This is our review of the best low residue dog food in 2022
Gastrointestinal (GI) disease is a common cause of illness in small animals, accounting for approximately 4% of visits to veterinarians. Regardless of the form or persistence of the symptoms, dietary therapy is always part of the treatment plan for GI illness.
Low residue diets assist with digestive problems linked to diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence.
Table of Contents
The fiber content of these diets is lower than that of regular dog food. Fiber is not a source of energy for dogs, so it passes through the stomach and causes pups to poop more frequently.
If your dog is pooping too much even though he is eating a regular diet, consider giving him low residue dog food.
Low-residue dog foods have less fiber and more easily digested ingredients, which helps to decrease your dog’s stools’ frequency and size. Low-residue dog meals can also be beneficial for dogs with certain digestive problems.
I’m a veterinarian technician who studied pet food formulations in order to assist you choose the finest diet for your dog, and I learned that Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dog Food is the finest all-around low residue dog food.
Dogs poop, but not all dogs require the same nutritional intake. As a result, I looked at the finest low-residue dog foods in each category.
In this article we will look at:
- The 12 best low residue dog foods
- What is low residue dog food
- The benefits of a low residue dog food
- How to choose a low residue dog food
Let’s get started!
12 Best Low Residue Dog Foods Reviewed
Whether you go dry or wet food, one of the easiest ways for you to determine good dog food is by reading the label and looking out for the AAFCO Statement.
All of the dog foods on this list are in accordance with the AAFCO nutrient profile recommendations for dogs.
Grain Free Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas
- Fiber Content: 4%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 370 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Gluten-Free, High-Protein
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Overall
This high-protein, low-fiber dog food uses highly digestible ingredients to offer a low residue formula that may help reduce stool frequency. Nutrient-rich ingredients help limit stools as most of the food is utilized when digested, leaving little waste. [1]
A high 32% protein content comes from multiple high-quality animal sources. Buffalo, lamb meal and chicken meal provide an ample amount of essential amino acids. Meat meals also contain bones that act as a natural source of glucosamine.
Real fruits and vegetables offer concentrated vitamins and minerals. There are no high-fiber filler ingredients like grain or corn. A proprietary canine probiotic blend also enhances nutrient absorption by supporting a healthy digestive system. [2]
The grain-free recipe uses alternative sources of digestible carbohydrates like peas and sweet potatoes. These starchy vegetables provide your pup with high levels of healthy energy.
Dog owners often notice improvements in the overall health and appearance of their pups who eat this diet. Reviews also often share that this food helped regulate their dog’s bowel movements.
Best Dog Food for Less Poop
Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Chicken Recipe
- First 5 Ingredients: Dehydrated Chicken, Organic Barley, Dehydrated Potatoes, Organic Flaxseed, Organic Oats
- Fiber Content: 4%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 24.5% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 8% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 214 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: High-Protein, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Human-Grade, Non-GMO, Natural
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Premium Low Residue Dog Food
Dehydrated dog food like this formula offers the benefits of raw dog food with dry kibble convenience. The digestibility of the dehydrated whole-food ingredients in this recipe helps reduce stool production.
This formula meets daily nutrient requirements with a simple recipe. And higher levels of protein and calories provide more energy for active dogs. The 24.5% protein content comes from a premium free-range chicken.
The grain-inclusive recipe features whole grain organic barley as a digestible carbohydrate source without high levels of fiber.
The formula includes other organic ingredients but excludes any by-products, preservatives, or GMOs.
Reviews share that this dehydrated food is easy to prepare by merely mixing the food with warm water. Even most picky dogs will readily eat this moist, premium food.
Best dog Food for Firm Stools
Nutro Natural Choice Adult Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Barley
- Fiber Content: 4%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 343 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Contains No GMO Ingredients, Artificial Flavors, or preservatives
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Premium Low Residue Dog Food
This one is Great for Owners who prefer a grain-inclusive diet for their dog that is also low fiber and easy to digest.
Real chicken is at the very top of the ingredient list for a high-quality protein source. Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy joints. while essential antioxidants support immunity
Also included are natural sources of fiber to support healthy digestion along with vitamins, chelated minerals.
One vitamin supplemented in this formula, Vitamin E, is essential for healthy immune system functioning. This recipe also contains inflammation-fighting Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Some other great ingredients in the recipe are chicken meal, carrots, blueberries, apples, and sweet potatoes.
The food meets AAFCO’s nutritional guidelines for adult maintenance. Owners love and trust this dry dog food, some stating that their dog’s stools are always firm with this food. Some owners have fed this brand to generations of their dogs with good results!
Nutritional Profile Includes:
- Dry dog food featuring tasty chicken––a high-quality protein source––as the very first ingredient.
- Made with non-GMO ingredients, no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy.
- Formulated with essential antioxidants to support your dog’s immune system and natural fiber to support digestion.
- Contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints.
- Helps promote healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat with omega-3 and -6 fatty acids
- Great for large breed dogs 18 months and older.
Dog Food for Joints
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef & Brown Rice Recipe
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Pork Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oat Meal
- Fiber Content: 4%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 26% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 343 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Contains No GMO Ingredients, Artificial Flavors, or preservatives
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: All Life Stages
Merrick’s Classic Healthy Grains This food meets AAFCO’s nutritional profiles for maintenance and its ingredients are sourced from trusted local farmers to support dogs’ overall health.
Deboned chicken is the first ingredient with healthy and digestible grains including brown rice, barley, and quinoa.
In addition, this recipe contains leading amounts of omega fatty acids with 3% omega 6 and 0.5% omega 3, which are great for dogs’ skin and coat health. Glucosamine and chondroitin are also supplemented to support healthy joints, plus it’s combined with essential vitamins and minerals
Nutritional Profile Includes:
- Features real deboned beef as the very first ingredient.
- Leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for dogs to support healthy hips and joints.
- Includes essential vitamins, minerals, brown rice, and ancient grains such as quinoa to aid in digestion.
- Crafted in Hereford, TX, and cooked in the USA.
High Protein Dog Food
American Journey Salmon Grain Free Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes
- Fiber Content: 5%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 390 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten Free, High-Protein
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Budget Low Residue Dog Food
This affordable grain-free formula offers concentrated nutrition for dogs with adverse reactions to fillers and high fiber content. The high 32% protein content comes from a combination of deboned salmon, chicken meal, and turkey meal.
Salmon is an excellent source of animal protein that is rich in omega fatty acids. These healthy fats include DHA, a type of omega-3 that is vital for brain and eye health. [3]
It is also flavorful and ideal for picky pups with a fussy appetite.
Turkey meal and chicken meal provide natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. These ingredients also contribute concentrated protein to the recipe.
Chickpeas and sweet potatoes replace traditional grains as sources of carbohydrates. And a low 5% fiber content is ideal for dogs with frequent stools.
Dog owners recommend this food for pet parents on a budget who want to keep their pet on a low residue diet.
Best Puppy Food
Merrick Grain Free Texas Beef Puppy Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Lamb Meal, Potatoes
- Fiber Content: 4.5%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 28% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 4.5% Crude Fiber, 11% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 400 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free
- Life Stage: Growth
- Best For: Low Residue Dog Food for Puppies
Puppies tend to have more frequent bowel movements than adult dogs. Low residue dog food like this formula from Merrick help regulate growing pups’ stools and control digestive systems.
High protein content is critical for ensuring that growing puppies get the amino acids they need to support muscle development. [4]
The 28% protein content comes from deboned beef. This red meat also includes concentrated amounts of nutrients and is an excellent source of iron.
This recipe includes pea protein, but plant protein is not as readily digestible by dogs as animal protein. The formula is also grain-free, using whole peas and potatoes as carbohydrate sources for high-energy pups.
Added glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy joint development. And a probiotic blend helps sensitive young digestive tracts without excess fiber.
Salmon meal provides high amounts of omega fatty acids. Omega-3s like DHA is especially important for normal eye and brain development during growth stages.
Owners of puppies suffering from diarrhea have noticed increased stool firmness after switching to this diet. But some picky pups may not find the formula appealing.
Best Senior Dog Food
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Senior Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Lentils, Dried Ground Potatoes, Peas
- Fiber Content: 6.25%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 6.25% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 359 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Grain-Free, Gluten-Free, High-Protein
- Life Stage: Senior
- Best For: Low Residue Dog Food for Seniors
Aging dogs can also suffer from troublesome stools. This low residue dog food has a formula designed to provide the exceptional nutritional support that seniors need.
A high 32% protein content from deboned turkey helps maintain muscle mass as dog’s age. Deboned turkey is an excellent lean meat for older dogs that provides high-quality protein without drastically increasing fat content.
A low 12% crude fat content is ideal for the slower metabolisms of sedentary seniors. Senior dogs are also more likely to become overweight. Excess weight can also increase stress on older joints suffering from arthritis.
Fortification with glucosamine helps manage joint discomfort in seniors. Added taurine also promotes heart health by promoting healthy blood pressure. [5]
Although the 6.5% fiber content is slightly higher than some other recipes on this list, dog owners still notice improvements in their dog’s stools. Senior dogs have slightly higher fiber requirements for digestive regulation
Grain Free Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Beef Canned Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Potatoes, Carrageenan
- Fiber Content: 1.5%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 9% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 523 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: High-Protein, Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea Free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Low Residue Wet Dog Food
Wet dog food formulas generally use less fiber-rich ingredients and contain fewer fillers. This low residue canned formula has a simple grain-free recipe appealing to dogs who may reject other dog kibbles.
The high moisture content of wet food reduces the relative crude percentages of macronutrients. A 10% protein content comes from beef, chicken, and chicken liver. Liver meat is a concentrated source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A. [6]
An exceptionally low fiber content helps reduce poop production. This food also excludes any by-products, corn, wheat, or soy. The absence of common allergens and fillers makes this recipe ideal for sensitive pups and reduces waste.
Some pet owners use this wet food to encourage their dogs to eat another low residue dry dog food by mixing it with kibble. But the high caloric content of this canned food may not be suitable for overweight dogs.
Best Grain Free Dog Food
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lentils, Peas
- Fiber Content: 6%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 342 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: High-Protein, Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea Free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Low Residue Dog Food for Large Breeds
Large breeds have unique nutritional needs and uniquely large stools. This low residue dog food helps reduce the size and frequency of your giant buddy’s stool with low fiber content and high digestibility.
The first ingredient is deboned chicken, providing a lean source of 34% protein content. High protein can help support the increased muscle mass of larger pups.
This increased mass can also place additional strain on the joints of big dogs. Fortification with antioxidants and glucosamine helps protect susceptible joints from tissue damage.
Antioxidants come from whole fruits and vegetables that are easily digestible.
A moderate fat and caloric content helps prevent excess weight gain in larger dogs with slower metabolisms. The large kibble size of this dog food is also ideal for maximizing chewing in bigger mouths.
Larger breeds with big chests are also susceptible to bloat. [7] The probiotics in this recipe can help prevent this problematic condition by preventing gas buildup from harmful bacteria.
Owners notice less digestive upset after switching their dogs to this food. They also much appreciate the larger kibble size compared to generic dry dog foods.
Best Low Residue Dog Food For Small Breeds
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Small Breed Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Split Peas, Brewers Rice, Whole Brown Rice
- Fiber Content: 5%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 343 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Non-GMO
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Low Residue Dog Food for Small Breeds
Many low residue formulas are grain-free. But grain-inclusive recipes like this dog food may be more suitable for the higher metabolisms of smaller breeds. This recipe uses whole grains with lower fiber content to prevent excess stool production.
A moderate 24% protein content comes from real chicken. An average fat content complements the protein composition to provide adequate levels of energy for tiny pups.
Whole grains like rice provide high levels of digestible carbohydrates. Toy breeds cannot store adequate levels of glycogen in their small muscle mass. If they do not consistently eat carbohydrates from their diet, they can experience hypoglycemia. [8]
This formula uses non-GMO ingredients and eliminates fillers and preservatives for optimal gut health. The low 5% fiber content is also ideal for low-residue diets.
Pet owners recommend this dog food for tiny pups with sensitive stomachs. They also appreciate the small kibble size that is easy for little mouths to chew.
Weight Management Dog Food
Merrick Grain-Free Healthy Weight Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Turkey Meal
- Fiber Content: 5%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 11% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 354 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Weight Control
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For: Low Residue Dog Food for Weight Control
Obesity is a common health issue that can also contribute to digestive problems. This low residue dog food helps promote weight loss with high-quality protein and low-fat content.
Real deboned beef as the first ingredient, providing a high 32% protein content. The low 10% fat content keeps the caloric content low enough for pets on weight control diets.
Omega fatty acids support a healthy coat, and glucosamine helps manage discomfort in stressed joints.
The recipe is gluten and grain-free. It also excludes common allergens like corn and soy, making it suitable for pups with sensitive stomachs. [9]
Overweight dogs often also have an increased risk of developing heart problems. Added taurine supports heart health in these pups.
Many diet formulas have high levels of fiber to keep dogs full. But this low residue dog food has a moderate content that helps regulate stool production.
Dog owners who feed this formula may notice weight loss within 30 days.
Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
Castor & Pollux Pristine Healthy Grains Wild-Caught Salmon & Oatmeal Recipe Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Whitefish Meal, Organic Oatmeal, Organic Barley, Lamb Meal
- Fiber Content: 3.5%
- Guaranteed Analysis: 28% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 11% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 370 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn No Wheat No Soy
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best For Low Residue Dog Food for Sensitive Dogs
Made with wild-caught salmon as the very first ingredient, this tasty kibble is 100% free of artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. This poultry-free dry dog food features healthy grains and is completely free from soy, corn, and wheat ingredients. This delectable dry dog also food features freeze-dried raw bites and organic produce grown without synthetic fertilizers or chemical pesticides
Key Benefits
- Wild-caught salmon is the #1 ingredient in this recipe and is certified sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council.
- Contains raw bites for a delicious boost of flavor your dog will love!
- Natural dog food made without artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
- Contains product that is responsibly grown without synthetic fertilizers or chemical pesticides.
- 100% free from corn, wheat or soy ingredients.
Many pet owners appreciate the responsibly sourced ingredients in this dog food formula.
Low Residue Dog Food Buying Guide
Finding the best low residue food to manage your pup’s stools involves more than just selecting a recipe with the lowest fiber content.
What is Low Residue Dog Food?
High-quality, low-residue dog food can assist with digestive issues caused by diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence.
The fiber content of many commercial dog foods is lower than that of regular dog food. Fiber isn’t a source of energy for dogs, so it travels through their digestive systems and causes pups to have more bowel movements.
Benefits of Low Residue Dog Food
The high phosphorus levels in commercial food can be harmful to pets with damaged kidneys. It’s critical to feed a low-phosphorus diet to keep the pet’s blood phosphorus level down, which is thought to slow the progression of kidney disease and help survival.
So feeding low phosphorus dog foods is essential for the management of chronic kidney disease. [11]
1. Reduced Frequency and Volume of Stools
Budget commercial dog foods often contain a few nutritious elements as well as a laundry list of fillers and artificial additives to reduce costs, improve the look of the food, and truly fill your dog’s stomach. The problem is that these fillers are difficult for dogs to digest. Your dog won’t get all of the nutrients from their diet because it is passing through their system undigested.
- Less absorption = More waste: There are virtually no fillers and the carbohydrates utilized are purposely easy to digest with low residue meals. A healthy digestive system allows all of your dog’s nutrients to be absorbed.
- Better absorption = Less waste: When you switch your dog to a low residue diet, his stools should return to normal over time. They will go less frequently and poop less. It’s probable that they’ll get into a routine of pooping at the same time every day.
2. Good for the Pancreas and Colon
Your dog’s pancreas and colon can get irritated, which can cause a slew of issues.
The pancreas is a digestive system organ that digests your dog’s food and regulates sugar processing. The colon is a long tube that draws water out of digested food.
When the pancreas is inflamed, pancreatitis occurs. A diet that is high in protein and good fats can aid in the recovery process
According to a 1988 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, dogs suffering from idiopathic chronic colitis felt better after being switched to a low residue, easy-to-digest, and mostly hypoallergenic diet.
A low-residue diet can help reduce the inflammation caused by a sick pancreas or colon while also enhancing your dog’s general digestion.
3) Diarrhea and Constipation
With more digestible ingredients, low-residue dog food ensures that digestion is more efficient and that waste passes through the body easier. Improved feces consistency and decreased excretory problems are benefits of improved digestion.
4) Digestion and Flatulence Problems
Excess fiber in some dog foods might induce an overgrowth of gut flora. These organisms produce intestinal gases, which cause foul flatulence.
Low residue dog food helps balance the gut microbiome and reduce the gassiness responsible for bloating.
Best Probiotic for Dogs
Did you know that a dog’s gut health has a significant influence on its overall health? A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract! discover why this supplement is vital for your dog’s immune system and overall health-Full Bucket’s Probiotic supplements.
How to Choose Low Residue Dog Food
Low residue dog food still has to provide a comprehensive and well balanced canine diet.
Low Crude Fiber
The most significant feature of any low-residue dog food is a reduced fiber level. To ensure you don’t use high-fiber fillers with poor digestibility like processed wheat and corn byproducts, check the ingredients list.
A low-fiber diet for dogs has fiber levels of less than 6%, according to the National Research Council. However, all dogs require some dietary fiber for their digestive systems to work effectively.
Digestible Carbs
Low-residue foods should be used instead of fibrous components to reduce the amount of fiber in your dog’s diet. Whole grain rice is a wonderful carbohydrate source that is also suitable for sensitive stomachs.
High-Quality Protein
The first component of any omnivorous dog diet should be high-quality protein. All low residue dog food formulations should include real meat as the first ingredient, according to experts.
Because animal protein is more bioavailable to dogs than plant protein, overabundance of plant protein might result in more stools.
The majority of low-residue dog foods are high protein diets with a lot of animal ingredients. These components have the greatest degrees of digestibility among dogs and produce minimal waste.
Moderate Fat
High-fat meals might also lead to gastrointestinal issues. Fat digestion is slower, and it frequently causes nausea and vomiting.
Our Verdict
A low-residue diet may aid in the treatment of digestive issues caused by irregular or frequent stools.
Excess dietary fiber is eliminated from the digestive system as waste in dogs because they don’t consume fiber as a source of energy. Low-fiber dog foods with readily digested components help your dog produce less feces.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dog Food is my top pick for reducing the frequency and volume of your dog’s stools. Speak with your veterinarian to see if a low residue diet can help decrease the number of times your dog has to go out.
Did you know that there is an all-natural method to relieve inflammation, pain, and discomfort in dogs that works better than pharmaceuticals? Check out our page on Canine Cush for Dogs
References:
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/centers/nutrition/dog-food-label-lessons-what-is-an-aafco-statement
- https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/complete-and-balanced-pet-food
- ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- academic.oup.com
- researchgate.net
