Best 22 Commercial Dog Foods for Cushing’s Disease: Dry, Canned, Treats & Supplements

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commercial dog food for cushing's
We want to give our furbabies the best quality of life, and that includes their diet. But, when our canine companions have an endocrine disorder like Cushing’s disease, the food we give them gains more importance. That’s because proper nutritional therapy can help you control the progress of this disease and may prolong your pal’s life.
We reviewed 22 products on the market to help you find the best commercial dog food for Cushing’s.

Before we look at our findings, let’s talk about the disease. How do you know if your pooch has it, how do you treat it, and what role do diet and supplements play in managing the condition? Let’s get started.

What Type of Food Does Your Dog Eat?

Table of Contents

Our Winners!

Commercial Dog Foods For Cushing’s Disease

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.7/5

Price Range: $$

This adult dog food from Nutro has high-quality, digestible protein as the top ingredient. It includes prebiotic fiber and antioxidants to support Fido’s digestion and overall health. There are no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or GMO ingredients in the formula. It is low in fat and moderate fiber. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

DIAMOND NATURALS Pet Food

Diamond Naturals Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.4/5

Price Range: $$

This adult dog food from Nutro has high-quality, digestible protein as the top ingredient. It includes prebiotic fiber and antioxidants to support Fido’s digestion and overall health. There are no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or GMO ingredients in the formula. It is low in fat and moderate fiber. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

SPORTMiX Wholesome Fish Meal and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

SPORTMiX Wholesome Fish Meal and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.2/5

Price Range: $$

SportMiX Fish Meal and Rice food uses a menhaden fish meal as its single protein source. There’s no corn, wheat, or soy in the product, and it’s naturally preserved. The formula includes prebiotic fiber and a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. You can purchase this in a 40-pound bag.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Grain Free Whole Food Clusters Dry Dog Food - Chicken

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Grain Free Whole Food Clusters Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.3/5

Price Range: $$

With human-grade ingredients and minimal processing, this dry food offers balanced nutrition. The formula includes dehydrated free-range chicken as the first ingredient along with other whole foods, prebiotic fiber, and probiotics. There are no additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. It has a moderate fat and low fiber content. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Grain Free Whole Food Clusters Dry Dog Food - Beef

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Grain Free Whole Food Clusters Dry Dog Food beef

Our Rating:

4.3/5

Price Range: $$

Made from dehydrated whole foods, this dry dog food from The Honest Kitchen is a grain-free product. It has ranch-raised beef for a digestible protein source. The company makes this product in small batches by cold-pressing the ingredients into kibble and dry roasting it. There are live probiotics in the formula. This food is low in fiber and has a moderate fat content.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Small Breed

Wellness CORE Natural Dry Dog Food Small Breed

Our Rating:

4.4/5

Price Range: $$

As a small breed kibble, this product is grain-free and protein-rich. It has a moderate fat and low fiber content. The ingredients include antioxidants, omega fatty acids, glucosamine, prebiotic fiber, and probiotics to support total health. Deboned turkey is the top ingredient on the list. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Diamond Naturals Light Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food

Diamond Naturals Light Real Meat Recipe Premium Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.5/5

Price Range: $$

Diamond Naturals Light dog food is made with lamb and rice for easy digestion. It has a low fat and moderate fiber content that can support dogs with Cushing’s disease. The formula includes antioxidant-rich superfoods, omega fatty acids, proprietary probiotics, and a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals. There are no artificial ingredients in this product.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

IAMS Proactive Health Senior Dry Dog Food, All Breed Sizes

IAMS Proactive Health Senior Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.7/5

Price Range: $$

IAMS Proactive Health dog food for seniors has real chicken and whole grains in its formula. It includes prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and antioxidant-rich ingredients. There are no artificial flavors or preservatives in this product. The formulation also has DHA, glucosamine, and chondroitin to support your pooch as he ages. This food is low in fiber and moderate in fat content.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Nutro Ultra Weight Management Adult Dry Dog Food

Nutro Ultra Weight Management Adult Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.7/5

Price Range: $$

Nutro Ultra food for small breed senior dogs uses three digestible proteins and superfoods to provide your pooch with balanced nutrition. The product has whole grains, seeds, fruits, and vegetables as part of the formula. It has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives and is GMO-free. It’s a low-fiber, low-fat food.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Prescription Diets

Hill'S Prescription Diet Metabolic Canine Dry Dog Food

Best Prescription Diet for Canine Cushing’s Disease

Hill'S Prescription Diet Metabolic Canine Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.4/5

Price Range: $$$

This prescription diet by Hill’s is made for weight management. With a low fat (10% by dry matter) and moderate fiber content, the food is nutritionally balanced for a dog with Cushing’s disease. The formula includes the antioxidants beta carotene, lipoic acid, and vitamins D and E. It comes in a 27.5-pound bag. You will need a veterinary prescription to purchase this food.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat LF Dry Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.4/5

Price Range: $$

Royal Canin gastrointestinal diet is a low-fat (maximum 9.4% of dry matter) dog food with over 22% protein by dry matter. This product includes digestible proteins and prebiotic fiber to assist digestion. It comes in a 1.5-pound container. Before purchasing this product, get a prescription from your veterinarian.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Canned Food

Weruva Grain-Free Natural Canned Wet Dog

Best Commercial Canned Dog Food for Cushing’s

Weruva Grain-Free Natural Canned Wet Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.4/5

Price Range: $$

The Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken canned dog food is grain and gluten-free. It is low fat and fiber and contains shredded chicken meat as the prime ingredient. The formula also includes a blend of vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition. The product is made in human food facilities. There are 12 14-ounce cans in a pack.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Purina Pro Plan SAVOR Senior 7+

Purina Pro Plan SAVOR Senior 7

Our Rating:

4.6/5

Price Range: $$

Pro Plan SAVOR canned food for seniors from Purina comes in a 12-pack of 13-ounce cans. It contains beef and poultry ingredients for digestible protein. The formula has omega-6 fatty acids and a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals. It is a moderate fiber and fat product. This product is made in the USA.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Nulo Adult & Puppy Grain-Free

Nulo Adult & Puppy Grain Free Canned Wet Dog Food

Our Rating:

4.4/5

Price Range: $$

This canned food is grain-free and protein-rich. The ingredients include chicken and vegetables and has no artificial ingredients. It has a high-fat and low-fiber content by dry matter. There are omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in the formula. It comes in a 12-pack of 13-ounce cans.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Treats

Hill's Prescription Diet Metabolic Canine Dog Treats

Hill's Prescription Diet Metabolic Weight Management Dog Treats

Our Rating:

3.9/5

Price Range: $$

Hills Metabolic Canine Treats are designed to support healthy weight management. The ingredients include digestible protein and prebiotic fiber. It’s high in protein and low in fat and fiber. Ther mineral content is low to help prevent bladder stones. It comes in a 12-ounce bag.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Canine Dog Treats

Our Rating:

4.8/5

Price Range: $$

These treats from Royal Canin are made for dogs with food sensitivities. It uses hydrolyzed soy protein and prebiotic fiber for easy digestion. The tidbits have moderate fat and low fiber content. The formula also promotes an environment in the urinary tract that discourages the formation of crystals. This product is available in two 17.6-ounce bags.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Canine Treats

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Canine Treats

Our Rating:

4.4/5

Price Range: $$

Supplement your pal’s food with this low fat, low fiber dog treat from Royal Canin. With prebiotic fiber and digestible protein, these low-calorie tidbits have a balanced blend of nutrients to support digestive health. They come in a 17.6-ounce bag.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Supplements

Grizzly All-Natural Wild Caught Alaskan Salmon Oil Dog Food Supplement

Grizzly All-Natural Wild Caught Alaskan Salmon Oil Dog Food Supplement

Our Rating:

4.5/5

Price Range: $$

Grizzly Salmon Oil supplement for dogs provides your pooch with a blend of Omega 3 fatty acids, EPH, DHA, vitamins, and antioxidants from wild-caught Alaskan Salmon. It comes in a 16-ounce pump bottle for easy dosing. The supplement is approved by the National Animal Supplement Council.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Zesty Paws Cranberry for Dogs

Zesty Paws Cranberry for Dogs

Our Rating:

4.6/5

Price Range: $$

These dog chews from Zesty Paws contain a pure cranberry concentrate, astragalus, licorice root, and nettle seed to support the kidneys and urinary tract. The ingredients also work together to aid digestion and immunity. There are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in the product. One container has 90 chews. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Vita Pet Life Milk Thistle for Dogs - Liver and Kidney Support

Our Rating:

4.5/5

Price Range: $$

This Milk Thistle supplement from Vita Pet Life is formulated to support kidney and liver function in dogs. It includes antioxidants as well as DHA and EPA from fish oil. The product is made in the USA and is GMO-free. There are 120 bacon and liver flavored tablets in a bottle. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Pet Wellbeing - Adrenal Harmony - Natural Support for Adrenal Dysfunction and Cushing's in Dogs

Pet Wellbeing - Adrenal Harmony - Natural Support for Adrenal Dysfunction and Cushings in Dogs

Our Rating:

4.2/5

Price Range: $$

Adrenal Harmony Gold by Pet Wellbeing is a holistic blend of wild-harvested herbs. The ingredients are formulated to support the adrenal gland. It comes in a 4-ounce bottle with an eyedropper. There are no secret components or harmful ingredients in this product.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Prana Pets Adrenal Support - Herbal Formula Support for Common Symptoms of Cushing's Disease

Prana Pets Adrenal Support - Herbal Formula Support for Common Symptoms of Cushing's Disease

Our Rating:

4.6/5

Price Range: $$

Prana Pets Adrenal Support is a blend of herbal supplements to help support dogs with Cushing’s. It comes in a 2-ounce bottle with an eyedropper. Add to your pup’s water 2-3 times a day as a holistic remedy. Follow the dosing instructions on the package. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Understanding Cushing’s Disease in Dogs (Canine Hyperadrenocorticism)

The information we provide in this review is meant to support your veterinarian’s recommendations. If you suspect your furbaby has Cushing’s Disease, consult with his vet. Fido’s doctor knows him best and will be able to guide you through the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Is There a Difference Between Cushing’s Disease and Cushing’s Syndrome?

In a word, no. The terms Cushing’s Disease and Cushing’s Syndrome are used interchangeably to describe hyperadrenocorticism in dogs.

With this condition, the adrenal gland produces excess cortisol, usually due to a tumor either in the adrenal or pituitary gland. This hormone is involved in regulating stress, weight, and blood sugar, and it helps the body to prevent infections.

Signs of Cushing’s Disease

Cushing’s disease has a set of classic signs, known as the 5 P’s:
In addition to these common symptoms, your pal may also show:

Diagnosis of Cushing’s Disease

If your pooch is showing some of these signs, especially the 5 P’s, contact your veterinarian for an examination. A complete physical, including bloodwork and urinalysis, will help support a presumptive diagnosis. If the results include elevated liver enzymes and dilute urine, your pooch’s doctor may want to conduct more specific tests to confirm the disease:

Diagnosis of Cushing’s Disease

There are different treatments for Cushing’s Disease depending on the underlying cause of the condition and your dog’s physical condition. Consult with your veterinarian about the best course of therapy for your furbaby.

Conventional Treatments

Holistic/Natural Treatments

a holistic approach involving dietary management, supplements, and herbal remedies like Ginko and Si Miao San may help to manage and reduce the symptoms of Cushing’s Disease. You can also use some holistic measures in combination with traditional approaches to support your pal’s overall health.

Vet-Recommended Diet for Canine Cushing’s Disease

One way to help manage your pal’s symptoms is by feeding him an appropriate diet. Some people advocate a raw diet for Cushing’s Disease, and we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of that approach below. First, let’s look at the nutritional content of your pup’s food whether you use a commercial or raw option. Whatever you do, make sure Fido’s nourishment has the following qualities:

Can Dietary and Nutritional Therapy Cure Cushing’s?

Dietary and Nutritional Therapy will not cure Cushing’s Disease, but it can go a long way in helping to control the condition. Providing the proper balance of fat, fiber, and digestible proteins help to keep high cortisol levels in check and to support your pal’s immune system. A diet formulated with Cushing’s in mind may improve your pup’s quality and length of life.

Commercial Diets for Dogs With Cushing’s

While many people believe a raw diet can help dogs with Cushing’s Disease, there are quality commercial diets available. When choosing a manufactured product, read the label and compare it to the dietary features we discussed above. Remember to talk to your veterinarian about nutritional recommendations before making any decisions. He knows your pal’s unique dietary needs and can provide meaningful guidance.

The Pros and Cons of a Raw Diet for Dog’s With Cushing’s

Some owners prefer to use a raw or homemade diet to manage their dog’s Cushing’s symptoms. Because dog ancestors relied on raw meat and ingredients for their sustenance, our pups still have the enzymes they need for this type of diet. If you feed raw ingredients to your pal, you may see health benefits like:

However, there are potential concerns or issues involved with feeding a raw diet. First, the ingredients may not meet all of your pup’s nutritional needs, so that you would need to add supplements to achieve a properly balanced diet. Raw meats also carry the risk of bacteria that can make your pooch sick if his immune response fails to protect him. Finally, you’ll need to follow careful cleaning procedures after each meal to prevent contamination from the raw products.

Supplements for Cushing’s Disease Diets

4 Health Care Tips for Dogs With Cushing’s Disease

Recommended Reading for More Cushing’s Information

Dogs, Diet, Disease: An Owner's Guide to Diabetes Mellitus, Pancreatitis, Cushing's Disease

In Dogs, Diet, and Disease, Caroline Levin provides an excellent resource for owners of pups with Cushing’s and other metabolic diseases. As an award-winning dog trainer and ophthalmic veterinarian, Levin draws on her knowledge and hands-on experience to help you understand various diseases, their treatment options, and the role of diet in long-term management. We recommend this book as a go-to reference.

The Final Analysis - Our Top Pick

After reviewing the above products based on our criteria, we pick Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food as our top pick.
This food has about 7.7% fat by dry weight, which is below the 12% threshold. The fiber content also falls within the moderate zone that we identified above.
With chicken as the top ingredient, the product provides a digestible protein source for your pal. There are also prebiotic fiber sources, fruits, vegetables,  and a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals to support overall nutrition.

All these qualities make Nutro Wholesome Essentials our pick for Best Commercial Dog Food for Cushing’s Disease.

Photo of author
Dr. Libby Guise earned her DVM from the University of Minnesota in 1994. After working in private practice in Wisconsin for two years, she joined the USDA as a Veterinary Medical Officer. In 2011, Libby came home to focus on raising and teaching her adoptive daughter. She lives in Wisconsin with her daughter, husband, and two furbabies: Charis, a lab-mix rescue pup, and Chesed, a Springer Spaniel.

2 thoughts on “Best 22 Commercial Dog Foods for Cushing’s Disease: Dry, Canned, Treats & Supplements”

  1. tessie was diagnosed with Cushings 1 yr ago, she is on generic Vetoryl 20 mg twice a day. Recently she started shivering all the time. I put sweaters on her which helps. She doesnt pant any more but has a pot belly. Drinks a lot of water but can hold her urine for 10 hours or more. Recently shes gotten really picky with food. Eats the same amount a cup and a half but does it at night, Has had a lot of cysts recently that require removal .. Vet said that is common for her breed- irish terrier She is 11. Have appointment this Thursday to see whats cooking. Bach legs quiver but she still goes for walk twice daily. Shes eating First Mate ocean fish kibble 29% protein

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