Pet parents who want to ensure their dogs enjoy their meals while also getting the necessary nutrition are increasingly turning to dog food toppers. But what are toppers for dog food, and which dogs truly benefit from them? Here’s what to know.
Key Takeaways
- Dog food toppers are a flavorful and nutrient-rich addition to meals, but they should never replace a complete and balanced dog food diet.
- Toppers can entice picky eaters, boost hydration, and support specific health needs.
- Introduce toppers slowly to avoid giving your dog an upset stomach.
- Select a dog food topper tailored to your dog’s individual needs, with the guidance of your veterinarian.
What Are Dog Food Toppers?
Dog food toppers add to—not replace—a balanced diet for dogs. They are an easy way to add specific nutrients to their diet or to give regular dog food a flavor boost. However, dog food toppers usually don’t provide complete nutrition themselves.
Many types of toppers for dog food are available, including:
Despite the “topper” name, it’s usually best to thoroughly mix a dog food topper into a dog’s food. Mixing prevents dogs from eating just the topper, leaving their food (and most of its nutritional value) behind in the bowl.
Benefits of Dog Food Toppers
To be clear: Dog food toppers are optional and not a necessary part of a dog’s diet. With that said, they can provide several benefits.
1. They Make Meals More Exciting
Dry dog food is convenient and usually less expensive than other types of diets, but for some dogs, it’s not all that appealing. Adding a topper can encourage picky dogs to eat.
You can rotate through different toppers to add variety at mealtimes without making significant changes to your dog’s diet.
2. They Add Moisture
Toppers that contain a lot of water, like broths, are a tasty way to soften kibble. You can even add a water-rich topper to wet dog food to maximize a dog’s water intake and keep them well-hydrated.
3. They Boost Protein
Some toppers are much higher in protein than typical dog foods. Adding a high-protein topper to dog food is an easy way to up your dog’s protein intake.
4. They Promote Better Health
There are also healthy dog toppers that contain nutraceuticals, or food ingredients typically added to dog food for their health benefits.
For example, a topper containing omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation, benefiting dogs with conditions ranging from allergies to arthritis.
How To Add Toppers to Your Dog’s Food
If you choose to add a topper to your dog’s diet, here are a few tips to help you avoid some of their potential pitfalls.
Keep a Focus on Food
A high-quality, complete, and balanced dog food still needs to take center stage in your dog’s diet. No topper can compensate for poor nutrition.
Start Slow
Anything new that a dog eats can lead to an upset stomach, so make dietary changes gradually.
Initially, add only a small amount of topper to your dog’s food and watch for symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, gassiness, and a poor appetite.
Don’t Add Too Much
Many dog food toppers are labeled for “intermittent or supplemental feeding” because they don’t provide all the nutrition a dog needs.
As a general rule, a complete and balanced dog food should supply 90% of a dog’s calories, and the remaining 10% can be from toppers, dog treats, and other extras.
Reduce Calories Elsewhere
Toppers add calories to your dog’s diet. To prevent unwanted weight gain, make sure you cut back on other treats to compensate.
Talk to your veterinarian if you have any questions about the best way to incorporate a topper into your dog’s diet.
Keep the Toppers Stored Properly
Some dog food toppers require refrigeration, while others do not or should only be refrigerated after you open the package.
Follow the storage instructions that are printed on the label of any dog food topper you purchase.
The Best Dog Food Toppers
Considering what you’re trying to accomplish is vital to picking out the best dog food toppers for your dog. Here are some vet-recommended options to get you started.
Dog Food Topper FAQs
What is the point of dog food toppers?
Pet parents typically use dog food toppers to encourage picky eaters to eat more, add variety to a dog’s diet, or supplement particular nutrients.
How often should you give your dog food toppers?
Dog food toppers labeled for “intermittent and supplemental feeding” should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s diet. It’s OK to use a topper at every meal as long as you stay under this amount.
Do dog food toppers need to be refrigerated?
Some dog food toppers need to be refrigerated, while others do not or should only be refrigerated after the package is opened. Follow the storage instructions printed on the label of any dog food topper you purchase.
