Small Breed Best Dog Food: Top Picks for Your Little Furry Friend

Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than their larger counterparts, and choosing the right dog food is essential to ensure their health and well-being. Small breed dogs have a faster metabolism and require more calories per pound of body weight than larger dogs. They also have smaller stomachs, which means they need to eat smaller portions more frequently throughout the day.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for small breeds, there are several factors to consider. One of the most critical things to look for is the ingredient list. Small breed dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their fast metabolism and provide them with the energy they need. Ingredients like chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish are excellent sources of protein, while healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can help keep their skin and coat healthy.

Another thing to consider when choosing the best dog food for small breeds is the size of the kibble. Small breed dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, which means they need a smaller kibble size that is easier for them to chew and digest. Additionally, the kibble should be packed with essential vitamins and minerals to support their overall health.

We spent countless hours researching and testing ten different small breed dog foods to identify the ones that provide the best nutrition for small breed dogs. In the next section, we’ll dive into our top picks and what makes them stand out.

Best Small Breed Dog Food

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. Small breed dogs have unique nutritional needs that require a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best dog food for your small breed pup. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the top small breed dog foods available on Amazon. These products have been carefully selected based on their quality ingredients, nutritional value, and positive customer reviews. Whether you have a Chihuahua, Pomeranian, or Yorkie, we’ve got you covered with the best small breed dog food options.

WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for high-quality dog food for your small breed dog, then WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

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 dogs may not like the taste
• May cause flatulence in some dogs
• Slightly more expensive than other brands

We’ve been using WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog for the past month, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The cage-free American chicken as the #1 ingredient ensures that our dog gets high-quality protein, and the probiotics and fiber support healthy digestion and the immune system. We’ve also noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier than before.

One downside we’ve noticed is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food. Our dog took some time to get used to it, but he eventually started eating it without any issues. Another issue we noticed is that the food may cause flatulence in some dogs. However, this is a common issue with many dog foods, and it’s not a major concern.

Overall, we highly recommend WAG Small Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs. The high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition make it an excellent choice for any small breed dog owner who wants to provide the best possible nutrition for their furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically formulated for small breeds, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food is a great choice. Our team has had great experiences with this product, and we think you will too.

Pros

• The kibble is small and easy for little mouths to chew.
• The ingredients are easy to digest, which is important for small dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The formula contains high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle mass.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog foods.
• The bag may not last as long as larger bags of dog food.

We’ve found that Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food is a great choice for small breed dogs. The small kibble size is perfect for little mouths, and the ingredients are easy to digest, which is important for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Additionally, the formula contains high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle mass.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food. However, we’ve found that most dogs enjoy it. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other dog foods, but we think it’s worth it for the high-quality ingredients. Finally, the bag may not last as long as larger bags of dog food, so you may need to purchase it more frequently.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food for small breed dogs. It’s a great choice for maintaining your dog’s health and wellbeing.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your small breed pup, NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real chicken
• Contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids for healthy skin -amp; coat
• Formulated with calcium for strong bones and joints

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Pricey compared to other brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using this dog food for our small breed dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The kibble is the perfect size for his little mouth and he seems to really enjoy the taste. We love that it’s made with real chicken as the first ingredient and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

One of the standout features of this dog food is that it contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat since switching to this food. Additionally, the formula is enriched with calcium to support strong bones and joints, which is important for small breed dogs that are prone to joint issues.

While we’ve had great success with this dog food, we do acknowledge that it may not be the best fit for every dog. Some dogs may not like the taste or may have dietary restrictions that prevent them from eating certain ingredients. Additionally, it is a bit pricey compared to other brands on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food option.

Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your small breed, Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• With real chicken as the primary ingredient, this dog food is packed with protein to support your small breed’s high energy needs.
• Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy, making it a natural and healthy choice for your furry friend.
• The exclusive LifeSource Bits in this dog food contain a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• Some small breed dogs may not enjoy the taste of this dog food.
• Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food may be more expensive than other brands of dog food.
• The kibble size may be too small for some dogs, leading to them eating too quickly and potentially choking.

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food for our small breed dog for several months now, and we’re very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of this dog food and has had no digestive issues since we switched to it. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with high-quality, natural ingredients and contains no fillers or by-products. The LifeSource Bits are a great added bonus, helping to support our dog’s immune system and overall health.

One thing to note is that this dog food may be more expensive than some other brands of dog food. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the cost. Additionally, some small breed dogs may not enjoy the taste of this dog food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction to it.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food for anyone looking for a natural, high-quality dog food for their small breed.

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

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs who require tailored nutrition.

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for small and toy breed dogs to easily digest
• Contains 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
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands
• The kibble may be too small for larger small breed dogs

As a dog owner, we know the importance of finding the right food for our furry friends. Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food is specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of small and toy breed dogs. The small kibble size is perfect for dogs with small mouths, making it easier for them to chew and digest.

We appreciate that this dog food contains a nourishing blend of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, which helps maintain healthy skin and coat. Additionally, the high-quality protein content helps our small dogs maintain lean muscle mass.

While some dogs may not like the lamb flavor, we found that most dogs enjoy it. We also recognize that the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, but we feel the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Lastly, the kibble may be too small for larger small breed dogs, but it is perfect for dogs under 25 pounds.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs who require tailored nutrition.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Perfect Weight for Healthy Weight -amp; Weight Management, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

If you want to keep your little dog at a healthy weight, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food is the perfect solution. This adult dry dog food is made with natural ingredients and is clinically proven for weight management in small breed dogs. Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this weight control dog food.

Pros

• This small breed dog food is clinically proven for weight management.
• Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks.
• This adult pet food helps your tiny dog maintain lean muscle.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• This food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• The price may be higher compared to other dog foods.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food for our little dog for over a year now and have noticed a significant improvement in her weight and overall health. The kibble size is perfect for small dogs, and the chicken recipe is very appetizing for our little one.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it is made with natural ingredients, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we are feeding our dog a healthy diet. Additionally, the fact that over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this weight control dog food is a testament to its effectiveness.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may take some time to get them used to it. Additionally, this food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so it’s important to consult with your vet before switching to this food.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is clinically proven for weight management in small breed dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Small -amp; Mini dry dog food is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that provides optimal digestive health while nourishing your dog’s skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Small -amp; Mini Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• This dry dog food uses prebiotic fiber to feed 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.
• Dog food formulated with little dogs in mind to provide an optimal balance of nutrients specifically for miniature and toy breed dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• The price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market.
• The kibble size may be too small for some dogs, leading to overeating.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Small -amp; Mini Adult Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat looked shinier and healthier after just a few weeks of eating this food, and we noticed a decrease in digestive issues as well. The prebiotic fiber in the food helps promote healthy gut bacteria, which can lead to better overall digestive health.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. Our dog took a little while to adjust to the new taste, but eventually started eating it without issue. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients is worth the investment.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Small -amp; Mini Adult Dry Dog Food to other small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes the skin.

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble

We highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs who need a well-balanced and nutritious diet that supports their overall health and wellbeing.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, ensuring a protein-rich diet that your dog will love
• Contains Omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat
• Formulated with calcium to support strong bones and joints

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities
• Some dogs may not like the kibble size or texture
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands

At our household, we have been using NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for some time now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our small breed dog’s overall health. The kibble size is perfect for small dogs, and the crunchy texture helps clean teeth and control plaque build-up, supporting dental health.

We also appreciate that this dog food recipe is formulated without chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy protein, and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or artificial preservatives. As pet parents, we want to ensure that our furry family members get the best nutrition possible, and NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food delivers just that.

Additionally, we love that NUTRO is committed to safeguarding the source of natural ingredients by working with farmers to protect and improve soil health, ensuring that we can continue to grow healthy pets for years to come.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your small breed dog’s health and wellbeing, we highly recommend NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food.

Nutro Natural Choice Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Nutro Natural Choice Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food because of its high-quality ingredients and support for healthy digestion and immunity.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Crafted with no chicken by-product meal, artificial flavors or colors, or preservatives
• Supports healthy vitality, skin and coat, digestion, and immunity

Cons

• Trace amounts of corn, wheat, or soy protein may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing
• Only available in a 13 lb. bag
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or restrictions

As a dog owner, I understand the importance of providing my furry friend with quality nutrition. With Nutro Natural Choice Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, I feel confident that I am giving my dog the best. The real chicken as the #1 ingredient provides a protein-rich meal that my dog loves. Additionally, the absence of chicken by-product meal, artificial flavors or colors, or preservatives ensures that my dog is getting a quality recipe.

I appreciate that this small breed dry dog food supports healthy vitality, skin and coat, digestion, and immunity. It’s important to me that my dog is not only enjoying his meals, but also receiving the necessary nutrients to maintain his health. While there may be trace amounts of corn, wheat, or soy protein due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing, I feel comfortable feeding Nutro Natural Choice Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food to my dog.

Overall, I highly recommend Nutro Natural Choice Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food option.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds, then Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Real meat is always the first ingredient
• Contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit
• Specially formulated for small breed dogs with kibble size ideal for smaller jaws

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other brands
• Packaging may vary

We have been using this dog food for our small breed dog for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The real meat as the first ingredient ensures that he is getting the high-quality protein he needs to build and maintain healthy muscles.

We also appreciate that this dog food contains wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit, which provide a balanced and nutritious diet for our furry friend. The kibble size is perfect for his smaller jaws, and we have noticed that he has no trouble chewing and digesting the food.

One potential downside is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food. However, we have not had any issues with our dog not wanting to eat it. Another drawback is that it is more expensive than some other brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the higher price.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a nutritious and balanced diet.

Buying Guide

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

Nutritional Content

Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, so it’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for their size. Look for a dog food that is high in protein and fat, as these nutrients are essential for maintaining your dog’s energy levels and keeping their coat healthy.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food can have a big impact on their overall health and well-being. Look for a dog food that uses high-quality, natural ingredients and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.

Flavor and Texture

Small breed dogs can be picky eaters, so it’s important to choose a food that they will enjoy. Look for a food with a flavor and texture that your dog likes, and consider trying different varieties to find the one that they prefer.

Size and Shape

Small breed 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 is small in size and has a soft texture, or consider choosing a food that is specially designed for small breed dogs.

Price

Dog food can be expensive, so it’s important to choose a food that fits within your budget. Look for a food that provides good value for money and meets your dog’s nutritional needs.

By considering these factors and doing your research, you can choose the best dog food for your small breed and ensure that they stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

There are several dog food brands that are highly recommended by veterinarians for small breeds. Some of the top vet-recommended dog foods for small breeds include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan.

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

When it comes to dry dog food specifically formulated for small dogs, there are several great options available. Some of the best dry dog food for small breeds include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula, Wellness Complete Health Small Breed, and Merrick Lil’ Plates.

Which puppy foods do the American Kennel Club suggest for small breeds?

The American Kennel Club recommends several puppy foods for small breeds, including Royal Canin X-Small Puppy, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Puppy, and Purina Pro Plan Puppy Small Breed.

What are the highest-rated wet dog foods for small breed dogs?

There are several high-rated wet dog foods for small breed dogs, including Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe, Wellness Petite Entrees, and Merrick Lil’ Plates.

How does the nutritional needs of small breed dogs differ from larger breeds?

Small breed dogs have higher energy requirements than larger breeds, and they need a diet that is higher in protein and fat. They also require smaller kibble sizes to make it easier for them to eat.

Which dog food brands are known for producing the healthiest small breed formulas?

Several dog food brands are known for producing the healthiest small breed formulas, including Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Merrick. These brands offer a wide variety of small breed formulas that are tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed dogs.