When your dog is underweight, the goal isn’t just to add pounds — it’s to build healthy weight through nutrient-rich foods that support muscle, energy, and overall well-being. The wrong approach (too many empty calories, too much fat at once) can do more harm than good.
That’s why we’ve put together a vet-approved guide to homemade dog food for weight gain that’s safe, nourishing, and tailored to your dog’s needs.
📎 Related: Homemade Dog Food Nutrition: Is It Really Better?
Why Dogs Lose Weight
Before you start adjusting your dog’s diet, it’s important to figure out why they’re losing weight:
- Recent illness or surgery
- Poor appetite from dental pain
- Digestive issues or food sensitivities
- High activity levels without enough calories
A vet check-up is essential to rule out medical causes.
Key Principles for Healthy Weight Gain
- Increase calories gradually — sudden overfeeding can upset digestion.
- Use nutrient-dense foods — aim for quality protein, healthy fats, and balanced carbs.
- Split meals — feeding smaller, more frequent meals helps with absorption and appetite.
Vet-Approved Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Weight Gain
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (cooked, drained)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ½ cup cooked sweet potatoes
- ½ cup chopped spinach (lightly steamed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or salmon oil
Instructions:
- Cook turkey until no longer pink.
- Steam spinach until soft.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Cool before serving.
Benefits:
- Turkey: Lean protein for muscle
- Quinoa: High-protein, gluten-free carb
- Sweet potatoes: Energy + fiber
- Spinach: Vitamins & minerals
- Healthy oil: Adds calories + omega-3s
Additional Healthy Calorie Boosters
- Cooked eggs (scrambled or boiled)
- Cottage cheese (low-sodium)
- Pumpkin puree
- Sardines in water (no added salt)
Mistakes to Avoid
- Feeding too much fat too quickly → can cause pancreatitis
- Relying on treats for calories → can unbalance nutrition
- Skipping supplements in long-term homemade feeding
Final Thought
Helping your dog gain weight should be a gradual, nutrition-first process. With the right recipes, you’ll not only help them reach their ideal weight but also boost their energy, coat health, and overall vitality.
Because every bowl you prepare says, “I care about your health as much as I care about you.”
Homemade Dog Food for Weight Gain
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the ground turkey in a pan until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Steam the spinach lightly until softened but still green.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, quinoa, sweet potatoes, spinach, and oil.
- Mix well and allow to cool completely before serving to your dog.