What is the best low-phosphorus dog food?
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A dog with an advanced kidney problem requires extensive care. When a positive diagnosis is made, there are many don’ts to follow, and pet owners are unsure where to begin. This is particularly true when it comes to feeding your dog. Serving low-phosphorus formula is the major advice.
So where do you even begin? How can you tell which ingredients are safe to eat and which ones you should avoid? What dosage of phosphorus should be in your sick dog’s food? You’re mentally exhausted by these challenging questions.
The majority of veterinarian-approved low-phosphorus recipes can be quite expensive. This increases your list of concerns. So how can you be sure to provide your canine pet with the best food to improve its general health?
Relax and stop scratching your head. We’ve got your back. We have done the legwork and compiled the best low-phosphorus recipes for you. Making the right meal choice is crucial since it reduces the likelihood of developing other health problems.
Examples of such issues include allergies, digestive disorders, and unhealthful weight gain. These severe kidney issues mean a shorter life span, which is sad. Read our review to see how you can give your dog a happier, longer life.
We even go so far as to tell you what qualities to look for when buying low-phosphorus dog food. This shields you from the dishonest marketing ploys employed by pet food producers. You can buy the right meal if you know what to look for and avoid. This enables you to buy additional recipes not on our list confidently. Let’s get started.
What Is Phosphorus?
Phosphorus is an essential mineral in your dog’s body. Dogs require this mineral for strong bones, teeth, and a healthy metabolism. Phosphorus is unstable and frequently coupled with calcium in the body. To maintain homeostasis, these two minerals have an inverse connection and cooperate and compete with one another.
It’s interesting to note that low-phosphorus diets are becoming more popular among veterinarians. This raises the question, though, of phosphorus’ actual necessity. What roles does it play in a dog’s body?
Functions of Phosphorus in Your Dog’s Body?
Phosphorus has immense benefits for your dog’s body. But here are the major ones.
- Phosphorus combines with calcium to give your fido strong bones and healthy teeth.
- Phosphorus mixes with other minerals to generate phosphates and chemicals that regulate regular biological processes. Phosphates’ principal function in the body is combining lipids and proteins to create membranes. In fact, phosphorus compounds contribute to the formation of the nucleic acids in DNA and RNA, making them crucial to your dog’s existence.
- Phosphates play a role in synthesizing crucial nucleotides and help maintain the PH balance in dogs. By activating the kidneys, phosphorus also aids in the removal of harmful pollutants from the body.
Compared to other minerals, phosphorus is easily absorbed by the body. The likelihood of your dog having too many phosphates in his blood is very high. This calls for proper regulation while feeding your dog.
What Is the Daily Phosphorus Intake?
Dogs can consume up to 22.25 milligrams of phosphorus per kilogram of body weight every day. Phosphorus should make up 0.6 to 1.3 percent of the diets of small dogs and puppies. Large breed dogs should only consume approximately 1% of this mineral daily.
On the other hand, dogs who lead active lives should only consume dog food with a phosphorus content of 0.9 percent or less. Older dogs who are starting to go through puberty only require 0.7 percent phosphorus.
What are the Symptoms of High Phosphorus Levels in Your Dog’s Body?
High phosphorus levels in the blood are referred to as hyperphosphatemia. Common symptoms are similar to those of advanced kidney disease. Here are the signs to look out for.
- Dehydration.
- Excessive thirst and urination.
- Diluted urine.
- Decreased bone density.
Phosphate and calcium can mix to form solids at high concentrations. Metastatic mineralization, a sickness brought on by this, refers to the breakdown of chemical molecules in apparently healthy tissues.
The urinary system, particularly the kidney and the digestive system, are the two bodily systems most frequently impacted by metastatic mineralization. Muscle tremors, muscle atrophy, or convulsions may be signs of metastatic mineralization.
Dog hyperphosphatemia can also result in depression, appetite loss, and sedentary behavior.
What Causes Excess Phosphorus Levels in Your Dog’s System?
Due to increasing levels of growth hormone in their bodies and a greater requirement for phosphorus for bone building, young, growing pups may have higher phosphorus levels. A persistent hyperphosphatemia that affects older dogs is more likely to arise from their illnesses.
The most typical cause of hyperphosphatemia in dogs is kidney illness. The increased phosphorus absorption through the digestive system or the transport of solutes by a cell across a cell of phosphorus, typically from bone, are two other possible causes. In addition, hyperphosphatemia may be linked to
- Overproduction of growth hormones.
- Xylitol poisoning.
- Muscle or bone disease.
- Snakebites.
- Nutritional supplementation.
- Bladder rupture.
- Urinary tract obstruction.
- Bladder rupture.
- Vitamin D toxicity.
- Cancer.
Most of these causes are beyond your control. The best action to take is to serve the correct formula. Understanding the foods to serve and those to avoid is the beginning.
Main Sources of Phosphorus?
The small intestines quickly absorb phosphorus, so dogs only obtain the daily recommended amount of phosphorus from their diet. Dairy products, meats, and cereals are just a few food groups that include phosphorus. Additionally, it is a component of practically all commercial dog foods. Here are other phosphorus-rich foods for your fido:
- Whole wheat.
- Salmon.
- Lentils.
- Beef.
- Chicken.
- Eggs.
- Mushrooms.
Dogs that require a low-phosphorus meal should therefore avoid the foods listed above. Go for low-phosphorus sources which include the following:
Carrot
These are the most crunchy and scrumptious food for your dog.
They are enjoyable to chew on and incredibly nutritious. Carrots have a low phosphorus content. You can serve raw, canned, or cooked. Cut the carrots into smaller pieces. This reduces the chances of your pup choking on them.
Kale
Numerous health advantages of these vegetables include their ability to fend off allergies, heart disease, UTIs, and arthritis.
Kale ensures that your dog’s kidneys are not overworked. Steaming them retains essential nutrients for your dog’s overall wellness.
Cabbage
This vegetable is low in phosphorus but rich in vitamins B1, B6, C, and K. It is also a powerhouse of fiber for digestion and high-quality minerals like manganese and potassium.
Cucumber
This is another veggie for your dog that is low in phosphorus. Because they have a high moisture content, cucumbers are excellent for hydrating your dog.
Other low-phosphorus sources include celery, cauliflower, and collards. Incorporating such in your dog’s food boosts its overall health.
What Are the Qualities of the Best Low-Phosphorus Dog Food?
Formulas with reduced phosphorus levels have unique features. Here are the major ones:
Low-quantity but high-quality protein content
Dogs with renal issues require reduced protein content. This is because the kidney is responsible for the removal of proteins that have been broken down. However, the proteins should come from high-quality sources.
Unless your dog is uremic or has protein in their urine, limiting protein may not be necessary. Protein is an important energy source for dogs and helps them develop lean muscle. The vet is better placed to guide you on limiting your dog’s protein intake.
Reduced phosphate content
Low-phosphate dog food recipes will help shield the kidneys from more harm, reducing the progression of kidney disease.
Free from fillers and artificial additives
Fillers are nutritionally worthless. They merely make your dog’s meal more filling. Wheat, corn, and soy are examples of typical filler foods. Artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors appeal to the meal but have no nutritional or health benefits.
Include healthy supplements
The best low-phosphorus dog food must have essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics, omegas, and chondroitin to support your pup’s overall well-being.
What Are the Leading Brands for the Best Low-Phosphorus Dog Food?
Premium brands have formulas that meet or even exceed the above criteria. Here are the top brands for the best low-phosphorus dog food:
- Dave’s
- Solid Gold
- Natural Balance
- Royal Canin
- Nulo
Each brand has a unique price. The average price for our top formulas is $3.62, with prices ranging from $2.12-5.08 per lb for dry formulas. The average price for the canned recipes is $2.71, ranging from $1.81 to 3.68 per oz. Your dog’s breed and life stage determine the correct formulas to select. Below is a quick summary of our best low-phosphorus recipes:
- Best Overall: Dave’s Pet Food Restricted Diet Canned Dog Food – $34.99 per 13.2-oz can, case of 12 ($2.65-oz).
- Best Price-Effective: Solid Gold Green Cow Green Beef Tripe in Beef Broth Canned Dog Food – $23.94 per 13.2-oz can, case of 6 ($1.81-oz).
- Best Canned: Natural Balance Original Ultra Canned Dog Food – $47.88 per 13-ounce can, pack of 12 ($3.68-oz).
- Best for Sensitive Stomach: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Dog Food – $122.99 per 24.2-lb bag ($5.08-lb).
- Best for Puppies: Nulo FreeStyle Grain-Free Puppy Dry Food – $86.99 per 26-lb bag ($3.35-lb).
Please Note that the prices in this article are as of 17th February 2023.
Dave’s Pet Food Restricted Diet Canned Dog Food
This formula from Dave’s Pet Food is our best overall low-phosphorus recipe. This premium dog food was formulated considering allergies and sensitivities and your dog’s overall digestion needs. This is an excellent non-prescription choice. The formula has been on the market since July 15th, 2019.
This meal is crafted to soothe your dog’s stomach during times of transition; it’s also perfect for dogs that frequently experience stomach discomfort. The formula is supplemented with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for balanced and complete nutrition.
You can offer it as a complete meal or a mouthwatering topping over dry kibble for your fussy feeder. The high moisture content suits dogs with kidney issues. It removes toxins from the body while keeping dogs hydrated.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Water Sufficient For Processing, White Rice, Rice Flour, Natural Flavor.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 7% min, Crude Fat 6% min, Crude Fiber 1.5% Max.
- Calorie Content: 445 kcal/can.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s age, activity, breed, and environment.
- Key Benefit: Increased moisture content to remove toxins and keep your dog hydrated.
- Price: $34.99 per 13.2-oz can, case of 12 ($2.65-oz).
Solid Gold Green Cow Green Beef Tripe in Beef Broth Canned Dog Food
Feed your dog this premium formula from Solid Gold for balanced nutrition that addresses all his needs. Its low phosphorus content makes it the best selection for dogs with kidney and renal problems. The recipe has been on the market since February 1st, 2019.
It starts with green beef tripe for a rich taste that will tempt even picky eaters and thick muscles. The formula comes in easy-to-serve cups, thus saving you time. Dogs with grain allergies will enjoy it as it is a grain-free formula.
There are zero fillers or artificial ingredients. Its high moisture content keeps your dog hydrated and ensures your pup’s system is toxin-free. Chelated minerals support immunity. The formula is, however, high in carbs.
- First 5 Ingredients: Green Beef Tripe, Beef Broth, PotatoesCanola Oil, Tricalcium Phosphate.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 9.5% min, Crude Fat 6% min, Crude Fiber 2% Max.
- Calorie Content: 460 kcal/can.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s poundage.
- Key Benefit: Beef tripe is the leading ingredient for a rich flavor that attracts even picky eaters.
- Price: $23.94 per 13.2-oz can, case of 6 ($1.81-oz).
Natural Balance Original Ultra Canned Dog Food
This Natural Balance canned formula only contains 0.25% phosphorus and has a protein content of 9%. It contains real fruits and veggies, like blueberries, cranberries, kelp, and spinach, which are rich in fiber, essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients that support your pet’s immune and digestive systems. It has been on the market since September 30th, 2004.
The formula contains chicken, salmon, and duck. These are highly digestible protein sources for strong muscles and bones. Salmon is an excellent ingredient for smooth skin and a bright coat. Brown rice energizes your dog while boosting its digestion.
Pups with kidney issues have a low appetite, and this recipe is highly tasty to tempt them to take a bite. There are no fillers or artificial additives.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chicken Liver, Brown Rice, Salmon.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 9% min, Crude Fat 7.5% min, Crude Fiber 2% Max.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on age, climate, breed, and weight.
- Key Benefit: Features chicken, salmon, and duck for high-quality proteins that boost your dog’s muscles.
- Price: $47.88 per 13-ounce can, pack of 12 ($3.68-oz).
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Dry Food
This veterinary-exclusive formula from Royal Canin is crafted with hydrolyzed proteins. This lowers its allergenic potential making it great for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. Consuming it lowers the risk of skin irritations and gastrointestinal problems. The recipe has a low-phosphorus content and has been on the market since July 16th, 2012.
Its specific phosphorus levels maintain your dog’s renal wellness. The formula is best for low-activity dogs. It has low-calorie content, thus lowering the chances of such dogs gaining unhealthy weight.
B vitamins and amino acids protect the skin barrier, while EPA and DHA support healthy skin and fur. DHA also boosts cognitive health. Dogs prone to digestive issues like diarrhea will benefit from the special fiber and prebiotic blend supporting healthy digestion.
- First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 21% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 3.2% Max.
- Calorie Content: 307 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s poundage.
- Key Benefit: Hydrolyzed proteins and a few ingredients make it great for dogs with allergies and sensitivities.
- Price: $122.99 per 24.2-lb bag ($5.08-lb).
Nulo FreeStyle Grain-Free Puppy Dry Food
Starting your puppy with a low-phosphorus recipe lowers the chances of future kidney issues, and this meal from Nulo Pet Foods ensures your little furry companion gets the best nutrition. It includes deboned turkey and trout for high protein content, ensuring proper growth and development of your puppy’s muscles. The formula has been on the market since June 19th, 2016.
The formula uses real fruits and veggies, including carrots, yellow beans, apples, and blueberries. These provide fiber and antioxidants that promote the digestive and immune systems. These low-glycemic ingredients ensure your dog’s blood sugar levels are healthy.
Its increased DHA levels promote your puppy’s brain wellness while omegas keep the coat bright and soft skin. Calcium and phosphorus strengthen your pooch’s bones and muscles. Its phosphorus content may, however, be a bit high compared to our other recipes.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, Chicken Fat.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 33% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
- Calorie Content: 441 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Increased DHA and antioxidant levels support brain and immune functions.
- Price: $86.99 per 26-lb bag ($3.35-lb).
Diamond Care Renal Formula RX Adult Dry Food
This formula from Diamond Pet Foods is crafted specifically for renal care and includes controlled phosphorus levels and proteins. Its high palatability makes it a superb choice for picky dogs and those with low appetites. The formula has been on the market since January 22nd, 2017.
This nutrient-dense and highly digestible meal contain probiotics to support immune and digestive health. It is rich in antioxidants to prevent inflammation and boost immunity. The high omega levels lower the risk of skin irritations while keeping the coat bright.
High-quality fiber from brown rice supports digestion and lowers the chances of tummy problems. Taurine and EPA are also included for heart health and mobility. This recipe includes grains and may not be the right food for dogs with grain allergies.
- First 5 Ingredients: Brown Rice, Chicken Fta, Egg Product, Potato Protein, Tomato Pomace.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 13% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 2% Max.
- Calorie Content: 378 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: High omegas, probiotics, and antioxidants support skin, coat, digestive, and immune wellness.
- Price: $52.99 per 25-lb bag ($2.12-lb).
Hill’s Prescription Diet Kidney Care Dry Food
Recipes crafted for kidney care have reduced phosphorus content; this one from Hill’s Prescription Diet is no exception. It uses the Enhance Appetite Trigger technology to ensure your sick dogs consume up to the last bite. The recipe has been on the market since May 12th, 2011.
Its 12% protein content is modest to be gentle on your pet’s kidneys as they heal. It is a low-sodium meal that assists in controlling blood pressure. Brewer’s rice, barley, and beet pulp are among the many premium ingredients in this recipe, providing complex carbohydrates for energy and a feeling of fullness.
Your pup needs omega fats, which are provided by fish oil. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants work together to lower the risk of infections and promote your dog’s overall wellness. The main downside is its high price and the need for vet authorization.
- First 5 Ingredients: Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Pork Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 12% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
- Calorie Content: 402 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Low phosphorus and sodium content for dogs with kidney problems.
- Price: $83.99 per 17.6-lb bag ($4.77-lb).
Lotus Good Grains Oven-Baked Adult Dry Food
Give your dog complete and balanced nutrition with this oven-baked recipe from Lotus. The formula is perfect for dogs with mild kidney issues as it has a moderate phosphorus content. Real chicken tops the ingredient list for powerful muscles and a healthy weight. The recipe has been on the market since March 20th, 2013.
The recipe is oven-baked, thus preserving vitamins, amino acids, proteins, and antioxidants. This boosts your pup’s overall health. Vitamins C and E are strong antioxidants that work together to prevent infections while providing a healthy oxidative environment.
It uses good grains like brown rice, barley, and oats for energy and smooth digestion. This recipe has low starch content but high omega levels for a healthy coat and skin. It is GMO-free. The formula may, however, not suit pups with grain allergies.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Rye, Brown Rice, Barley.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Oven-baked to retain proteins, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Price: $83.62 per 25-lb bag ($3.34-lb).
Natural Planet Organics Chicken & Oats Dry Food
Give your pup the best nutrition it deserves with this premium formula from Natural Planet Organics. The recipe suits all life stages, thus reducing the risk of tummy issues from switching to other recipes. You can use it from puppyhood to senior stages.
The recipe features organic chicken as the primary ingredient for lean muscle mass. Other high-quality ingredients like organic oats, barley, and brown rice provide fiber for digestion. They are complex carb sources to keep your dog full for longer. This encourages a healthy weight.
Organic flaxseed is an excellent source of omegas for minimal chances of skin and coat problems. The meal also includes taurine for cardiac wellness.
- First 5 Ingredients: Organic Chicken, Chicken Meal, Organic Brown Rice, Organic Oats, Organic Barley.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 23% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Organic chicken is the primary ingredient for lean muscle mass.
- Price: $59.99 per 25-lb bag ($2.39-lb).
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Kidney Support Dry Food
This formula from the Blue Buffalo Company is crafted with controlled sodium and phosphorus levels to support your dog’s kidney health. It features deboned chicken and brown rice as the main muscle and digestive wellness ingredients. The initial manufacturing date is September 29th, 2016.
Veterinarians who are familiar with the unique nutritional needs and wants of animals with various health conditions or special dietary needs, such as renal support, designed this high-quality meal.
Using healthy ingredients from reliable sources is the cornerstone of Blue Buffalo’s natural diet strategy. It eliminates potentially dangerous components in many modern conventional foods, such as grains, gluten, artificial preservatives, tastes, added sugars, colors, and fillers. It, however, requires vet authorization and is a bit pricey.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Potatoes, Potato Starch.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 14% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 7% Max.
- Calorie Content: 409 kcal/cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Real deboned chicken is the primary ingredient for thick muscles.
- Price: $94.98 per 22-lb bag ($4.32-lb).
What Facts Should You Know About Dog Foods With Low- Phosphorus?
Dog food with low phosphorus is best for pups with kidney problems. When the kidneys fail, the body cannot adequately eliminate toxins from the body. Additional moisture is required to remove nitrogen, creatinine, phosphorus, and other metabolic wastes from the body.
Therefore, feeding a diet devoid of vegetables of the onion and garlic kinds, low in sodium, and moistened with water is key. But this does not imply that you should exclusively use canned recipes. Dry dog formulae can be given as is or combined with wet meals. If feeding dry food, ensure your dog has easy access to fresh water.
To keep phosphorus levels low or to encourage your pet to eat their food, especially if you want to maintain high protein levels, you can also add fresh ingredients to their diet.
Foods that are satisfying, delicious, and naturally low in phosphorus include pasta, potatoes, sweet potatoes, rice, and other starchy vegetables. The phosphorus levels in a commercial diet can be reduced by including these foods.
Low-phosphorus dog food must include high-quality proteins. If your pet is not uremic or does not have protein in its urine, protein restriction is unnecessary. Dogs rely extensively on protein as a fuel source and to develop lean muscle. Only cut back on protein when a vet directs it.
What Are the Best Dog Foods for Low-Phosphorus According to Dog Sizes?
Best Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Small Dogs
- Some small dogs, including the Shih Tzu, are prone to kidney problems. They, therefore, require a low-phosphorus meal, and Purina Pro Plan Kidney Function NF Veterinary Diets Dry Food is the best start. It is highly palatable and includes reduced sodium and phosphorus levels for your small dog’s overall well-being.
The Best Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Medium Dogs
- Medium-sized dogs, including Poodles, are also susceptible to kidney issues. Forza10 Nutraceuticals Actiwet Canned Food is crafted with real lamb as the main ingredient for muscle wellness. It targets dogs with kidney and cardiac issues. The recipe uses all-natural ingredients and has no fillers or artificial additives to lower the risk of allergies and sensitivities.
Best Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Large Dogs
- Your Rottweiler deserves a high-quality meal with low phosphorus levels. This is because Rottweilers are predisposed to kidney diseases. Blue Buffalo Skin & Stomach Care Basics Salmon & Potato Dry Food contains 0.7% phosphorus, thus lowering the risk of kidney issues. It starts with deboned salmon for muscle, coat, and skincare.
What Are the Best Dog Foods for Low-Phosphorus With Different Ingredients?
The Best Chicken-Free Low-Phosphorus Dog Food
- Dogs with chicken intolerance require a chicken-free meal to lower the risk of sensitivities. Zignature Limited Ingredient Trout & Salmon Dry Food starts with salmon and has no chicken or chicken by-product meals. The formula contains antioxidants and essential fatty acids for immunity and skin wellness.
Best Low-Phosphorus Dog Food with Glucosamine
- As your pup approaches its golden years, it becomes exposed to various health issues, including arthritis and other joint issues. Glucosamine reduces the chances of joint and hip inflammation. Blue Buffalo Senior Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Food is the best for senior pups. It has L-carnitine for a strong heart.
Best Dog Food with Blueberries
- Blueberries are superfoods rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants greatly influence your pet’s health. They are advantageous because they reduce the body’s exposure to harmful free radicals. Instinct Real Chicken & Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Grain-Free Dry Food features real chicken and blueberries for strong muscles and a happy immune system.
Nutritional Needs of Dogs with Low-Phosphorus
Dogs with low phosphorus require high-quality food to boost their immunity and overall wellness.
Protein
Dogs with low phosphorus need high-quality protein from the best protein sources. Protein is necessary for the following vital biological processes:
- Maintaining and repairing tissues and cells.
- Supporting the immune system.
- Creating enzymes, antibodies, and hormones.
But you should be careful since consuming more protein raises urea levels, which puts more strain on the kidneys.
Proteins are not all made equal. High-value proteins are those that are simple for your dog to digest and absorb. Lean meats made from organ or muscle tissue and eggs are the best sources of high-value protein.
Your dog food is not providing quality proteins if the main protein sources are listed as beef byproducts, soy, or corn on the label. A low-protein diet typically has a protein composition of around 16 percent, as opposed to a standard protein concentration of 22 percent or higher.
Fat and calories
Dogs require fats for energy. Fats also add flavor to the food. This is important since dogs with high phosphorus levels tend to have underlying health problems like advanced kidney disease. Such dogs have little or no appetite, and the flavor is key. Fats provide omegas for coat and skin functions.
Dietary omega-3 fatty acids aid in reducing the inflammatory chemicals that cause oxidative stress to the damaged kidney tissue, slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Carbohydrates
Dogs with low phosphorus require low phosphorus carb sources like sweet potatoes to provide fiber and energy.
Main Health Concerns for Dogs with Low-Phosphorus
Low phosphorus levels come with a host of other health problems. Oddly, a phosphate deficiency can occasionally be caused by the inverse relationship between calcium and phosphorus. If calcium levels are excessively high, phosphorus levels may drop.
Although phosphorus deficiency is rare, it can happen if a dog eats the wrong food or stops eating altogether. Stunted growth, heart issues, and reduced erythrocyte activity are all signs of phosphate shortage. Here are the major health concerns for pups with low phosphorus:
Diabetes with ketoacidosis
Diabetes mellitus can cause the dangerous, sometimes fatal complication known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). It happens when the body lacks insulin. When there is insufficient insulin, the body uses fat as fuel rather than glucose.
Acids called ketones, produced due to this process can accumulate in the blood and urine. Common symptoms include excessive thirst and urination, low appetite, lethargy, and vomiting.
Insulinoma
Insulinomas are so named because they interfere with the pancreas’ endocrine processes, which regulate hormones like insulin. Insulinomas frequently cause the body to produce more insulin than it needs. This results in confusion, muscle degeneration, poor coordination, seizures, collapse, and even death.
Eclampsia
This emergency medical issue affects nursing dogs and is linked to reduced blood calcium levels that pose a life-threatening risk. It occurs mostly when puppies are 1-4 weeks old. Muscle stiffness and tremors are common in dogs with eclampsia.
Fanconi Syndrome
This is the abnormal functioning of the kidney tubules. The tubules in canines with Fanconi syndrome fail to reabsorb electrolytes and nutrients adequately. Weight loss, diarrhea, poor appetite, and vomiting are the major signs of Fanconi Syndrome.
Do you need a prescription to buy Low-Phosphorus Dog Food?
Yes. Most low-phosphorus dog food requires a prescription from the vet. Such formulas are a bit expensive. However, you can also give your dog non-prescription low-phosphorus recipes. They include all the nutrients required and won’t hurt your bank account. Prescription diets are good, but they are not medications.
Is it safe to feed your dog homemade low-phosphorus food?
Yes. To keep phosphorus levels low or to encourage your pet to eat their food, especially if you want to maintain high protein levels, you can add fresh vegetables to their diet. Foods that are satisfying, delicious, and naturally low in phosphorus include pasta, potatoes, sweet potatoes, rice, and other starchy vegetables.
Low- Phosphorus Homemade Recipe
Homemade meals are great for your dog. This is because you can control the ingredients to use. You can add high-quality low -phosphorus ingredients like blueberries and sweet potatoes for immunity and digestion. Here’s a low-phosphorus recipe to try at home:
Ingredients
- 1 cup boiled chicken (chopped)
- 1 hard-boiled egg (mashed)
- 2 tbsp. plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/4 cup steamed carrots
- 1/4 cup steamed green beans
Procedure
- Mix the boiled chicken, egg, yogurt, rice, carrots, and green beans in a large bowl.
- When they are well combined, serve them to your dog.
Final Verdict
Our top selection for the finest low-phosphorus dog food is a fantastic place to start when selecting the best food for your dog. Our overall best Dave’s Pet Food Restricted Diet Canned Dog Food has a low phosphorus content but offers protein and good omega fatty acids.
Additionally, it has a high moisture content for hydration and removing toxins. Our choice for the finest low-phosphorus dog food for the money is Solid Gold Green Cow Green Beef Tripe in Beef Broth Canned Dog Food, a wet meal that keeps phosphorus levels low while providing plenty of high-quality proteins.