Best Dog Food Brand for Small Dogs: Top Picks for 2024

Small dogs can be a delight to have as pets, but they require special care and attention to ensure they remain healthy and happy. One of the most important aspects of caring for a small dog is providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet. Choosing the right dog food brand can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the best dog food brand for small dogs.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food brand for small dogs, there are several factors that you need to consider. Small dogs have different nutritional requirements than larger dogs, and they need a diet that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, small dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, which means they need kibble that is small and easy to chew.

One of the critical things to consider when choosing the best dog food brand for small dogs is the quality of the ingredients. Look for brands that use high-quality, natural ingredients and avoid those that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Another essential factor to consider is the brand’s reputation for producing high-quality dog food that meets the nutritional needs of small dogs.

In this article, we will review the top dog food brands for small dogs and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you have a Chihuahua, a Pomeranian, or a Shih Tzu, we have got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find the best dog food brand for your furry friend!

Best Dog Food Brands for Small Dogs

We know how important it is to feed your furry friend the best possible food. When it comes to small dogs, choosing the right brand can be even more important. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog food brands for small dogs. Our team has researched and tested these brands to ensure that they meet our high standards for quality, nutrition, and taste. Whether your small dog is a picky eater or has specific dietary needs, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small dog, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great choice. Our experience with this product has been great so far, and we believe it could be a great choice for your furry friend as well.

Pros

• Real chicken as the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for healthy muscles.
• Specially formulated for small breed dogs, with a precise blend of protein and carbohydrates to support high energy needs.
• Contains exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which are “cold-formed” to retain their potency.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The small kibble size may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It’s a high-quality, balanced recipe you can both feel great about. The inclusion of real chicken as the first ingredient provides high-quality protein for healthy muscles, while the precise blend of protein and carbohydrates supports high energy needs.

One of the standout features of this dog food brand is the exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. These are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Although we have had a great experience with this dog food brand, some dogs may not like the taste of the food. Additionally, the small kibble size may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues. Lastly, the price may be higher than other dog food brands.

In conclusion, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great choice for small breed dogs. With real chicken as the first ingredient, exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, and a precise blend of protein and carbohydrates, this dog food brand provides balanced nutrition for your furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for small breed dogs. This dog food is specially formulated with high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small dogs. It also contains nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. The kibble is small enough for tiny canine mouths and is made with easy-to-digest ingredients that are gentle on their stomachs.

Pros

• Provides high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs
• Nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E promote healthy skin and a shiny coat
• Small kibble size is perfect for tiny canine mouths

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit more expensive than other dog food brands
• The bag may not last as long as some other brands due to the recommended serving size

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for our small breed dog for several months and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and appearance. Her coat is shinier and she has more energy throughout the day. We appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right brand for your pup. Additionally, this dog food is a bit more expensive than other brands, but we believe that the high-quality ingredients and benefits make it worth the investment. Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for small breed dogs who need precise nutrition to support their overall health and well-being.

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Chicken -amp; Rice Formula – 6 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Rice Shredded Blend 6 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small dog, Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food with Probiotics is a great option. With its nutrient-dense bite-sized kibble and small tender, shredded pieces, this food offers a taste and texture that dogs love. It’s also fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health.

Pros

• The high protein formula contains real chicken as the first ingredient, making it a great source of protein for highly active small dogs.
• The nutrient-dense kibble and shredded pieces offer a taste and texture that dogs love, making it easier to get them to eat.
• The addition of live probiotics supports digestive and immune health, which is important for small dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, but this is a common issue with any dog food brand.
• The food can be a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands, but the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.
• The packaging is not resealable, so you’ll need to transfer the food to an airtight container to keep it fresh.

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food with Probiotics for our small dog for several months now, and we’re very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste and texture of the food, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his digestion and overall health. We also appreciate the fact that the food is made with high-quality ingredients and is fortified with live probiotics to support his immune system. Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food with Probiotics for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food brand for their small dog.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small breed dog, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food might be a good option for you.

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for small breed dogs and makes it easier for them to eat and digest.
• The lamb flavor is a nice change of pace for dogs that prefer variety.
• The blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E helps promote healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The bag is only 4.5 pounds, which may not last very long for larger dogs.

We’ve been feeding our small breed dog Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and overall, we’re pretty happy with it. The small kibble size is perfect for our dog, who has a small mouth and sometimes struggles with larger kibble sizes. We’ve also noticed that she seems to digest it well and hasn’t had any stomach issues since switching to this brand.

One thing we really like about this dog food is the lamb flavor. Our dog seems to enjoy it and we appreciate the variety it offers. We’ve also noticed that her coat seems to be shinier and healthier since we started feeding her this brand, which we attribute to the blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E in the food.

However, the price point of this dog food may be a bit higher than some other brands. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters. Finally, the bag is only 4.5 pounds, which may not last very long for larger dogs.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs or skin issues. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other brands, we think the quality of the food is worth the price.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag Lamb -amp; Rice 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food brand that’s affordable and contains high-quality ingredients, then Nature’s Recipe Original Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe dog food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With real lamb as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is packed with protein to help support strong muscles.
• The nutrient-dense whole grains such as rice, oatmeal, and barley contain fiber to help support healthy digestion.
• This natural dog food contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to help support overall health and wellbeing.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, so it’s important to introduce this food gradually to avoid any upset stomachs.
• This dog food is not suitable for puppies or senior dogs, as it’s specifically designed for adult dogs.
• While this dog food doesn’t contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, it does contain natural flavors, which some dog owners may prefer to avoid.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Original Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe dog food for adult dogs. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a natural dog food brand that’s affordable and contains high-quality ingredients that can help support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

This dog food is easy to digest and contains a good balance of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy. Plus, with no added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, you can feel good about feeding this food to your furry friend.

In terms of taste, some dogs may not like the lamb flavor, but most seem to enjoy it. If you’re concerned about your dog’s taste preferences, you can always start with a small bag to see how they react to the food before committing to a larger bag.

Overall, we think that Nature’s Recipe Original Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe dog food is a great choice for small dogs who need a high-quality, affordable, and natural dog food brand.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Dry Food Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a healthy and nutritious dog food for your small dog, then Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe could be a great choice. We have tried this product and here’s what we think.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, which is a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• The fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• The kibble size may not be suitable for very small dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• The price may be higher compared to other dog food brands.

Overall, we believe that Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great choice for small dogs who require a grain-free diet. The product is formulated by expert pet nutritionists, and every single ingredient is picked with a purpose. The added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients help in the maintenance of adult dogs. We love that the product is made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat.

In terms of taste, our dog really likes this product. We add a tiny amount of warm water to create a little gravy, and our dog cleans her dish. We also appreciate that the product is designed to help support a healthy immune system, strong muscles, a healthy heart, and healthy skin and coat.

The only downside we found is that the kibble size may not be suitable for very small dogs, and some dogs may not like the taste of salmon. Additionally, the price may be higher compared to other dog food brands.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand that is formulated to help support your small dog’s needs, then Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is definitely worth considering.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Wholesome Grains Prairie Recipe, 21 lb. Bag Prairie Recipe 21 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small dog, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated is definitely worth considering. Our experience with this product has been positive overall, and we think it’s a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with wholesome, nutritious meals.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat, giving your dog the protein-rich taste they crave with the nutrition they deserve.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: 78% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage, and organ meat such as chicken liver, which helps your pet thrive.
• Great for the Skin -amp; Coat: Omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil provide skin and coat support, making your dog’s fur shiny and healthy.

Cons

• Not all dogs may like the taste of the freeze-dried nuggets.
• Some pet owners may find the price to be a bit steep compared to other brands.
• While the recipe includes barley and oatmeal, it may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.

In our experience, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated is a great option for small dogs. We appreciate the wholesome ingredients, such as cage-free chicken, turkey, quail, guineafowl, goose, and duck, and the fact that there are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The recipe is also designed to be easily digestible for all life stages, with no unnecessary fillers.

One thing to keep in mind is that not all dogs may like the taste of the freeze-dried nuggets. Our dog was a bit hesitant at first, but eventually warmed up to the flavor. Additionally, some pet owners may find the price to be a bit steep compared to other brands, although we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we think Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated is a great option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious meal. With its whole prey ingredients and skin and coat support, this dog food brand is definitely worth considering.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free and Limited Ingredient with Superfoods (Beef, 1.0 lb) Beef 1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want to give your small dog a high-quality, nutritious and delicious meal, then ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is an excellent option. Made from natural ingredients, this dog food is perfect for small dogs who love meaty flavors.

Pros

• High-quality, natural ingredients
• Nutrient-dense and rich in protein
• Grain-free and low-carb

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands
• Some variability in the texture and appearance of the food
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We love ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food because it is made from high-quality, natural ingredients that are ethically sourced. The beef recipe is particularly impressive, featuring grass-fed and free-range beef from New Zealand. The recipe is moisture-rich and can be served as a topper or a complete meal.

One of the best things about ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is that it is nutrient-dense and rich in protein. The whole-prey ratios feature 96% free-range beef, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels. The ingredients are safely air-dried to deliver peak nutrition and mouth-watering taste for even the pickiest dogs.

This dog food is also grain-free and low-carb, making it ideal for food-sensitive dogs. It contains no cheap fillers such as grain, potato, or peas, which are linked to obesity, food allergies, and other health concerns.

However, it’s important to note that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is more expensive compared to other dog food brands. Additionally, there may be some variability in the texture and appearance of the food due to the natural ingredients and small-batch production. Finally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality, nutritious, and delicious dog food for your small dog, then ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely worth considering. With its natural ingredients, high protein content, and grain-free formula, your furry friend is sure to love it.

Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food, Life Protection Formula, Natural Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Flavor, Adult Dry Dog Food, 15 lb Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food brand for your small breed dog, Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food is definitely worth considering. Our experience with this product has been overwhelmingly positive, and we believe that it is one of the best dog food brands available on the market today.

Pros

• Blue Buffalo’s Small Breed Dog Food features high-quality deboned chicken as the primary ingredient, making it a protein-rich diet that maintains higher metabolisms of small breed dogs.
• This natural dry dog food is made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy, making it a high-quality, balanced recipe that you can both feel great about.
• Contains essential proteins and carbs to support higher energy requirements of small breed dogs.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this food.
• Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food is a bit more expensive than some other dog food brands on the market.
• The kibble size is really small, so it may not be ideal for larger dogs or dogs that like to chew their food.

In our experience, Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food is a top-quality dog food brand that is well worth the investment. The high-quality ingredients and balanced recipe make it an excellent choice for small breed dogs with high energy requirements. It’s also great to know that the food contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. However, we have found that the vast majority of dogs seem to love the flavor of Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food. Additionally, while this food is a bit more expensive than some other dog food brands on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value make it well worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food brand for their small breed dog. It’s a great choice for dogs with high energy requirements, and the natural ingredients and balanced recipe make it a healthy and nutritious option for your furry friend.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend purchasing Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for small dogs due to its high-quality, balanced recipe made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

Pros

• Real meat is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to help your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• Contains essential proteins and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs, and features omega three -amp; six fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support a healthy immune system in your adult dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and brown rice flavor.
• The price point may be slightly higher than other dog food brands.
• Not suitable for dogs with chicken or poultry allergies.

We recently tried out Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, specifically the Chicken and Brown Rice flavor in the 5-lb trial size bag, and we were impressed with the results. Our small dog loved the taste and we noticed an improvement in their coat and overall health. The packaging was also convenient and easy to store.

The real meat first ingredient provides high-quality protein to help your dog build and maintain healthy muscles, while the essential proteins and carbohydrates help meet the energy needs of adult dogs. The omega three -amp; six fatty acids promote a shiny coat and healthy skin, and the antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits support a healthy immune system in your adult dog.

While some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and brown rice flavor, we found that our dog enjoyed it. The price point may be slightly higher than other dog food brands, but we believe that the high-quality ingredients and balanced recipe make it worth the investment. However, it is important to note that this product is not suitable for dogs with chicken or poultry allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for small dogs. It is a high-quality, balanced recipe you can both feel great about, and we noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s health and well-being.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food brand for small dogs, there are a few important factors to consider. We’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Nutritional Requirements

Small dogs have different nutritional requirements than larger breeds. They require a diet that is high in protein and fat, but lower in carbohydrates. Look for dog food brands that are specifically formulated for small dogs and meet the nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Ingredients

The quality of ingredients is important when choosing a dog food brand. Look for brands that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients and avoid those that contain fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives. Some common ingredients to look for include:

• Protein sources such as chicken, lamb, and fish
• Healthy fats such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
• Whole grains such as brown rice and barley
• Fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and blueberries

Brand Reputation

Choosing a reputable brand is important when it comes to the safety and quality of your dog’s food. Look for brands that have a good reputation and are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. You can also check online reviews and ask for recommendations from your veterinarian or other dog owners.

Feeding Guidelines

Finally, make sure to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the dog food brand. Small dogs have different calorie requirements than larger breeds, so it’s important to feed them the appropriate amount to maintain a healthy weight. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food brand for your small dog and ensure they receive a healthy and balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended dog foods for small breeds?

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your small breed, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. Some of the top vet-recommended dog food brands for small breeds include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

Which dry dog food brands are best for small dogs?

There are many great dry dog food brands that are suitable for small dogs, including Blue Buffalo Life Protection, Wellness CORE, and Nutro Wholesome Essentials. When choosing a dry dog food for your small breed, look for a formula that contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

What is the healthiest wet dog food for small breed dogs?

Wet dog food can be a great option for small breed dogs, as it provides hydration and can be easier to digest. Some of the healthiest wet dog food brands for small breeds include Merrick, Wellness, and Blue Buffalo. Look for formulas that are made with high-quality protein sources, such as chicken or turkey, and are free from artificial preservatives and fillers.

How do I choose the best dog food for small dogs with allergies?

If your small breed dog has allergies, it’s important to choose a dog food that is free from the allergen(s) causing the reaction. Your veterinarian can help you determine what your dog is allergic to and recommend appropriate dog food brands. Some of the best dog food brands for small dogs with allergies include Hill’s Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Royal Canin.

What are the best grain-inclusive dog foods for small dogs?

Grain-inclusive dog foods can be a great option for small breed dogs, as they provide important nutrients and fiber. Some of the best grain-inclusive dog food brands for small dogs include Nutro Wholesome Essentials, Blue Buffalo Life Protection, and Wellness Complete Health. Look for formulas that contain whole grains, such as brown rice or barley, and are free from artificial preservatives and fillers.

Which puppy foods do the AKC recommend for small breeds?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends several puppy food brands for small breeds, including Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. Look for formulas that are specifically designed for small breed puppies and contain high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.