Best Dog Food for Picky Eaters: Top Picks for Small Breeds
Small breed dogs are adorable and make excellent companions, but they can be notoriously picky eaters. Finding the right dog food that your furry friend will love can be a daunting task. In this article, we will be discussing the best dog food for picky eaters small breed.
Small breed dogs have unique dietary requirements that need to be met to keep them healthy and happy. They have a faster metabolism and require more calories per pound of body weight than larger breeds. Small breed dogs also have smaller stomachs, which means they need to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
When it comes to picky eaters, small breed dogs can be especially challenging. They can be finicky about the texture, flavor, and size of their food. Some small breed dogs may even refuse to eat altogether if they don’t like the food they’re being served.
When looking for the best dog food for picky eaters small breed, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the food needs to be highly palatable. Small breed dogs are more likely to eat food that smells and tastes good to them. Secondly, the food needs to be appropriately sized for their small mouths. Lastly, the food needs to be nutritionally balanced to meet their unique dietary requirements.
In this article, we will be reviewing and testing various dog foods to identify the ones that small breed dogs will love. We spent countless hours researching and testing to find the best dog food for picky eaters small breed.
Best Dog Food for Picky Eaters Small Breed
As dog owners, we know the struggle of finding the right food for our furry friends, especially when they’re picky eaters. Small breed dogs have unique nutritional needs, and finding a food that they’ll actually eat can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog foods for picky eaters in small breeds. Our team of experts has researched and tested these products to ensure that they’re not only tasty but also meet the nutritional needs of small breed dogs. So, whether you have a finicky Chihuahua or a picky Pomeranian, we’ve got you covered with our top picks.
Hill’s Science Diet
If you are looking for a dog food that is specially formulated for small breed dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food may be the right choice for you. It is made with easy to digest ingredients that are specially formulated for a little dog’s stomach. The small kibble is suited for a little canine mouth, with high quality protein for lean muscle maintenance, plus nourishing omega 6s and vitamin E to promote healthy skin and a healthy coat.
Pros
- Highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your small dog’s stomach
- Provides high quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs
- Uses an antioxidant blend specifically for lifelong immune support in toy and miniature dogs
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
- Some customers have reported that the food causes digestive issues in their dogs
We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for our small breed dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health. She used to be a very picky eater, but she loves the taste of this food and always finishes her meals. We also appreciate that the small kibble size is perfect for her little mouth and the high quality protein helps to maintain her lean muscle mass.
One thing to note is that if your dog has grain allergies, this food may not be suitable for them as it contains rice. Additionally, some customers have reported that the food causes digestive issues in their dogs, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for small breed dogs who are picky eaters. It is a high quality food that is specially formulated for the unique nutritional needs of small breed dogs and can help to promote lifelong health.
Bil-Jac Picky No More Small Breed Chicken Liver Dry Dog Food 6 Pounds (2-Pack)
If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that will satisfy your picky small breed dog, then Bil-Jac Picky No More Small Breed Chicken Liver Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The irresistible flavor of lip-smacking chicken liver is sure to entice even the most persnickety eater.
- Fresh, farm-raised chicken is the very first ingredient in this super-premium food; 5 pounds of fresh chicken used to make a 6-pound bag.
- Complete and balanced nutrition for small breeds including naturally-sourced Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids to help nourish their skin and give them a smooth, lustrous coat.
Cons
- The price may be a bit higher than some other dog foods on the market.
- Some dogs may not like the taste, although this is rare.
- The kibble size may not be suitable for extremely small breeds.
We have been using Bil-Jac Picky No More Small Breed Chicken Liver Dry Dog Food for a few months now and have been very pleased with the results. Our picky small breed dog absolutely loves the taste and always licks his bowl clean. We have noticed that his coat is shinier and healthier-looking since we switched to this food.
One of the things we love about this food is that it is made with fresh, farm-raised chicken and chicken liver. You can really smell the quality of the ingredients when you open the bag. We also appreciate that it is made in the USA and does not contain any fillers, gluten meals, wheat, soy, sprayed-on rendered fat, or protein concentrate.
Another great feature of this food is that it contains canine-specific probiotics to help support healthy digestion and immune function. This has definitely helped with backyard clean-up, as our dog’s stools are consistently firm and easy to pick up.
Overall, we highly recommend Bil-Jac Picky No More Small Breed Chicken Liver Dry Dog Food for any small breed dog who is a picky eater. It is a bit pricier than some other dog foods, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits for our dog make it well worth the investment.
Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Small Breed Mini Meals Wet Dog Food
We highly recommend the Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Small Breed Mini Meals Wet Dog Food for picky eaters who require a grain-free diet. This product is made with high-quality ingredients and has no artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors.
Pros
- Mess-free pouches make mealtime easy and convenient
- Shredded chicken and turkey in gravy is a delicious and irresistible taste for dogs
- Packed with antioxidants to support your dog’s immune health and energy levels
Cons
- Some dogs may not enjoy the shredded texture of the food
- The 3-ounce pouches may not be enough for larger dogs
- The product is more expensive compared to other wet dog food options
We recently tried the Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Small Breed Mini Meals Wet Dog Food for our picky eater and were pleasantly surprised by how much he enjoyed it. The shredded chicken and turkey in gravy is a great texture for small dogs and the convenient pouches make mealtime easy and mess-free. We also appreciate that the product is packed with antioxidants to support our dog’s immune health and energy levels.
However, we did notice that some dogs may not enjoy the shredded texture of the food and the 3-ounce pouches may not be enough for larger dogs. Additionally, the product is more expensive compared to other wet dog food options. Overall, we think the Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Small Breed Mini Meals Wet Dog Food is a great choice for picky eaters who require a grain-free diet.
Cesar Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Filet Mignon Flavor
If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious meal for your small breed picky eater, then Cesar Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Filet Mignon Flavor is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Real beef as the #1 ingredient
- Made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world
- Peel away seals for easy serving
Cons
- Serving size may be small for larger dogs
- Contains trace amounts of grains
- May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements
We’ve been using Cesar Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Filet Mignon Flavor for a while now and our small breed dog loves it. With real beef as the #1 ingredient, we feel confident that we are providing our dog with a quality meal that is formulated to meet nutritional levels established by the AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for maintenance.
We appreciate that this dog food is made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world. The peel away seals make serving easy and convenient, and the complete and balanced nutrition ensures that our dog is getting everything they need in a single serve meal.
One thing to note is that the serving size may be small for larger dogs, so you may need to adjust the amount you serve accordingly. Additionally, while this dog food is formulated without grains, trace amounts may be present due to cross-contact during manufacturing. Finally, if your dog has specific dietary requirements, this product may not be suitable for them.
Overall, we highly recommend Cesar Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Filet Mignon Flavor for small breed picky eaters. It’s a delicious and nutritious meal that our dog loves, and we feel good about feeding it to them.
Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious dog food topper, Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters is a great option.
Pros
- Gently Air Dried -amp; Craveably Delicious! – Solid Gold Air Dried dog food flavor topper recipe is a dog meal topper, holiday dog treat, freeze dried, and kibble alternative made with high protein that is gently air dried to preserve nutrients and flavor.
- Powered by Nutrientboost – Keep your dog feeling nourished with this dog food topping natural protein source that supports canine digestive health, immune system function, and nutrient absorption for your pet – get your dog gifts for Christmas that support their health!
- Made with Real Beef Protein – At 91% protein from animal sources, these fresh dog food dog snacks provide a healthy source of premium beef to give small, medium, and large sized dogs dog food add ins with protein support – they make for nutritious stocking stuffers for dogs.
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with beef allergies.
- The pieces may be too small for larger dogs.
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters is easy to use and great for picky eaters. Whether you’re using it as a complete meal, dog treats, or as dog food additives for taste picky eaters will love this air-dried recipe that is easy to add to their favorite wet or dry food.
The recipe features a high-quality blend of vitamins, proteins, and other ingredients that support gut and immune system for pets. It is also a great source of protein that supports muscle growth, immunity, and healthy digestion.
Overall, we recommend Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters for anyone looking for a healthy and tasty dog food topper.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a natural and delicious dry dog food for your small breed senior dog, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food is a great option.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
- Promotes joint health with Glucosamine and Chondroitin
- Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune system support
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other dog food brands
- Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
- Some dogs may not like the taste
We’ve been using this dog food for our senior small breed dog for a few months now, and we’re pleased with the results. The kibble size is perfect for small jaws, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste.
One of the standout features of this dog food is that it’s made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, which provides high-quality protein for your dog. Additionally, it promotes joint health with Glucosamine and Chondroitin, which is important for senior dogs.
We also appreciate the exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, which support immune system health. The fact that this dog food is made with all-natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives is a bonus.
However, it’s important to note that this dog food is slightly more expensive than other brands, and it’s not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce the food gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.
Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a natural and nutritious option for their small breed senior dogs.
Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Lil’ Bites Chicken Little Recipe Small Breed Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that will satisfy even the pickiest small breed eaters, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Lil’ Bites Chicken Little Recipe Small Breed Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Crafted with 95% chicken, organs, and bone for a more natural way of eating
- Contains organic fruits and veggies for added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Grain- and gluten-free, with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Cons
- A bit on the pricey side compared to some other dog foods
- May not be ideal for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies
- Some dogs may not be fans of the texture or taste
We recently tried out this dog food with our own picky small breed dog, and were pleasantly surprised by how much she enjoyed it. The morsels are perfectly sized for small dogs, and the freeze-dried raw ingredients provide a great source of nutrition and flavor.
One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is the emphasis on natural, wholesome ingredients. With 95% chicken, organs, and bone, our dog was getting a more complete and balanced meal than with some other dog foods we’ve tried. And with organic fruits and veggies like cranberries, blueberries, spinach, and beets, we felt good about the added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants our dog was getting.
Of course, no dog food is perfect for every dog, and we did notice a few potential downsides to this one. For one thing, it’s definitely on the pricier side, so it may not be the most budget-friendly option for everyone. Additionally, some dogs may not be fans of the texture or taste, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
Overall, though, we were impressed with Stella -amp; Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Lil’ Bites Chicken Little Recipe Small Breed Dog Food, and would definitely recommend it to other small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that their picky eaters will love.
Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is easy to digest, promotes healthy skin and coat, and is specially formulated for small breed dogs, then Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food is a great choice.
Pros
- The small kibble size is perfect for small breed dogs
- Contains high-quality protein for lean muscle maintenance
- Made with natural ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
- Can be more expensive than other dog foods
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food with our picky eater small breed dog and were impressed with the results. The small kibble size was perfect for her tiny mouth, and she seemed to enjoy the taste and texture.
We also appreciated that the ingredients were easy to digest and that the food contained high-quality protein to help maintain lean muscle. Plus, the addition of omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E helped promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
While the price may be higher than some other dog foods on the market, we felt that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits made it worth the investment. However, it’s important to note that some dogs may not like the taste or texture, and it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
Overall, we would highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food for small breed dogs who are picky eaters and need a high-quality, easy to digest food. With the added benefit of supporting a good cause through Hill’s Food, Shelter -amp; Love program, it’s a win-win for both you and your furry friend.
Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters
If you’re looking for a meal topper that can add extra flavor and nutrition to your dog’s meals, then Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Made in the USA with wholesome ingredients from premium international partners
- Vet-approved
- Picky eater approved
Cons
- Packaging may vary
- May be too hard for some dogs to eat
- Only comes in one flavor
We have been using Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters for a while now, and our dog loves it. The chicken flavor adds an extra kick to his meals, and the added vitamins and minerals make it a nutritious boost to his diet. We love that it is all-natural and grain-free, and made in USDA-certified facilities.
Our vet recommended this meal topper, and we trust that we are giving our dog the best possible meal. It’s perfect for fussy dogs, and the added salmon oil and vitamins provide hip and joint support. We also love that it’s versatile and can be used as a meal mixer or as a dog topper for dry food, making mealtime more exciting for our pup.
One thing to keep in mind is that the packaging may vary during the transition period. Also, the meal topper may be too hard for some dogs to eat, so it’s important to monitor your dog while they eat it. Lastly, it only comes in one flavor, so if your dog doesn’t like chicken, this may not be the best option for you.
Overall, we highly recommend Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters. It’s a top-quality product that adds flavor and nutrition to your dog’s meals, and it’s perfect for picky eaters.
CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Filet Mignon Flavor with Spring Vegetables Garnish, 5 lb. Bag Filet Mignon 5 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal for your furry friend, CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option. Made with real beef as the first ingredient, this gourmet dog food is perfect for picky eaters who need a little extra encouragement to eat their meals. With 26 essential nutrients that support small breed health, CESAR Dog Food is a complete and balanced meal that will keep your dog happy and healthy.
Pros
- The perfect balance of taste and nutrition
- Contains 26 essential nutrients that support small breed health
- Made with real beef as the ingredient
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
- Pricey compared to other dog food options
We recently tried CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for our picky eater, and we were pleasantly surprised by how much she loved it. The tender pieces of beef and crunchy kibble were the perfect combination of textures, and our dog couldn’t get enough of it. We also appreciated that the dog food contains 26 essential nutrients that support small breed health, which gave us peace of mind that our dog was getting the nutrition she needs.
One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of CESAR Dog Food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, CESAR Dog Food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so be sure to check with your veterinarian before introducing it to your dog’s diet.
Overall, we highly recommend CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for picky eaters who need a little extra encouragement to eat their meals. While it may be a bit pricey compared to other dog food options, the quality ingredients and delicious taste make it well worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best dog food for picky eaters small breed, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features you should look for when selecting a product:
Ingredients
The first thing to consider when choosing dog food is the ingredients. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid products that contain fillers or by-products, as they may not provide your dog with the nutrients they need. Also, consider the carbohydrate sources, such as sweet potatoes or brown rice, which can provide your dog with energy.
Texture
Texture is an important factor for picky eaters. Some dogs prefer wet food, while others prefer dry kibble. You may want to experiment with different textures to see what your dog prefers.
Flavor
Flavor is another important factor for picky eaters. Some dogs prefer certain flavors over others. You may want to try different flavors to see what your dog likes best.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value of the dog food is also important. Look for products that meet the nutritional requirements for small breed dogs. Check the label for information on protein, fat, and carbohydrate content.
Price
Price is also a factor to consider when choosing dog food. While you don’t want to sacrifice quality for price, there are many affordable options available. Look for products that provide good value for money.
In summary, when choosing the best dog food for picky eaters small breed, consider the ingredients, texture, flavor, nutritional value, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a product that meets your dog’s needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated dry dog foods that appeal to finicky small breed dogs?
There are several dry dog foods that are specially formulated to appeal to small breed dogs with a picky appetite. Some of the top-rated options include Royal Canin X-Small Adult Dry Dog Food, Purina Pro Plan Savor Shredded Blend Small Breed Formula, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe.
How can I make homemade meals that will entice my picky small breed dog to eat?
If you prefer to make homemade meals for your picky small breed dog, you can try incorporating ingredients that are known to be appealing to dogs, such as lean meats, sweet potatoes, and carrots. It’s important to ensure that the homemade meals are nutritionally balanced and meet your dog’s dietary needs. You may want to consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to develop a balanced homemade meal plan.
What wet dog food options are best for small breeds with a fussy appetite?
Wet dog food can be a great option for small breeds with a picky appetite, as the moisture content can make the food more appealing. Some of the top-rated wet dog foods for small breeds include Hill’s Science Diet Small -amp; Toy Breed Wet Dog Food, Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Wet Dog Food, and Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Small Breed Wet Dog Food.
Are there specific dog foods that cater to small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Yes, there are several dog foods that are formulated to cater to small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. Some of the top-rated options include Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Skin -amp; Stomach Small Breed Formula, Royal Canin Small Digestive Care Dry Dog Food, and Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet Small Breed Dog Food.
What are the recommended puppy foods for small breeds according to the AKC?
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), some of the recommended puppy foods for small breeds include Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food, Hill’s Science Diet Small -amp; Toy Breed Puppy Food, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Puppy Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe.
How should I adjust my small breed dog’s diet if they are extremely selective with their food?
If your small breed dog is extremely selective with their food, it’s important to work with a veterinarian to ensure that their diet is nutritionally balanced. You may need to experiment with different types of food and feeding schedules to find what works best for your dog. Avoid giving your dog table scraps or human food, as this can lead to nutritional imbalances and other health issues.