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

Small dogs are beloved pets for many people, and like all pets, they deserve the best care possible. One of the most important things to consider when taking care of a small dog is their diet. Small dogs require a specific type of food that is tailored to their unique needs. In this article, we will be discussing the best dog foods for small dogs.

Small dogs have a higher metabolism than larger dogs, which means they require more calories per pound of body weight. Additionally, small dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, which means they require smaller kibble sizes that are easier to chew and swallow. The best dog foods for small dogs are formulated to meet these specific needs while also providing all of the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

When choosing the best dog food for your small dog, there are a few critical things to consider. One of the most important factors is the quality of the ingredients. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality proteins, such as chicken, turkey, or fish, as well as healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. It’s also important to choose a dog food that is free from fillers, artificial preservatives, and other harmful additives.

In this article, we will be reviewing ten of the best dog foods for small dogs, taking into account factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional value, and overall value for the price. Whether you have a Chihuahua or a Pomeranian, we have you covered with our top picks for the best dog foods for small dogs.

Best Dog Foods for Small Dogs

As dog owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. When it comes to small dogs, finding the right food can be especially challenging. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best dog foods for small dogs. Our top picks are based on ingredients, nutritional content, and customer reviews, so you can feel confident that you’re choosing a high-quality food that will keep your pup healthy and happy.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag

If you’re looking for high-quality dog food for your small breed dog, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you. We’ve tried it with our furry friend and here’s what we think.

Pros

• Real meat is the first ingredient, which means high-quality protein from real chicken that helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles.
• The food is specially formulated for small breed dogs, with increased levels of protein and carbohydrates to meet the energy needs of smaller dogs.
• The kibble size is ideal for smaller jaws, making it easier for your dog to eat and digest.

Cons

• The food contains grains, which might not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities.
• Some dogs might not like the taste of the food, as it’s not as flavorful as other dog foods.
• The price might be a bit steep for some pet owners.

We’ve noticed that our dog has been more energetic and playful since we switched to Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food. The food contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

The food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals, and contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. We like that the food is all-natural and doesn’t contain any harmful or artificial ingredients.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for high-quality, all-natural dog food for their small breed dogs. It might not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities, but if your dog can tolerate grains, this food might be a great choice for you.

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Chicken -amp; Rice Formula

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious dog food for your small breed dog, Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Chicken -amp; Rice Formula is a great option.

Pros

• Nutrient-dense bite-sized kibble and small tender, shredded pieces for a taste and texture dogs love
• High protein formula with real chicken as the first ingredient
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health

Cons

• Contains wheat bran, which may not be suitable for dogs with wheat allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble and shredded pieces
• May be more expensive than other dog food brands

We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the taste. The bite-sized kibble and shredded pieces were easy for our dog to eat and he seemed to really enjoy the flavor.

One of the things we liked most about this dog food is that it contains real chicken as the first ingredient, which is important for maintaining a healthy diet for our dog. The high protein formula also helps our dog maintain an ideal body condition, which is important for his overall health.

Another great feature of this dog food is that it is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics, which help support our dog’s digestive and immune health. We noticed that our dog seemed to have better digestion and fewer stomach issues after switching to this dog food.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Chicken -amp; Rice Formula to other small breed dog owners looking for a nutritious and delicious dog food option.

Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small pooch, Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. It’s made with the precise amount of nutrients needed for every stage of your dog’s life and is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small dog breeds.

Pros

• Precise nutrition specifically made for small dogs
• Helps maintain a healthy weight and meet high energy needs
• Optimal levels of fatty acids support skin and coat health

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than other dog foods
• Small bag size for the price
• Not eligible for return

We’ve been using Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for our small dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The kibble is designed specifically for miniature jaws, making it easy for her to eat, and the enhanced palatability helps satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

One of the biggest pros of this dog food is that it’s made with L-carnitine to help metabolize fat and maintain a healthy weight. Small breed dogs have higher energy requirements than big dogs, so this is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a dog food. Additionally, optimal levels of EPA and DHA support healthy skin and a beautiful, shiny coat.

While this dog food is slightly more expensive than other options, we believe it’s worth the investment for the high-quality nutrition it provides. However, we were disappointed to find that the bag size was smaller than we expected for the price. Additionally, the product is not eligible for return, so make sure to double-check the size before making a purchase.

Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that meets their dog’s unique needs.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed pup, NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. With real chicken as the first ingredient, this protein-rich recipe is packed with wholesome grains and fats for healthy energy, and calcium to support strong bones and joints. Plus, it’s formulated without chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or artificial preservatives.

Pros

• Real chicken as the first ingredient
• Contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids for healthy skin -amp; coat
• Formulated with calcium to support strong bones and joints

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Slightly pricier than other small breed dog foods
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs

We’ve been using NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been really impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall health benefits it provides for our small dog. Our pup’s coat is shinier and healthier-looking, and we’ve noticed an improvement in her overall energy levels and digestion.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your pup’s reaction. Additionally, it is slightly pricier than some other small breed dog foods on the market, but we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food for their small breed pup.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs aged 8 years and older. This recipe is packed with real chicken, wholesome grains, and fats, making it a protein-rich and energy-boosting meal for your furry friend.

Pros

• Supports healthy immunity for senior dogs with essential antioxidants
• Real chicken is the #1 ingredient in this protein-rich recipe
• Formulated with calcium to support strong bones and joints

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• A bit expensive compared to other options

We have personally used NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food for our senior small breed dog and have seen remarkable results. Our dog’s immune system has improved, and she is more active and energetic than ever before. The recipe contains no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

The 5 lb. bag of NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food is perfect for small breed dogs and comes with feeding guidelines to ensure your dog gets the right amount of calories in a complete and nutritious meal. We highly recommend this product to all small breed dog owners who want to provide their furry friend with a healthy and delicious meal.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically designed for small and mini dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. Here’s what we found:

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 may not like the lamb flavor
• More expensive than some other dog foods
• May not be ideal for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We tried Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food with our own small breed dog and were impressed with the results. The small kibble size made it easy for our dog to eat and digest, and the omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E helped keep her coat shiny and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the lamb flavor, so it’s important to introduce the food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive than some other options, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious pet owners.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food for small and mini dogs who need tailored nutrition to support their unique needs.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that will keep your small dog’s digestive system healthy and nourish their skin, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Small -amp; Mini Breeds is a great choice.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dry dog food helps maintain optimal digestive health for small dogs.
• The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breed dogs, and the formula is designed to provide an optimal balance of nutrients specifically for miniature and toy breed dogs.
• Made with natural ingredients, this dog food is formulated with decades of cutting edge research to be a great tasting dog food small dogs can truly enjoy.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food is more expensive than some other brands.
• Some users have reported that the kibble is too small and can be difficult to pick up.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Small -amp; Mini Breeds for a few months now, and we’re really happy with it. Our small dog loves the taste, and we’ve noticed that her coat is shinier and her digestive system seems to be working better since we switched to this food.

One thing we really like about this dog food is that it’s made with natural ingredients. We feel good about feeding it to our dog knowing that we’re giving her something that’s good for her.

The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breed dogs, and we’ve found that our dog has an easier time eating this food than some other brands we’ve tried. Plus, the formula is designed to provide an optimal balance of nutrients specifically for miniature and toy breed dogs, so we know our dog is getting everything she needs to stay healthy.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Small -amp; Mini Breeds. It’s a great choice for small dog owners who want to keep their furry friends healthy and happy.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Adult Small Bites Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble, 13 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small furry friend, NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Adult Small Bites Dry Dog Food could be a great choice.

Pros

• Made with real chicken, the #1 ingredient in this protein-rich recipe
• Smaller kibble size is perfect for small dogs
• Contains essential nutrients and antioxidants to support whole-body health in adult dogs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Slightly more expensive than other brands
• The bag size may not be suitable for larger dogs or those who eat more

We recently tried this dog food with our small dog, and we were pleased with the results. Our dog loved the taste of the chicken and brown rice recipe, and we felt good knowing that it was made with real chicken and no artificial flavors or preservatives.

The smaller kibble size was perfect for our small dog, and we noticed that he seemed to digest it well. We also appreciated that the recipe contains essential nutrients and antioxidants to support whole-body health in adult dogs.

While the price point is slightly higher than some other brands, we felt that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health were worth the investment.

Overall, we would recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Adult Small Bites Dry Dog Food to any small dog owner looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breed, Chicken Meal -amp; Rice, 4.5 lb. Bag Chicken Meal -amp; Rice 72 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s specially formulated for small or toy breed dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food is a great choice. Made with easy-to-digest ingredients, this pet food is gentle on your little dog’s stomach. The small kibble is perfect for tiny canine mouths, and the high-quality protein helps maintain lean muscle mass. Nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. The proprietary antioxidant blend supports your furry friend’s immune system for lifelong health.

Pros

• Easy-to-digest ingredients
• Small kibble size
• High-quality protein

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Could be pricey for some budgets
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for our little dog for a while now, and we’ve noticed a real difference in her overall health and wellbeing. The kibble is perfectly sized for her, and she seems to really enjoy the taste. We love that it’s made with natural ingredients and that Hill’s only uses high-quality protein sources like real chicken, lamb, or salmon.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food could be a bit pricey for some budgets. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the cost. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this food may not be suitable for them. As always, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for anyone with a small or toy breed dog. It’s a great choice for maintaining your dog’s health and wellbeing, and we’ve seen firsthand how much our little dog enjoys it.

Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food option for your small breed dog, Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food is a great choice. Our experience with this product has been positive, and we believe it’s worth considering for your furry friend.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real chicken, providing a good source of protein for small breed dogs with higher metabolisms.
• This natural dry dog food is made with premium ingredients, and doesn’t contain any chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.
• The formula contains essential proteins and carbs to support higher energy requirements of small breed dogs.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs experienced digestive issues after switching to this food.
• The packaging may vary, which could be confusing for some customers.
• It’s more expensive than some other dog food options on the market.

In our experience, Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food has been a great choice for our small breed dog. The kibble size is small and easy for our dog to eat, and the formula provides the right balance of nutrients to support her energy levels. We appreciate that the first ingredient is real chicken, and that the formula doesn’t contain any by-products or fillers.

One potential downside to this food is that some dogs may experience digestive issues when switching to it. We recommend transitioning your dog to this food gradually, to minimize the risk of digestive upset. Additionally, the packaging may vary, which could be confusing for some customers who are used to a specific design.

Overall, we believe that Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food is a great option for small breed dogs who need a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet. While it may be more expensive than some other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your small dog, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when shopping for dog food:

Nutritional Content

Small dogs have different nutritional needs than larger dogs, so it’s important to choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds. Look for a food that contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

The ingredients in your dog’s food can have a big impact on their health and wellbeing. Look for a dog food that contains real meat, whole grains, and natural ingredients. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

Size and Texture

Small dogs may have a harder time eating larger kibble, so look for a food that is specifically designed for small breeds. Soft or wet food may also be a good option for dogs with dental issues or who have trouble chewing.

Brand Reputation

Choose a dog food brand that has a good reputation for quality and safety. Look for a brand that uses high-quality ingredients and has a track record of producing safe, nutritious dog food.

By considering these factors, you can choose a dog food that will provide your small dog with the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended foods for small breed dogs?

As per our research, some of the top vet-recommended foods for small breed dogs are Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness CORE. These brands offer a wide range of options that cater to small dogs’ nutritional needs.

Which dry dog food brands are best for small dogs?

Dry dog food is a popular choice for many small breed dog owners. Some of the best dry dog food brands for small dogs are Blue Buffalo, Wellness CORE, Royal Canin, and Hill’s Science Diet. These brands offer a variety of flavors and formulas that cater to small dogs’ specific nutritional needs.

How do I choose the best 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 the allergen. Look for dog food brands that offer limited ingredient diets, as these are often free from common allergens like chicken, beef, and grains. Some recommended brands for dogs with allergies are Natural Balance, Blue Buffalo Basics, and Wellness Simple.

What does the AKC suggest for feeding small breed puppies?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) suggests feeding small breed puppies a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Look for dog food brands that offer small breed puppy formulas, as these are specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of small breed puppies. Some recommended brands are Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Blue Buffalo.

What are the highest quality wet dog foods for small dogs?

Wet dog food is a great option for small breed dogs who have trouble chewing or need extra moisture in their diet. Some of the highest quality wet dog food brands for small dogs are Wellness, Blue Buffalo, Merrick, and Royal Canin. These brands offer a variety of flavors and formulas that cater to small dogs’ specific nutritional needs.

What are some healthy dog food options for small breeds?

Some healthy dog food options for small breeds are those that are high in protein and free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Look for dog food brands that use high-quality ingredients and offer a variety of flavors and formulas. Some recommended brands are Wellness, Blue Buffalo, Royal Canin, and Hill’s Science Diet.