Best Low Protein Dog Food 2024

You’re probably wondering, what are the most low protein dog foods? There isn’t actually an official number that is considered low protein. However, according to the AAFCO, adult dog food should contain 18% protein while food for puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs should contain 22.5%. This is on a dry matter basis which can be worked out with the percentage of crude protein compared to the moisture using this calculator. 

So, anything below 18% could be considered low protein. However, there aren’t as many low protein dog foods available compared to high protein. Most dog food contains at least 25% with those advertised as high being between 30% and 40%. When looking for low protein you want to look for as close to 20% (and below) as possible.

Firstly, it’s important to note that most dogs don’t need a low protein diet and actually it could be detrimental to their health. This is why it’s important to speak to your vet and only move them onto this diet with their recommendation. 

However, there are a number of reasons that your pup might need dog food with low protein. This is usually due to a health condition that makes it harder to process the protein. 

Two of the main reasons are kidney or liver disease. If your dog has been put on a low protein diet for kidney or liver disease then it’s very important to pay close attention to the percentage of protein in the food. The protein should be between 14% and 20%. Reducing the protein helps them to keep function of these organs for longer because they don’t have to work as hard. 

They may also be put on a low protein diet for bladder stones and in some cases this diet will be recommended for senior dogs. 

When looking at a low protein diet for dogs you don’t just want to pick the food with the lowest percentage of protein. There are a few things you also need to consider. 

While it must include low protein meats, you want it to be high-quality, easily digestible protein. Look out for those with lean meats such as chicken and lamb as the first ingredient.   

It should be low phosphorus, especially if you are moving to this diet because your pup has kidney disease. The food should also include omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins. 

If your pet is becoming overweight due to their health issues, then look for low fat and low calories. Also, consider their life stage — do they need adult or senior food?

Most importantly — ensure it’s approved by your vet. Even if you don’t need a prescription for your chosen low protein food it’s important to speak to your vet. They’ll make sure they are eating the right food for their specific needs.

Our editorial team conducts independent research when choosing which foods to feature and how to rate them. Our paw ratings are largely based on the ingredients and nutritional content of each food. Here’s a quick guide to what our paw ratings mean:

• 1 paw: High filler content, meat not listed as first ingredient
• 2 paws: Meat meal, bone meal or meat by-products listed as first ingredient
• 3 paws: Named meat listed as first ingredient (e.g., chicken)
• 4 paws: Same as 3 paws, but also made with whole, limited ingredients and minimal processing
• 5 paws: Same as 4 paws, but is also veterinarian or veterinary body-approved and includes human-grade ingredients
• Half-paws may be awarded for extra benefits, like affordability, trustworthiness, etc