Best Dog Food Toppers & Meal Enhancers
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Boost your dogs meals with nutritious toppers. Bone broth, freeze-dried raw, goats milk, and other meal enhancers reviewed.
Key Information
Practical Recommendations
Expert Tips
Understanding the Research
Budgeting for Pet Care
Related Guides
Explore more of our comprehensive pet care resources.
- All Pet Care Guides
- Dog Health Resources
- Cat Health Resources
- Pet Care Tools & Calculators
- Find Local Vets & Pet Services
Where can I learn more?
Fat poured over a complete diet matters because of pancreatitis. AAFCO nutrient profiles describe the diet underneath the topper, and WSAVA body-condition scoring is how the extra calories are judged.
How often should I take my pet to the vet?
A gravy, oil, or mixer adds calories and sometimes a lot of fat on top of a complete diet. Puppies are still examined every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks, and adult dogs at least once a year, which is when that extra food shows up on the scale, including for dogs from about 7 years, giant breeds earlier, who are examined about every six months for that reason. A dog with a history of pancreatitis should not get a rich topper while waiting out vomiting or a painful belly.
How can I save money on pet care?
You already paid for a complete diet. A fatty topper is a second food bill plus the risk of a pancreatitis visit if the dog is prone to it. If the dog will not eat, find out why at a visit before you add calories. Use a measured spoon, or skip the topper.