Small dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, which is why it’s important to choose the right type of dry dog food for them. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best dry dog foods for small dogs and what to look for when making a purchase.
Small dogs tend to have faster metabolisms, which means they require more calories per pound of body weight than larger dogs. They also have smaller mouths and teeth, which can make it difficult for them to chew larger kibble pieces. Additionally, some small dogs are prone to dental issues, which means they may require a specific type of dry dog food that helps clean their teeth.
When looking for the best dry dog food for small dogs, it’s important to consider the quality of the ingredients, the size of the kibble, and any specific nutritional needs your dog may have. You’ll want to choose a dry dog food that is high in protein, low in fat, and free from any artificial preservatives or fillers.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve researched and tested several dry dog foods for small dogs. In the following sections, we’ll be discussing our top picks and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Best Dry Dog Foods for Small Dogs
We understand that choosing the right food for your furry friend can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to small dogs. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best dry dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs and taste preferences.
That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best dry dog foods for small dogs. Our team of experts has carefully selected these products based on their quality, ingredients, and customer reviews. Whether your dog has specific dietary requirements or is a picky eater, we’ve got you covered.
Take a look at our top picks and find the perfect dry dog food for your small dog.
1. CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish
If you’re looking for a dry dog food for your small breed dog, CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish is a great option.
Pros
- Made with real beef as the first ingredient for a taste dogs love
- Specially crafted with 26 nutrients that small breed dogs need
- Tender, meaty chunks in this delicious kibble for small dogs
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- May be a bit pricey compared to other dog foods
We’ve been using CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish for a few months now, and our dog loves it. The kibble is small enough for her to easily chew and digest, and the real beef flavor is a hit with her taste buds. We also appreciate that the food is specially crafted with 26 nutrients that small breed dogs need to stay healthy.
One downside is that the food contains grains, so it may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s always a good idea to introduce new foods gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction. Finally, the price point may be a bit higher than other dog foods on the market, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.
Overall, we highly recommend CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish for small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, tasty, and nutritious dry dog food.
2. Pedigree Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble
If you’re looking for a dry dog food that is perfect for your small canine friend, then the Pedigree Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble is worth considering.
Pros
- The grilled steak and vegetable flavor provides antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to help maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- The whole grains, protein, and accents of vegetables help support digestion.
- The complete and balanced nutrition provides optimal levels of omega-6 fatty acid to nourish skin and help keep your small dog’s coat shiny and healthy.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the flavor.
- The kibble may be too small for larger small breed dogs.
- The bag may be too heavy for some pet owners to carry.
We have been using the Pedigree Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble for our small dogs for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in their coat and overall health. The kibble is small enough for our dogs to chew easily, and they seem to love the grilled steak and vegetable flavor. We also appreciate that the food is made with high-quality whole grains, protein, and omega-6 fatty acids, which help keep our dogs healthy and happy.
One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the flavor of the food, so it may take some time to get your dog used to it. Additionally, the kibble may be too small for larger small breed dogs, so it may be best to check the size of the kibble before purchasing. Lastly, the bag may be too heavy for some pet owners to carry, especially if they have multiple dogs or if they have difficulty lifting heavy objects.
Overall, we highly recommend the Pedigree Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble to anyone looking for a high-quality dry dog food for their small canine friend.
3. Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small & Mighty Natural Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend the Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small & Mighty Natural Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small dogs. This natural dry dog food is made with high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that support the everyday energy needs of little dogs.
Pros
- The Blue Buffalo dog food features real chicken as the first ingredient and is formulated with healthy ingredients including fruits, vegetables, and wholesome grains like brown rice, oats, and barley.
- This recipe features antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits and TruMune, a licensed trademark of Diamond V Mills, LLC.
- Clinically proven to support digestive health, plus TruMune, a natural, dual-action nutrient blend that works with your adult dog’s biology to support immune function and digestive health.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- It is more expensive than other dog food brands.
- Some customers have reported that their dogs experienced diarrhea after eating this food.
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small & Mighty Natural Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for small dogs. It contains high-quality protein and other nutrients that support the everyday energy needs of little dogs. The natural ingredients are enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, which makes it a healthy option for your furry friend.
The LifeSource Bits and TruMune are added to the recipe to provide antioxidant support and promote digestive health. These ingredients are clinically proven to support digestive health, plus TruMune, a natural, dual-action nutrient blend that works with your adult dog’s biology to support immune function and digestive health.
Overall, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small & Mighty Natural Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for small dogs. It is made with high-quality ingredients and provides the necessary nutrients to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Bites, Chicken & Barley Recipe
If you’re searching for a high-quality dry dog food for your small breed dog, Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent option. Our experience with this product has been great, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious meal for their furry friend.
Pros
- The small kibble size is perfect for small and toy breeds.
- Provides omega-6s & vitamin E for healthy skin & coat.
- Promotes healthy digestion with natural fibers.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- The price is a bit higher compared to other brands.
- Some dogs may experience digestive issues.
We love that this dry dog food is packed with easy-to-digest ingredients that fuel the energy needs of adult canines. It’s also great that it provides high-quality protein for maintaining lean muscle. The omega-6s & vitamin E in this dry food for small breed dogs promotes healthy skin & coat, which is a huge plus. The natural fibers in this food also help promote healthy digestion for adult dogs.
However, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, and the price is a bit higher compared to other brands. Additionally, some dogs may experience digestive issues, although this is not a common occurrence.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites Adult Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious meal for their small breed dog.
5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your small breed dog, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Real meat is always the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to help your dog build and maintain healthy muscles
- Contains increased levels of protein and carbohydrates to meet the energy needs of smaller dogs, with kibble size ideal for smaller jaws
- Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits are included to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
- The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands
- Some dogs may experience digestive issues when switching to this food
We’ve been feeding our small breed dog Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re really happy with the results. Our dog seems to love the taste and texture of the kibble, and we’ve noticed an improvement in her overall health and energy levels.
One of the things we love about this dog food is that real meat is always the first ingredient. We feel good knowing that our dog is getting high-quality protein to help her build and maintain healthy muscles. We also appreciate that the kibble is specifically formulated for small breed dogs, with increased levels of protein and carbohydrates to meet their energy needs.
Another great feature of this dog food is the exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. These bits are carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. We feel good knowing that our dog is getting these extra nutrients to support her overall health and well-being.
While we haven’t experienced any issues with this dog food, we do want to mention that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other dog food brands. Finally, some dogs may experience digestive issues when switching to this food. As always, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food. It’s a high-quality, balanced recipe that we feel great about feeding our dog, and we think you’ll feel the same way too.
6. Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small dogs weighing 9-22 lbs between 10 months to 8 years old. This dog food is specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small dog breeds.
Pros
- Helps maintain a healthy weight with L-carnitine
- Optimal levels of fatty acids support healthy skin and coat
- Enhanced palatability satisfies even the pickiest eaters
Cons
- Expensive compared to other dog food brands
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Contains corn and wheat which some dogs may be allergic to
We’ve been using Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our small dog for over a year now and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health. The kibble is small and easy for her to chew, and she loves the taste. We also like that it helps maintain her weight and keeps her coat shiny and healthy.
One thing to note is that this dog food is on the expensive side compared to other brands, but we believe it’s worth the investment for the health benefits it provides. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor their reaction. Lastly, it’s important to note that this dog food contains corn and wheat, which some dogs may be allergic to, so it’s important to check with your veterinarian before starting your dog on this food.
Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small dogs who have unique nutritional needs.
7. IAMS Adult Minichunks Small Kibble High Protein Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken
If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your small furry friend, IAMS Adult Minichunks Small Kibble Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.
Pros
- The small kibble size is perfect for small dogs and promotes strong muscles with premium-sourced protein.
- The wholesome blend of fibers and prebiotics supports healthy digestion, and antioxidants help support a strong immune system.
- IAMS dog food is made with high-quality animal protein and no artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers, providing complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
- The price may be a bit higher than other dog food brands.
- The packaging may not be as durable as other brands.
We recently tried this product with our small dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the small kibble size, and we noticed an improvement in her digestion and overall health. We appreciate that the food is made with high-quality ingredients and provides complete nutrition for our furry friend. However, we did notice that the price is higher than some other dog food brands, and the packaging may not be as durable. Overall, we highly recommend giving IAMS Adult Minichunks Small Kibble Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken a try for your small dog’s nutritional needs.
8. Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for small dogs who need a balanced diet with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
- Provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs
- Contains natural sources of glucosamine to promote joint health
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- The kibble may be too large for very small dogs
- Contains corn, which some dogs may be allergic to
We have been feeding our small dogs Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for over a year now and have seen noticeable improvements in their health and energy levels. The high-quality protein and carbohydrate sources provide them with the energy they need to stay active throughout the day, while the added vitamins and minerals keep them healthy and strong.
One of the standout features of this dog food is its commitment to holistic nutrition. The formula includes a well-balanced mix of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. The added prebiotic fiber also promotes gut health and immune support, which is especially important for small dogs who may be more prone to digestive issues.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for small dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet. With its high-quality ingredients and added vitamins and minerals, this dog food is sure to keep your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.
9. Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food
If you’re looking for a dry dog food that is specifically formulated for small breed dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food is a great option.
Pros
- Highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your small dog’s stomach
- Nourishing omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat
- Provides high quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this food
- The kibble size may be too small for some larger small breed dogs
- Some customers have reported issues with the bag’s design, which may make it difficult to keep the food fresh
We’ve been feeding this food to our small breed dog for several months now and have been very happy with the results. The kibble size is perfect for her tiny mouth, and she seems to really enjoy the taste of the food.
One thing we really appreciate about Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food is that it contains high quality protein to help maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs. This is important for our dog’s overall health and wellbeing.
Another great feature of this food is that it contains nourishing omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E, which help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Our dog’s coat has been looking particularly lustrous and healthy since we started feeding her this food.
While we haven’t personally experienced any issues with the bag’s design, we have seen some customer reviews that suggest it may not be the most effective way to keep the food fresh. However, we do appreciate that Hill’s Science Diet is committed to using high-quality ingredients and avoiding artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Overall, we would definitely recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dry dog food that is specifically formulated for small breed dogs.
10. PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
If you are looking for a dry dog food that is perfect for your small dog, then you should try PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. It is 100% complete and balanced with whole grains, protein, and omega-6 fatty acids that help nourish your dog’s skin and coat. The kibble is small in size, making it easy for your small dog to chew, and the Tender Bites are mixed in, making it irresistible in every way.
Pros
- The kibble is small in size, making it perfect for small adult dogs.
- The Tender Bites are mixed in, making it irresistible in every way.
- The wholesome recipes have no fillers, no artificial flavors, and no high fructose corn syrup.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the chicken and steak flavors.
- It may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
- The bag size may not be enough for larger dogs.
We recently tried PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our small dog and we were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the small chewy bites mixed with dog kibble, and we were happy that it delivers 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs. The kibble also helped to gently clean our dog’s teeth with every bite, which is a plus for dental health.
The wholesome recipes have no fillers, no artificial flavors, and no high fructose corn syrup, which gave us peace of mind that we were feeding our dog the best. We also liked that it is made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients.
Overall, we highly recommend PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small dogs. It is a great way to feed the good in your pup in all their favorite tail-wagging flavors.
11. NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food as a great option for small dogs.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, providing protein-rich nutrition.
- Contains Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin & a soft, shiny coat.
- Formulated with calcium to support strong bones and joints.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- The kibble size may not be suitable for all small breeds.
- The price point may be higher than some other options.
We have been using this product for a while now and have noticed a significant improvement in our small dog’s coat and overall health. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides protein-rich nutrition that keeps our dog satisfied and energized throughout the day. The added Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat, which is a huge plus for us.
We also appreciate that this product is formulated with calcium to support strong bones and joints, which is especially important for small dogs. The crunchy texture of the kibble also helps clean teeth to help control plaque build-up to support dental health.
While the price point may be higher than some other options, we believe that the quality of the product is worth the investment. However, some dogs may not like the taste, and the kibble size may not be suitable for all small breeds.
Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small dogs.
12. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small senior dogs who require specific aging needs. This dry food is formulated with easy-to-digest ingredients that help support energy levels and keep a healthy immune system. The balanced minerals in this food promote heart and kidney health, and the small kibble with high-quality protein is perfect for lean muscle.
Pros
- Formulated for specific aging needs of small senior dogs
- Easy-to-digest ingredients help support energy levels and keep a healthy immune system
- Balanced minerals promote heart and kidney health
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Some dogs may not like the small kibble size
- May be more expensive than other brands
We switched to Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food when our previous brand was discontinued, and our fussy senior dog loves it. The small kibble size is perfect for his small mouth, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his energy levels and overall health. We also appreciate that this food is made with natural ingredients and is made in the USA with global ingredients we can trust.
If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your small senior dog, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for small dogs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a product:
Nutritional Value
Small dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for their size. Look for a product that contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also a good idea to choose a food that is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Ingredient Quality
The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food can have a big impact on their overall health and well-being. Look for a product that uses high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoids fillers, by-products, and other low-quality ingredients.
Brand Reputation
When choosing a dog food brand, it’s important to consider the company’s reputation. Look for a brand that has a history of producing high-quality, nutritious dog food and has a strong commitment to animal welfare.
Price
While price should never be the only factor when choosing a dog food, it’s important to consider your budget. Look for a product that offers good value for money and fits within your budget.
Feeding Guidelines
Finally, be sure to follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging to ensure that your dog is getting the right amount of food for their size and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems, so it’s important to be mindful of how much you are feeding your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dry food for small dogs?
The best dry food for small dogs depends on their specific needs and preferences. However, some top-rated options include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Blue Buffalo.
What dog food do vets recommend for small dogs?
Veterinarians often recommend high-quality dry dog foods that are specifically formulated for small breeds. Some popular brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.
What is the number one dry dog food recommended by vets?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different vets may have different recommendations based on their experience and expertise. However, some of the most highly recommended dry dog foods for small breeds include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.
What brand of dry dog food do dogs like best?
Every dog is different and may have their own individual preferences when it comes to dry dog food. However, some popular brands that many dogs seem to enjoy include Blue Buffalo, Taste of the Wild, and Wellness.
Is Iams a good dog food?
Iams is a well-known brand of dog food that has been around for many years. While some dogs may do well on Iams, it is important to note that the quality and nutritional value of their products can vary. It is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Is Blue Buffalo good dog food?
Blue Buffalo is a popular brand of dog food that is known for its high-quality ingredients and focus on natural nutrition. Many dog owners and veterinarians recommend this brand for its quality and nutritional value. However, as with any dog food, it is important to choose the right formula for your dog’s specific needs and consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to their diet.
80% of Dogs Develop Arthritis or Joint Pain by 7 Years old – Here’s How to Protect Them
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