Best Dog Food For Dogs With Muscle Problems: 13 Top Picks

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Have you noticed your dog losing strength or muscle tone? Whether they’re recovering from an injury, slowing down with age, or struggling to stay active, the proper nutrition can play a powerful role in rebuilding muscle and restoring mobility.

Not all muscle problems can be solved with diet, but many can. Let’s dig into the best dog food for dogs with muscle problems — and which type suits your dog’s specific needs.

Best Fresh	Best Dry	For Sensitivities	For Seniors	For Weight Loss
The Farmer’s Dog	Orijen Original	Taste of the Wild	Nulo Freestyle	Wellness CORE
Visit Website	View on Amazon	View on Amazon	View on Amazon	View on Amazon
Read Review	Read Review	Read Review	Read Review	Read Review

Note: All of the dog foods I’ve included in my reviews meet or exceed Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional guidelines, are made in the U.S., and contain no meat by-products, fillers, corn, soy, wheat, or artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.

What Kinds Of Muscle Problems Can Dogs Have?

Muscle problems in dogs come in many forms. Some are temporary, like a sprain from a rough zoomie session. Others, like myopathies or myositis, are more serious and can affect your dog’s ability to move, play, or even stand.

Myopathies (muscle diseases) can be inherited or triggered by factors such as poor nutrition, injuries, toxins, or metabolic disorders. Myositis (muscle inflammation) is often caused by infections, parasites, or immune-related conditions—and can be painful and progressive if left untreated.

But here’s the good news: with the right diet and care, many muscle issues can be managed—or even reversed.

Common Muscle Issues in Dogs

• Delayed Muscle Development
  Young or malnourished pups may not build muscle properly.
• Muscle Weakness
  Often linked to poor diet, nerve disorders, or autoimmune conditions like myasthenia gravis.
• Muscle Atrophy (Wasting)
  Loss of muscle mass is common in aging dogs, injury recovery, or chronic illness.
• Muscle Strain or Injury
  Frequently seen in working dogs or high-energy breeds after intense activity.
• Post-Surgery or Rehab Muscle Loss
  Dogs healing from surgery or long-term illness often lose muscle.

The right dog food can play a significant role in helping your pup bounce back by supporting muscle recovery, reducing inflammation, and boosting strength from the inside out.

Warning Signs Of Muscle Problems

Symptoms of muscle issues in dogs include:

• Trembling legs
• Trouble standing
• Decreased mobility
• Weight loss in the limbs and hindquarters

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian first before adjusting your dog’s nutrition. These signs could indicate a serious underlying health condition that requires proper diagnosis.

What’s The Best Dog Food For Dogs With Muscle Problems?

One of the key things to look for in dog food to promote muscle growth and repair is high-protein content from animal sources. Other important nutrients include:

• Essential amino acids, such as leucine and lysine
• Healthy fats, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
• Certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins B6 and B12, zinc, and magnesium

The muscle-supporting dog foods I include below are packed with high-quality protein, essential nutrients, and joint-friendly ingredients to help your pup gain muscle and stay strong, active, and healthy.

I’ve broken my recommendations down by categories (fresh, dry, for seniors, for dogs with food sensitivities, and those who are overweight) to help you pinpoint the right dog chow for your pup’s individual needs.

Best Customized Fresh Dog Food For Muscle Growth

Fresh, human-grade dog food offers high-quality protein, better nutrient absorption, and fewer fillers, making it a smart option for dogs recovering from injury, dealing with muscle loss, or needing a custom diet.

These vet-crafted meals are gently cooked and tailored to your dog’s needs, helping support lean muscle, energy, and overall health from the inside out.

The Farmer’s Dog Review

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The Farmer’s Dog offers vet-formulated, human-grade meals tailored to your dog’s weight, activity level, and health goals, including muscle support. These fresh-cooked recipes use real meat, veggies, and no preservatives.

✔ Best for all life stages, grain-free diets, picky eaters, recovery diets, or custom muscle needs

• Key Ingredients (varies by recipe): Beef, turkey, sweet potato, kale, lentils, salmon oil
• High in animal protein and healthy fats to support muscle repair, weight maintenance, and recovery
• High moisture and digestibility support nutrient absorption and lean mass
• Balanced with essential nutrients and amino acids

Price

• Prices vary based on your pup’s age, weight, and specific subscription choices. Smaller dogs start at $2.00 a day.

Ollie Fresh Review

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Ollie creates personalized meal plans using whole meats and organ blends, providing complete, balanced nutrition for dogs of all life stages. Its high-protein, gently cooked meals support muscle repair and maintenance without additives.

✔ Ideal for all life stages, grain-inclusive diets, dogs recovering from surgery, or those with muscle loss

• Key Ingredients (varies by recipe): Lamb, beef liver, butternut squash, peas, cod liver oil
• High in animal protein and healthy fats to support muscle repair, weight maintenance, and recovery
• Rich in omega-3s, B vitamins, and iron
• Fresh-cooked and portion-controlled for muscle and weight management

Price

• Starts at $2.50 per day

Best Dog Food To Gain Muscle (Dry Food)

If your dog is underweight, recovering from illness, or naturally lean but needs more bulk, these high-calorie, high-protein options can help build size and strength.

Orijen Original Dry Review

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This Orijen grain-free formula mimics a dog’s ancestral diet with whole-prey ingredients that are rich in protein and essential amino acids — perfect for lean muscle development and recovery. It contains 85% animal ingredients, antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, and fatty acids.

✔ Excellent for lean muscle growth in active breeds

• Key Ingredients: Chicken, salmon, turkey, whole herring, eggs, chicken liver, lentils
• Protein: 38% | Fat: 18% | Fiber: 4% | Kcal/cup: 473
• Includes cartilage, organs, and bone for joint support
• DHA and EPA from whole fish for anti-inflammatory benefits
• Prebiotics and probiotics for digestive support

Price

• Starts at $34.99 (4.5-lb bag)

Bully Max 30/20 Adult High-Protein & Fat Chicken Review

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If your pup needs to pack on pounds and build strength, Bully Max is a favorite among owners of working dogs and bully breeds. This calorie-dense, protein-rich, grain-inclusive formula is designed to support muscle gain, underweight rescues, and naturally lean breeds. It is high in calories and fat, though, so it’s not ideal for dogs prone to weight gain.

✔ Great for underweight dogs, muscle atrophy, or breeds like Pit Bulls and Dobermans

• Key Ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, menhaden fish meal, flaxseed, beet pulp
• Protein: 30% | Fat: 20% | Fiber: 3.8% | Kcal/cup: 535 kcal/cup
• Rich in omega-3s, B-vitamins, and animal protein
• Promotes size and muscle without fillers
• Prebiotics and probiotics for digestive support

Price

• Starts at $25.99 (5-lb bag)

Crave High Protein Beef Adult Grain-Free Review

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Crave’s grain-free formula delivers 34% high-quality protein from real beef and pork, fueling lean muscle growth, strength, and energy. With no grains or unnecessary fillers, it’s all about building muscle the way nature intended.

✔ Ideal for lean muscle development and athletic breeds

• Key Ingredients: Beef, chicken meal, pork meal, lentils, fish meal
• Protein: 34% | Fat: 17% | Fiber: 3.5% | Kcal/cup: 459
• High in essential amino acids from multiple animal proteins

Price

• Starts at $17.99 (4-lb bag)

Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete Formula Review

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Designed for working and sporting dogs, this grain-inclusive formula is packed with calories, healthy fats, and protein from real chicken to help dogs build strength and recover from intense activity. It’s a solid choice for high-energy dogs that need more fuel or those recovering from muscle loss.

✔ Great for active dogs, working breeds, or dogs in physical rehab

• Key Ingredients: Chicken meal, chicken, ground rice, chicken fat, flaxseed, kale, blueberries
• Protein: 32% | Fat: 25% | Fiber: 4% | Kcal/cup: 470
• Added L-carnitine enhances fat metabolism and can lead to increased muscle mass while reducing fat storage
• Added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
• Probiotics and antioxidants support recovery and digestion

Price

• $54.99 (40-lb bag)

Open Farm RawMix Tide & Terrain Ancient Grains Review

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This ultra-premium, grain-inclusive formula blends high-protein kibble with freeze-dried raw coating and chunks, giving dogs the taste of raw with the convenience of dry food. Packed with ocean-caught whitefish, salmon, beef, and pork, it’s designed to support lean muscle, joint health, and overall vitality.

✔ Ideal for dogs needing high-quality protein and raw nutrition in a balanced, convenient format

• Key Ingredients: Wild-caught pollock, fish meal, beef, pork, oats, barley, flaxseed, pumpkin
• Protein: 30% | Fat: 14% | Fiber: 4.5% | Kcal/cup: 440
• Freeze-dried raw coating and added amino acids
• Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
• Non-GMO and organic fruits and veggies, such as carrots, blueberries, and kale
  

Open Farm follows transparency standards and third-party testing, so you know exactly where each ingredient comes from — perfect for pet parents who want both performance and peace of mind.

Price

• Starts $29.99 (3.5-lb bag)

Best Dog Food For Muscle Gain In Dogs With Sensitivities

If your pup has food allergies, a sensitive gut, or trouble digesting common proteins, choosing the wrong food can backfire, causing inflammation instead of strength.

These picks use limited ingredients, novel proteins, or gentle recipes to help your dog gain muscle without discomfort.

Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Smoke-Flavored Salmon & Ancient Grains Review

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This protein-rich, fish-based formula is ideal for building lean muscle while supporting skin, coat, and joint health. With sustainably sourced salmon and easy-to-digest ancient grains, it’s a solid choice for active dogs and those with food sensitivities. This formula is entirely chicken and beef-free.

✔ Ideal for dogs needing lean muscle support without poultry or legumes

• Key Ingredients: Salmon, ocean fish meal, grain sorghum, barley, chia seeds
• Protein: 30% | Fat: 15% | Fiber: 3% | Kcal/cup: 413
• Omega-3s from salmon and fish meal support recovery and joint health
• Added L-carnitine enhances fat metabolism and can lead to increased muscle mass while reducing fat storage
• Ancient grains provide steady energy and digestive fiber
• Probiotics and antioxidants promote immune and gut health

Price

• Starts at $19.99 (5-lb bag)

ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Lamb & Apple Grain-Free Review

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Crafted for dogs with dietary sensitivities, this limited-ingredient, high-protein recipe features lamb as the single animal protein — perfect for muscle development without common allergens. It’s rich in amino acids and easy to digest, making it ideal for sensitive dogs who still need strong muscle support.

✔ Great for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs that need to maintain or build muscle

• Key Ingredients: Lamb, lamb meal, lamb liver, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cranberries
• Protein: 31% | Fat: 17% | Fiber: 5% | Kcal/cup: 371
• Single-source protein reduces the risk of food reactions
• Apple, pumpkin, and probiotics support digestion and nutrient absorption
• Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and support muscle recovery

Price

• Starts at $34.99 (4.5-lb bag)

Best For Senior Dogs To Maintain Muscle Mass

As dogs age, they naturally start to lose muscle, but the right food can help slow that process down. These senior-friendly formulas are packed with high-quality protein, joint support, and nutrients to help your older pup stay strong, mobile, and full of life.

Nulo Freestyle Senior Grain-Free Trout & Sweet Potato Recipe Review

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Designed specifically for senior dogs, this recipe helps maintain lean muscle mass and mobility as dogs age. With trout as the main ingredient and added L-carnitine, it supports energy metabolism and muscle preservation without excessive fat or carbs.

✔ Ideal for aging dogs who are losing muscle but don’t need a high-calorie diet

• Key Ingredients: Deboned trout, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, salmon meal
• Protein: 30% | Fat: 12% | Fiber: 5% | Kcal/cup: 396
• L-carnitine supports fat burning and promotes lean muscle mass
• Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint and muscle health
• Probiotics aid digestion and nutrient absorption

Price

• Starts at $29.99 (6-lb bag)

Orijen Senior Review

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Orijen Senior is a powerhouse for aging dogs who still need high-protein fuel and more calories to stay strong. Made with a rich variety of fresh and raw animal ingredients, it supports lean muscle, brain function, immunity, and joint health, all without any fillers or grains.

✔ Ideal for active seniors or older dogs needing extra muscle and mobility support

• Key Ingredients: Chicken, turkey, salmon, chickpeas,
• Protein: 38% | Fat: 13% | Fiber: 6% | Kcal/cup: 427
• Packed with essential amino acids to combat muscle loss
• Glucosamine, chondroitin, and DHA for joint and cognitive support
• Organ meats enhance protein boost and taste for picky seniors
• Superfood veggies and fruits provide essential nutrients

Price

• Starts at $35.99 (4.5-lb bag)

Best Dog Food To Gain Muscle In Overweight Dogs

Yes, it’s possible to build muscle while trimming fat and calories. If your dog is overweight but still lacking muscle tone, the goal isn’t to feed less—it’s to feed smarter.

Many overweight dogs are “skinny-fat” with low muscle mass. The trick is to reduce empty calories and lower fat content while maintaining or increasing high-quality protein intake.

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Healthy Weight Review

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This protein-rich, calorie- and fat-controlled formula is made to help dogs lose fat while maintaining and building lean muscle. With turkey and chicken as the first ingredients and added glucosamine and L-carnitine, it supports healthy weight loss and muscle tone without sacrificing nutrition.

✔ Great for dogs who are heavy with low muscle definition

• Key Ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, peas, lentils, spinach
• Protein: 33% | Fat: 10% | Fiber: 8% | Kcal/cup: 372
• L-carnitine helps burn fat and preserve and build lean mass
• Glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health
• Probiotics and omega fatty acids
• High protein, low fat — perfect for trimming and toning

Price

• Starts at $20.98 (4-lb bag)

Merrick Healthy Weight Grain-Free Recipe Review

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Merrick’s grain-free Healthy Weight formula provides high-quality meat protein from deboned beef while cutting calories and fat. It’s great for dogs who need to lose fat, not muscle.

✔ Ideal for chubby dogs with joint concerns or low activity levels

• Key Ingredients: Deboned beef, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas, flaxseed
• Protein: 30% | Fat: 10% | Fiber: 5% | Kcal/cup: 352
• 77% of protein from animal sources
• Added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
• Omega-3s support lean body mass and reduce inflammation
• Limited ingredients for dogs with food sensitivities

Price

• Starts at $23.98 (4-lb bag)

Which Dogs Shouldn’t Have High-Protein Diets?

More protein isn’t always better, especially for dogs with certain health conditions. While protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle, not every dog should be eating high-protein food. In some cases, too much protein can do more harm than good.

Dogs who may need moderate or restricted protein diets include:

• Dogs with advanced kidney disease (CKD):
  High protein can increase waste buildup in the blood, putting extra stress on compromised kidneys.
• Dogs with liver shunts or liver dysfunction:
  These dogs may struggle to metabolize protein properly, leading to neurological symptoms.
• Certain senior dogs with pre-existing organ issues:
  While many seniors do need more protein, those with kidney or liver concerns may require a vet-monitored diet.
• Dogs with pancreatitis (in some cases):
  These dogs often need lower fat and protein, but their overall diet must be carefully managed.

Note: If your dog has been diagnosed with kidney or liver disease, always consult your vet before switching to a high-protein formula. Prescription diets may be necessary.

How To Help A Dog With Muscle Atrophy

Rebuilding strength takes more than a protein boost. Here’s what really helps.

1. Diagnose The Root Cause

Before you reach for supplements or specialty food, it’s crucial to understand why your dog is losing muscle. Your vet can pinpoint the cause to help treat the problem, not just the symptom.

Muscle wasting can be triggered by:

• Cushing’s disease
• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Neurological disorders
  • Vestibular disease
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
  • Myasthenia gravis
• Long-term immobilization

2. Feed For Recovery, Not Just Maintenance

Calories alone won’t rebuild muscle — your dog needs the right protein, fatty acids, and recovery nutrients. A targeted diet can jump-start strength and prevent further wasting. Consult with your vet about the right nutrients for your pup’s condition.

• Look for foods with ≥28% protein, ideally from animal sources
• Add omega-3s to reduce inflammation and support recovery
• Supplement with L-carnitine, glucosamine, and BCAAs

3. Controlled, Low-Impact Exercise

Too much movement can make things worse, but the right kind of exercise can work wonders. Gentle, consistent activity helps activate muscles without causing strain.

• Start with short, soft-surface walks
• Use hydrotherapy if available
• Incorporate passive stretching
• Try balancing work using cushions or wobble boards

4. Improve Home Accessibility

If your dog is struggling to get around, the environment may be part of the problem. A few minor adjustments at home can reduce injury risk and encourage movement.

• Add pet ramps, orthopedic beds, and non-slip mats
• Elevate food bowls
• Limit stair access as needed

5. Keep Their Mind Engaged

Mental stimulation isn’t just for fun — it can actually aid in physical recovery. Keeping your dog’s brain busy helps maintain motivation and reduces stress, which supports healing.

• Puzzle feeders
• Brain-training games
• Interactive dog toys
• Scent work

The Bottom Line: Dogs with muscle atrophy need a holistic recovery plan — not just better food. With patience, proper nutrition, gentle exercise, and veterinary support, your pup can regain strength and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions owners ask most often about dogs with muscle problems. If you don’t see yours here, ask us in our comments.

How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Losing Muscle?

Look for signs like bony hips, skinny limbs, wobbling when walking, or trouble climbing stairs.

What’s The Fastest Way To Help My Dog Gain Muscle?

Combine high-protein food, short resistance walks or hill climbs, and muscle-supporting supplements. However, it’s important to consult your vet for a proper regimen.

Is High-Protein Dog Food Safe For Senior Dogs?

Yes, if they’re otherwise healthy. Older dogs still need protein to maintain muscle. Just avoid super-high calorie foods if weight is a concern.

Can I Feed Raw Food To Help Build Muscle?

Yes, but raw diets must be balanced. Consult your vet for their recommendations.

Does Your Dog Need To Gain Weight?

In some cases, a dog may need to gain both weight and muscle. See our reviews of the best dog food for weight gain to learn more.

If your pup has or had muscle problems, what food helped? Please share in our comments!

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