You indeed watch out for the amount of salt in your food, as too much sodium or salt can be dangerous for your health. But what about your canine? Should you be worried about the sodium intake of your little furbaby? Find out in what situations do you need low-sodium dog food?
Dogs need sodium as part of their complete and balanced nutrition. Some dog foods contain more sodium than recommended, and high-sodium treats can contribute to high blood pressure.
In this article, we’ve reviewed different low-sodium dog food options and narrowed them down to the best options for low-sodium dog food. Below you’ll find detailed reviews of each product, as well as pros and cons. Read on and explore with us!
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
- Taste of the Wild Grain Free Premium High Protein Dry Dog Food Pacific Stream Adult – Smoked Salmon
- The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food
- ORIJEN Dry Dog Food, Original, Biologically Appropriate & Grain Free
- Natural Balance Ultra Premium Wet Dog Food
- Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Savory Stew, 12.8 oz, 12-Pack
- Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food Chicken & Sweet
- Wellness Core Marrow Roasts Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats, 8-Ounce bag
- Hill’s Ideal Balance Grain-Free Dog Treats, Soft-Baked Naturals Dog Snack
What is Considered Low-Sodium Dog Food?
The nutritional profile of low sodium dog food is similar to that of a regular diet, but it contains less salt.
However, the Association of American Food Control recommends that the sodium content of dry dog food should not fall lower than 0.3%. Foods with high sodium levels contribute to high blood pressure, and the same goes for dog food!
And as per estimates, 60 to 90 percent of dogs with chronic kidney disease also have high blood pressure and hypertension. So, if you feed salty foods to your little pet, you’re putting their health at risk. Therefore, you must look for the best low-sodium dog food for a heart murmur.
If your dog has heart disease, then it is recommended that you pay particular attention while choosing dog food. The complete and balanced nutrition diet will only improve the quality of your furry friend’s life.
But what is the right way to choose?
Well, dogs with heart disease need low-sodium dog food. And high-end dog foods often contain heart-healthy foods. There is less sodium (salt) in these foods than usual. Furthermore, they include taurine, an essential amino acid.
How much sodium does a dog need?
It is recommended that dogs consume between 0.25g – 1.5g of salt per 100g of food to maintain good health. So long as salt intake is kept at these levels, salt won’t harm dogs and will keep fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve transmission in check.
It is also essential for your dog to consume sodium chloride to produce hydrochloric acid, which helps his digestion. So it’s all good as long as you feed balanced or low-sodium dog food to your puppy.
But with wildly different sodium levels in various dog foods, it becomes pretty hard to track the sodium levels of many dog foods. Moreover, the dog food manufacturer isn’t required to print such information on the labels.
We can give you a general idea about recommended sodium levels for canines for your ease. Read the below categories.
Dogs with no sodium restrictions require at least 0.5% sodium levels in their food.
Dogs with mild sodium restrictions require between 0.35% to 0.5% sodium levels in their food.
Dogs with moderate restrictions should consume low-sodium dog food between 0.1% and 0.35% sodium levels.
Dogs with severe sodium restrictions should have low-sodium dog food with less than 0.1% sodium content.
When should a Dog need Low-sodium Dog Food?
Various conditions can cause your dog to go on low sodium dog food. So let’s explore some of the conditions where your dog should consume low sodium dog food.
1. Heart Disease
If your dog has congestive heart failure, their bodies cannot eliminate excess sodium, which causes them to retain water. So lowering salt in their diet could benefit them.
2. Kidney Disease
The kidneys are one of the body’s primary waste removal centers. They are responsible for removing excess sodium and other minerals from the body in urine. If your puppy has kidney disease, he will not filter out excess salt from the body, which can worsen your dog’s health condition.
3. Liver Disease
The liver is another vital organ that removes waste from the body. So when your little pup is suffering from liver disease, his health conditions can become worse with excess sodium levels in food.
4. Salt toxicity
Salt intoxication or hypernatremia can occur when your dog does not get enough liquid to dilute the sodium intake. You must rush to your local veterinarian to find out how to treat salt toxicity, as it can be life-threatening. They will usually recommend low-sodium dog food going forward.
Symptoms of Excess Sodium In The Blood In Dogs
A dog’s body fluids are regulated by sodium, controlling nerve and muscle cells. However, excess sodium in your dog’s blood could be dangerous. Fortunately, you can track the symptoms of excess sodium in your dog’s blood through specific changes in your dog’s behavior.
The symptoms of excess sodium are:
- Increased thirst
- Excessive urination
- Dizziness
- Confused and disoriented behavior
- Distress
- Walking in circles
- Swollen belly
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Get your dog’s sodium levels checked if you notice any of the changes mentioned above in their behavior.
What Are the Benefits Of Low-sodium Dog Food?
You might be wondering about some of the benefits of low-sodium dog food and why it is essential to keep track of sodium levels in your dog’s diet. Well, there are several reasons for that! Some of them are mentioned below.
1. A Better Hydration Level
Since sodium absorbs liquid, and if you feed an excess amount of sodium to your dog, he will become dehydrated, causing him to urinate more. Therefore, low-sodium dog food maintains a better hydration level for your dog.
2. Controlled blood pressure
Low sodium dog food will keep your furry friend’s blood pressure checked if they suffer from high blood pressure.
3. Improved Senior Health of Dog
A dog’s aging process can result in various diseases such as osteoporosis, decreased nerve function, or organ failure. A low-sodium diet will ensure a balanced and good health condition for your dog.
What Are the Types of Low-sodium Dog Food?
Dog owners should be aware of types of low-sodium dog food since it will be easier for them to decide what food they should feed to their precious pets.
Let’s explore the types of low-sodium dog food.
1. Dry Food
Low sodium dog food is most commonly available as dry kibble. The product is in pellet form and has a crunchy texture. Moreover, it is suitable for dogs who don’t have any chewing problems.
2. Canned or Wet Food
Canned or wet food comes in packets or cans. The food that you prepare at home can also be considered wet food. Dogs with teeth problems like canned or wet food make it easier to consume it.
3. Treats
You can find treats in different forms: chewy, wet, crunchy, or soft. You should look for treats with low sodium levels. The best way to choose a treat is to look for whole-food ingredients such as chicken, duck, beef, etc.
How to Choose Low-sodium Dog Food?
Choosing low-sodium dog food isn’t rocket science. There are just certain things to look for, and you are ready to feed your furbaby a perfect diet.
There are various products available on the market. So based on your dog’s age, breed, and size, you need to determine the nutritional content and choose the best option for your dog.
1. Pay Attention to Protein
The first thing you should look at is the protein content in dog food. Since puppies are carnivores, they need meat in their diet. But if your dog has certain medical conditions like kidney disease, you should lower the protein content. You should find ingredients such as chicken, lamb, beef, or fish high in protein on the package.
2. Complex Carbohydrates
As we all know that carbohydrates are essential for the energy level in our body, this applies to your dog as well. As all carbs are not equal, you need to look for complex carbs in the ingredients such as sweet potatoes, flaxseed, or whole grain. These kinds of foods are good to avoid the spike in your dog’s blood sugar as well.
3. Dry vs. Wet Dog Food
While choosing low-sodium dog food, you need to check whether your dog enjoys wet food or dry ones. If your dog needs extra hydration in his body, the best low-sodium canned dog food could be a good option as it provides extra moisture than the kibble does.
4. Age and Size of Your Dog
If you’re looking for food for a young or older pet, make sure it contains fats, energy, and certain minerals that will help the animal grow. Senior animals may require a lower-calorie diet due to their decreased activity levels.
5. Place of Manufacturing
You should look for a place of manufacturing that has strict safety and quality regulations for the production of low sodium foods to prevent your dog from eating contaminated products. To be entirely sure of the high-quality low sodium foods, buy foods made in the USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or Western Europe.
Low-sodium Dog Food Recipes
Yes! You can prepare your little fur baby’s food at home to restrict sodium levels. You can ask your veterinarian whether you should add nutrient-balancing ingredients to a commercial brand or if you should only use homemade low-sodium dog food.
1. Protein-Rich Foods
To make protein-rich food for your puppy, consider adding the following ingredients to your recipes:
- Salmon
- Pork
- Beef
- Chicken or turkey
2. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are essential for your dog as it provides them with energy. So consider adding complex carbohydrates such as:
- Honey
- Whole grains or rice
- Low-sodium cheese
- Pasta
3. Blend of Fruits and Veggies
A good blend of fruits and vegetables ensures a package of vitamins and minerals. Try recipes that include the following fruits and vegetables:
- Green beans
- Carrot
- Apples
- Oranges
- Bananas
- Unsalted almonds
Best Low-sodium Dog Food Brands
There are three main types of low-sodium dog foods: low-sodium dry dog food, low-sodium wet dog food, and low-sodium dog treats. Let’s explore in detail.
Low-sodium Dry Dog Food
1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Low-sodium Dog Food’s natural ingredients are rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a perfect food for your dog, especially if you are concerned about his health. The product is available in chicken, lamb, or fish. It contains no by-products of animals, preservatives, or artificial flavors. Moreover, this food will fulfill your dog’s nutritional needs.
Key Features and Details
- Brand name: Blue Buffalo
- Item form: Dry
- Age range: Adult
Pros
- Contains high-quality real meat.
- High-quality protein sources
- Contains omega fatty acids
- Finest natural ingredients
- Ziplock bag that keeps the food fresh
Cons
- Contains life-source bits of vitamins and minerals, which dogs often dislike.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog food is the perfect fit for your dog in low-sodium levels. Feed your dog with the finest ingredients with this product.
2. Taste of the Wild Grain Free Premium High Protein Dry Dog Food Pacific Stream Adult – Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon—an excellent source of protein is included in Taste of the Wild Grain Dry Dog Food. What else do you need for your dog’s well-being? This food offers a taste sensation to your dog like no other. Since vegetables and fruits accompany it, it also provides your pet with antioxidants to support a healthy lifestyle.
Key Features and Details
- Brand name: Taste of the Wild
- Item form: Dry
- Age range: Adult
Pros
- High in protein that helps support bones and joints.
- Nutrient-rich for thriving energy
- Contains antioxidants and prebiotics that support healthy digestion.
- Formulated without any artificial flavors or colors.
Cons
It can make your dog’s breath smell fishy.
If you are looking for protein-rich dry food for your dog l, go for Taste of the Wild Grain Free Premium High Protein Dry Dog Food. You’ll see noticeable good changes in your dog’s health.
3. The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food
The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food is an excellent choice because it is made in the USA. None of its ingredients come from China. This product contains whole food ingredients that are an excellent choice for your dog. The recipe is tasty, nutritious, and ideal for picky eaters and dog breeds that cannot handle grains, gluten, or too many calories all at once.
Key Features & Details
- Brand name: The Honest Kitchen
- Item form: Dry
- Age range: All size breeds
Pros
- It is grain-free and comes in free-range chicken.
- Easy to prepare.
- Higher quality ingredients and safety measures.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Little pricey.
Looking for a dog option that the vet also recommends? Go for this delicious and healthy dry low-sodium dog food, perfect for picky eaters.
4. ORIJEN Dry Dog Food, Original, Biologically Appropriate & Grain Free
Are you looking for dog food that is rich in whole animal ingredients? You need to try ORIJEN Dry Dog Food for your furbaby. ORIJEN is the pinnacle of the natural diet, offering unsurpassed quantities of fresh or raw meat derived from various animal-based protein sources. Moreover, you won’t find any grain or synthetic substances in the food.
Key Features & Details
- Brand name: Orijen
- Item form: Dry
- Age range: All breed sizes
Pros
- Packed with quality animal ingredients.
- Uses dog’s favorite fresh and raw animal ingredients, including meat.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- It has a strong odor.
Orijen Dry low-sodium dog food contains ingredients that are high in protein. Protein is an excellent source of energy that maintains the healthy well-being of your dog.
Low-sodium Wet Dog Food
1. Natural Balance Ultra Premium Wet Dog Food
Do you need premium quality beef as a source of protein for your furbaby? Go for Natural Balance Ultra Premium Wet Dog Food. Moreover, you get wholesome oat bran, brown rice, and potatoes, a highly digestible form of carbohydrates. Feeding this food will also give your dog healthy skin and a luxurious coat as it is rich in Omega-6 and Omega-3
Key Features & Details
- Brand name: Natural Balance
- Item form: Wet
- Age range: All breed sizes
Pros
- Premium beef maintains muscle health.
- Contains high-quality dog food and energy sources
- Supports healthy skin and shiny coats.
Cons
- Mushy texture
If you are looking for canned food with premium quality ingredients, Natural Balance Ultra Premium Wet Dog Food would be a perfect fit.
2. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Savory Stew, 12.8 oz, 12-Pack
Do you want to enhance the overall health and well-being of your dog? Buy Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food! This canned food uses beef chunks and vegetable chunks that are easy to digest and give ultimate protein to your dogs. Moreover, veterinarians, nutritionists, and food scientists developed the formula.
Key Features & Details
- Brand name: Hill’s Science Diet
- Item form: Wet
- Age range: Adult
Pros
- Rich in protein that helps build lean muscle.
- Made with easy-to-digest ingredients.
- Contains chunks of chicken and vegetables that dogs enjoy.
- #1 veterinarian recommended.
Cons
- It can tend to dent easily during shipping.
Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food is perfect for your furbaby, as recommended by the veterinarian. This food contains chunks of chicken and vegetables, and dogs usually enjoy this blend!
3. Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food Chicken & Sweet Potato
Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food is a perfect blend of energy and healthy digestion. High-quality chicken and sweet potatoes provide dietary fiber in this recipe. So look no further and buy this canned food for your dog to maintain balanced nutrition levels for him.
Key Features & Details
- Brand name: Wellness Natural Pet Food
- Item form: Wet
- Age range: Adult
Pros
- Contains antioxidant-rich veggies and high-quality chicken.
- Packed with nutrients.
- This low-sodium dog food has no meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.
- Have a savory taste your dog will love.
- Contains omega fatty acids
Cons
- It doesn’t smell good.
Your dog will love you if you feed this tasteful as well as nutrients packed food.
Low-sodium Dog Treats
1. Wellness Core Marrow Roasts Natural Grain-Free Dog Treats, 8-Ounce bag
Wellness Core Marrow Roasts are savory biscuits with actual meaty marrow. This super tasty low-sodium dog food is perfect for treating or training your dog. The delicious and irresistible treat is packed with vitamins and minerals that make it crave-worthy as well.
Key Features & Details
- Brand Name: Wellness Natural Pet Food.
- Item form: Dry
- Age Range: All breed sizes.
Pros
- All-natural and protein-rich.
- Have a savory and irresistible taste.
- Excellent for training in treating your dog.
- 100% Grain Free.
- Real meaty marrow.
Cons
- The treat is a little bit.
The Wellness Core Marrow Roasts Natural Dog treat is perfect for your dog when training them. You’ll be surprised to see the happiness of your dog while treating them with this product.
2. Hill’s Ideal Balance Grain-Free Dog Treats, Soft-Baked Naturals Dog Snack
If your dog likes soft baked treats, Hill’s Ideal Balance Grain-Free Dog Treats would be a perfect fit for him. This treat combines the flavor of chicken and carrots that make a savory taste. This item is free from preservatives, artificial colors, and synthetic flavors that could harm your dog’s health.
Key Features & Details
- Brand name: HILL’S
- Item form: treat
- Age range: All breed sizes
Pros
- This low-sodium dog food contains ingredients that support heart health.
- No artificial colors or flavors.
- Soft-baked for a chewy bite.
- The small size makes dogs devour it.
- Contains natural and gluten-free ingredients.
Cons
- Treats can go hard if the bag is not packed correctly.
Hill’s ensures 100% satisfaction for their consumers. So if you are looking for premium quality treats for your dog. Look no further and buy this product for your dog!
Ready to Buy the Best Low-sodium Food For Your Dog?
Various health conditions require low-sodium dog food for your dog. If you ignore your dog’s diet, you might worsen your dog’s health. But if you have read this article, you are all set to buy the best low sodium foods for your dog that will work well for your furbaby.
Taste of the Wild is usually my go to brand but I also like to try other ones from time to time. You never know what you’ll find unless you give other brands a chance. I always come back to Taste of the Wild but I think it’s good to change it up a bit and give your dog something new. Orijen or Hill’s Science diet are two other choices that are interesting.
Been with Wellness Complete Health for some years now and while the smell might not be ok for some people, it’s fine with me and my dog. He loves their food and is very healthy because of it.