Small breed dogs have unique dietary needs that require a specific type of dog food. These dogs have a faster metabolism and require more calories per pound than larger breeds. Additionally, they have smaller mouths and stomachs, which means they need smaller kibble sizes that are easy to chew and digest.
When shopping for the best small breed dog food, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for high-quality proteins like chicken, fish, and lamb, as well as whole grains and vegetables. Avoid foods that contain fillers like corn and wheat, as well as artificial preservatives and colors.
Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best small breed dog food is the size of the kibble. Smaller kibble sizes are easier for small dogs to chew and digest, reducing the risk of choking and digestive issues. Additionally, look for foods that are specially formulated for small breeds, as they will have the right balance of nutrients to support their unique needs.
We spent countless hours researching and testing eight different small breed dog foods to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition and taste for your furry friend. Our top picks offer high-quality proteins, whole grains, and vegetables, as well as small kibble sizes that are easy to chew and digest.
Best Small Breed Dog Food
As dog owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. For small breed dogs, finding the right food can be a challenge. With their smaller size, they require more calories per pound than larger dogs, but they also have smaller stomachs. This means they need a diet that is nutrient-dense and easy to digest.
After researching and testing various small breed dog foods, we have compiled a list of the best options on the market. These products have been carefully chosen based on their quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and overall effectiveness in promoting optimal health for small dogs.
1. WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with nutrients and made with real Australian lamb, then WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Real Australian lamb is the #1 ingredient, providing a great source of protein and flavor
- Nutritious vegetables like lentils and peas provide essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, while salmon oil and flaxseed provide omega-3 fatty acids, including long-chain DHA
- Made in California, USA, at a family-owned facility with trusted, high-quality sources from around the world
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies to lamb or other ingredients
- The 24 lb bag may be too heavy for some people to lift or store easily
- Some customers have reported difficulty opening the bag or dealing with crumbs at the bottom of the bag
We recently tried WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe with our small breed dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value of the food. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no trouble digesting it.
One of the standout features of this dog food is the use of real Australian lamb as the main ingredient. This provides a great source of protein and flavor, and helps to keep your dog feeling full and satisfied. We also appreciated the inclusion of nutritious vegetables like lentils and peas, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. The addition of salmon oil and flaxseed provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and coat, as well as supporting brain and eye development.
Another thing we liked about WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe is that it’s made in California, USA, at a family-owned facility with trusted, high-quality sources from around the world. This gives us confidence that the food is safe and healthy for our dog to eat.
While we didn’t experience any major issues with this dog food, we do want to note that it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies to lamb or other ingredients. Additionally, the 24 lb bag may be too heavy for some people to lift or store easily, and some customers have reported difficulty opening the bag or dealing with crumbs at the bottom of the bag.
Overall, we would definitely recommend WAG Dry Dog Food Lamb & Lentil Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with nutrients and made with real Australian lamb.
2. ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed dog, ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option. With its unique kibble shape, it’s easier for small dogs to eat, and it’s packed with 85% animal ingredients, including WholePrey ingredients like nourishing organs to mimic what your dog’s ancestors consumed in the wild.
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- Grain-free
- Unique kibble shape for small dogs
Cons
- Expensive
- Strong smell
- Some dogs may not like the taste
We’ve been feeding ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food to our small dog for a few months now, and we’ve been impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The first five ingredients are fresh or raw poultry and fish, so we feel good knowing our dog is getting a high protein dog food with the protein, vitamins, and minerals she needs. We also appreciate that it’s grain-free, which can be beneficial for dogs with certain allergies or sensitivities.
The unique kibble shape is another great feature of this dog food. Our dog seems to have an easier time eating it compared to other kibble shapes we’ve tried in the past. Plus, we like that it’s made in the USA with quality ingredients from around the world.
However, we do acknowledge that this dog food is on the expensive side. It may not be feasible for everyone’s budget. Additionally, the strong smell of the food may be off-putting to some owners. Finally, while our dog seems to enjoy the taste, we know that not all dogs have the same preferences, so it’s possible that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed dog and don’t mind spending a bit more, ORIJEN Small Breed Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
3. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for the best small breed dog food, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food. This product is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin, and it’s made with natural ingredients that you can trust.
Pros
- This dry dog food uses prebiotic fiber to feed your small dog’s microbiome for optimal digestive health.
- Vitamin E, omega 6 fatty acids, and other nutrients in smaller kibble help nourish skin & promote a lustrous coat.
- Dog food formulated with little dogs in mind to provide an optimal balance of nutrients specifically for miniature and toy breed dogs.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
- The price point may be higher than some other brands.
- The kibble size may be too small for some dogs.
We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a big improvement in his overall health and well-being. The prebiotic fiber has helped regulate his digestive system, and his coat is looking shinier and healthier than ever before.
One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with natural ingredients. We feel good about feeding our dog a product that we know is safe and healthy for him. Plus, the smaller kibble size is perfect for little mouths, and it’s easy for our dog to chew and digest.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. It’s a high-quality product that will keep your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.
4. Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Small Breed Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe, 4 lb. Bag Dry Food Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin 4 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed dog, Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice.
Pros
- Made with real chicken, a great source of protein to maintain muscle strength.
- Contains fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin, which can help support digestion and immune system health.
- No artificial colors, preservatives or flavors, and no added corn, wheat or soy.
Cons
- A bit pricey compared to some other dog food brands.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture.
- The bag is only 4 pounds, so it may not last very long if you have a larger dog or multiple dogs.
We’ve been using Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been very happy with it. Our dog seems to really enjoy the taste, and the kibble size is perfect for her small mouth. We’ve also noticed that her coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this food.
One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other brands. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value make it worth the extra cost. Plus, since our dog seems to like it so much, we don’t mind spending a little extra to keep her happy and healthy.
Overall, we would definitely recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food to other pet owners. It’s a high-quality, nutritious dog food that’s made with real ingredients and no artificial additives. If you’re looking for a great food for your small breed dog, this is definitely one to consider.
5. Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed dog, Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
- Grain-free recipe specifically formulated for small breed dogs
- Contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support immune system health
Cons
- More expensive than some other dog food brands
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- May cause digestive issues in some dogs
We’ve been feeding our small breed dog Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for a few months now and have been very happy with the results. The fact that real chicken is the first ingredient gives us peace of mind that our dog is getting high-quality protein. Plus, the grain-free recipe is perfect for our dog’s sensitive stomach.
One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is the inclusion of antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. It’s nice to know that our dog is getting extra support for her immune system and overall health.
While this dog food is more expensive than some other brands, we feel that the quality is worth the price. However, we have noticed that some dogs may not enjoy the taste, so it may take some trial and error to find out if this is the right food for your pup. Additionally, some dogs may experience digestive issues, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to the food.
Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed dog owners who want to provide their pets with high-quality, nutritious food.
6. Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Grain Free Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Potato 11-lb
If you’re looking for a limited ingredient dog food that won’t upset your small breed dog’s sensitive stomach, Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Grain Free Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Potato could be a good option.
Pros
- Made with real lamb and other natural ingredients
- Contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support immune system health
- Grain-free and free from chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, and eggs
Cons
- Some reviewers have reported changes in ingredient quality
- May not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities
- Higher price point compared to other small breed dog foods
We recently tried this dog food for our small breed dog with a sensitive stomach, and overall we were pleased with the results. The small bite kibble was easy for our dog to eat, and we noticed an improvement in her digestion and overall health after switching to this food.
One of the things we appreciated about this dog food was the limited ingredient list, which made it easier to identify potential allergens and irritants. We also liked that it was grain-free and free from common allergens like chicken, beef, and dairy.
The inclusion of antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits was another selling point for us, as we’re always looking for ways to support our dog’s immune system and overall health.
While we did notice some changes in ingredient quality over time, we still feel that this dog food is a good choice for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. However, if your dog has severe food allergies or sensitivities, you may want to consult with a veterinarian before making a switch.
Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Grain Free Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Potato to other small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, limited ingredient dog food that supports digestive health and overall wellness.
7. Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey & Potato
We highly recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care for small breed dogs with food sensitivities.
Pros
- The limited ingredient formula is perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
- The small bite kibble is perfect for small breed dogs.
- The blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals promotes immune system health.
Cons
- The price is a bit higher than other brands.
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- The bag is not resealable.
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care is a great option for small breed dogs with food sensitivities. The limited ingredient formula contains real turkey as the single protein source, along with potatoes, peas, and pumpkin to support gentle digestion. The small bite kibble is perfectly sized for small breed dogs, and the balanced blend of carbohydrates and protein meets their nutritional needs.
One of the standout features of Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care is the blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists. This blend promotes immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.
While Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care is a bit pricier than other brands, we believe it’s worth the investment for dogs with food sensitivities. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce the food slowly and monitor their reaction. Additionally, the bag is not resealable, which can be a bit inconvenient.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed dog with food sensitivities, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care.
8. Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food
If you’re looking for a protein-rich, balanced diet for your small breed dog, Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice.
Pros
- Packed with real chicken for protein and flavor
- Includes wholesome grains for complex carbohydrates
- Contains LifeSource Bits for immune system support
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
- Contains grains, which some dogs may not tolerate well
- More expensive than some other brands
We recently tried Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food for our chihuahua mix, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The food starts with real, high-quality deboned chicken, which our dog loved. We also appreciated the addition of wholesome grains like oatmeal, barley, and brown rice, which provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
One of the standout features of this food is the inclusion of LifeSource Bits, which are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. We felt good knowing that our dog was getting this extra boost of nutrients.
While we were happy with the quality of the ingredients, we did find that the food was a bit more expensive than some other brands. Additionally, the inclusion of grains may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with grain sensitivities. Finally, it’s worth noting that the food does contain chicken, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with chicken allergies.
Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food for small breed dogs who need a high-quality, balanced diet. The addition of LifeSource Bits and wholesome grains make this food a great choice for supporting your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best small breed dog food, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure that you make the right choice for your furry friend.
Nutritional Requirements
Small breed dogs have different nutritional requirements than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Look for foods that are high in protein, fat, and calories, as small dogs have faster metabolisms and need more energy per pound of body weight.
Ingredients
The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is also important. Look for foods that contain high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.
Size and Texture
Small breed dogs have smaller mouths and teeth than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a food that is easy for them to eat and digest. Look for foods that are small in size and have a soft texture, as these will be easier for your dog to chew and swallow.
Price
While price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when choosing a dog food, it’s important to find a product that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that higher-priced foods may contain higher-quality ingredients, but this isn’t always the case. Be sure to compare prices and read reviews to find a product that offers good value for your money.
Feeding Schedule
Finally, it’s important to establish a regular feeding schedule for your small breed dog. Most dogs do well with two meals per day, but some may require more frequent feedings. Be sure to follow the feeding instructions on the dog food packaging and consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dry food for small dogs?
When it comes to small breed dogs, it’s important to choose a dry food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Look for a high-quality dry food that contains a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Some popular options include Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food and Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dry Dog Food.
Can you feed a small breed regular dog food?
While it is possible to feed a small breed regular dog food, it’s not recommended. Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger dogs, and regular dog food may not provide the right balance of nutrients. Additionally, small breed dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, so they may have a harder time eating larger kibble.
What food should small dogs eat?
Small dogs should eat a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Look for a food that contains a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, and is made with high-quality ingredients. Some popular options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe and Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Adult Chicken & Rice Formula.
Which is the best dog food for small breed dogs?
There are many high-quality dog foods available for small breed dogs, so it’s important to choose a food that meets your dog’s specific needs. Some popular options include Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dry Dog Food, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe.
What are the benefits of feeding small kibble dog food to large dogs?
Feeding small kibble dog food to large dogs can help promote better digestion and reduce the risk of choking. Additionally, small kibble may be easier for some dogs to eat, especially those with dental issues or smaller mouths.
What are the advantages of feeding wet dog food to small dogs?
Wet dog food can be a good option for small dogs, as it provides moisture and can be easier for some dogs to eat. Additionally, wet dog food can be a good option for dogs with dental issues or those who have trouble chewing dry food. Some popular options include Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 7+ Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables and Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Small Breed Chicken Dinner with Garden Vegetables & Brown Rice.
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