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Just like us humans, dogs need salt in their diet. Too little, and they could become deficient. Too much can lead to salt toxicity, which can be fatal. So, it’s super important for us pet parents to get it right. And just like most things in life, it’s not as simple as that. Every dog is different, and some dogs need different sodium levels in their diet. Finding the best low-sodium dog food can be an overwhelming task. Especially if you have been told you must reduce your dog’s salt intake because of a health issue. I’ve created a buying guide to help you decide which low-sodium dog food is right for your pup. Let’s get into it.
| Dry | Wet | Fresh | Small Breed | Large Breed | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |  |
| Earthborn Holistic | Purina One | Raised Right | Iams | Hill’s Science Diet | American Journey |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | Visit Website | View on Chewy | View on Chewy | View on Chewy |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Do Dogs Need Salt?
All dogs need salt in their diet as it plays an essential part in their electrolyte balance, nerve transmission, and muscle cell function. It regulates blood pressure, assists with regular and healthy digestion, and aids in fluid retention. Salt can also help prevent conditions like gout.
Thankfully, domesticated dogs consume enough sodium to survive. The majority of their salt intake comes from meat and dairy. Commercial dog foods contain an acceptable level in the form of added table salt. In dog food, salt works as a natural preservative and flavoring and absorbs extra moisture, which helps prevent the formation of bacteria and mold.
Is Sodium Bad For Dogs?
Sodium is an essential mineral in your dog’s diet, but too much can be a serious health issue and lead to salt toxosis. For most dogs, if they overeat sodium, their bodies can excrete it either through drinking lots of water or peeing it out to eliminate the high salt levels in their blood. Thankfully, most dog owners do not need to worry about salt intake. However, not all dogs have this ability, and too much or too little salt can be dangerous for them. This includes dogs with congestive heart failure, older dogs, and dogs who are overweight.
Recommended Sodium Intake For Dogs
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) states that dogs need a minimum of 0.3% or 100mg per 100kcal of sodium in their diet. The sodium content for dogs in growth stages should be a minimum of 0.3% dry matter; for adult dogs, it should be 0.08%. The AAFCO does not, however, say what the maximum salt intake should be. Information on a food’s sodium content can also be challenging to find because food manufacturers are not required to disclose the sodium content on their packaging. However, you can contact them for details should you need the precise amount.
Many recipes for food and treats exceed the minimum amount, so if you need your pup on a low-sodium diet, it’s best to discuss with your vet and look for brands that specifically mention low-sodium or are for heart health. Often, these recipes need a veterinary prescription.
5 Reasons Dogs May Need A Low-Sodium Diet
If your veterinarian has not recommended putting your dog on a low-sodium diet, do not do so. Those dogs who need to go on a low-sodium diet are the ones who are unable to process sodium or excrete it effectively. Most dog owners do not have to worry about salt intake. There are many reasons why a vet would recommend putting your dog on a low-sodium diet. The most common reasons are:
1. Heart Disease
Increased sodium can lead to increased blood pressure, possibly leading to a variety of heart diseases and conditions, as well as heart attacks and strokes. Limiting salt intake can help dogs regulate their blood pressure better and, in turn, prevent heart issues. Dogs with heart issues such as congestive heart failure may be put on a reduced sodium diet
2. Liver Disease
The liver is responsible for filtering out toxins in the blood and promoting other normal bodily functions. Reducing your dog’s salt intake can help them manage the effects of certain liver disorders. The first sign of liver disease is urinating more and drinking more, primarily because of their high sodium intake and abnormal levels of other minerals.
3. Kidney Disease
The function of a kidney is to filter out toxins, including excess sodium and other unwanted minerals. Once they have done this, they excrete them by urine for the body to dispose of. Renal, or kidney disease, prevents this process from happening, building sodium to unsafe levels. It also increases water retention, which can cause a variety of other health conditions.
4. Weight Management
Vets often advise dogs who are managing weight to switch to weight-management dog food. Typically, weight management kibble has reduced sodium content because chunky canines already have a heightened risk of cardiovascular problems.
5. Senior Dogs
If you have a senior pooch, your vet might prescribe a low-sodium diet despite no health concerns. In the older years, dogs can struggle to regulate blood pressure and aren’t as effective at excreting it. Additionally, seniors are more at risk of the above health conditions. They are also more likely to suffer from poor nerve function and muscle issues.
Lowering salt intake minimizes the risk of potential problems related to senior health and prevents current symptoms from worsening, allowing the body to manage them better. But again, unless your vet has advised your aging pup to go on a low-sodium diet, feeding him food designed for senior dogs is best.
Salt Toxicity
Also known as hypernatremia, salt toxicity is a dangerously high sodium concentration in the blood. It occurs when a dog eats too much salt and doesn’t drink enough water to dilute it. High sodium levels can be fatal, particularly for dogs suffering from the above conditions.
Symptoms of hypernatremia include:
- Increased thirst
- Confusion and disorientation
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- High water loss through urination
- Seizures and coma
Hypernatremia usually occurs after a dog has gobbled up a whole bag of salted popcorn or destroyed a salt shaker. If you notice any of the above symptoms or are concerned that your dog has eaten too much salt, you need to contact your vet for advice.
The lethal dose of sodium in dogs is approximately 4 grams per kilogram of their body weight. To put that into perspective, a teaspoon of salt weighs around 5 grams, so the average dog would need to eat a lot of salt to reach a toxic level. Of course, the smaller the dog, the more dangerous it can be.
Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In Low-Sodium Dog Food
As you can see, if your vet has advised a low-salt diet, it is something that you need to take seriously. Aside from the salt levels, you need to be able to identify the right kibbles and know what makes a good low-salt dog food.
Quality Protein
A well-balanced diet is an optimum goal for Fido’s nutrition. Quality protein sources are the second biggest food component to consider. Ideally, the first ingredient on the ingredients list should be animal protein. Real meat as the first ingredient indicates that the food you feed Fido is good quality. However, some diet-specific kibbles may not list meat as the first ingredient.
Most salt intake comes from meat, so he needs protein to maintain a healthy salt intake. Real meats, meat meals, and eggs are the optimal sources of meat protein. Other ingredients, such as organs and cartilage, are nutritionally beneficial protein sources. You can find the protein content on the packaging in the guaranteed analysis section. AAFCO recommends that adult dogs should eat a minimum protein content of 18%.
Omega Fats
Omega fats are another key consideration in his diet. Many people associate fats with bad health, but dogs would be very ill without them. Healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for healthy organ function, skin and coat health, vitamin and mineral absorption, and overall wellness. These essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids must come from your dog’s diet, as his body cannot produce them. All of these can help him manage sodium levels efficiently. Look for ingredients such as fish, fish oil, flaxseeds, and plant oils.
Vitamins and Minerals
Just like sodium, Fido needs various essential vitamins and minerals for his body to function as it should. High-quality food ensures he has the right nutritional balance. Ingredients to look for are vitamin and mineral supplements, as well as fruits and veggies.
Where Is Salt On The Label? Other Names For Salt In Dog Food
When looking at a dog food label, salt is not always easy to find. This is because it is often either not listed or included under different names than salt or sodium. Other names can include sodium chloride, iodized salt, choline chloride, borax, baking soda, brine, disodium phosphate, disodium EDTA sea salt, sodium carbonate, sodium borate, sodium nitrate, sodium sulfate, and monosodium glutamate (MSG), among others. It can also be included under the term “vitamins & minerals.”
The Salt Divider
Pet food marketing is not always as transparent as we pet parents would like. As a general guideline in pet food, any ingredient that comes after salt should make up less than 1% of the diet. This means that ingredients listed after salt are only included in very small amounts. This is called the salt divider. Some pet foods include ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and superfoods after the salt divider, meaning they are only included in minuscule amounts. Yet, they market their food with these ingredients, which are heavily featured in the packaging picture. Also, watch out for foods with “no added salt,” as this can be a deceptive way of covering the sodium content or salt divide.
8 Best Low-Sodium Dog Food Brands
If your vet has recommended that your pooch consume a veterinary-prescribed diet, you should follow this guidance. If, however, your vet has suggested an over-the-counter lower-sodium dog food, the eight recommendations below are a great place to start. All are available without a prescription.
Remember that it is always important to read the labels yourself, and manufacturers can change their recipes at any time.
Best Dry: Earthborn Holistic Weight Control Grain-Free Review
Earthborn Holistic is a reputable brand that sells high-quality kibbles. This kibble has the lowest sodium content on our list. At 50mg/100Kcal, it falls between the marked sodium diet and the moderate sodium restriction. Designed for adult dogs who need to lose weight, this low-fat formula has a low sodium content. It also lists l-carnitine, which helps to boost his metabolism.
The protein content is 25%, and the first ingredient is chicken meal. This is a concentrated form of protein and a natural source of glucosamine for joint health. Full of healthy omega fats, this product will build a shiny and healthy coat and look after organ function and nutrient absorption. All of this helps the body optimally regulate sodium.
Blueberries, apples, cranberries, carrots, and spinach provide fiber and antioxidants boost immune system health. This is also a high-fiber diet, which helps dogs feel fuller for longer and assists with healthy digestion.
Price
Best Wet: Purina ONE SmartBlend Classic Adult Canned Review
This is a Purina product from their Purina ONE SmartBlend range. It is designed for all adult dogs. The sodium content is 55mg/100Kcal, which places this option into the moderate sodium restriction diet.
This canned food has a higher protein content, with chicken and turkey broth as the first ingredients. Real chicken, liver, and egg products add extra nutrients and taste to the mixture. Spinach provides antioxidants and added vitamin and mineral supplements boost immunity. It also helps dogs absorb and process everything they consume, including sodium.
This recipe can be used with any breed or size. It is also corn, wheat, and soy-free. It is easy to digest and can make a nice addition to your pup’s diet.
Price
- $23.76 ($0.15 / Ounce) for a case of 12 (12oz cans)
Best Fresh: Raised Right Pork & Pumpkin Paté Adult Dog Review
Raised Right is a human-grade dog food made with fresh ingredients and prepared in a USDA-inspected human-grade facility. Along with that, recipes are formulated by a veterinarian and include no corn, wheat, gluten, soy, or dairy. You can set up a subscription or buy food as a one-time purchase, whichever works better for your budget. As human-grade food, it is an expensive option but one of the healthiest you can make for your pup.
Raised Right recipes use a single source of protein, organ meats, and no carb fillers. The pork and pumpkin recipe is a top, naturally low-sodium pick if you are looking for a lower-sodium option. It has 0.12% sodium and no added synthetic vitamins or minerals. Ingredient sourcing is transparent on the website, and each batch goes through extensive testing before being shipped out.
The pork and pumpkin paté is a limited-ingredient recipe using only whole foods. Pork heart, pumpkin, pork liver, organic spearmint, eggshell powder, cod liver oil, and organic dried kelp are the only things in it. This one offers top taste and nutrition. If you can add it in, fresh dog food is a great investment in your pup’s overall health.
Price
- $10.99 per 1-pound bag
Customers receive 20% off their first order through the company. Our readers can access the discount through this link.
In-Depth Raised Right Review
Learn more about this fresh dog food company in our full Raised Right dog food review.
Best For Small Breeds: Iams Adult MiniChunks Small Kibble High Protein Review
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Iams is also a well-known brand that supplies dogs with quality dog food at affordable prices. This kibble’s sodium content is 55mg/100Kcal, which brings it into the moderate sodium restriction bracket.
The protein content is 25%, and the ingredients list real chicken first. Egg product is also in the ingredients list. This is full of protein and DHA, which is excellent for cognitive function. A grain-inclusive option, this recipe includes both corn and sorghum.
This kibble has a long list of vitamin and mineral supplements that keep dogs feeling strong and healthy. Again, it will help with his nutrient absorption and blood management. The kibble pieces are extra-small so that small breeds can easily eat this kibble.
Price
- $46.98 ($1.57 / lb) ( 30-lb bag)
Best For Large Breeds: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Review
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Hill’s Science Diet is a trusted brand that bases its recipes on scientific research. This recipe is designed for large breed dogs who weigh over 55 pounds. The sodium level is lower compared to most other kibbles, which is 71mg/100Kcal. Again, this kibble falls into the moderate sodium restriction bracket.
The protein content is 19%. Although this is lower than the other kibbles on this list, it still exceeds AAFCO guidelines, so you know it is good quality. The first ingredient is lamb meal, which is gentle on his digestive system.
It is a grain-inclusive diet that uses brown rice and wheat to provide fiber and energy. Plant oils and flaxseed nourish the skin and coat from the inside out. Glucosamine is found in lamb meals and other ingredients, which help to support a larger breed’s joints.
Price
- $78.99 ($2.26 / lb) (35-lb bag)
Detailed Hill’s Science Diet Review
Our detailed Hill’s Science Diet dog food review looks into the brand in more detail and shares our personal experience.
Best For Seniors: American Journey Grain Free Senior Dog Food Review
American Journey is one of the newest brands on this list, but they are very popular. This is Chewy’s in-house brand. The senior kibble recipe is a high-quality food at a reasonable price. It’s designed for the golden oldies who need to reduce salt in their systems.
The protein content is 30%, which is by far the highest on this list. Deboned chicken, chicken meal, and turkey meal are the first three ingredients. And they are lean, nutritious, and full of taste. This is a grain-free option, and instead, he uses slow-release carbohydrates for his energy needs.
As a senior kibble, the fiber content is much higher than adult kibble. This helps him feel fuller for longer and hopefully cuts down on his snacking. It is full of nutrient-dense ingredients, such as marine microalgae, dried kelp, and pumpkin, which keep his immune system strong.
Price
- $58.99 (24-lb bag)
Detailed American Journey Review
Our detailed American Journey dog food review looks into the brand in more detail and shares our personal experience.
For Sensitive Stomachs Dry: Wellness Complete Health Adult Dog Food Review
Wellness Complete is designed for your dog’s full health and has lower sodium content. At 63mg/100Kcal, it falls into the moderate sodium restriction bracket. This is a well-balanced kibble that provides dogs with everything that they need.
Real lamb and lamb meal are the first two ingredients: high quality and a gentler protein source. Menhaden fish meal is also listed, providing extra taste and omega fatty acids for coat health. Additionally, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, this kibble is an excellent option.
Sweet potatoes, apples, blueberries, peas, and carrots support immune health. Extra vitamins and minerals are added for an extra boost, and probiotic ingredients promote friendly bacteria in the gut.
Price
- $89.98 (30-lb bag)
For Sensitive Stomachs Wet: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Adult Review
is our wet food option because not all dogs like, or can eat, dried kibble alone. This product has the joint-lowest sodium content. At 50mg/100Kcal, this falls between the low sodium diet and the moderate sodium restriction.
Purina Pro Plan has designed this wet food for pups with sensitive stomachs and skin, so you can be sure that every ingredient soothes his gut and reduces irritation. Made with salmon and other fish sources, it is full of omega fatty acids to keep the skin and coat vibrant and beautiful.
This is a grain-inclusive diet that includes rice. Rice provides fiber and energy and adds to the texture, giving dogs some crunch. It is nutritionally complete and full of vitamins, minerals, and prebiotic fiber.
Price
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a lot of questions about feeding dogs a low-sodium diet. I’ve addressed a few of the most common below, but if I didn’t get to yours, just let me know in the comments.
How Do I Lower My Dog’s Sodium Levels?
There are a few ways to approach this, one is looking for lower sodium dog food. Another is to cut out salty snacks and avoid giving your dog any bites of what you are eating. Dog treats often contain very high sodium levels, so try some homemade ones (try our recipes) or substitute fresh, dog-safe vegetables. High-quality dog food made from whole, fresh ingredients is a good step.
Is A Hydrolyzed Diet The Same As Low Sodium?
No, these are not the same. A hydrolyzed protein diet is one where the proteins have been broken down so much that they are not recognizable to your dog’s system. This diet is only something a dog would need if they are dealing with serious food allergies, food intolerance, or another issue like irritable bowel disease. Most hydrolyzed protein dog foods are prescription only, and you should not put your pup on one of these unless specifically instructed to do so by your veterinarian.
What Food Is Good For Dogs With Congestive Heart Failure?
You will want to speak with your veterinarian about your dog’s specific dietary needs. In general, fresh foods with no artificial ingredients are best. High-quality dog food recipes with low sodium, high protein, and low fat are best. Food high in antioxidants is also good, as this helps prevent further damage to the heart. If your dog has congestive heart failure, it is likely your vet will put them on a prescription diet.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy From Puppy To Senior
A healthy diet is key to keeping your pup healthy from puppyhood to their senior days. It’s important to pay attention to changes in their appetite, bowel movements, and energy levels. Your veterinarian is your best resource if you are worried about your pup having special dietary needs like allergies or needing low sodium. Don’t start your dog on any kind of diet like low-sodium or hydrolyzed protein without speaking to your vet first. You should also consider vitamins and supplements with the approval of your vet. A healthy lifestyle with regular walks and physical exercise is also pivotal to your dog’s long-term health.
Our Methodology
We analyze hundreds of dog food brands and individual formulas to provide our recommendations for the best nutrition. Each of the following elements helps us determine the best dog food for any dietary need. Our in-depth research includes:
- Scrutinizing all ingredients included in every formula
- Having firsthand experience with our dogs for many of the foods we recommend
- Assessing the guaranteed analysis for every formula, including protein, fat, fiber, and caloric content
- Investigating the latest scientific studies on dogs’ nutritional needs and benefits of ingredients
- Researching the specific dietary needs for breed sizes and health conditions
- Reading hundreds of customer reviews
- Staying informed on every dog food recall
- Diving into every pet food brand’s history and reputation
- Keeping on top of pet food trends
Unlike many other review sites, we give unbiased reviews based on countless hours of research. Our goal is to provide our readers with the healthiest options for their pups.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Danielle is a lifelong dog owner and researcher dedicated to improving the lives of pets everywhere. She has reviewed over 50 dog food brands, testing many with her own dogs, two rescue pups named Daisy and Falkor. She spends countless hours researching the latest pet care, health, food, and training developments to help owners learn what’s behind the label. Danielle works with a professional and experienced team to bring our readers the best, most accurate, and up-to-date information to better the lives of pets and people.
