11 of the Best Low-Carb Canned Dog Food for Diabetic Dogs

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There are many dog food choices for diabetic dogs today, but not many of them come in a can. Canned dog food typically has high protein levels, suitable for controlling a diabetic dog’s sugar level. If you’re looking to feed your diabetic dog with only canned dog food, you should get the ones with fewer carbs but high in protein.

Here are the best low-carb canned dog food for diabetic dogs:

1. Instinct Original Grain-Free
2. Wellness Core Grain-Free
3. Blue Buffalo Wilderness
4. Hill’s® Science Diet® Perfect Weight Wet Dog Food
5. Royal Canin Glycobalance Loaf in Sauce
6. Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon
7. Weruva Marbella Paella Grain-Free
8. Hill’s Digestive/Weight/Glucose Management Wet Dog Food
9. Purina Pro Plan Focus Morsels in Gravy Turkey & Rice Entree
10. Evanger’s Super Premium Grain-Free Beef Dinner
11. Pedigree Chopped Ground Dinner Weight Management

While there are many choices of low-carb canned food out there, get the dog food that’s best for diabetes. It’s also essential for your pup to like the food, or else they won’t eat it. Let’s explore 11 of the best low-carb canned foods for diabetic dogs and other feeding tips to help you with your decision.

1. Instinct Original Grain-Free

Why choose the Instinct Original Grain-Free:

• Made of 95% of ethically-sourced meat sources: rabbit and pork liver, beef and liver, or chicken with chicken and turkey liver.
• It contains 5% vegetables, fruits, and wholesome ingredients.
• Free from grain, corn, potato, wheat, soy, carrageenan.
• It doesn’t use any artificial colors or preservatives.
• It helps dogs to build strong, lean muscles.
• Can be served as a meal or add-ons for your dog’s food.
• Made in the USA, with high-quality ingredients from around the world.
• It comes in a case of 6, 13.2-oz (374 g) each.

The Instinct Original Grain-Free contains rich fruits and vegetables like tomato, cabbage, broccoli, kale, parsley, blueberry, artichoke, cranberry, and pumpkin. Artichoke, for example, may help reduce blood sugar levels. Broccoli is rich in fiber, so it’s good for your diabetic dog, but make sure your dog gets enough water as fiber takes water from the body and can cause constipation or diarrhea.

Pros	Cons
The Instinct Original Grain-Free canned dog food contains high protein (min: 9.5%) and low carbs, which may help reduce your diabetic dog’s sugar levels. It’s also packed with fruits and vegetables — more than what many other brands offer — and other wholesome ingredients. Many owners say that their dogs love the taste of the Instinct Original Grain-Free canned dog.	Since the Instinct Original Grain-Free is high in protein, many people complain about the product’s high-fat content (min: 8.5%). There have been complaints regarding product packaging and shipping problems, which can happen to any product for that matter. Price is on the high side (about $30 for a case of 6)

2. Wellness Core Grain-Free

While Wellness Core Grain-Free has received many positive reviews from customers, people with diabetic dogs may be concerned about the sweet potato content in the product. Sweet potatoes aren’t suitable for diabetic or overweight dogs due to their high glycemic index. However, since it’s mostly protein, a tiny amount of sweet potatoes won’t hurt.

Pros	Cons
Many dog owners said their dogs like the taste of the Wellness Core Grain-Free canned dog food and could ingest it well. Even though the Wellness Core Grain-Free isn’t the cheapest low-carb dog food on the market, it’s more affordable than other brands.	Some customers find the price of the Wellness Core Grain-Free costly. There have been quite a few complaints reported regarding shipping, quality inconsistency, and unclear labeling. The carrageenan in the product might put off some customers.

3. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High-Protein Beef & Chicken Grill

Pros	Cons
Many customers are pleased with the price and quality of the Blue Buffalo Wilderness High-Protein Beef & Chicken Grill. The Blue Buffalo Wilderness recipe offers high protein, low carbs, and plenty of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, providing diabetic dogs with a balanced diet. Price-wise, the Blue Buffalo Wilderness canned dog food is more affordable than many other brands.	There have been complaints about the dog food’s inconsistent quality and shipping issues. The carrageenan in the product might put off some customers.

4. Hill’s® Science Diet® Perfect Weight Wet Dog Food

Pros	Cons
Veterinarians recommend the Hill’s® Science Diet® Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew. Many customers reported good product results, such as shinier coats and more energy in their dogs.	There have been complaints about damaged cans, although less common.

5. Royal Canin Glycobalance Loaf in Sauce

Using high soluble and insoluble fiber and protein levels, the Royal Canin Glycobalance Loaf in Sauce canned dog food is another good option for diabetic dogs. It contains moderate fat and less starch than the recommended amount, and the high protein and rich antioxidants help keep diabetic dogs’ health in check.

Why choose the Royal Canin Glycobalance Loaf in Sauce:

• It contains about 30% protein and a minimum of 2.5% crude fat.
• Uses a unique formula to assist in the management of post-prandial blood glucose levels.
• It helps your dog maintain muscle mass.
• Contains 15% less starch than Size Health Nutrition Medium Adult Chunks in gravy.
• It uses a formula developed through work with veterinarians.
• Available in a case of 24 13.4-oz (374 g) cans.

Pros	Cons
Customers with diabetic dogs gave positive reviews about the product and said their dogs love the taste and can gobble the wet food.	There have been complaints regarding shipping, which can happen to any dog food, for that matter.

6. Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon

Pros	Cons
The Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon is excellent, especially for dogs that strictly need a low-carb diet. There are many protein sources in this product, which can help diabetic dogs maintain a healthy weight. Many customers reported their dogs liked the dog food’s flavors. Dogs fed with the Taste of the Wild Southwest Canyon experienced healthier coat conditions.	There have been complaints about some dogs rejecting the food, although it’s less common. People have complained about the product delivered in poor conditions, like dented cans or rotten food. Some customers find the product description misleading and not as advertised.

7. Weruva Marbella Paella Grain-Free

Pros	Cons
Customers reported that their dogs like the taste of the Weruva Marbella Paella Grain-Free.	Some customers complained about the product’s overly fishy smell. The aspic jelly used in the product might put off some customers.

8. Hill’s Digestive/Weight/Glucose Management Wet Dog Food

Pros	Cons
Many customers reported that the Hill’s Digestive/Weight/Glucose Management Vegetable & Chicken Stew is excellent wet dog food for their diabetic dogs. Customers said their dogs liked the Hill’s Digestive/Weight/Glucose Management Vegetable & Chicken Stew flavor.	Some customers complained about varying amounts in the cans they received and the product being costlier than other brands of the same quality. Customers need to get a veterinarian prescription to purchase the product.

9. Purina Pro Plan Focus Morsels in Gravy Turkey & Rice Entree

Pros	Cons
Many customers reported that Purina Purina Pro Plan Focus Morsels in Gravy Turkey & Rice Entree helped their dogs to lose weight. Since the Purina Purina Pro Plan Focus Morsels in Gravy Turkey & Rice Entree contains grain, it’s suitable for customers who want to avoid grain-free dog food.	Some customers reported that they received the product in bad conditions, such as dented and leaking cans. Some dogs didn’t like the dog food.

10. Evanger’s Super Premium Grain-Free Beef Dinner

Pros	Cons
Many customers praised the Evanger’s Super Premium Grain-Free Beef Dinner’s quality, taste, and texture.	Some customers reported receiving dented cans and fewer food portions than advertised. Not all dogs like kale and spinach. Authorities previously investigated the company for the pentobarbital found in some of its products.

11. Pedigree Chopped Ground Dinner Weight Management

Pros	Cons
Many customers reported that their diabetic dogs love the Pedigree Chopped Ground Dinner Weight Management canned dog food. Price-wise, the Pedigree Chopped Ground Dinner Weight Management canned dog food is a much cheaper option than most dog food for weight management.	Some customers might be put off by some of the dog food’s contents, such as meat by-products and carrageenan. There have been complaints about the product causing their dogs to get gassy. There have been complaints regarding packaging, shipping, and dog food delivered rotten.

Low-Carb Canned Dog Food for Diabetic Dogs: Price Comparison

Instinct Original Grain-Free	A case of 6 13.2-oz (374.21g) cans for less than $30
Wellness Core Grain-Free	A case of 12 12.5-oz (354.37g) cans for less than $40
Blue Buffalo Wilderness	A case of 12 12.5-oz (354.37g) cans for less than $30
Hill’s® Science Diet® Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew	A case of 12 12.5-oz (354.37g) cans for less than $30
Taste of the Southwest Canyon	A case of 12 13.2-oz (374.21g) cans for less than $35
Royal Canin Glycobalance Loaf in Sauce	A case of 24 13.4-oz (379.88 g) cans for less than $90
Weruva Marbella Paella Grain-Free	A case of 12 14-oz (396.89g) cans for less than $50
Hill’s Digestive/Weight/Glucose Management Vegetable & Chicken Stew	A case of 12 12.5-oz (354.37g) cans for less than $90
Pedigree Chopped Ground Dinner Weight Management with Beef & Liver Meaty Juice	A case of 12 13.2-oz (374.21g) cans for less than $15.
Purina Pro Plan Focus Morsels in Gravy Turkey & Rice Entree	A case of 12 13-oz (368.54g) cans for less than $25
Evanger’s Super Premium Grain-Free Beef Dinner	A case of 12 12.8-oz (362.87g) cans for less than $50

Is Grain-Free Dog Food Bad for Dogs?

According to veterinarians, people should buy grain-free dog food with caution because many of these grain-free dog foods can cause heart problems in dogs. That’s because many of them contain legumes like white potatoes and sweet potatoes, which can lead to the development of congestive heart failure. Learn more from the video below:

Fruits, vegetables, and other wholesome ingredients only make up 5% of the Instinct Original Grain-Free canned dog, peas making up a tiny portion of it. Even though peas are legumes, they’re safe for dogs to eat. Since peas contain fiber (and fiber is beneficial for diabetic dogs), it’s alright to have them in your dog’s diet.

What Vegetables Are Good for Diabetic Dogs?

There’s no harm in exploring other alternatives if you think any of the canned dog food mentioned above is unsuitable for your dog. Every dog is unique, and different diabetic dogs have different dietary needs after all. When looking around for food for your dog, you want to find one with suitable vegetables in them.

Here are some of the best vegetables for diabetic dogs:

• Carrots. The natural sugar in carrots won’t impact your diabetic dog’s insulin levels. Since carrots are easy to digest, packed with nutrients, and low in calories, your dog will enjoy eating them, especially when they’re pulped.
• Broccoli. There are plenty of fibers in broccoli, which can benefit your diabetic dog. When fibers are served in the right amount, they can help diabetic dogs control their blood sugar levels.
• Beets. While beets contain a lot of sugar, having them in small portions won’t hurt, so don’t be afraid to have them in your dog’s dog food. Besides, beets are rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial for your dog’s overall health.

Tips for Feeding a Diabetic Dog

Dogs typically become diabetic when they don’t have a healthy diet. Diabetes mellitus, also known as “sugar diabetes,” is a metabolism disorder that affects dogs when their metabolism can’t convert food to energy usually. Unfortunately, there’s no cure, but you can control the condition with a proper diet.

Food With High Protein

Diabetic dogs should take food with high protein, but that doesn’t mean they can eat it excessively. Dogs aren’t carnivores but omnivores, so they don’t need a complete meat diet to stay healthy. A balanced diet is what your dog needs, which consists of protein, carbs, and fat.

When choosing food for your diabetic dog, select one with a good amount of protein—30-40% of it is ideal. Canned dog food typically has high protein and offers other essential nutrients your dog needs. Dog food with flax seeds is another excellent option, but give it to your dog only after you’ve consulted a veterinarian.

Food With Fibers

There are two types of fibers: soluble and insoluble fibers. Insoluble fibers are excellent for diabetic dogs because they reduce the speed of their digestion and carb absorption. That said, you can use fibers to regulate your dog’s sugar. Since fiber takes water from your dog’s body, you must ensure your pooch gets enough water.

Food With Low Carbohydrates

Diabetic dogs should take low-carb dog food. Many brands sell grain-free dog food that eliminates grains from their formulas. However, you shouldn’t assume that all grain-free dog food is equal and low in carbs.

Some grain-free dog food eliminates grains but uses other carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes, potatoes, lentils, or peas. These grain-free dog products, however, may have higher amounts of fat or protein. That said, always check a dog food’s product label carefully.

Food With Low Fat

Ideally, 30% of your dog’s calories should come from fat and carbohydrates. However, seek advice from your vet for specific recommendations if your diabetic dog experiences pancreatitis elevations. Fruits and vegetables are low-fat; therefore, it’ll be helpful to give your dog a recipe that includes them.

Remember, fat is essential because it energizes diabetic dogs and helps them maintain a balanced diet. As long as you don’t overfeed your dog, fat won’t make them overweight. In general, your dog can become too heavy when you give them too many carbs or overfeed them.

Maintain a Consistent Feeding

Giving your diabetic dog the food that suits them best is crucial to keep them happy and healthy, but sticking to consistent feeding is just as important. Make sure you provide them with consistent meals every time before giving them an insulin injection. That way, the insulin can effectively manage your dog’s blood sugar level from the food.

You also want to give your dog the exact quantities of calories from the same ingredients each time to work effectively for the insulin. Don’t give your dog insulin if they won’t eat because that can make them sick. If they won’t eat the dog food you feed them, that means they don’t like the food, and you should switch to a different brand.

Talk to Your Vet About Your Diabetic Dog’s Diet

While there are many dog food options for diabetic dogs today, not many of them come in cans, but you don’t necessarily need to feed them with only canned dog food. Ask your vet if it’s okay to mix it with dry food, or better yet, ask them to recommend the most suitable food for your dog’s diet.

You can also talk to a dog nutritionist if you need a second opinion regarding the right food to feed your diabetic dogs. That’s because some vets push certain brands to their clients, which might not be the best for your dog’s diet. But you may or need not adjust the quantity or type of food you feed your dog.

Reduce Insulin Amount if Your Dog Vomits

Maybe you’ve found a dog food that you believe is suitable for your diabetic dog, and your dog loves it. However, your dog suddenly vomits after eating. You need to give your dog less insulin, but consult your vet to get the correct insulin levels if you’re unsure about the amount.

Related Articles

• 10 Reasons Why You Should Feed Your Dog Canned Dog Food

• 12 Best Canned Dog Food With Taurine
• 5 Best Canned Dog Foods Without Carrageenan
• The Best 8 Canned Dog Food for Picky Eaters
• The Best 10 Canned Dog Foods Without Guar Gum
• 7 of the Best Canned Dog Food Without Chicken or Beef
• 9 Of The Best Canned Dog Food Without Synthetic Vitamins

Sources

• PubMed: Gluconeogenesis and energy expenditure after a high-protein, carbohydrate-free diet
• Amazon: Instinct Grain Free Wet Dog Food
• PubMed: Pharmacological Studies of Artichoke Leaf Extract and Their Health Benefits
• Chewy: Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Natural Wet Canned Dog Food
• Amazon:Wellness CORE Natural Wet Grain Free Canned Dog Food
• AKC: Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes?
• Amazon: Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food, Beef & Chicken Grill
• Amazon: Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Perfect Weight for Weight Management, Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew Recipe
• RoyalCanin: Glycobalance Loaf in Sauce Canned Dog Food
• Amazon: Taste of the Wild High Protein Real Meat Grain-Free Recipes Wet Canned Dog Food
• Amazon: Weruva Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
• Amazon: Hill’s Prescription Diet w/d Multi-Benefit Digestive/Weight/Glucose/Urinary Management Wet Dog Food, Veterinary Diet
• Amazon: Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Adult Dry Dog Food & Wet Dog Food
• Amazon: Evanger’s Gold Super Premium Grain Free Beef Dinner for Dogs
• PubMed: A hydroxychalcone derived from cinnamon functions as a mimetic for insulin in 3T3-L1 adipocytes
• Amazon: PEDIGREE Weight Management Adult Canned Wet Dog Food for Weight Control Chopped Ground Dinner Beef & Liver Flavor
• YouTube: A Warning to Pet Owners About Grain Free Dog Food
• PetMD: The Dangers of High Protein Dog Foods
• Aaha: How to Administer Insulin to Your Dog

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