for dogs with heart, kidney, and liver issues. This will depend on their nutritional needs and any health issues that must be addressed. However, it is always best to consult a veterinarian before going against the guidelines for a dog’s specific age.
Be Aware of Any Allergies Your Pup Might Have and Adjust Your Selection Accordingly
Some dogs are more likely to react to some foods than others. But it is always a good idea to get your pup tested.
Dogs can have allergic reactions to almost any kind of food. Some common examples are:
- Egg
- Soy
- Gluten
- Specific cuts of meat
Many different things can cause allergies in your dog. However, the best way to find out what is causing the allergies is to have them tested.
Identifying allergic reactions in dogs can be tough, as symptoms can often be very broad. Dogs may experience any of the following:
- Itching
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Hyperactivity
- Aggression
If you think your dog might be allergic to something, take them to a professional for help.
Is Low Sodium Dog Food Right for Your Pup?
It can be tough to decide if a low sodium dog food is the right choice for your pet.
Switching your dog’s diet is not a good idea if you are not an expert on the subject. This can be dangerous for your pup. Always consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your pup’s diet.
You should ask yourself if your pup has any health issues that could benefit from low sodium dog food.
The goal of low sodium food is to help your dog’s organs. This includes their heart, liver, and kidneys. You can help by getting regular check-ups from the vet. Suppose your dog is old or predisposed to conditions related to these organs. In that case, taking some preventative measures might be a good idea.
Other Considerations for Low Sodium Dog Food
Although low sodium dog food can have many benefits, it will not likely solve all your dog’s health problems.
Combining high-quality dog food with other activities is a better way to care for your pet. This way, your dog can get the best of everything.
- Exercise
- Weight management
- Supplements
- Regular check-ups
Finding the right low-sodium dog food is one part of taking care of your dog’s health. You should explore all ways to help your dog be healthy.
The Best Low Sodium Dog Food
Low sodium dog food can be a good option for dogs. It is necessary for some dogs. Just like other things in your dog’s diet, a small amount of sodium is needed for life. But if there is too much sodium, it can be poisonous and cause health problems or death.
Dogs who eat commercial dog food are likely to take in more sodium than they need. Like us, they have multiple ways to naturally eliminate this excess salt, such as drinking and urinating.
However, some dogs will benefit from a low sodium diet. For example, many health problems are made worse by high sodium intake, including heart and liver problems. With others, high sodium intake can cause them directly.
A dog with congestive heart failure will experience issues with fluid build-up. This is because the body has a lot of salt. Lowering the sodium level in the system can help relieve some of the pressure on the organs and improve the dog’s overall health.
Here are some of the best low-sodium dog food options.
13 Best Low Sodium Dog Food Reviews
This recipe is perfect for dogs who need a low-sodium and grain-free diet. If your pup has food sensitivities, consider this recipe with limited ingredients.
This low-calorie dog food has no fillers, meat by-products, or preservatives. The formula uses quality protein and carbohydrate sources, providing optimal nutrition for all breeds. Wholesome ingredients such as lamb meal, brown rice, and tomato pomace deliver essential vitamins and minerals for healthy growth.
The Instinct Raw Boost recipe is rich in animal proteins and low in sodium. It is one of the best grain-free dog foods out there.
This recipe is free from meals made from animals that were not killed humanely, artificial colors, and preservatives. It features freeze-dried raw meat and unlocks your pet’s potential to thrive. It also contains L-carnitine to support a healthy metabolism. You can rest assured that all the nutrients come from non-grain, healthy sources.
The Castor & Pollux ORGANIX recipe is great because it has natural ingredients and low sodium content. It also provides excellent nutrition for your dog. If you are looking for high-quality and safe ingredients, consider the Castor & Pollux dry dog food.
This recipe is perfect for dogs sensitive to sodium, gluten, and grains. The recipe’s organic free-range chicken and sweet potatoes will help make your dog healthy and happy. Plus, this recipe has no preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors.
Feed your dog the best food with this recipe from OrgaNomics. The recipe has the main ingredients of real turkey, duck, and chicken. It also contains antioxidants, prebiotics, chelated minerals, and vitamins to help keep your dog healthy. Additionally, this recipe has low salt content, so it is good for dogs on a low sodium diet.
This recipe has organic ingredients like brown rice, carrots, peas, cranberries, and sweet potatoes. It is one of the best low-sodium dog food options that you can serve your dog.
Newman’s Own has a recipe for healthy dog food that is low in salt. The premium dog food is rich in balanced nutrition and contains organic ingredients. The recipe also has essential fatty acids and antioxidants.
This adult dog food is perfect for all breeds. It has a precise blend of whole grains, chelated minerals, and vitamins that will help your dog absorb the nutrients from the food. This low-sodium meal is also great for your dog’s health and wellness.
This is a great choice for dogs with dietary restrictions because it includes organic chicken and vegetables.
This grain-free recipe by Newman’s Own Organics is a healthy option that offers amazing nutritional value to your dog. It promotes your dog’s longevity using a single organic protein source with low sodium content. Feed your little pup the best nutrition free from artificial flavors, preservatives, colors, corn, and wheat.
Serve your dog a raw-food diet that offers all the nutritional benefits he needs. This unique blend of raw, freeze-dried dog food is hormone-free and low in sodium. It contains high-quality protein, calcium supplements, and omega-fatty acids for your dog’s optimal health and growth.
The natural diet for dogs includes a variety of ingredients that come from sustainable sources. It is also gluten- and grain-free. This diet also has optimum amino acids, essential vitamins, and minerals to help strengthen your dog’s immune system.
Fill up your dog’s food bowl with a meal made of high-quality ingredients from trusted farmers. This is a great choice for dogs who need to be on a low-sodium diet.
This dog food is good for your dog’s health. It has deboned beef and sweet potatoes as the main ingredients. It is also grain- and gluten-free. This diet has omega-fatty acids to help your dog’s skin and coat health. If you want to improve your dog’s energy levels and keep them at a healthy weight, this food from Merrick is a great option.
This TruDog diet is a great low-sodium option for your dog. The freeze-drying process locks in flavor and nutrition, making it a good choice for picky eaters.
This freeze-dried food is a good option for dogs of all breeds and ages. It has nutrient-rich ingredients like beef and herring oil. This raw food is free of gluten, soy, corn, artificial flavors, added salt, hormones, sugar, and preservatives.
This dry dog food from American Journey is a good choice to give your pup a low-sodium meal. This formula uses deboned salmon as its main ingredient. The kibble has high-quality protein sources to help support growth and muscle development. It also has nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables that deliver minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins. This can help support healthy immunity.
This low-sodium wet food is a good option if you want to give your pup more than regular kibble. It will keep them hydrated and healthy.
This dog food has a grain-free and organic option. The chicken is cooked, and it tastes amazing. This food has high-quality protein, carbs, crude fiber, and fat. It is also free of soy, wheat, corn, animal by-products, and artificial ingredients.
FirstMate’s recipe is a great way to improve your dog’s health. This recipe is free of gluten, grains, salt, and other ingredients that can upset your dog’s digestion. It contains carefully selected ingredients, including a single-source novel protein.
This recipe is perfect for all breeds and life stages. It has a mix of cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries, which helps to improve immunity. Plus, the formula includes natural fiber for easy nutrient absorption. You do not need a prescription from a vet to give this product to your pet.
Suppose you’re looking for a dog food that is not high in sodium. In that case, you should consider the Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food. This recipe features healthy ingredients like lamb, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, and peas. With high protein content and simple carbs, this dog food promotes muscle nourishment and keeps your dog active and happy.
This dog food also has minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and probiotics. The micronutrients help keep the whole body healthy. The omega-fatty acids promote skin and coat health. This dog food recipe has limited ingredients, meaning it doesn’t have things like corn, salt, wheat, soy, or other artificial additives.
Conclusion
Overall, low sodium dog food can help with several health issues your pup may experience in their lifetime. This includes heart conditions, hypertension, and kidney disease.
Caring for a dog with health difficulties is the same as caring for a human. This includes providing the right food and taking care of other needs.
That said, finding suitable low-sodium dog food is important to help your furry companion live a healthier, happier life. This should be the primary goal regarding pet ownership, regardless of your situation.
Read more: What Is Fresh Pet Food and Is It Actually Better?
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Low Sodium Dog Food
Suppose your dog has hypernatremia, a condition with too much sodium in the blood. In that case, your veterinarian will want to start fluid therapy as soon as possible. This usually includes giving the dog IV fluids if he is moderately or severely dehydrated, which is usually the case if you notice symptoms in the first place.
Most dogs with congestive heart failure only live for six to fourteen months. But with the right treatment, some dogs can live for up to three years.
Suppose the pet has a condition that will cause pain and lead to an early death. In that case, the recommendation may be for euthanasia sooner instead of later.
The Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin is a good low-sodium choice. It features salmon as the main protein source and the first ingredient. It also has dietary fiber to ease digestion, and it is free from fillers such as soy meal, corn, and wheat.
Freshpet uses a small amount of salt and potassium chloride (lite salt) in its recipes so that the fresh meats will combine well. The salt levels in Freshpet products are within the ranges recommended by veterinary nutritionists.
Hypernatremia is a dangerous condition caused by water loss or sodium gain, often when someone isn’t drinking enough water.
You can eat a few things to help your dog have a low-sodium diet. Fresh beef, pork, chicken, and bland macaroni are good options. You should also avoid giving your dog snacks. Instead, give them 1/4 pound of lean ground beef, 2 cups of cooked white rice without salt, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. You can also give them a Pet-Cal supplement tablet.
Many dogs with congestive heart failure only live for 6 to 14 months. However, some dogs can live for nearly three years with the right treatment regimen.
When limiting sodium in your diet, eat less than 2,000 milligrams daily.