If your dog has been diagnosed with heart disease, kidney issues, or high blood pressure, switching to a low-sodium dog food could be one of the most beneficial changes you make.
Low-sodium diets help reduce fluid buildup, ease stress on internal organs, and promote long-term health. In this guide, we’ll show you the best low-sodium dog foods available—complete with affiliate links for easy purchase and trusted nutrition data.
💡 Why Do Dogs Need Low-Sodium Food?
Dogs naturally require sodium in their diet, but excess levels can lead to:
- Fluid retention
- Increased blood pressure
- Strain on kidneys and the heart
- Worsened symptoms of congestive heart failure
According to PetMD, many vets recommend sodium-restricted diets for dogs suffering from cardiovascular or renal issues.
🥫 Best Low-Sodium Dog Foods in 2025
Brand | Purpose | Sodium Content | Prescription | Buy Now |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d | Cardiac support | 0.08% (dry matter basis) | Yes | Buy on Amazon |
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac | Heart health support | 0.10% (dry matter basis) | Yes | Buy on Amazon |
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS | Kidney support | 0.06% (dry matter basis) | Yes | Buy on Amazon |
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Wet | For food sensitivities | 0.15% (dry matter basis) | No | Buy on Amazon |
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF | Kidney function support | 0.07% (dry matter basis) | Yes | Buy on Amazon |
🐾 What to Look for in Low-Sodium Dog Food
When shopping for low-sodium options, consider the following:
- Check the sodium level: Look for less than 0.3% sodium on a dry matter basis.
- Verify with your vet: Prescription formulas may offer therapeutic benefits tailored to your dog’s diagnosis.
- Moisture content: Canned food adds hydration, beneficial for kidney function.
- Nutritional adequacy: Ensure the food meets AAFCO guidelines for complete nutrition.
🩺 Should You Switch to a Low-Sodium Diet?
Switching to low-sodium food should always be based on a veterinarian’s recommendation. It’s commonly prescribed for dogs diagnosed with:
- Congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Liver conditions
❗ Healthy dogs do not require sodium restriction and could suffer imbalances if fed low-salt food unnecessarily.
✅ Conclusion
Choosing the best low-sodium dog food can help manage chronic conditions and improve your dog’s comfort and quality of life. Whether you’re managing kidney disease, supporting heart function, or just taking preventive measures, these top-rated options offer peace of mind and proven results.
🛒 Don’t forget to consult your vet and shop smart using the affiliate links above for fast, trusted delivery!