Quick answer
Our top pick is Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula because it combines moderate fat (around 12% crude fat) with easily digestible salmon and rice, ideal for Whippets prone to digestive issues. For a budget-friendly option, Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice Formula offers similar fat levels with added probiotics. If your Whippet needs weight management, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight provides controlled calories without sacrificing nutrition.
What to consider for Low Fat Dog Food For Whippets
Whippets are sighthounds with a lean build and high metabolism, but they can easily become overweight if overfed. Their deep chests also make them prone to bloat, so a diet with moderate fat (10 to 15% crude fat) and high-quality protein helps maintain muscle without excess calories. Additionally, Whippets often have sensitive skin and stomachs, so limited ingredients and omega fatty acids are beneficial. Always consult your vet before making dietary changes.
What to look for in a dog food
Look for a food that is AAFCO complete and balanced for your Whippet’s life stage (adult or puppy). The first ingredient should be a named meat source (e.g., chicken, lamb, salmon) to provide lean protein. Fat content should be moderate, ideally between 10 and 15% crude fat for weight maintenance, and calories around 300 to 380 kcal per cup. Avoid foods with excessive fat or fillers. For Whippets, a smaller kibble size can be easier to eat. Joint supplements like glucosamine and omega-3s from fish oil support their active lifestyle.
How we chose these picks
- Evaluated fat content to ensure each food meets low-fat criteria (under 15% crude fat).
- Checked that the first ingredient is a named meat source.
- Prioritized brands with a history of rigorous quality control and AAFCO feeding trials.
- Considered digestibility and inclusion of probiotics for sensitive stomachs.
- Reviewed calorie density to support weight management without causing hunger.
- Ensured recipes avoid artificial additives and excessive fillers.
- Selected a range of price points to suit different budgets.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid foods with unnamed meat meals (e.g., “meat meal”) as the primary protein source, as quality can vary.
- Be cautious with grain-free or legume-heavy diets; the FDA is still investigating a potential link to DCM. Grain-inclusive formulas are generally safer unless your vet advises otherwise.
- Do not feed an all-life-stages food to a large-breed puppy, as it may have improper calcium levels.
- Avoid abrupt diet changes; transition over 7 to 10 days to prevent digestive upset.
For more guidance, explore our dog guides, dog food reviews, and dog nutrition articles.
