If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what the best low sodium dog food is, then we recommend the Sojos Complete Dehydrated Dog Food as the best one.
Sodium is a fickle friend. In small amounts it is the key to proper hydration and cellular function. In excess, it is a toxic substance that can compromise everything from renal function to entire cardiovascular systems.
For this reason, we sought out the best low sodium dog foods available. You love your pup and are concerned for their overall well being.
Are you feeding them too much sodium? Too little?
Science has the answer- and we have broken it down to provide clarity (with just a dash of salty humor).
In this article, we’re going to review the following low sodium dog foods:
- Weruva Grain-Free Natural Dry Dog Food For All Life Stages
- Healthy Dogma Human Grade Grain Free Dog Food
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Canned Dog Food
- Blue Buffalo High Protein Kibble
- Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free
- Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Recipe
- Diamond Naturals Adult Recipe
- Purina Beneful Incredibites For Adults
- Sojos Complete Dehydrated Dog Food
- Natural Ultramix Red Meat Recipe
- Royal Canin Adult Bulldog Dry Food
- VICTOR Classic Dry Dog Food
- WholeHearted Small Breed Dry Puppy Food
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Differences Between Salt Free and Low Sodium Dog Foods
Salt and sodium are not the same. However, nutritionally, salt has become synonymous with sodium and its various forms, including MSG and table salt. This essential chemical is necessary to the sodium-potassium pump in every cell of human or pets like dogs.
Since sodium is naturally occurring, it is very unlikely that food will be void of sodium. Salt-free dog food will refer to food without salt added during the production process. Low sodium dog food refers to both additives and the natural components of the food itself.
When a dog food is low sodium, it is an overall measurement of the sodium content in the ingredients and as a whole.
Recommended Sodium Levels for Canines
- Canine salt requirements vary based on breed and size
- Generally, foods will have 0.3% sodium levels relative to the entire kibble
- A standard kibble weighs in at a ¼ pound per cup, so sodium content is roughly 0.34 grams per cup
- Small breeds of dog eat between ½ to 1 ½ cups per day (sodium expectations of 0.17-0.51 grams a day)
- Medium breeds of dog consume 1 to 2 cups per day (sodium intake of 0.34-0.68 grams a day)
- Large breeds eat roughly 2 ½ to as much as 3 cups per day (sodium consumption of roughly 0.85-1.02 grams daily)
Reasons for Low-Sodium Doggy Diets
There are two lines of reasoning for low sodium dog foods. The first is a medical concern- two key issues are kidney troubles and high blood pressure (though there are other, less common causes).
The second cause of this action relates to genetic concerns. With modern technology affording the ability to see into the expected future, pup-parents can take prophylactic action against future health concerns.
If the mutt’s biological parents were prone to heart disease, then a low sodium diet is a sensible preventative measure.
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Energy
The effects of reducing sodium from dog foods are empirically apparent.
When this salty substance is lessened, and we maintain potassium levels, the canine system faces fewer challenges in its function on a cellular level.
This reduces the amount of energy demanded for simple processes- leaving plenty residual energy left over for play.
Regulate Blood Pressure Of The Pooch
It is a common misconception that the havoc salt wrecks on blood pressure links primarily to the heart. In fact, the source of the issue resides in the kidneys.
Salt and water are in a constant dance for balance for dogs. If there is too much salt, water rushes in and distends the blood vessels of your mutt.
This is the ‘high pressure’ referred to. By reducing salt, water pressure is thereby lessened.
Skin/Coat
The coat and skin see the secondary benefits of salt reduction. It is no secret that proper hydration is the key to quality skin of your pooch. Managing sodium intake is critical to achieving the right amount of water in the canine form.
Dogs do not sweat, so sodium excretion is not via pores like it is on people. This makes it all the more important to manage salt intake- the shiny coat will thank you for it.
Lower Body Fluid
Homeostasis refers to the process by which the body seeks to gain balance. A great example is the rushing about of fluid looking to even out sodium in the bloodstream.
When we reduce salt, the body has less need to hold on to its water. This eases strain on the kidneys, since they can flush out what fluid they come across.
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Strong Immune System
Sodium has been scientifically linked to compromised immune function. It has even been implicated in a number of autoimmune diseases.
The causal tie lies in immune cells called Th17’s. These cells drive inflammation and occur due to the presence of sodium (sensed by an enzyme in the bloodstream).
By reducing salt, we reduce inflammation and so decrease the prevalence of immune problems.
Prevents Organ Problems
All bodily systems benefit from reducing salt, not just the heart, lymphatic system, and kidneys. The liver (our pup’s filter) sees less strain.
Blood vessels are less swollen (because they do not need to hold as much fluid). Another fringe benefit is the by-proxy reduction of iodine to the system.
This chemical spurs production of thyroxine (a metabolic hormone). By reducing salt, we give their digestive system a chance to function independent of chemicals.
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What Else to Look for in The Best Low-Sodium Dog Food?
Low sodium is as healthy as the food’s quality itself. There is little benefit to reducing salt when the food has lots of by-products and artificial additives. It is critical to source food that features primarily high-quality meat protein. Though meat has sodium content, the trace amounts are negligible.
Fiber is another key concern- does the food have sufficient amounts of this matter?
Vitamins and minerals are also important. Check for foods that supplement these items to ensure your pup has a well-rounded diet.
Breed/Age/Size
Sodium intake needs are variable. The requirement of a puppy is different than that of a senior dog. As the body ages, tolerance to sodium reduces. Breed specifics are a reference to exertion levels.
A toy breed pooch will see less physical strain than a large retriever. Since exercise directly impacts water intake, the demand for sodium will increase proportionately to thirst.
Size specifics refers to the base line demands of different doggy weights. The more mass, the more requirement for sodium.
Even though the amounts are trace, differences in requirement, however small, have big health impacts.
Micro and Macronutrients
Micronutrients refer to vitamins and minerals; trace requirements that are small enough to hold in a capsule (but critical to health). These range from lettered vitamins to minerals like choline, magnesium, and iron.
Macronutrients are those which account for the bulk of the diet. Fats, carbohydrates, and proteins are the stars of this category.
Vitamins
This material sources through supplements, though is more beneficial when absorbed dietarily. There is a broad range of benefits offered by these substances.
Vitamin A helps eyesight. Vitamin C aids immune function. B Vitamins help energy. Vitamin K helps with clotting. All vitamins are necessary to healthy function.
Minerals
Minerals are absolutely essential to a properly functioning pup persona. From calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium that build bones, to the iron that controls oxygen uptake, minerals have a hand in almost all physiological function.
We can work to provide balance by making sure all necessary minerals are available to our furry friends.
Fats, Carbs, and Proteins
Just like with micronutrition, the bulk agents seen here have vital roles to play. Proteins, consistent of amino acids, control our pups’ muscular systems.
Fats have governance over cellular function and cognition. Carbohydrates provide a significant source of long-term energy.
The three must be properly balanced in order to achieve optimum nutrition.
Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids
While this material is technically classed as a fat, it does warrant special consideration- especially in canines.
These polyunsaturated fats (meaning at room temperature they are liquid) facilitate shiny and sleek fur as well as providing the necessary building blocks for proper cognitive function.
Studies suggest that these ingredients facilitate a calm temperament.
Antioxidants
This much discussed (and little understood) food component serves a very specific function. Coming in a variety of shapes and forms, antioxidants are the mortal enemy of free radicals.
These pesky agents are stray, negatively charged particles that float about the canine form, wreaking havoc. They have also been posited as carcinogenic culprits. Antioxidants mitigate these effects.
Probiotics
A healthy bacterial flora helps every part of the canine system. From digestion to mood and attitude, probiotics encourage a well-adjusted intestinal balance.
Much of what goes on in the mammalian body is symbiotic. That is the quid pro quo between the canine system and the bacteria it hosts.
In order to keep that ‘gut flora’ happy, it is best to supplement with probiotic ingredients.
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Limited Ingredient/Hypoallergenic
Some dogs are prone to allergies while others are less sensitive. If your pup tends towards dietary sensitivities, it is beneficial to seek out food with limited ingredients.
It is best to consult with a vet prior to making this change to ensure that we meet all needs. Typically, these diets will avoid corn, wheat, soy, chicken, egg, and a number of other, specific ingredients.
Type of Foods
Modern technology affords a great many more options than were had in the past. We have the ability to source raw diets, freeze dried ingredients, or rehydrated kibbles.
Now, we can seek out the best for our specific pups, whether it be dry, canned, or home cooked.
Dry Foods and Kibble
Kibble remains the standard dietary staple in canine diets. The solid state of the food makes it easy to digest and limits intestinal distress during metabolism.
Generally, this food will store well for a significant amount of time. It also affords the opportunity to include supplements in with the food.
Wet or Canned Food
Wet food makes a great treat and is a good way for you to test out your pup’s particularities when it comes to food preferences. Since wet food is less firm, it often will lead to tummy troubles such as runny stool.
It is generally best to have this as a side-dish or treat as opposed to a regular main course.
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Place of Manufacturing
When sourcing your dog’s dish, it is diligent to check where the food was made.This will tell you what governing agency oversees the quality.
High quality foods will typically note that their ingredients meet the approval of a food control agency. This provides the reassurance of avoiding contaminants or potentially troublesome ingredients.
Ingredients to Avoid
There are some logical ingredients to avoid; things like gluten and monosodium glutamate. These components add no nutritive value- rather they take up space that could be better allocated to healthy materials.
Generally, avoiding by-products is a good step to ensuring protein quality. In addition, steer clear of artificial colors and flavors (they add no value).
Monosodium Glutamate
This unnecessary ingredient has some tricky side effects. MSG, as it is commonly known, has the unique ability to increase hunger and salt-specific cravings in those that consume it.
Since this is a salt, it is included in the low-sodium spectrum (meaning low sodium foods should be free of its presence). Be aware of other names for this white, powdery chemical. These include sodium caseinate.
Nitrates
Typically, this ingredient will only be present as a preserving agent. In the past, food supplies (especially kibble) needed to keep for significantly longer due to reduced access.
In the modern world, with readily accessible foodstuffs, it is no longer necessary to include this ingredient. Look for foods free of nitrates and nitrites for improved canine health.
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Human Foods with High Sodium
- Bacon
- Canned Beans
- Canned Entrees
- Hot Dogs / Sausages
- Pizza
- Popcorn
- Potato Chips
- Pretzels
- Salted Meat
- Salted Nuts
- Salted Peanuts
- Capers
- Anchovies
- Olives
- Pickles
- Salted Crackers
- Energy Drinks
Artificial Colors and Flavors
While vibrant food in its whole form is an indicator of health (think of deep green spinach), in processed food it generally denotes artificial additives. In order to make food look more appealing, companies often add artificial colors in an effort to mimic food’s unprocessed vibrancy.
These chemicals have no nutritive benefits and can actually detract from your pup’s health.
Best Low Sodium Dog Foods Brands: Dry & Canned
#1 Weruva Grain-Free Natural Dry Dog Food for All Life Stages
This Canadian made low sodium dog food meets the approval of the USDA, Adding a level of reassurance to us worried pup-parents. One of the key draws of this food product is the fact that it is naturally low in sodium. It does not have added table salt (an unnecessary additive).
Instead, it focuses on free range chicken as the key ingredient. The kibble avoids problematic ingredients. These include soy, corn, and wheat.
I am a huge fan of the recipe because it includes salmon oil, a great source of poly and monounsaturated fats. These work to give our dogs a healthy and shiny coat (as well as the less visible, cognitive benefits).
By avoiding GMOs, we know that the food keeps to high standards of quality, in that the ingredients are as natural as possible. It can be tricky to find foods that are suitable for every life phase, especially since nutritional nuances are variable over time.
This kibble fits the needs of everything from puppies to seniors.
Pros:
- High quality protein as key ingredient
- Avoids corn, soy and other filling agents
- Suitable for all ages and life stages
- Can be fed to all breeds of dog.
Cons:
- Features chicken as key protein (a potential irritant)
- Does not include probiotics
- Doesn’t feature puppy or senior specific nutrition (ex: DHA or glucosamine)
#2 Healthy Dogma Human Grade Grain Free Dog Food
If you are the parent of a pup with a particular palette, this is an ideal food choice. Though it is higher on the pricing spectrum, its quality speaks volumes about its merit. This food avoids all the typical pitfalls often seen in kibble. Often, when there are health issues with the pup that demand a low sodium diet, there are other concerns as well. These range from chronic conditions to stomach sensitivities.
We are fans of this recipe because it avoids all major allergens. The focus of the recipe is to reduce inflammation which, as we know, is a major reason to reduce sodium intake.
Of course, the food that is left out of the kibble is only as valuable as the food that is included.
In fact, my favorite part of this recipe lies in the carefully curated list of ingredients. From chicken (for lean, high quality protein), to probiotics (for healthy internal flora), this food covers all the dietary bases.
Pros:
- Includes probiotics for healthy digestion
- Contains high quality protein
- Includes glucosamine for healthy joints
- Features vegetables for dietary vitamins.
Cons:
- Includes chicken (a possible irritant for sensitive pups)
- On the higher end of the cost spectrum.
#3 Blue Buffalo Wilderness Canned Dog Food
This canned dog food option is both high in quality and low in sodium. For families that favor poultry as a meal option, this is a great choice. The combined use of duck and chicken provides the pup with a good flavor option (without the need for added salt).
The food itself features additional vitamins and minerals. This allows the dog to have a nutritional option without the need for adding supplements into the eating regiment. I am a fan of this choice because it avoids additives and by-products.
Meat naturally contains a certain level of sodium. Provided there is no added salt to the food itself, then the naturally occurring substance will be within the dietary parameters of the dog.
The benefit of this food option is the fact that it does not contain preservatives or any artificial agents. We like this because it reassures us that there are no hidden salts, declared as preserving agents of the like.
The sole focus of this food is on the quality of the meal. If the pup is a fan of poultry, this is a suitable option.
Pros:
- Healthy proteins of chicken and duck
- Features vitamins and minerals
- Avoids additives and by-products.
Cons:
- Contains chicken (a potential irritant to some)
- Is a wet food (less suited as a dietary staple).
#4 Blue Buffalo High Protein Kibble
In addition to reducing salt, one of the often-forgotten steps in healthy digestion is bite size. Our family adores this recipe because of the small size of the kernels themselves. Especially for smaller dogs, this option is ideal. Since the kernels are smaller than average, it reduces the amount of air taken into the stomach during eating.
Not only does this prevent unpleasant post-eating attitudes, it reduces gassiness to an extreme degree. We want our dogs to be healthy and have a happy stomachs, and reducing salt is just the first step.
Another key value of this recipe is the high-quality protein. It is listed as the first ingredient; which, as savvy pet-parents are aware, means it is the most prevalent ingredient in the recipe. Since it is grain free, there is little concern about dietary distress.
I am a fan of the recipe because it is naturally low in sodium (with the inclusion being naturally dietary). It has antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals combined into kernels which are strewn throughout the kibble.
Pups eat these without a fuss, leaving us pet-parents reassured that our pups are getting everything that they need. Further benefits to the coat and skin come from the addition of omega fatty acids.
Though they add little by way of taste, the nutritional benefit is undeniable.
Pros:
- Small kernel size for healthy digestion
- Free of by-products and additives
- No artificial preservatives or colors.
Cons:
- Contains chicken (a possible irritant)
- On the higher end of the cost spectrum
- Does not feature probiotics
- Is not breeds specific
#5 Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free
This flavor-friendly recipe comes in a variety of taste options. Dogs love this because it diversifies their experience with meats. We favor this because when protein is diverse, it ups the odds of the pup gleaning a well-balanced set of amino acids. Raw food features in this recipe, and a great feature is that it does not compromise the ability to store the kibble itself.
Freeze drying has numerous benefits. The primary draw of this technique is that it preserves the meat without the need for preserving agents.
Traditionally, salt addition was a method of keeping food safe against the elements. The salt works to effectively ‘cook’ the meat on a chemical basis, which would in turn keep it safe from pathogens like bacteria and fungus.
Salination of food stuffs has significant drawbacks, as low-sodium households well know. Through the use of freeze-drying, there is no need to add these preservatives.
The nutrition of the meat remains, and the storage ability maintains. Another key draw is that the food itself is suited to all breeds and ages- an uncommon trait in kibble.
While it does not have a specific supplementation for these life phases, it does encompass nutritive mandatories that are true across the board.
Pros:
- Freeze-drying technology for raw bit inclusion
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
- Suited to all life stages
Cons:
- Does not include probiotics or age specific supplements
- Relatively low in calories
#6 Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Recipe
The act of weighing the importance of food preservation (preventing infection and rot) against sodium intake is a true balancing act. Us health-focused pet parents know this fact all too well. There has been a significant rise in concern for sodium related illnesses.
Science has spurred this awareness through research into salt-caused health troubles. Technology (the application of science) was not far behind. As we learned of the harmful effects of salt and preserving agents, methods to keep food safe without needing to add these unpleasant ingredients came about.
This kibble uses the innovative technique of air drying its kernels. By so doing, it reduces the need for salt addition to the food.
One of the reasons I love this food for my pups is that it includes glucosamine and chondroitin via dietary sources (as opposed to just the chemicals). Mussels sourced in New Zealand are the source of these minerals that facilitate bone health.
The recipe steers clear of filling agents, focussing instead on quality ingredients and a filling meal. With this kibble it is important to check the feeding chart due to the high caloric value.
Pros:
- High quality ingredients for naturally sourced vitamins/minerals
- Air drying technique to reduce the need for preservatives.
Cons:
- Relatively high in calories (check the feeding chart)
- No probiotic inclusion.
#7 Diamond Naturals Adult Recipe
Many families favor red meat over poultry, simply due to the fact that chicken is a potential irritant for dogs. While red meat naturally contains more sodium, the increase is negligible provided there is no added salt (which there is not in this kibble).
I am a fan because the recipe uses lamb which is a great source of dietary iron. Probiotics feature, along with antioxidants, giving our pups the full benefit of their food sources.
This food covers all bases, provided strictly adult dogs eat the kibble. There are no artificial colors or preservatives, which works to prevent concerns of excess sodium content in the kibble.
The kibble place of production is in the USA, though the ingredients have global origins. Our family likes this option because, not only do our furry family members favor the taste, but it avoids filling agents.
With bulking ingredients, it detracts from the space for healthy foods. This kibble instead puts its focus on a high-quality recipe that provides the necessary building blocks for a healthy canine companion.
Pros:
- Features red meat (great for dietary iron)
- Includes probiotics and antioxidants
- Contains omegas for a healthy coat and skin.
Cons:
- While food is made in the USA, ingredients have global origins
- Only suited for adult dogs.
#8 Purina Beneful Incredibites for Adults
Cost is not the top concern when sourcing a healthy canine diet, nutrition is. That said, it is important to find financially accessible foodstuffs that are also nutritious and low in sodium. This option comes in two different flavor options: chicken or beef. By so doing, it provides a diversity of protein as well as options for pups with sensitive stomachs.
We favor this choice because of its high accessibility of nutrition.Dogs enjoy the taste and simultaneously benefit from the high-quality protein included therein. We are what we eat- an adage that is as true for canines as it is for humans.
The beef used in this recipe is farm raised, meaning there was less stress on the meat before butchering. These benefits translate into the quality of the food itself. The recipe itself suits small or toy breeds of dog.
Provided only pups eat the food, the recipe contains the basic necessities for a healthy diet.
Pros:
- Low cost kibble option
- No added salt featured in the recipe
- Small bite sizes for good digestion
Cons:
- No included supplements
- Features peas (a potentially problematic ingredient due to theobromine content)
- Only suited to small breed, adult dogs
#9 Sojos Complete Dehydrated Dog Food
This kibble takes full advantage of modern techniques for food preservation. Long since past are the days where meats needed salting in order to prevent rot. Now there are a wide variety of practices that allow food to keep. Dehydration is a great option.
The process involves the removal of water particles from the food. In doing this, the quality of the material is left intact, so the full nutrition is accessible when we rehydrate the kibble.
Another great benefit of this food is that it allows the pet-parent a level of control over water intake. When considering salt intake, water consumption is the sister concern. This is because the two work together to create a healthy balance in the body.
Since the food itself needs rehydration (water addition) before serving, it gives us the opportunity to add a bit more fluid on hot days while our pups are none the wiser.
Another reason I favor this option is that it includes freeze-dried raw meats. When the meat is less processed, there is less opportunity for the protein to nature (reshape) before the hungry pup eats the food. This brings them closer to their evolutionary roots- not to mention improves the taste of the food itself.
Pros:
- Freeze-drying technology
- Dehydrated food for control over hydration
- Numerous protein options for picky pups
- Nutritionally thorough meal
Cons:
- Somewhat time consuming to make
- On the higher end of the cost spectrum
#10 Natural Ultramix Red Meat Recipe
The focus of this kibble is on well-rounded nutrition- a fact made clear by its ingredients. The kibble itself features red meat as its primary ingredient for easy access to dietary iron. Our family is a fan of this recipe because it puts attention into fiber content. Reducing salt is only half the battle.
The other part comes with ensuring proper hydration. Fiber is the key to achieving this goal. It presents via vegetables and fruits which are readily visible in the kibble itself (though pups are none the wiser).
This recipe steers clear of unpleasant filling agents like corn and soy, both starchy plants that tend to add a lot of sodium to the dietary roster. By avoiding these, the focus stays on healthy ingredients that are beneficial to our furry friends. The kibble is cooked in the USA, adding the reassurance of a reputable agency overseeing the quality of the food itself.
I like the option because it includes omega fatty acids. These unsaturated fats work to improve the temperament and cognition of the dog, while having the fringe benefit of giving them a shiny coat.
By avoiding grains altogether, the recipe steers clear of the most common digestive irritants. The food itself stores well and makes a good dietary staple.
Pros:
- Features red meat as key ingredient
- Includes unsaturated fatty acids
- Contains significant fiber.
Cons:
- No inclusion of probiotics
- Includes small amounts of peas (an ingredient with chemical overlaps with chocolate).
#11 Royal Canin Adult Bulldog Dry Food
Though this recipe is specific to a certain breed, the nutritive values it espouses provide a valuable dietary lesson. The meal suits adult dogs (those that have reached at least one year of age) and is specific to purebred bulldogs.
That said, the high quality of the recipe makes this a noteworthy product. It is low in sodium due to the natural formulation of the kibble. It includes carbohydrates for long term energy (beneficial to this specific breed). Starch is not the only carbs featured in this kibble, since fiber is also a focus.
Since dogs are not able to sweat, they are not able to filter out saline through their pores as humans are wont to do. It is important for us pet-parents to remember this when considering the appropriate salt content for our canine companions.
Their reduced ability to excrete saline puts extra pressure on their kidneys to fill that role. While hydration (water) will provide the means for excretion, it does not necessarily facilitate the elimination of salt in full.
Fiber fills this role by acting in its capacity as roughage and manually removing material from the intestinal tract. This food provides sufficient fiber, as well as a balanced set of proteins and fats. It is a suitable dietary staple, provided it is fed to the proper breed.
Pros:
- High in fiber content
- Naturally low in sodium.
Cons:
- Only suitable for bulldog purebreds
- Meant only for adult dogs.
#12 VICTOR Classic Dry Dog Food
Perhaps our favorite benefit of this recipe is the diversification of protein sources. The kibble itself contains pork, chicken, and beef as meat sources. This provides the benefit of covering all amino acid bases, ensuring that the pup has exactly what proteins their body requires. The kibble itself fits active dogs, meaning it is less suited to toy breeds for apartment dwellers.
It is made specifically for pups who undergo a great deal of exertion on a daily basis. Because of this fact, it is a very high calorie recipe.
Another benefit is that it avoids gluten, an unnecessary addition to the canine diet. The focus is on muscle maintenance and immune function.
Through the use of quality proteins, it provides the building blocks of a strong and sturdy canine companion. We favor this option because, in addition to its varied sources of protein, it also includes nutritional supplements.
By featuring added minerals and vitamins, the kibble becomes well rounded and suitable as a dietary staple. Especially for dogs that spend a significant amount of time outside, the fact that the kibble features necessary fatty acids is a benefit.
Sun wears down the coat, and these fatty acids work to mitigate this effect.
Pros:
- Features diverse sources of protein
- Supplemented with vitamins and minerals
- Naturally low in sodium.
Cons:
- High in calories (only suited for active dogs)
- Does not avoid grains (though doesn’t feature gluten).
#13 WholeHearted Small Breed Dry Puppy Food
The months a dog spends as a puppy are incredibly formative. They set the groundwork for lifelong health and wellbeing. Because of this, us pet parents are especially concerned about feeding specifics.
If you know that your dog is genetically predisposed to high blood pressure (or other sodium-related health concerns), it is best to start a low sodium diet as early as possible. This kibble provides a good option for sodium conscious pup-parents. It is high in protein, featuring beef as its primary ingredient.
In addition to the micronutrition that is well represented, the recipe includes nutrients specific to the puppy’s needs. This includes DHA, a chemical corollary to that found in canine breast milk.
Young dogs use this substance to foster the development of both their cognition and their optical systems. We favor this option because it takes extra consideration for the needs of puppies. This includes small bite sizes for developing jaws. It also spans the needs for specific minerals like calcium for bone growth.
Low sodium is just the beginning of the healthy diet. This kibble takes a full spectrum approach to healthy dogs.
Pros:
- Naturally low in salt content
- Contains supplements specific to puppies
- Promotes dental health.
Cons:
- Only suitable for puppies
- Made for small breed dogs
- Includes peas as a major ingredient
High Calorie and Low Sodium
Whenever there is more than one criterion to address, the task can seem overwhelming. It is, however, very simple to access high calorie, low salt food.
The first step is making sure that there is no added salt (whether in the form of MSG or preservatives). The next thing to address is the protein, carbohydrates, and fats in the food.
Provided there is a sufficient supply of these ingredients, the caloric content will be reasonably high. As with all feeding regiments, ensure adequate hydration of the pup.
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FAQs About Low Sodium Dog Foods
#What Happens If My Dog Overdose on Sodium?
An excess of sodium is far from an overdose. In the case of excess, provide water and the problem will resolve of its own accord.
If an overdose is the concern, it will lead to severe seizures. Consult a veterinarian if this is the case.
#Should I Supplement My Dogs Diet with Sodium?
No. The amount of sodium required for canines is nominal.
Because the need is so small (never more than a gram a day- for very active dogs), it absorbs through the dog’s regular feedings.
#What Do I Do If My Dog Begins to Show Symptoms of Dehydration or Hypernatremia (Sodium Overdose)?
Always make sure that your pup has adequate access to water and shade. These steps will go a long way to prevent dehydration.
If you believe your pup has hypernatremia shock, contact a medical professional immediately.
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#Does Wet Food have Lower Sodium than Dry Food?
Sodium content varies between foods. The benefit of dry food is that, generally, the dog will acknowledge their thirst and drink water.
Wet food does not offer that same reassurance.
#Are there Low Sodium Dog Treats?
There are a number of low sodium dog treats available. Check the nutritional label against your pup’s daily requirements.
If the treat contains preservatives, it is a good sign that there is excess sodium in the recipe.
#What is the Best Low-salt Brand for Senior Dogs?
The best low-salt food for seniors varies from dog to dog (some pups like chicken, others beef).
Check that the recipe includes micronutrients specific to seniors (glucosamine and chondroitin) and that it is free of artificial preservatives. Otherwise, the pup palette is the best judge.
Conclusion
Now that we have had a chance to investigate the nuances of sodium in the canine diet, we know what to look for in a low salt dog food. After carefully analyzing these recipes, the clear winner is the Sojos Complete Dehydrated Dog Food.
Not only is it naturally low in sodium, but it offers the benefit of being able to adjust the water content in the food itself. The meal includes all the necessary nutrition for a healthy canine and avoids common pitfalls like additives and by-products.
Salt, once used as a preserving agent, is now a nuisance additive. Technology has helped us move forward with nutritional sciences, and we now have the ability to freeze-dry and dehydrated (instead of coat our food with salt).
Further Readings:
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1. Can Dogs Eat Edamame?
2. Can Dogs Eat Raw Or Cooked Lobsters, Shrimps, And Prawns?
3. Can Dogs Eat Mangoes?
4. Can Dogs Eat All Types Of Radishes? What You Need To Know!
5. Can Dogs Eat Limes?
6. 87 Human Foods Dogs Can And Can’t Eat
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