Best Dog Foods for Small Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Health

Small dogs have unique dietary needs that require special attention when selecting a dog food. It’s essential to choose a high-quality food that provides all the necessary nutrients for your furry friend’s overall health and well-being. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the best dog food for small dogs can be overwhelming.

When looking for the best dog food for small dogs, there are a few critical things to consider. First, the food should be formulated specifically for small breeds, taking into account their unique nutritional needs. Second, the food should be made with high-quality ingredients, without any fillers or artificial preservatives. Finally, the food should be easily digestible and provide the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the top dog foods for small dogs that meet all these criteria. We’ve considered factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional value, and taste to bring you a comprehensive list of the best options available in the market.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each of our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision for your furry friend’s diet.

Best Dog Foods for Small Dogs

As dog owners, we know how important it is to give our furry friends the best possible nutrition. For small dogs, finding the right food can be a challenge, as they have unique nutritional needs that differ from larger breeds. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog foods for small dogs, based on expert recommendations and customer reviews. Whether your pup is a picky eater or has specific dietary requirements, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food, 1 lb Bag Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a human-grade dry dog food that’s perfect for small dogs, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Free of potatoes and legumes

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit pricey compared to other dog foods
• Can crumble easily

We recently tried this dog food for our small dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The chicken and oats provide a great source of protein and fiber, and the live probiotics help support digestive health.

One of the things we really appreciated about this dog food is that it’s made with 100% human-grade ingredients. This means that the quality and safety standards are just as high as they would be for human food. We felt confident that we were giving our dog the best possible nutrition.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it’s suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. Whether you have a small Chihuahua or a larger Golden Retriever, you can feel good about feeding them this food.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. Our dog seemed to enjoy it, but we’ve heard from other pet owners that their dogs weren’t as enthusiastic. Additionally, this dog food is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, human-grade dry dog food for your small dog, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering. Just be aware that it may not be the right fit for every dog.

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 dry dog food that is specially formulated for small dogs, PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering. It’s packed with all the essential nutrients that your pint-sized pup needs to stay healthy and happy.

Pros

• The small chewy bites are easy for small dogs to eat.
• The kibble helps to clean your dog’s teeth.
• The recipe is free from fillers, artificial flavors, and high fructose corn syrup.

Cons

• The bag only contains 3.5 pounds of food.
• Some dogs may not like the chicken and steak flavor.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog and were impressed with the results. The Tender Bites make it easy for our dog to chew and digest the food, and the kibble helps to keep her teeth clean. We also appreciate that the recipe is free from fillers and artificial flavors, which gives us peace of mind that we’re feeding our dog a healthy diet.

One thing to note is that the bag only contains 3.5 pounds of food, so you may need to purchase multiple bags if you have a larger dog or multiple small dogs. Additionally, some dogs may not like the chicken and steak flavor, so it’s important to introduce the food gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we recommend PEDIGREE with Tender Bites Small Dog Complete Nutrition Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small dog owners who want to provide their furry friend with a healthy and nutritious diet.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food option that’s made in the USA with all-natural ingredients, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is worth considering.

Pros

• Single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe made with 96% beef to satisfy your pup’s carnivore cravings
• Slowly oven-roasted at a low temperature to retain maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor
• Free from fillers, preservatives, and entirely made with all-natural ingredients from around the globe

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options
• Crumbles too easily, making it difficult to use as a training treat
• Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergy

We tried Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef on our small dog, and she loved it. The beef flavor was a hit, and we were happy to see that it’s made with all-natural ingredients. We also appreciated that it’s a grain-free and gluten-free option, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

One of the standout features of this dog food is that it’s slowly oven-roasted at a low temperature to retain maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture bursting with flavor. It’s a great alternative to highly-processed kibble, and our dog seemed to enjoy the texture.

However, we did notice that the food crumbles too easily, making it difficult to use as a training treat. It’s also quite expensive compared to other dog food options, so it may not be the most cost-effective choice for some pet owners. Additionally, if your dog has a chicken allergy, this product may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we think that Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is a high-quality dog food option that’s worth considering if you’re looking for a grain-free, gluten-free, and all-natural option for your small dog.

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

If you are looking for a dog food that is specifically designed for small breed dogs, IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken could be a great option.

Pros

• 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 cause digestive issues in some dogs
• Contains grains and fillers that may not be suitable for all dogs

We have been feeding our small breed dog IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides her with high-quality protein, while the omega-6 fatty acids help maintain her skin and coat health.

The kibble size is perfect for small dogs, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste. However, we have heard from other pet owners that their dogs did not like the taste of this food. Additionally, some dogs may experience digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting after switching to this food.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for small breed dog owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically designed for their dog’s nutritional needs. However, as with any new food, it is important to monitor your dog’s reaction and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Small Breed Whole Grain Chicken Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Small Breed Whole Grain Chicken Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Includes an extra boost of L-carnitine for healthy metabolism
• Free of feed grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors, and artificial preservatives

Cons

• Some customers reported that the kibble breaks easily and turns to dust
• The price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market
• The 1 lb trial pouch may not be enough for some customers to fully test the product

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Small Breed Whole Grain Chicken Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for a few weeks now, and we’re really impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutrition provided. The kibble is small and easy for our dog to chew, and we appreciate that it includes an extra boost of L-carnitine for healthy metabolism.

One thing to note is that some customers have reported that the kibble breaks easily and turns to dust, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market, which may be a consideration for some pet owners. Lastly, the 1 lb trial pouch may not be enough for some customers to fully test the product.

Overall, we believe that The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Small Breed Whole Grain Chicken Dry Dog Food is a great option for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food for their small breed.

Kibbles ‘N Bits Small Breed Mini Bits Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that packs big taste into small-sized bits, Kibbles ‘N Bits Small Breed Mini Bits Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors dog food is a great option to consider. This delicious meal offers high-quality protein and wholesome nutrition that you can feel good about giving your furry friend every day.

Pros

• High-quality protein helps support strong muscles
• Mini-sized pieces for easy chewing; big taste of Kibbles ‘N Bits original
• 100% complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages; savory beef -amp; chicken flavors

Cons

• Contains corn as the first ingredient, which may not be ideal for all dogs
• Some customers have reported that their dogs experienced digestive issues after eating this food
• Contains artificial colors and flavors

We’ve been using Kibbles ‘N Bits Small Breed Mini Bits Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors dog food for a while now, and we’ve been quite happy with it overall. The mini-sized pieces are perfect for our small dog, and she seems to love the taste. We also appreciate that it offers high-quality protein to support her muscles.

One downside to this food is that it contains corn as the first ingredient, which may not be ideal for all dogs. Additionally, we’ve noticed that some customers have reported that their dogs experienced digestive issues after eating this food, so it may not be the best option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Overall, we would recommend Kibbles ‘N Bits Small Breed Mini Bits Savory Beef -amp; Chicken Flavors dog food to small dog owners looking for a tasty and nutritious option for their furry friends. However, as with any dog food, be sure to monitor your dog’s reaction to it and consult with your vet if you have any concerns.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Sweet Potato Recipe for small dogs. This premium dry dog food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed dogs and is free from added peas, pea protein, lentils, legumes, corn, wheat, or soy.

Pros

• The first animal protein source is salmon, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• Every bite is packed with flavor and rich in nutrients, and the crunchy texture of this premium dry dog food helps promote clean teeth and healthy gums.

Cons

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

We have been using this dog food for our small breed dog and have noticed a significant improvement in her coat, skin, and digestive system. The simplified list of premium ingredients makes it easy to control what our dog eats, and we appreciate that the formula is free from artificial colors or flavors.

The Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is specially formulated for small dogs, making it easier for them to eat and digest. We also love that any dog can enjoy this delicious recipe, not just those with sensitive stomachs or allergies.

The ‘Feed with Confidence’ program from Natural Balance ensures that every batch of food is tested for safety, giving us peace of mind when feeding our dog. We highly recommend this premium dry dog food to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious option for their small breed dog.

Amazon Brand – Wag Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice, 5 lb Bag 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small furry friend, Amazon Brand – Wag Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Real meat first: Cage-free American chicken is the #1 ingredient
• Probiotics and fiber support healthy digestion and the immune system
• Proteins and fats help support high energy requirements of small breed dogs

Cons

• Some customers reported that their dogs experienced flatulence after eating this food
• A few customers mentioned that their dogs didn’t like the taste of this food
• The packaging could be improved for easier storage

We recently tried this dog food for our small breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The cage-free American chicken as the #1 ingredient is a great source of protein for our furry friend. The probiotics and fiber in the food also helped support her digestion and immune system. We noticed that our dog had more energy after switching to this dog food, which is great for her high energy requirements.

However, we did notice that our dog had some flatulence after eating this food. We also heard from some other customers that their dogs didn’t like the taste of the food, although our dog didn’t seem to have any issues with the taste. We also found that the packaging could be improved for easier storage.

Overall, we would recommend Amazon Brand – Wag Small Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs who need a high-quality source of protein and energy.

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend this product for small dogs because it provides 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs. It is a high-quality dog food that features a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, including prebiotic fiber for dogs, to help your pal live up to his full potential.

Pros

• The high protein dog food features high-quality sources of protein for dogs, such as real chicken as the first ingredient, to help support strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
• This natural dog food has the added vitamins, minerals and nutrients adult dogs need. Plus, the adult dog food includes prebiotic fiber for gut health and immune support and vitamins A and E to support bright eyes.
• Purina ONE chicken and rice dog food offers a microbiome balance and is highly digestible. It has omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, plus four antioxidant sources for a strong immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and rice formula.
• The bag size may not be enough for larger dogs or for those that eat a lot.
• The price may be higher compared to other dog food brands.

We have been using Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for our small dog for a few months now and we are very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste and we have noticed an improvement in his coat and overall health. The added vitamins and minerals have also helped support his immune system. The only downside is that the bag size is not large enough for our dog’s appetite, so we have to purchase more frequently. Overall, we highly recommend this product for small dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.

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

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small-breed dogs, then Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small -amp; Mighty Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.

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 health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Slightly more expensive than some other dog foods
• The small kibble size may not be suitable for all small-breed dogs

We tried Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small -amp; Mighty Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food 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 also appreciated that the formula is free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, as well as corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives.

Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food, and we noticed that he had more energy throughout the day. The small kibble size was also a good fit for our dog, but we could see how it might not be ideal for all small-breed dogs.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small -amp; Mighty Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small-breed dogs. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health and energy levels make it worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your small dog, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Nutritional Requirements

Small dogs have different nutritional requirements than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for small dogs. Look for a food that is high in protein and fat, and low in carbohydrates. Small dogs also need more calories per pound of body weight than larger dogs, so make sure the food you choose is calorie-dense.

Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is also important. Look for a food that uses high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, fish, or lamb. Avoid foods that contain by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. It’s also a good idea to choose a food that contains a variety of fruits and vegetables to provide your dog with essential vitamins and minerals.

Size and Texture

Small dogs have smaller mouths and teeth than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a food that is easy for them to chew and digest. Look for a food that has small kibble pieces or is formulated for small breeds. You may also want to consider a wet or semi-moist food, which can be easier for small dogs to eat.

Price

Dog food can be expensive, so it’s important to choose a food that fits within your budget. However, keep in mind that the cheapest food may not always be the best choice for your dog. Look for a food that offers good value for the price and provides your dog with the nutrition they need.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your small dog and ensure they get the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What small breed dog food is most recommended by veterinarians?

When it comes to small breed dog food, veterinarians recommend brands such as Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a variety of formulas specifically designed for small dogs, taking into account their unique nutritional needs.

Which dry dog food is considered the best for small breed dogs?

The best dry dog food for small breed dogs is one that is high in protein and fat, and low in carbohydrates. Some of the top-rated dry dog foods for small breeds include Blue Buffalo Life Protection, Wellness Complete Health, and Orijen Original.

What is the top-rated puppy food for small breeds according to the AKC?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends brands such as Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan for small breed puppies. These brands offer puppy formulas that are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing small breed dogs.

What are the best dog foods with grains for small dogs?

If you’re looking for a dog food with grains for your small dog, some of the best options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection, Purina Pro Plan, and Hill’s Science Diet. These brands offer a variety of formulas that include grains such as brown rice and barley.

What is the ideal dog food for small dogs with allergies?

If your small dog has allergies, it’s important to choose a dog food that is free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy. Some of the best dog foods for small dogs with allergies include Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin, and Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach.

Which foods are harmful and should be avoided for small dogs?

Some human foods can be harmful to small dogs and should be avoided, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and avocado. Additionally, some dog foods may contain ingredients that are harmful to small dogs, such as artificial preservatives and flavors, so it’s important to read ingredient labels carefully.