7 Best Dog Food Toppers for a Happy and Healthy Dog

Dog food toppers are one of the easiest ways to boost nutrition in your dog’s diet. Whether your pup is picky, needs more protein, or could use digestive support, a tasty topper can make every meal more appealing, healthier, and enjoyable.

If you want to take your pup’s meals to the next level, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll explore high-quality dog food toppers, covering their types, benefits, top picks, and expert tips to help you choose the best option for your furry friend. 

What are Dog Food Toppers? 

Dog food toppers are nutritious or flavorful additions added on top of a dog’s regular kibble or meals to enhance taste, texture, and nutritional value. They can include broths, gravies, freeze-dried proteins, or vegetable blends to make them flavorful and varied.

Different Types of Dog Food Toppers

Dog food toppers come in different forms, each offering unique advantages:

• Wet toppers: Moist stews, gravies, or sauces added to dry kibble to give more moisture and richer flavor. 

• Dry toppers: Crumbles, freeze-dried pieces, or powders sprinkled over food to add crunch, concentrated protein, and variety of textures. 

• Liquid toppers: Broths or oils poured over kibble to boost hydration, flavor, and nutrients like omega-3s or collagen. 

• Fresh toppers: Plain foods, such as canned pumpkin, can be added directly to meals to offer natural fiber, vitamins, and easy-to-digest nutrition. 

• Raw toppers: Foods like plain yogurt/kefir (especially goat-milk based) added fresh for protein and probiotics. 

Not sure which type will suit your dog best? Start with the form that matches your pup’s habits, then try a couple options in the infographic below to see what they love most. 

 

How Do You Know if Your Dog Needs Food Toppers?

• Picky Eating: Turning their nose up at regular food, eating slowly, or leaving meals unfinished.

• Low Appetite: Showing loss of interest in food, often due to aging, illness, or recovery.

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water, benefiting from moisture-rich broths or wet food toppers.

• Health/Age Concerns: Senior or highly active dogs needing extra calories, protein, or digestible nutrients.

• Chewing Difficulties: Toppers soften kibble, making it easier for dogs with dental or jaw issues. 

If you’re noticing any of these signs, adding a simple topper could be an easy win for both nutrition and enthusiasm at mealtime.

Pet Care Tip: Before adding any food topper to your dog’s meal, it is recommended to consult with your vet. 

Top 7 Best Dog Food Toppers You Should Give (Vet-Recommended) 

Here are seven top-rated dog food toppers for all breeds and life stages, including picky eaters.

Dr. Marty’s Nature’s Blend is a freeze-dried dog food topper designed to support healthy digestion with natural ingredients. Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues, it promotes gut balance, nutrient absorption, and overall wellness. 

Best for: dogs with sensitive stomachs, picky eaters, and seniors needing easy-to-digest nutrition.

Features:

• Supports healthy digestion and gut flora

• Provides easily digestible nutrients

• Burst with savory flavor 

• Can be served as a complete meal 

How to use: Sprinkle dry over kibble or rehydrate with warm water for a softer, more aromatic meal. 

Careful Consideration:

• Introduce gradually to avoid digestive upset

• Monitor for any food sensitivities or allergies

Not ideal for: dogs with known allergies to any listed proteins/ingredients or those who don’t do well with richer freeze-dried foods.

Max & Molly Freeze-Dried Liver Powder is a high-protein, nutrient-rich topper that boosts flavor and palatability. Perfect for picky eaters or dogs needing extra protein, it supports muscle maintenance and adds nutritional value to any meal. 

Best for: picky eaters, underweight dogs, active dogs needing a protein + iron boost.

Features:

• High in protein for muscle support

• Enhances flavor for picky dogs

• All-natural, freeze-dried for freshness

• Easy to sprinkle over meals

How to use: Sprinkle a small amount over kibble once daily or a few times a week to improve taste and nutrition.

Careful Consideration:

• Limit quantity to avoid excess calories

Not ideal for: dogs on calorie-restricted diets, dogs with liver issues, or those sensitive to organ meats.

Dr. Marty’s Better Life Booster Goat Milk is a probiotic-rich supplement that supports digestion and immune health. Suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs or low immunity, it promotes gut balance and nutrient absorption. 

Best for: dogs needing digestive support, extra hydration, or immune/gut balance (great for seniors). 

Features:

• Probiotics support digestive health

• Enhances immune function

• Rich in natural nutrients

• Can be added to meals 

How to use: Mix 1 scoop with 1 cup of water, stir well, and pour over food as a daily topper or occasional boost.

Careful Consideration:

• Introduce gradually to avoid diarrhea

• Not a replacement for complete meals

Not ideal for: lactose-sensitive dogs or pups who react to dairy (introduce slowly).

Dr. Marty’s Better Life Booster Toppers Bundle combines goat milk, pumpkin, and turkey bone‑broth blends to enrich everyday meals with extra nutrition. It enhances digestion, supports immune health, and promotes joint, skin, and coat wellness. 

Best for: dogs needing overall wellness support (digestion + immunity + skin/coat/joints), multi-dog homes wanting variety.

Features:

• Supports healthy digestion and gut balance 

• Boosts immune system function through natural enzymes, vitamins, and minerals

• Promotes joint, skin, and coat health via collagen and nutrients

• Improves meal appeal, encouraging appetite and hydration (especially when used as broth)

• Made with whole‑food ingredients and no artificial fillers

How to use: Sprinkle dry over kibble or mix with warm water to create a flavorful broth. Rotate blends based on your dog’s needs.

Careful Considerations:

• Introduce these ingredients gradually, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach or is new to them.

• Use as a topper, not a complete meal replacement, to maintain balanced nutrition. 

Not ideal for: very sensitive dogs who do better with single-ingredient toppers, or dogs with specific ingredient intolerances.

Air-dried bison morsels offer high-protein, nutrient-rich toppings that support energy, vitality, and lean muscle development. Ideal for dogs requiring protein supplementation or those with picky eating habits, they enhance texture and flavor.

Best for: high-energy dogs, muscle maintenance, dogs who love meaty textures, picky eaters who need a stronger aroma.

Features:

• High-protein for muscle maintenance

• Nutrient-rich for overall health

• Enhances meal flavor and texture

• Suitable as a topper or partial meal

How to use: Crumble a small handful over kibble or mix in as a reward-style topper a few times a week.

Careful Consideration:

• Introduce gradually to prevent digestive upset

• Monitor portion sizes to avoid excess calories

Not ideal for: dogs with red-meat sensitivities, pancreatitis history, or those needing low-fat diets.

This bone-broth topper from Native Pet is a powder you mix into water or pour over kibble to add flavor, hydration, and nutrition. It’s ideal for dogs who drink little water or need joint and coat support. 

Best for: dogs who need hydration support, joint/skin/coat benefits, or softer meals (great for seniors).

Features:

• Helps increase hydration, great for dogs who don’t drink enough water.

• Provides collagen that supports joint, bone, skin, and coat health.

• Enhances meal flavor and smell, useful for picky eaters.

• Serves as a topper or as a liquid broth, versatile for daily meals.

How to use: Mix one scoop into warm water, stir, and pour over kibble to soften and boost nutrition.

Careful Considerations:

• Use as a supplement, not a full meal replacement, maintain a balanced main diet.

• For dogs with kidney or heart conditions, monitor sodium and water intake when using broth or liquid toppers.

Not ideal for: dogs on low-sodium diets (kidney/heart concerns) unless vet-approved.

Fruitables Pumpkin SuperBlend is a fiber-rich digestive supplement that helps regulate digestion and maintain gut health. Perfect for dogs with constipation, diarrhea, or sensitive stomachs, it can be added to meals to improve nutrient absorption and support regularity naturally.

Best for: dogs with constipation/diarrhea cycles, sensitive stomachs, or fiber needs.

Features & Benefits:

• Rich in natural fiber for digestive support

• Helps regulate bowel movements

• Improves nutrient absorption

How to use: Sprinkle a small scoop into meals once daily; start with less and increase slowly as needed.

Careful Consideration:

• Introduce gradually to prevent gas or loose stools

• Not a substitute for balanced meals 

Not ideal for: dogs already on high-fiber therapeutic diets or those who get gassy easily (use small amounts first).

How Different Dog Food Toppers Benefit Your Dog’s Body 

Each topper type brings unique benefits to your pup’s health. From boosting hydration to supporting digestion, here’s how different toppers can give your dog a tasty edge. 

• Better hydration and improved appetite can be achieved by adding wet toppers, which provide moisture and a richer flavor.

• Stronger muscles and more enjoyable meals are supported by using dry toppers, since their concentrated protein and crunchy texture boost nutrition.

• Healthier joints, improved coat condition, and increased hydration come from including liquid toppers like broths or oils that supply collagen.

• Smoother digestion and better nutrient absorption are promoted by adding fresh toppers such as canned pumpkin, which offer natural fiber.

• Healthier skin, shinier coats, and improved gut balance are supported through raw toppers like yogurt that provide probiotics.

Think of toppers as small daily upgrades that steadily add up to big health wins.

Looking for the Best Dog Food Toppers Based on Your Dog’s Needs

1. For Picky Eaters – Wet Toppers

Wet toppers are ideal for picky eaters because they add rich aroma, flavor, and moisture. They are helpful for dogs who refuse plain dry food or need encouragement to finish their meals consistently.

2. For Active or High-Protein Dogs – Dry Toppers 

Dry toppers, such as freeze-dried pieces or crumbles, are perfect for active or high-protein dogs. They provide concentrated protein along with a crunchy texture, supporting muscle maintenance and enhancing the nutrient density.

3. For Dogs Needing Extra Hydration – Liquid Toppers

Liquid toppers, including bone broths or oils, help increase hydration while delivering important nutrients like collagen. They are particularly beneficial for dogs that drink little water or struggle to eat dry kibble without added moisture. 

4. For Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs – Fresh Toppers

Fresh toppers, such as canned pumpkin, provide easily digestible nutrients, making them ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. They can help regulate digestion, soothe the gut, and improve overall stool quality.

5. For Dogs Needing Skin, Coat, or Gut Support – Raw Toppers

Raw toppers, such as yogurt, are excellent sources of probiotics. They support healthy skin, promote a shiny coat, and enhance gut wellness, making them perfect for dogs needing targeted nutritional support.  

Are there Any Downsides of Dog Food Toppers?

While dog food toppers can enhance meals, they aren’t without risks. It’s important to understand potential nutritional, health, and behavioral concerns before making them a regular part of your dog’s diet. 

a. Nutritional & Health Concerns

• Nutritional Imbalance: Toppers can disrupt nutrient ratios in complete dog food.

• Weight Gain: Extra calories may cause obesity if the main food isn’t reduced.

• Digestive Upset: Sudden new ingredients can trigger stomach discomfort.

• Pathogens: Raw toppers may carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria.

• Hidden Ingredients: Some contain sugars, sodium, or low-nutrient processed additives. 

b. Behavioral Issues

• Picky Eaters: Dogs may refuse regular food without tasty toppers.

• Over-Reliance: Toppers shouldn’t hide appetite loss or underlying health issues. 

Vets’ Take on Adding Food Toppers to Your Dog’s Meals

• Keep toppers to less than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

• Monitor sodium and fat levels in toppers to maintain a healthy diet.

• Introduce new toppers gradually to avoid upsetting your dog’s digestive system.

• Steer clear of ingredients that are toxic or unsafe for dogs.

• Consult your veterinarian if your dog has allergies or underlying health conditions.

Smart Tips to Consider Before Adding Food Toppers to Your Dog’s Bowl

• Calorie & Nutrition Balance: Keep toppers under 10% of daily intake to avoid obesity or nutrient imbalance.

• Read the Label: Check if the topper is for supplemental use or simply a flavor enhancer.

• Introduce Slowly: Start with small amounts and monitor for diarrhea, gas, or vomiting in response.

• Veterinary Consultation: Always consult your vet for dogs with health issues or special dietary needs.

• Ingredient Awareness: Avoid toxic ingredients like garlic, onions, and common allergens such as corn, soy, or wheat.

• Not a Meal Replacement: Ensure a complete and balanced main food remains the foundation of their diet.

• Storage & Freshness: Follow storage instructions and check “best by” dates to maintain safety and quality.

Explore healthy dog food options for your dog.

How Can You Add Toppers to Your Dog’s Meals?

• Sprinkle or pour the topper directly on kibble to make meals more appealing.

• Mix thoroughly so your dog eats the topper with every bite consistently.

• Hydrate by adding water to kibble, letting it sit 15–20 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts – Make Mealtime Irresistible for Your Dog

Toppers make mealtime more exciting, nutritious, and enjoyable for any dog, especially picky eaters or dogs with nutritional gaps. From freeze-dried raw toppers to hydrating wet options, you can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary ones while supporting long-term health and happiness. 

Take a look at our collection of food toppers for dogs, perfect for your health-conscious pup. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food Toppers

Q1: Can Food Toppers or Food Enhancers Replace Regular Dog Food?

Ans: No. Toppers are meant to enhance meals, not replace a complete and balanced diet. They work best as supplements to the best dry food for dogs or wet food.

Q2: How Often Should I Use a Food Topper?

Ans: You can use food toppers for your dog on a daily basis, provided you account for the extra calories in their overall diet. Many pet owners add toppers to every meal to boost appetite and make mealtime more enjoyable, especially for picky eaters.

Q3: When Should I Give My Dog Food Toppers?

Ans: Use toppers when:

• Your dog is a picky eater

• You want to boost nutrition

• Your dog needs hydration or digestive support

• You want to add variety to meals

Q4: How much topper should I feed my dog?

Ans: The amount of topper to feed depends on your dog’s size, weight, and daily calorie intake. Generally, a small scoop per meal is sufficient. Always follow the product’s instructions and gradually introduce it to avoid digestive upset.

Q5: Are meal toppers good for dogs?

Ans: Yes, meal toppers can be beneficial as they enhance flavor, increase appetite, and provide additional nutrients. However, they should complement a balanced diet, not replace it, and it’s important to choose high-quality and dog-safe ingredients.

Q6: When should I start giving food toppers to my dog?

Ans: You can start giving food toppers when your dog shows reduced appetite, picky eating, or during life stages requiring extra nutrients. Introduce slowly, monitor digestion, and ensure the topper is appropriate for your dog’s age and health. 

Q7: Are there ingredients I should avoid in toppers? 

Ans: Avoid toppers with artificial colors, fake preservatives, too much salt or sugar, and low-quality meat by-products. If your dog has allergies, skip common problem ingredients like wheat, corn, or soy.