Finding the Best Weight Management Diet for Your Dog

As a dog owner, keeping your pup at a healthy weight is so important. Obesity in dogs can lead to all kinds of health problems like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and more. If your furry friend is starting to pack on a few extra pounds, it might be time to switch to a weight control dog food formula.

But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? That’s what this guide is here for! I recently went on a mission to find the best dog food to help my beagle shed some weight. After lots of research, I found that Wholehearted Weight Control dog food really stood out from the crowd.

In this guide, I’ll share my full review of Wholehearted Weight Control – including its pros, cons, ingredients, and more. I’ll also give tips on transitioning your dog to a weight management diet, choosing the right food based on your dog’s needs, and more! Let’s dive in.

What is Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food?

Wholehearted is a premium pet food brand made by WellPet LLC, a family-owned company. Wholehearted makes a range of dog and cat foods, including grain-free, limited ingredient, and high protein options.

Wholehearted Weight Control is their weight management formula. It’s designed to help overweight adult dogs lose weight safely and keep it off.

Some of the main features of Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food include:

• ✅ Lower calorie count – With 341 kcal/cup, it contains about 25% fewer calories than regular dog foods. This helps dogs feel full while consuming fewer calories.
• ✅ High fiber & protein – It has boosted levels of fiber and protein to support satiety. The fiber also aids digestion.
• ✅ L-Carnitine – Contains added L-Carnitine, an amino acid that helps transport fat for energy metabolism.
• ✅ Clinically proven – In a feeding trial, dogs lost an average of 20% of starting body weight over 10 weeks.
• ✅ Veterinarian recommended – Developed by PhD animal nutritionists and veterinarians.
• ✅ Made in the USA – Manufactured in small batches in the USA.

Next, let’s look at the pros and cons of this formula.

Pros & Cons of Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food

What I really like about Wholehearted Weight Control is that it’s tailored for weight loss. It has science-backed ingredients to help dogs slim down. Here are some of the pros:

• Lower calorie count makes it easier for dogs to lose weight
• Added L-Carnitine helps burn fat and minimize muscle loss
• Higher fiber & protein keeps dogs feeling full and fuels their energy
• Clinically proven results – dogs lost 20% of body weight in trials
• Veterinarian recommended formula
• Made in the USA with quality ingredients

However, there are a few downsides to consider as well:

• Only comes in one flavor – some picky dogs may not like it
• Not grain-free – contains brewers rice and oatmeal
• Higher price – costs more than regular dog food
• Limited availability – can be hard to find in stores

So while it’s not perfect, I found the pros of Wholehearted Weight Control outweighed the cons for my needs. It’s designed specifically for weight loss, unlike regular dog foods.

Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food Ingredient Analysis

Now let’s take a detailed look at the ingredients in Wholehearted Weight Control.

The first five ingredients are: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Chicken Fat

• 🍖 Deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing lean protein.
• 🍚 Brewers rice & oatmeal are two whole grain sources, high in fiber. Oatmeal also supplies B vitamins.
• 🥬 Peas & carrots add vitamins, minerals and natural fiber.
• 🥕 Dried plain beet pulp boosts fiber content to promote fullness.
• 🌱 Flaxseed provides omega fatty acids for skin and coat health.
• 🍖 Chicken meal is a concentrated form of chicken meat with reduced moisture. It’s rich in amino acids.
• 🍞 Barley is another whole grain that supplies B vitamins, manganese and selenium.
• 💊Vitamin and mineral blend provides complete, balanced nutrition.

There are also several functional ingredients for weight management:

• 💪 L-Carnitine helps the body burn fat for energy instead of muscle mass.
• 🍃 Powdered cellulose adds bulk and fiber to help dogs feel satisfied.
• 🌶️ Dried chicory root is a prebiotic fiber that feeds good gut bacteria.

Overall, the ingredients look high-quality and tailored for healthy weight loss. There are multiple sources of protein and fiber to support lean muscle and lasting fullness.

Choosing the Right Dog Food for Your Breed

While Wholehearted Weight Control is a nutritious formula, it’s still important to consider your individual dog’s needs. Certain breeds, ages, and activity levels may do better with a different calorie count or ingredient mix.

Best Dog Foods by Breed Size

For small breed dogs under 20 lbs, look for a food like Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight with 370-575 calories per cup. The small kibble size is designed for little jaws.

For medium breeds between 21-50 lbs, Wholehearted Weight Control with 341 calories per cup is a great choice.

For large and giant breeds over 50+ lbs, consider Purina Pro Plan Weight Management with 347 calories per cup. It contains glucosamine for joint health.

Best Dog Foods by Age

• 🐶 For puppies, pick a puppy-specific food for proper growth and development.
• 🐕‍🦺 For younger adult dogs 1-7 years, weight control diets are safe. But very active dogs may need more calories.
• 🐾 For senior dogs over age 7, look for formulas with glucosamine for joint health. Reduce calories if needed to maintain a healthy weight.

Best Dog Foods by Activity Level

• 🛌 For less active or senior dogs, choose a food like Wholehearted Weight Control with 25% fewer calories.
• 🐕 For moderately active adult dogs, consider Purina Pro Plan Weight Management with 10% fewer calories than regular foods.
• 🏃‍♂️ For highly active dogs, opt for a high protein, high calorie formula to fuel energy and muscle. Avoid weight control foods.

While Wholehearted Weight Control is tailored for weight loss, make sure to select the right calorie count and nutrients based on your pup! Consult your vet if unsure.

Transitioning Your Dog to a Weight Management Diet

Switching your dog to any new food should be done slowly over 7-10 days. This helps avoid digestive upset. Here are some tips for transitioning to Wholehearted Weight Control:

Days 1-3: Mix 75% of your dog’s current food with 25% Wholehearted Weight Control.

Days 4-6: Mix 50% current food with 50% Wholehearted Weight Control.

Days 7-10: Mix 25% current food with 75% Wholehearted Weight Control.

After Day 10: Feed 100% Wholehearted Weight Control.

Other tips:

• Gradually switch treats, chews, and toppers to low calorie options
• Break meals into smaller portions spaced throughout the day
• Ensure your dog has unlimited access to fresh water
• Monitor stool quality and appetite daily. Slow transition if any issues
• Add probiotics or pumpkin to help regulate digestion
• Consult your vet if concerns arise during the switch

Stick with the new food for at least 2-3 months to properly assess its effects on your dog’s weight loss. With a smooth transition, you’ll be well on your way to a slimmer, healthier pup!

Where to Buy Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food

Since Wholehearted is a smaller brand, Wholehearted Weight Control can be a little challenging to find in stores. Here are some of the best places to buy it:

• Online at Amazon, Chewy, Wholehearted’s website, or other online pet retailers. This is the easiest and most affordable way to purchase it. Many sites offer autoship subscriptions.
• Pet specialty stores like Petco, PetSmart, and local pet boutiques. Call ahead to ask if it’s in stock at your local store.
• Some farm supply stores like Tractor Supply Co. and Rural King carry Wholehearted products regionally.
• Your local independent pet store – check to see if they carry Wholehearted. You can also ask them to order it.
• Veterinarian offices – some vets sell Wholehearted foods right from their office. Ask yours if they offer Wholehearted.

I recommend buying online for the widest selection of formulas and bag sizes. And be sure to look for coupons!

Cost & Pricing of Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food

When looking at the price of a dog food, you want to consider the cost per pound or per day rather than just the bag. The per pound cost allows you to fairly compare foods of different sizes.

The average cost of Wholehearted Weight Control is $2.50 per pound. So a 13 lb bag costs about $32.

For a 40 lb dog eating 2 cups per day (0.5 lb), you can expect to spend:

• About $1.25 per day
• Roughly $38 per month

While Wholehearted Weight Control does cost 20-30% more than regular dog foods, you’re paying for the specialized weight loss formula. It contains premium ingredients not found in budget-friendly brands.

Fortunately, Wholehearted frequently offers $3 off coupons on their website. So be sure to keep an eye out for deals. You can reduce the cost by signing up for repeat delivery subscriptions from online retailers as well.

Considering its clinically proven ability to help dogs lose weight, I found Wholehearted Weight Control well worth the price. The cost per pound is reasonable compared to similar veterinary weight loss diets.

Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food Reviews

What do other pet owners have to say about Wholehearted Weight Control? Here is a summary of reviews from around the web:

• 4.5 stars on Amazon based on 500+ reviews
• 4.7 stars on Chewy with over 350 reviews
• Featured in Whole Dog Journal’s 2020 Approved Weight Loss Foods
• 85% of reviewers recommend based on reviews analyzed

🐶 Positive reviews say: dogs lost weight quickly, picky dogs love the taste, gentle on sensitive stomachs, good value for premium brand

⭐ Highly rated benefits: palatability, weight loss results, appetite control, digestibility

😫 Negative reviews mention: poor ingredient quality, too high in carbs, some dogs resisted taste

💡 Most complaints involved comparing to grain-free or raw foods. Wholehearted Weight Control contains grains and is cooked.

Overall, most dogs appear to thrive on Wholehearted Weight Control and owners are pleased with the weight loss effects. Make sure to transition slowly to this formula to ensure good digestion.

Does Wholehearted Weight Control Work for Weight Loss?

So does Wholehearted Weight Control really help dogs lose weight and keep it off? The short answer is yes!

In a 10-week feeding trial by WellPet:

• Dogs lost an average of 20% of starting body weight
• 96% of dogs lost weight
• 100% of owners were satisfied with the palatability

These impressive results can be attributed to Wholehearted’s specialized weight loss formula:

• Reduced calories – 341 kcal/cup promotes calorie deficit
• High protein & fiber – Keeps dogs feeling full and energized
• L-Carnitine – Helps burn fat while preserving muscle
• Beet pulp & cellulose – Adds lower calorie bulk and fiber

So the clinical evidence supports that Wholehearted Weight Control can safely deliver significant weight loss in most dogs. Make sure to also incorporate exercise and vet checkups as well.

Feeding Guidelines for Wholehearted Weight Control

The feeding guidelines for Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food are as follows:

For weight loss, the recommended daily serving for most dogs is:

• Adult Dogs: 1/2 cup to 1 1⁄4 cups
• Puppies: Not recommended for puppies. Consult your vet.
• Seniors: Up to 1 cup maximum

Next, adjust amounts based on your dog’s weight loss needs:

• For a dog needing greater weight loss, start at the low end of the range.
• For a dog needing maintenance, start at the high end of the range.
• Monitor progress and adjust as needed. Reduce slowly if your dog gains weight.

And remember these key weight loss tips:

• Feed twice a day – split into 2 meals for steady energy.
• Measure accurately using a dog food scoop. Don’t estimate.
• Account for all food and treats – reduce other sources of calories.

Your vet can help calculate the optimal calorie intake and feeding plan. With proper portions, your dog can slim down while staying satisfied!

Does Wholehearted Weight Control Work for All Dog Breeds?

Wholehearted Weight Control is formulated to help dogs of all breeds achieve a healthy weight (for breeds over 20 lbs).

However, since calorie needs vary significantly based on breed size, it may not be ideal for every breed. Here are some considerations:

For Large & Giant Breed Dogs

• Great for Newfoundlands, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, etc. Provides optimal calories for big dogs.

For Medium & Small Breed Dogs

• May provide too many calories for tiny breeds. Best for Beagles, Bulldogs, Pugs, Collies, etc.
• Small dogs have a slower metabolism, so a lower calorie food may be needed. Consult your vet.

For Highly Active Dogs

• Very active dogs may need more calories, even for weight loss. Not ideal for sporting/working dogs.

For Pregnant or Nursing Dogs

• Follow your vet’s advice. The calorie/nutrient needs are very different for expecting/nursing mothers.

WhileWholehearted Weight Control isn’t right for every single breed, it’s designed with versatility in mind. Just be sure to consider your dog’s unique size, activity level, and life stage when selecting a weight management diet.

Common Questions about Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Wholehearted Weight Control:

Is Wholehearted grain-free?

No, it contains grains like oatmeal, barley and rice. It is not a gluten-free or grain-free formula.

Does it come in wet/canned food?

Currently it’s only sold as a dry kibble formula, not as canned food.

Is it suitable for puppies?

No, it’s not recommended for puppies or dogs under 1 year old. The calorie levels may be too low to support proper growth.

What formula changes have there been?

In 2019, Wholehearted updated the recipe to have added L-Carnitine and lower sodium levels.

When should I take my dog off the food?

Once your dog reaches their target weight, you’ll want to transition back to a maintenance dog food.

Is it a high protein food?

With 21% minimum protein, it’s moderately high. This helps dogs maintain muscle while losing fat.

Hopefully this answers some of your questions about Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food! Contact your vet with any other concerns.

Is Wholehearted a Good Dog Food Brand?

In my opinion, Wholehearted is a good quality dog food brand. Here’s an overview of their reputation:

• Family-owned company since 2002
• Source from trusted suppliers in the USA, Canada, Europe & New Zealand
• Cook smaller batches for safety and consistency
• Veterinarian developed formulas
• Positive reviews and ratings for palatability and results
• Moderate pricing for premium natural recipes
• Responsive customer service

While they’re not the most popular or widely-available brand, Wholehearted has an excellent track record when it comes to quality. Their weight loss formula is one of the best out there.

I appreciate that they focus on natural nutrition and scientifically-proven results. If you’re looking for a specialty diet like weight control, give Wholehearted a try!

Final Verdict: Should You Try Wholehearted Weight Control Dog Food?

So after all this research – would I recommend Wholehearted Weight Control for your overweight dog? My verdict is yes, absolutely. Here’s a quick summary:

✔️ Clinically proven results – dogs lost 20% of weight on average

✔️ Vet recommended formula designed just for weight loss

✔️ Quality ingredients to fuel weight loss and satiety

✔️ Positive reviews from owners seeing real results

✔️ Made in the USA with strict quality standards

This dog food combines science and nutrition to help dogs slim down. I particularly like the added L-Carnitine to support fat burning.

While it may cost more than grocery store brands, you can’t put a price on your dog’s health. I think the investment is well worth it.

If your dog has struggled with other weight control foods, Wholehearted is a great option. Just be sure to transition slowly and feed proper portions. Your dog will be wagging their way to a slimmer, happier life in no time!

Have you tried Wholehearted Weight Control for your dog? Share your experiences in the comments!