Best Dog Food for Small Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Small dogs have unique dietary requirements that need to be met with the right kind of food. Choosing the right dog food for small dogs can be a challenge, given the wide variety of options available on the market. In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best dog food for small dogs.

Small dogs require a diet that is high in protein, fat, and calories to meet their energy needs. They also need a well-balanced diet that includes vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. However, small dogs have smaller stomachs, which means they need to eat smaller meals more frequently.

When it comes to choosing the right dog food for small dogs, there are several factors to consider. One of the most critical things to consider is the size of the kibble. Small dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, so they need smaller kibble sizes that are easier to chew and digest.

Another essential factor to consider is the ingredients in the dog food. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid dog food that contains fillers or by-products that offer little nutritional value.

In this article, we will review the top dog food brands for small dogs and provide you with the information you need to choose the best dog food for your furry friend.

Best Dog Foods for Small Breeds

As dog owners, we know that finding the right food for our furry friends can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for our small dogs. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dog foods for small breeds. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality, nutritional value, and overall customer satisfaction. Whether you have a Chihuahua, a Pomeranian, or a Shih Tzu, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Steak Flavor Dog Kibble, 3.5 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Steak with Tender Bites 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced dry food for your small breed adult dog, PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The small chewy bites mixed with dog kibble are perfect for small adult dogs and help to gently clean their teeth with every bite.
• The wholesome chicken and steak flavors are irresistible and contain no fillers, no artificial flavors, and no high fructose corn syrup.
• The easy-to-chew Tender Bites are mixed in kibble that’s small in size, making it perfect for small adult dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The food may cause digestive issues for some dogs.
• The packaging may not be as sturdy as some other brands.

We recently tried PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our small breed adult dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the chicken and steak flavors and had no trouble chewing the small bites of kibble. We also noticed an improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health after feeding this food for a few weeks.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of the food and that it may cause digestive issues for some. Additionally, the packaging may not be as sturdy as some other brands, which could be a concern for some pet owners.

Overall, we would recommend PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed adult dogs who are looking for a complete and balanced dry food with wholesome ingredients.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef – Grain Free, Made in USA, Non-GMO -amp; Vet Recommended – High Protein Limited Ingredient Full-Feed – for All Breeds -amp; Ages – 2.5oz Trial Bag Beef 2.5 Ounce (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small pup, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef is definitely worth considering. Made with all-natural ingredients and no fillers or preservatives, this dog food is perfect for pet parents who want to give their furry friends the best.

Pros

• Upgrade to Air Dried for More Nutrients: Give it a try with our 2.5-ounce Trial Pack! We slowly oven roast our food at a low temperature so each bite retains maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor—a great alternative to highly-processed kibble.
• Real Beef is the #1 Ingredient: Single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe made with 96% beef to satisfy your pup’s carnivore cravings and a 4% blend of flaxseed, salmon oil, vitamins, -amp; minerals to help support healthy joints and hips.
• Your Dog Deserves The Best: Made in the USA with only all-natural ingredients from around the globe, with added vitamins and minerals – entirely free from fillers, and preservatives. Get the digestibility of raw or freeze dried dog foods with the safety and convenience of dry dog food.

Cons

• Expensive: Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef is more expensive than other dog foods on the market.
• Crumbles Easily: Some customers have reported that the dog food crumbles easily, making it difficult to use as a training treat or as a food topper.
• Limited Flavors: Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef only comes in one flavor, which may not be suitable for picky eaters.

We’ve been using Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef for a few weeks now, and we’re very impressed with the results. Our small dog loves the taste and texture of the food, and we love the fact that it’s made with all-natural ingredients and no fillers or preservatives.

One of the things we love about this dog food is the fact that it’s air-dried, which means that it retains more nutrients than highly-processed kibble. We also love the fact that real beef is the #1 ingredient, and that the recipe is grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired.

The only downside to Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef is the price. It’s definitely more expensive than other dog foods on the market, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food with Real Beef to any pet parent looking for a high-quality dog food for their small pup. It’s made with all-natural ingredients, it’s air-dried for maximum nutrient retention, and it’s perfect for dogs of all ages and breeds.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small -amp; Mighty Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food specifically designed for small-breed dogs, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small -amp; Mighty is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Packed with protein to support the high energy needs of small-breed dogs
• Contains exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support immune system

Cons

• More expensive than some other small-breed dog food options
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Only comes in a 4-lb. bag, which may not last long for larger dogs

We recently tried Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small -amp; Mighty for our small-breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The fact that real chicken is the #1 ingredient is a big plus, and we felt good knowing that our dog was getting a high-protein, wholesome meal.

One thing we appreciated about this dog food is that it contains exclusive LifeSource Bits, which are antioxidant-rich and help support a healthy immune system. We also noticed that our dog seemed to have more energy after eating this food, which is important for small-breed dogs that tend to be more active.

The only downside we found is that this dog food is more expensive than some other small-breed options on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s worth trying a small bag first before committing to a larger purchase.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small -amp; Mighty for small-breed dogs that need a high-quality, protein-packed meal to support their energy needs and overall health.

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

If you’re looking for a pet food that’s big on love and small in size, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food is the perfect option for your small breed dog. We highly recommend this product for its tailored nutrition for the unique needs of small and mini dogs during the prime of their life.

Pros

• Supports healthy digestion with small kibble and easily digestible ingredients
• A nourishing blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E for healthy skin and coat
• Provides high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small dogs

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the lamb flavor
• Not suitable for dogs with grain allergies
• Expensive compared to other brands

We’ve personally used Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food for our small breed dogs and we have noticed significant improvements in their overall health. The small kibble size is perfect for their tiny mouths, making it easier for them to chew and digest. We also love that it’s made with natural ingredients and contains omega-6s and vitamin E to nourish their coat and skin.

The balanced levels of high-quality protein help our small dogs maintain lean muscle, while the proprietary antioxidant blend supports their immune system for lifelong health. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in their digestion and overall energy levels since switching to this product.

However, some dogs might not like the lamb flavor, so it’s important to monitor their reaction when introducing this product to their diet. Additionally, it’s not suitable for dogs with grain allergies, so it’s important to check the ingredient list before making a purchase.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ adult dry dog food for small breed dogs. It’s a bit expensive compared to other brands, but the benefits to our dogs’ health and well-being are worth the investment.

Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food, 20 lb. Bag 2.5 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for small dogs, then you should definitely consider the Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food. This product is made with all-natural ingredients and is completely free from grains, potatoes, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meals, artificial colors, and preservatives.

Pros

• The first raw boosted kibble for weight management
• Made with fat-burning L-Carnitine for healthy metabolism
• Cage-free chicken is the #1 ingredient

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried raw chicken pieces

We recently tried this product with our small dog and were extremely impressed with the results. The kibble is high in protein and the addition of freeze-dried raw chicken pieces makes it even more delicious and nutritious. Our dog seemed to love the taste and we noticed that he had more energy and was more active after switching to this food.

One of the things we love about this product is that it’s specifically designed for weight management. The addition of L-Carnitine helps to promote a healthy metabolism, while the ideal fiber level helps to keep your dog feeling full and satisfied. We also appreciate that this product is completely grain-free, which is important for dogs with food sensitivities.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s perfect for small dogs. While it may be more expensive than some other dog foods, we believe that the benefits are well worth the cost.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods, Complete Digestive Health, Vegan Dry Dog Food Bag, Adult Formula, 21-lb Bag Plant-Based with Superfoods 21 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend the Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods dry adult dog food for small dogs. This vegan dog food is made with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients and no animal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

Pros

• The inclusion of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in this food provides complete digestive care and immune support for dogs.
• This holistic dog food contains an optimal balance of omega fatty acids, which promotes healthy skin and coat for dogs.
• The Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods is cooked in the USA with high-quality ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this plant-based dog food.
• The price point of this food may be higher than other dog food options.
• This dog food is formulated for adult dogs only, so it may not be suitable for puppies or senior dogs.

We recently tried the Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods dry adult dog food for our small dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and has had trouble with other dog foods in the past, but this food did not cause any digestive issues. We also noticed an improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health after switching to this food.

The inclusion of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in this food provides complete digestive care and immune support for dogs, which is especially important for small dogs who may be more prone to digestive issues. Additionally, the optimal balance of omega fatty acids in this food promotes healthy skin and coat for dogs.

While some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this plant-based dog food, we found that our dog did not have any issues with the taste. However, the price point of this food may be higher than other dog food options, which may be a consideration for some pet owners.

Overall, we highly recommend the Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods dry adult dog food for small dogs who have food sensitivities or allergies. It is a high-quality, plant-based dog food that provides complete digestive care and immune support for dogs, while also promoting healthy skin and coat.

IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that caters to the specific nutritional needs of your small breed dog, then IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient
• Promotes skin and coat health with omega-6 fatty acids
• Supports small breed dog’s immune system with antioxidants

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains chicken by-product meal
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs

We recently switched to IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog, and we’ve been impressed with the results. The real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient gives us peace of mind knowing that our dog is getting high-quality protein. Additionally, the omega-6 fatty acids in this dog food have helped improve the condition of our dog’s skin and coat.

While our dog seems to enjoy the taste of this dog food, we’ve heard from other dog owners that their dogs don’t like the flavor. Additionally, some dog owners have reported that this dog food caused digestive issues in their dogs. However, we haven’t experienced any problems in this regard.

Overall, we recommend IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food that caters to their dog’s specific nutritional needs.

Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food, Paw Lickin’ Chicken Plus Skin -amp; Coat Health, 3.5oz Cup (Pack of 12) Paw Lickin’ Chicken Skin -amp; Coat Health 0.29 Ounce (Pack of 12)

If you’re looking for a high-quality and natural wet dog food for your furry friend, Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The added quinoa, pumpkin, and flaxseed provide skin and coat benefits for your dog.
• The food is all natural and free of grain, gluten, carrageenan, wheat, corn, soy, artificial colors, and preservatives.
• Feeding wet food daily provides healthy hydration, high-quality protein, and the variety dogs love.

Cons

• The food is a bit pricey compared to other wet dog food options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The portion size may not be enough for larger dogs.

We recently tried Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food for our small dog and were impressed with the quality of the food. The Paw Lickin’ Chicken recipe with added skin and coat benefits was a hit with our furry friend. We noticed an improvement in his coat after just a few weeks of feeding him this food.

The fact that the food is all natural and free of grain, gluten, carrageenan, wheat, corn, soy, artificial colors, and preservatives was a big selling point for us. We like to feed our dog high-quality food, and this product fit the bill.

Feeding wet food daily provides healthy hydration, high-quality protein, and the variety dogs love. Our dog seemed to really enjoy the taste and texture of the food, and we appreciated the convenience of the portioned cups.

The only downside to this product is that it is a bit pricey compared to other wet dog food options. Some dogs may also not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be the best choice for picky eaters. Additionally, the portion size may not be enough for larger dogs.

Overall, we would recommend Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality and natural wet dog food option for their furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. This dog food is formulated with natural ingredients and is designed to provide optimal digestive health while nourishing your dog’s skin.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dry dog food feeds your small dog’s microbiome for optimal digestive health.
• Vitamin E, omega 6 fatty acids, and other nutrients in smaller kibble help nourish skin and promote a lustrous coat.
• This dog food is formulated with little dogs in mind to provide an optimal balance of nutrients specifically for miniature and toy breed dogs.

Cons

• This dog food is not recommended for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs.
• The kibble size may be too small for some larger small dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our small dog with a sensitive stomach and skin for several months now, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in her overall health. The prebiotic fiber in this dog food has helped regulate her digestion, and her coat looks shinier and healthier than ever before.

The smaller kibble size is perfect for our small dog, and we appreciate that this dog food is formulated specifically for small and toy breed dogs. We also love that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and is made in the USA with global ingredients we can trust.

While some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, our dog has always eagerly eaten it up. We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin.

IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for Small Dogs with Real Chicken, 7 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed dog, IAMS Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken could be a great choice.

Pros

• Made with real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient
• Promotes skin and coat health with omega-6 fatty acids
• Supports small breed dog’s immune system with antioxidants

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Contains corn and other fillers that some owners may want to avoid

We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken was a big plus, and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste. We also noticed an improvement in her coat after a few weeks of feeding her this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this food does contain corn and other fillers, which may not be ideal for all dogs. If your dog has dietary restrictions or sensitivities, you may want to check with your vet before trying this food.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for Small Dogs with Real Chicken to other small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for small dogs, there are a few important factors to consider. We want to make sure that our furry friends are getting the right nutrition to support their small size and unique needs.

First and foremost, it’s important to look for a dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds. These formulas are designed with the right balance of nutrients to support small dogs’ high metabolism and small stomachs. Look for labels that say “small breed” or “toy breed” to ensure you’re choosing the right product.

Next, take a look at the ingredients list. Look for high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid products that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products. We want to make sure that our dogs are getting the best possible nutrition, so it’s important to choose a product that uses high-quality ingredients.

Another important factor to consider is the size and shape of the kibble. Small dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, so it’s important to choose a product that has small, bite-sized kibble that is easy for them to chew and digest. Some products even have specially designed kibble shapes that help promote dental health.

When choosing a dog food for small dogs, it’s also important to consider any specific dietary needs or restrictions your dog may have. For example, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, you may want to look for a product that is specifically formulated for dogs with digestive issues.

Overall, when choosing the best dog food for small dogs, it’s important to look for a product that is specifically formulated for their unique needs, uses high-quality ingredients, and is easy for them to digest and chew. By taking these factors into consideration, we can ensure that our furry friends are getting the best possible nutrition to support their health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for small breeds, many veterinarians recommend brands such as Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a wide range of options specifically formulated for small breed dogs, taking into account their unique nutritional needs.

What is the best dry dog food formulated specifically for small dogs?

Dry dog food is a popular choice for many dog owners, and there are several options available that are specifically formulated for small breed dogs. Some of the top choices include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed, Wellness Complete Health Small Breed, and Nutro Wholesome Essentials Small Breed.

Which dog food brands are best for small dogs with food allergies?

If your small breed dog has food allergies, it’s important to choose a dog food that is free from the ingredients that trigger their allergies. Some of the best dog food brands for small dogs with food allergies include Hill’s Prescription Diet, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets.

What are the highest-rated puppy foods for small breed dogs according to the AKC?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends several brands of puppy food that are specifically formulated for small breed dogs. These include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Puppy, Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Puppy, and Nutro Wholesome Essentials Small Breed Puppy.

Which wet dog food options are considered the best for small breed dogs?

Wet dog food can be a great option for small breed dogs who have trouble chewing or need extra hydration. Some of the best wet dog food options for small breed dogs include Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Small Breed, Wellness Petite Entrees Small Breed, and Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Wet Dog Food.

What are the best dog food choices with grains for small dogs?

While some dog owners prefer to feed their pets grain-free dog food, others prefer to include grains in their dog’s diet. If you’re looking for a dog food with grains for your small breed dog, some of the top choices include Hill’s Science Diet Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dog Food, Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Adult Dog Food, and Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dog Food.