8 Best Dog Foods for Hypothyroidism
There is nothing as heartbreaking as watching your highly-active dog turn into a couch potato, its bright coat turning dull and its body weight increasing every day. These symptoms, though hard to accept, signify the onset of hypothyroidism; a nightmare for every pet parent.
Hypothyroidism occurs when your dog’s thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroxine hormones. Thyroxine hormones regulate metabolism in your dog’s body. This leads to a decrease in metabolic rates. Other causes of hypothyroidism include shrinking of the thyroid, the immune system attacking the thyroid, and though rare, tumors in the thyroid gland.
Hypothyroidism is not life-threatening, as it can be treated with lifetime drugs. Since it cannot be fully cured, a healthy diet is key in treating hypothyroidism. Dog food manufacturers have crafted some recipes to help with hypothyroidism. Caution is important, as some manufacturers falsely claim their diets are the best for hypothyroidism. Read the labels carefully and analyze the ingredients well before choosing the best food for your dog.
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall 
| VICTOR Select - Grain Free Yukon River Canine, Dry Dog Food 30 lbs
| 10 | Check Price |
Best Price-Effective 
| Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe Dry Dog Food
| 9.5 | Check Price |
Best for Allergies 
| Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food with Grains, Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Formula
| 9.5 | Check Price |
Best for Puppies 
| Halo Puppy Dry Dog Food Chicken & Liver
| 9.5 | Check Price |
Best Canned/Wet Food Option 
| AvoDerm Natural Grain-Free Turkey & Vegetable Stew Recipe Canned Dog Food
| 9 | Check Price |
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs?
Slow metabolic rates affect every organ in your dog’s body. Dogs with hypothyroidism will show few or most of the symptoms below:
- Dry, dull hair with increased shedding.
- Frequent colds.
- Weight gain without additional food or increased appetite.
- Lethargy and little or no desire for physical activities.
- Thin to nearly bald hair coat.
- Increased blood cholesterol.
- Slow heart rate.
- Susceptibility to ear and skin infections.
- Failure to regrow hair after shaving.
Other rare symptoms include:
- Fat deposits in the corneas of the eyes.
- Infertility, miscarriage, and lack of heat periods in females.
- Infertility and reduced libido in males.
- Dry eyes.
- Abnormal nerve functions that lead to dragging of the feet, non-painful lameness, and a head tilt.
Your dog’s vet will carry out a test to measure the main thyroid hormone in a blood sample. A low level of total thyroxine combined with any of the symptoms above indicates hypothyroidism.
What are the top five brands for the best food for hypothyroidism?
The list below shows the top five dog food brands formulated for hypothyroidism:
- Rachel Ray Nutrish
- Natural Balance
- Earthborn Holistic
- Victor Select
- Wellness Core
Different pet food manufacturers have different prices and use different bags. From our research, the average price for our 8 best foods for hypothyroidism is $53.50, with prices ranging from $23.99 to $74.99.
Which dog breeds are prone to hypothyroidism?
Although dogs can get hypothyroidism, some breeds are more susceptible than others. These breeds are listed below:
- Irish Setter
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Doberman Pinscher
- Golden Retriever
- Cocker Spaniel
- Airedale Terrier
Selecting the best food for hypothyroidism can be tedious. But, we have made it easier for you with our list best 8 foods for hypothyroidism.
Below are the best 5 foods for hypothyroidism and what they’re best for:
- Best Overall: VICTOR Select Yukon River Canine Dry Dog Food – $67.99 for a 30-pounds pack.
- Best Price-Effective: Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe Dry Dog Food – $35.98 for a 28-pounds pack.
- Best for Allergies: Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food – $54.98 for a 26-pounds pack.
- Best for Puppies: Halo Holistic Dry Puppy Food – $23.99 for a 10-pounds pack.
- Best Canned/Wet Food Option: AvoDerm Turkey & Vegetable Wet Dog Food – $32.95 for a 12-oz can, case of 12.
Note: The prices in this article are as of April 26th, 2022.
What are the 8 best foods for hypothyroidism? Below is a list of the best dog food crafted to help with hypothyroidism:
View Table of Contents
- 1. VICTOR Select Yukon River Canine Dry Dog Food
- 2. Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe Dry Dog Food
- 3. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food
- 4. Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch Dry Dog Food
- 5. Wellness CORE Dry Dog Food
- 6. Halo Holistic Dry Puppy Food
- 7. AvoDerm Turkey & Vegetable Wet Dog Food
- 8. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Freeze-Dried Raw Dry Dog Food
- What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for Hypothyroidism?
1. VICTOR Select Yukon River Canine Dry Dog Food
Make your dog a victor with Victor Select Yukon Formula by Mid-America Pet LLC. The first manufacturing date is April 23rd, 2013, and it targets all dog breeds. The major ingredients include Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat, Garbanzo Beans, and Dehydrated Chicken.
- Amazing flavor that your dog will love
- Suitable for all breed sizes
- Ideal for all life stages
- Premium fish is the primary protein source
- 5 pound, 15 pound, and 30 pound bags available
- Real fish is the main source of proteins (33%) for muscle power.
- It is packed with selenium, prebiotics, and probiotics for immune and digestive wellness.
- Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids lower the risk of skin and coat problems, while DHA promotes brain wellness.
- Consuming this premium dog food protects dogs against infections with vitamin E and reduces the probability of obesity that comes with hypothyroidism.
- The calorie value of 390 Kcal/cup and 16% fat value boost your less active Lab’s stamina.
- The unique VPRO blend boosts superior digestibility for digestive and immune health.
Victor Select Yukon Formula is best for dogs with sensitive tummies and grain allergies. The daily intake depends on your dog’s weight, with dogs weighing 5 pounds needing ½ cup and those weighing 10 pounds requiring ⅞ cups. Body weights ranging from 15 to 100 pounds need a range of 1 ¼ to 5 cups. A 30-pounds bag costs $67.99.
2. Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe Dry Dog Food
Give your dog complete nutrition with Rachel Ray Nutrish Formula by J.M Smucker. Co. the first production date is May 13th, 2009, and it targets all dog breeds. The main ingredients include Chicken, Chicken Meal, Soybean Meal, Grain Sorghum, and Dried Peas.
- Great flavor
- Non-dominating scent
- A+ value for money
- 6 pound, 14 pound, 28 pound, and 40 pound bags available
- Safely cooked with the world's best ingredients
- It has linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid to lower the frequency of shedding in your hypothyroid dog. These acids also reduce the risks of skin and coat dullness.
- Vitamin E and C work together to lower the risks of further infections in dogs with hypothyroidism.
- High-quality proteins from real chicken work together with calcium and phosphorus to strengthen your dog’s bones and muscles.
- This diet is crafted with tasty peas and fiber-rich brown rice to support digestive wellness. Peas and rice are also excellent sources of energy.
- It is free from wheat, poultry by-products, gluten, and artificial preservatives to lower the probability of allergies and sensitivities.
The Rachel Ray Nutrish Formula is ideal for dogs that can tolerate grains. The daily intake depends on your pooch’s weight. Dogs weighing 3-12 pounds need ½ to 1 ¼ cups, while those weighing 12 to 100 pounds need a range of 1 ½ to 6 cups. A 28-pounds bag costs $35.98.
3. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food
Nurture your dog with the Natural Balance L.I.D Formula by Natural Balance. The initial production date is October 2nd, 2001, targeting all dog breeds. The main ingredients are Lamb, Brown Rice, Lamb Meal, Brewers Rice, and Rice Bran.
- Perfect for dogs with a lot of sensitivities/allergies
- Fantastic ingredient quality
- Maintains digestive health
- 28 pound bag available
- It has omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for your dog’s skin and coat wellness.
- Lamb’s calcium, phosphorus, and premium proteins boost muscle and bone health.
- The high-quality fiber in brown rice promotes digestion, while amino acids fuel your dog’s muscle power.
- This recipe is crafted with fewer ingredients to reduce the risks of allergies and tummy issues.
- Consuming this recipe supports heart health with taurine.
Natural Balance L.I.D Formula is suitable for dogs with sensitive digestion. Dogs weighing up to 10 pounds need 1 cup daily, while those weighing 10-20 pounds require 1 to 1 ½ cups. Body weights ranging from 20 to 100 pounds need 1 ½ to 5 cups. These portions are guidelines, and the food can be adjusted to suit your dog’s age and activity levels. Highly active dogs will need twice these amounts for sufficient energy. Senior dogs need fewer cups per day. A 26-pounds bag costs $54.98.
4. Earthborn Holistic Coastal Catch Dry Dog Food
Give your dog a holistic life with Earthborn Holistic Coastal Formula by Midwestern Pet Foods. The initial production date is May 25th, 2011, and it targets all dog breeds. The key ingredients are Herring Meal, Peas, Dried Eggs, Canola Oil, and Tapioca.
- The high-value protein of 32%, calcium, and phosphorus work together to give your dog lean muscle mass and thick bones.
- Dogs with hypothyroidism are less energetic, and this meal comes in handy with the 19% fat value and the calorie value of 400 Kcal/cup.
- This diet is perfect for dogs with hypothyroidism as it contains L-carnitine to reduce the risks of obesity and Beta-carotene for improved vision.
- Consuming this meal boosts immunity and reduces the risks of inflammation with vitamins C and E.
- DHA boosts skin, coat, and cognitive wellness, while the highly-digestible salmon Meal, herring meal, and whitefish meal ensure overall wellness and reduce the risk of tummy upsets.
- High-quality fiber from real vegetables supports digestive health and ensures maximum absorption of nutrients.
Earthborn Holistic Coastal Formula is suitable for dogs with grain allergies. The daily portions vary depending on your dog’s weight. Dogs weighing 5-10 pounds need ½ to ¾ cups and those weighing 10-20 pounds need ¾ to 1 ½ cups. A 25-pounds bag costs $63.14.
5. Wellness CORE Dry Dog Food
Give your dog complete wellness with Wellness Core Formula by Wellness. The initial production date is October 2nd, 2001, targeting all dog breeds. The main ingredients are Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Peas, and Dried Ground Potatoes.
- Deboned turkey is the first ingredient for strong and healthy muscles.
- Dogs with hypothyroidism have dull coats and skins, and this recipe is fortified with fatty acids to boost coat and skin wellness.
- It is free from fillers, wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, and artificial colors and flavorings.
- Calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine, and chondroitin are important for your dog’s joint, muscle, and bone wellness.
- Vitamin E protects dogs against free radicals that cause cancer, while beta-carotene boosts eye and skin health.
- Consuming this meal reduces stool odor with yucca schidigera.
Wellness Core Formula is perfect for pups with grain allergies and sensitive tummies. The daily portions depend on your dog’s body weight. For example, dogs weighing 6-10 pounds need ¼ to 1 ¼ cups, while those weighing 20-35 pounds need 1 ¼ to 1 ¾ cups. For mixed feeding, reduce the dry amounts by ½ cup for every 6-oz of wet food. A 26-pounds bag costs $74.99.
6. Halo Holistic Dry Puppy Food
Massage your dog’s instincts with Halo Holistic Formula by Halo, Purely for Pets. The initial manufacturing date is February 29th, 2008, and it targets all dog breeds. The major ingredients include Chicken, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product, Oatmeal, and Pearled Barley.
- Designed for puppies
- Premium protein for muscle development
- Healthy fat for energy, skin, and coat support
- Antioxidants for developing brains, eyes, and immune systems
- 4 pound and 10 pound bag available
- Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids support skin and coat health and lower shedding frequencies.
- Frequent consumption prevents inflammation and the risks of cancer.
- Cage-free chicken is the number one ingredient for premium proteins to fuel your dog’s muscles.
- It is crafted with easily-digestible ingredients for smooth digestion and maximum absorption of essential nutrients.
- The meaty flavor and crunchiness delight even your picky eater Golden Retriever.
- This recipe has no meat meals or artificial ingredients, thus easy for puppies to metabolize.
- The powerful antioxidants support the immune system by preventing oxidative damage.
The Halo Holistic Formula is ideal for dogs that can tolerate grains. The daily amounts vary depending on your dog’s weight and age. For example, puppies weighing 1-5 pounds need ⅓ to 1 cup up to 6 months old, ¼ to ¾ cup at 7 to 9 months, and ¼ to ½ cups at 10 to 12 months. A 10-pounds bag costs $23.99.
7. AvoDerm Turkey & Vegetable Wet Dog Food
Give your dog an admirable appearance with Avoderm Formula by Breeders Choice Pet Foods, LLC. The first production date is May 5th, 2015 and it targets all dog breeds. The key ingredients are Turkey Broth, Turkey, Turkey Liver, Dried Egg Product, and Potatoes.
- Only quality ingredients
- Naturally preserved to ensure freshness and palatability
- Antioxidant nutrients added to help support a healthy immune system and overall wellness
- Case of (12) 12.5 oz cans
- This premium meal is crafted with omega-rich avocados for smooth skin and a shiny coat. The omegas also lower the frequencies of shedding.
- Chelated minerals are essential for maximum absorption of important nutrients for your dog’s overall wellness.
- It is naturally preserved for maximum freshness and improved palatability.
- Consuming this recipe supports a healthy immune system with powerful antioxidants.
- The balanced amounts of fats and proteins promote stamina and lean muscle mass.
- The 82% water content hydrates your dog, removes toxins, and ensures smooth digestion.
Avoderm Formula is best for dogs with grain or chicken intolerance. Dogs weighing 5-10 pounds need ½ to ¾ cups per day for wet foods and ¼+¼ to ½ cans for combination feeding. Puppies are at an active stage hence need twice these amounts.
A 4-day transition period lowers the risk of digestive problems. Start with small amounts of Avoderm and gradually increase the portions. A 12.5-oz, case of 2 costs $32.95.
8. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Freeze-Dried Raw Dry Dog Food
Delight your dog’s instincts with Instinct Limited Ingredient Formula by Nature’s Variety. The initial manufacturing date is March 3rd, 2017, and it targets all dog breeds. The primary ingredients include Lamb Meal, Lamb, Tapioca, Peas, and Canola Oil.
- This limited ingredient meal has only one source of protein and one vegetable for dogs with sensitivities.
- Antioxidants and natural omegas boost skin and coat health and support the immune system.
- Grass-fed lamb is easily digestible for smooth digestion.
- It is free from chicken, beef, wheat, corn, soy, fish, chickpeas, sweet potato, and artificial preservatives to lower the probability of allergies and sensitivities.
- Vitamins C and E work together to promote immunity.
- The premium protein (24%), promotes muscle wellness while the fat value of 21.5% and calorie content of 447 Kcal/cup restore energy for your less active Doberman Pinscher.
Instinct Limited Ingredient Formula is ideal for dogs with sensitive digestion, allergies, and chicken intolerance. The daily consumption depends on your dog’s weight. For example, dogs, weighing 5-15 pounds ½ to 1 cup for weight maintenance and ¼ to ½ cup for weight loss. These amounts may vary depending on your dog’s activity levels and age. A 20-pounds bag costs $73.99.
What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for Hypothyroidism?
Dogs with hypothyroidism need high-quality food made with premium ingredients. Below are the facts to know about the best food for hypothyroidism:
- Hypothyroidism makes dogs lethargic and lowers their desire for physical activities. To boost their stamina, their best food should have sufficient calories, carbs, and fats. Do not go overboard since lots of calories, carbs, and fats cause obesity.
- Foods that have L-carnitine come in handy for hypothyroidism. L-carnitine helps in breaking down excess fat, thus lowering the risks of unhealthy weight.
- Dogs with hypothyroidism have a dull coat and skin. The best food for them should, therefore, have omega fatty acids and vitamin A. Carrots are excellent sources of vitamin A while flaxseed and salmon oil are the best sources of omegas.
- Foods rich in fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics are also great for hypothyroidism as they support the digestive and immune systems. Antioxidants from powerful sources like blueberries and cranberries ensure your dog is protected against free radicals that cause cancer.
- In rare cases, dogs with hypothyroidism experience eye and heart problems. Foods that have heart and eye-friendly supplements like taurine, DHA, and vitamin A are important.
- Foods with high moisture values are also the best for hypothyroidism, as water moisturizes the skin. For dry foods, ensure your dog has access to clean water throughout the day. You can also mix wet and dry food.
What are the best dog foods for Hypothyroidism according to dog sizes?
Your dog’s size plays a critical role in choosing the best food for hypothyroidism.
The Best Food for Small-Sized Dogs with Hypothyroidism
- Taste of the Wild Small Breed Appalachian Valley Dry Dog Food: Real meat is the number one ingredient for high-quality proteins (32%) for lean muscle, strong bones, and healthy joints. It is also rich in omegas for your dog’s coat and skin wellness. Antioxidants and prebiotics play a key role in digestion and immunity.
The Best Food for Medium-Sized Dogs with Hypothyroidism
- Merrick Grain-Free Dry Food: This recipe contains leading amounts of omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for coat and skin health and has glucosamine and chondroitin for strong and healthy joints. The first ingredient is deboned buffalo for strong muscles, improved energy, and additional flavor.
What are the best dog foods for Hypothyroidism with different ingredients?
The ingredients used in your dog’s food are crucial as they contribute to your dog’s reaction to the food. Foods with fillers and artificial preservatives are harmful to hypothyroid dogs.
The Best Food with Pumpkin for Hypothyroidism
- Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Sweet Potato, $ Pumpkin Dry Food: Real chicken is the number one ingredient while pumpkin is the 8th ingredient. These two ingredients are premium sources of proteins and fiber for muscle and digestive health.
The Best Dog Food without Chicken for Hypothyroidism
- Orijen Regional Red Recipe Dry Food: This diet is packed with high-quality proteins from beef, beef liver, and pork for muscle power. The first three ingredients are always fresh or raw to delight your dog’s instincts.
What are the other dog foods for different health conditions, similar to Hypothyroidism?
Dogs with other health conditions similar to hypothyroidism need unique diets that suit their health condition.
The Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis
- Blue Buffalo Adult Life Protection Formula Dry Food: The high-value proteins, calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine work for strong bones, muscles, and joints. Consuming this diet also boosts the immune system with antioxidants and chelated minerals.
The Best Dog Food for Shedding
- Purina Pro Plan Salmon & Rice Formula Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Food: This diet is easily digestible and has no corn or wheat. Salmon is the number one ingredient for your dog’s skin and coat wellness. Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids also promote skin health.
What are the things to consider in choosing dog food for Hypothyroidism?
Dogs with hypothyroidism need lots of care and attention. Diet plays a key role in lowering the effects of hypothyroidism and ensuring your healthy dog does not get hypothyroidism. Below are the things to consider in choosing dog food for hypothyroidism:
- High-quality proteins: Dogs with hypothyroidism need premium proteins from real and identifiable sources like chicken, fish, and beef. Lean proteins ensure your sick dog does not add unhealthy pounds. In addition, proteins are easily digestible to lower the risks of allergies and sensitivities.
- Moderate fat content: Dogs with hypothyroidism are prone to weight gain; hence should not consume lots of fat. Fat is an excellent source of energy for your less active Doberman. In addition, fats like omega fatty acids are essential for coat and skin health. Some healthy fat sources include flaxseed, salmon oil, and canola oil.
- Other essential nutrients: Dogs with hypothyroidism need foods that have antioxidants, prebiotics, probiotics, calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine, and chondroitin for overall wellness.
What foods should hypothyroid dogs avoid?
Some dog foods are not suitable for dogs with hypothyroidism. Consuming such foods can escalate the problem or cause other health problems for your dog. Below are some of the foods to avoid:
- Foods with onions: Onions are highly toxic for hypothyroid dogs. Onions destroy the red blood cells and prevent oxygen flow throughout the body. This negatively affects sick dogs as they have weak immunity. Onion toxicity can be fatal in the long run.
- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is highly toxic in large amounts. Some of the symptoms of chocolate poisoning include frequent urination, increased thirst, and diarrhea, severe symptoms include heart failure, muscle tremors, and seizures.
- Table scraps: dogs with hypothyroidism should avoid table scraps. Table scraps do not have the required nutrients for your hypothyroid dog. Most table scraps are high in fat, causing obesity in hypothyroid dogs. Moreover, table scraps expose dogs to toxins and bacteria, which escalate the problem.
