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25 Best Dog Foods for a Lab That Needs to Lose Weight
I used to cook up a large stew of meat and heaps of vegetables this would last about three nights and I would cook it again, for breakfast they would have dry food, a carrot which they loved for a snack and a large bone occasionally to chew on, they both lived until 14 never had to go to the vets, only for their needles, they were never overweight.
Author: Robyn B.
Likes: 27
I’ve use both Pro Plan Weight Management Chicken and Rice and Nutro Large Breed Weight Management.
Author: Liz W.
Likes: 16
Our Chocolate Lab eats Pro Plan Weight Management Chicken and Rice – he loves salads too, except carrots, celery, spinach. I make his ice cream- 32 oz. Vanilla yogurt, 1 TBSP natural peanut butter, 1 banana- mix together freeze 1/2 cup portions. Bedtime treat
Author: Pat L.
Likes: 7
I know the answer! It is called FROMM weight management. That is the only food we have given our dogs and their weight, skin and health has been great. No itchy skin, ect.
Author: Rosanna Ruocco S.
Likes: 17
Our lab was overweight and we put her on blue buffalo weight control. We gave her a cup and a half in the morning and the same at at night. She loved the food and lost 19 pounds. The vet didn’t want her over 100 and she was 96. We got her down to 77 pounds. Our lab was food driven so had no problem with the food. Good luck. I know it’s hard but it really helps to get the weight off their hips.
Author: Terry S.
Likes: 23
Hill’s Science Diet Weight Management. Worked great for my rescue dog
Author: Sonja Joy G.
Likes: 10
Our lab is almost 10 he lost 20 pounds we gave him Merrick salmon and sweet potato and as fruits and vegetables in it it’s a peach bag and they both love it and also the vet said throw some green beans in there canned I used to do carrots but I don’t anymore but they do love the green beans I used to give Miles three biscuits and his food in the morning and one scoop at night I cut down on his dry food and give him only one biscuit a day. But I also get to food at PetSmart.
Author: Crissy W.
Likes: 6
I’ve had both a lab and golden needing diets in the past… that lab was on Beneful Healthy Weight and replace 1 cup of food with 1 can of no salt string beans. Worked for both of them… not as much to get to that goal weight but both got to healthy weight. Good luck!
Author: Stefanie T.
Likes: 0
We have the best luck with Royal Canin for labradors. 2 of the three labs lost weight. It was also great for our older lab, who had a sensitive tummy-settled it down. Once we saw her tummy issues settle, she was more active and lost weight. Our third lab was a sweet rescue-this food helped with coat and a sensitive tummy too!
Author: Cindi G.
Likes: 1
Royal Canin Satiety Support is what worked for my boys. Both lost approx. 20lbs over a 3-4 mth time period. They were never hungry and still enjoyed their baby carrots and Milk Bone Mini’s as treats.Usually available thru your vet and also available thru Chewy . It became their permanent food and they kept the weight off. Good luck
Author: Marjorie F.
Likes: 3
Fromm weight management Burt has lost 7 pounds so far & I have tried tons food He gets very little kibble 3/4 c 2x day ,mainly green beans chicken dinner Snacks on whole green beans no salt added in can Good luck I’m still working at it!
Author: Mary B.
Likes: 2
We feed Authority adult Weight management and my dog lost over 20lbs. You can get at PetSmart it is their brand of food
Author: Diane D.
Likes: 0
Pet fresh, the 6 lb log is what we used for our lab, and still use for our two old rescues. My lab was overweight and diabetic. He lost weight and it really helped him within about 6 weeks.
Author: Jan Reeder S.
Likes: 2
My Vet recommended Purina One Healthy Weight. My dogs like it and have lost weight.
Author: Christy S.
Likes: 0
Have you ever tried Stella dehydrated and frozen foods? We absolutely love it for our Mossy girl
Author: Melissa P.
Likes: 0
My 2 labs get 3 cups of Simply Nourish daily and we went to small treats a couple times a day. They also get pieces of banana and green beans when we have them. During hunting season they get a high energy food and it’s then 4 cups
Author: Jon L.
Likes: 0
My dog has 1 1/2 cups of dry food Nature’s Recipe and a half can green beans. Twice a day. Keeps his weight down. Used to have a black lab and he lost several pounds eating this, and he was diabetic. This was recommended by my vet
Author: Anne C.
Likes: 0
My lab just started his diet! He was on 3 cups of Purina pro plan sensitive skin and stomach, salmon flavor. The vet recommended 1 cup 2x daily plus .5 cup of pet safe veggies 2x daily mixed in with each meal. We do mostly frozen green beans, with a little frozen peas and broccoli. Nuked in the microwave in a little water.
Author: Ashley Lynn R.
Likes: 0
My lab is 13 and never had a weight problem. Lots of exercise when she was younger but as she aged and less active she still maintains her bikini body . Only have fed her Natural Balance Potato & Duck. Other flavors are available. Our Pittie-Mix is on the same food (7 years old) and she is at a healthy weight.
Author: Brandon B.
Likes: 0
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Foods for an Overweight Lab
1. What is the best type of food for an overweight Labrador Retriever?
The best food for an overweight Lab is a high-protein, low-fat formula designed specifically for weight management. Look for products that list lean meats like chicken or turkey as the first ingredient and include healthy fiber sources like brown rice or sweet potatoes to support satiety and digestion.
2. How much should I feed my overweight Lab each day?
Feeding amounts vary depending on the dog’s age, weight, and activity level. Generally, you should follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food label, but reduce the portion size by 10–20% for weight loss. Consulting your vet for a tailored feeding plan is highly recommended.
3. Are grain-free diets good for overweight Labs?
Grain-free diets aren’t inherently better for weight loss unless your Lab has a grain allergy. What matters most is calorie content, macronutrient balance, and portion control. Whole grains like brown rice or oatmeal can actually help your dog feel fuller longer.
4. Can treats be part of a weight-loss plan for my Lab?
Yes, but treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Choose low-calorie, healthy treats or use small pieces of fruits and vegetables like carrots or green beans as alternatives.
5. What ingredients should I avoid in dog food for overweight Labs?
Avoid foods high in fat, fillers like corn and soy, artificial preservatives, and by-products. These ingredients can add unnecessary calories and may lack nutritional value.
6. Is wet food or dry kibble better for helping my Lab lose weight?
Dry kibble is often more calorie-dense and easier to measure for portion control, which is crucial for weight loss. However, some wet foods are formulated for weight management and can help your Lab feel full with fewer calories. Choose based on your dog’s preferences and nutritional needs.
7. Should I consider a prescription weight-loss dog food?
If your Lab is significantly overweight or has health conditions like joint problems or diabetes, a prescription diet from your veterinarian may be beneficial. These foods are formulated to support safe weight loss and manage specific health issues.
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