Have your perky pups suddenly transformed into low-energy dogs? Adding healthy whole foods at mealtime can boost dog energy levels so your pooch will feel like a puppy again.

Why does my dog have low energy?

When your excitable pup suddenly loses their zest, it can be disheartening. Low-energy dogs experience lethargy when they lose interest in activities and spend more time sleeping or lying down. 

Lethargy is a symptom of dog health issues like dehydration, anemia, or even cancer. But more often, lethargy occurs when dogs aren’t getting the complete vitamins and minerals their bodies require. This lack of nutrients may be caused by partial anorexia, when a dog refuses to eat, or feeding them an unbalanced dog food diet. 

Simply changing your dog’s diet can raise their energy levels and make them feel brand new again. But what ingredients can boost dog energy levels?

Energy Boosting Ingredients in Dog Food

Real Meat & Organs

Dogs need a lot of meat in their diets because the high protein content provides them with energy. Carbohydrates will give your pup a short-term boost, but energy from protein goes further and supports long-term dog energy levels. 

The first ingredient in your dog’s food should always be real meat. Dog food ingredients are listed in order of weighted amount – so the first ingredient on the label makes up most of the food. That means if corn is the first ingredient listed then your dog is eating more corn than protein. 

Real meat and poultry are the first ingredients in every Sundays dog food recipe. We also include animal organs in our 100% human-grade dog food since they are high in protein and B-Complex vitamins. 

Blueberries

Low-energy dogs can benefit from adding blueberries to their diet. Although these berries are tiny, they pack a punch with high levels of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Plus, dogs love the sweet taste of blueberries.

Carrots

Try feeding your pup carrots to improve dog energy levels. Carrots are another powerhouse veggie with rich levels of vitamin C. Dogs love to snack on crunchy carrots. The texture of carrots cleans the plaque off your pup’s teeth while they chew, making it a natural dental treat.

Carrots are perfect for low-energy dogs or pups that need a health boost in general. High levels of beta-carotene in carrots can support your dog’s vision and help them see better in the dark. You’ll find even more nutrients and antioxidants in carrots to keep your dog in tip-top shape. 

Quinoa

Humans love this whole grain because it boosts their metabolism and can help them lose weight. Quinoa is beneficial for dogs, too. This quality carbohydrate has a robust nutritional profile that can improve dog energy levels. 

This superfood is packed with protein, antioxidants, fiber, and multiple other nutrients. That’s why quinoa is the whole-grain highlight of Sundays beef dog food. 

Kale

Kale is a superfood vegetable that has a multitude of natural vitamins, minerals, and cancer-fighting antioxidants. This leafy green has high levels of vitamins C, A, B6, and E to perk up low-energy dogs. 

Tips for Boosting Dog Energy Levels

Choose Complete & Balanced Dog Food

The foods we highlighted earlier can be fed to your pup on their own or featured in their dog food recipe. Avoiding low dog energy levels is easy when you find a nutritionally complete and balanced dog food. Low-energy dogs may just be missing out on a key vitamin or mineral in their current diet. 

Sundays Food for Dogs has energy-boosting ingredients like real meat, kale, blueberries, and more. Plus, each recipe is AAFCO-approved to provide dogs with complete and balanced nutrition. Dogs also love the flavor and texture of these real air-dried ingredients. 

Take Age Into Account

If your pup is 7 or older, they are in the senior phase of their life. At this age, it’s natural for them to tire out faster than usual. You have no reason to be worried if your senior pup begins slowing down.

You can still keep your senior dog healthy with daily walks and gentle playtime. Remember, your dog’s body isn’t as spry as it used to be. When they signal that they’re ready to rest, let them relax and reset. 

Visit Your Vet’s Office

Listen to your instincts if something seems off with your pup. Dog energy levels usually dip for a reason, so schedule an appointment with your vet to get their opinion. They can run tests to make sure your dog is healthy and provide you with recommendations on how to help low-energy dogs.