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Best Dog Food For Small Dogs In 2024
You want nothing but the best for your canine friend if you’re like us. And that starts with their food. Finding the proper nutrition for our furry companions is paramount, especially for undersized dogs.
Image credits: Karsten Winegeart
Small dog breeds have unique dietary needs and high metabolism. Their food should have smaller kibble sizes, higher protein and fat levels, and balanced vitamins and minerals. Some formulas may also include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. We know it sounds intimidating.
Fear not, however. Bored Panda has done all the heavy lifting. Whether your little buddy is a picky eater, has allergies, or just needs a diet tailored to their petite size, we’ve gathered the best formulas for small dog breeds. We have carefully selected recipes based on the quality of ingredients, nutritional value, and, of course, expert opinions.
The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. Please refer to our disclaimer for more details.
Our Community Picks
Best Overall: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula $37.99
Runner-Up: Eukanuba Small Breed Puppy Dry Food $19.99
Also Great: Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 7+ $18.99
Note: All prices and deals listed are accurate as of the time of publishing. Please check the provided links for the most current pricing.
Small Breed Dog Food for Puppies
Our selection offers excellent nutrition that meets the unique needs of small-breed puppies. These products are carefully chosen to support your puppy’s growth, development, and overall health.
This post may include affiliate links.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
Type: Dry kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 5-pound bag, 15-pound bag
Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula is one of the best puppy foods for small breeds. The recipe is packed with high-quality protein for growing muscles and Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and shiny coats. Plus, it’s loaded with antioxidant-rich ingredients to support their immune system as they explore the world around them.
With brain and eye health-boosting ingredients in the Blue Buffalo formula, you can easily support your small canine’s healthy growth and development. We highly recommend this for a healthy start to your pup’s life.
What We Like:
• High-quality protein sources
• Tiny kibble size developed for small puppies
• Contains DHA, which aids in cognitive development
• Antioxidant-rich formula
What We Don’t Like:
• Contains dry yeast
• More expensive than other similar foods
Eukanuba Small Breed Puppy Dry Food
Type: Wet food | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 4.5-pound bag, 15-pound bag, 28-pound bag
Eukanuba kibble is an excellent choice for small and mini-breed puppies. This formula has high-quality animal protein to support their growing muscles and energy levels. Additionally, it contains optimal levels of DHA to support brain and vision development.
We suggest this formula to those looking to promote healthy digestion and provide a rich blend of vitamins and antioxidants to strengthen their little one’s immune system.
What We Like:
• High-quality chicken as the primary source of protein
• High levels of DHA for brain development and health
• Optimal calcium and phosphorus levels
• Kibble size perfect for small pups
What We Don’t Like:
• Complex ingredient list
• Minerals aren't in bioavailable form
Small Breed Dog Food for Seniors
The following canine recipes are designed for small-breed aging canines to promote joint health, cognitive function, and overall well-being, chosen based on their quality and effectiveness.
Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 7+
Type: Dry food | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 80 ounces, 15-pound bag, 33-pound bag
Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 7+ is a gentle on-the-stomach formula promoting overall digestive health and comfort for your senior pup. If your small or toy dog is in their golden years, this is one food brand to consider.
Hill’s formula is a top-notch source of protein that helps aging dogs maintain lean muscle mass. It is enriched with nutritious vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall health. Moreover, this formula is easy to digest, making mealtime a breeze.
What We Like:
• Made with natural chicken
• Smothered in tasty gravy
• Easy for dogs to digest
• Has a blend of nutritious vegetables
• 100% satisfaction guarantee
What We Don’t Like:
• Not suitable for pregnant or nursing dogs
Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Senior
Type: Dry food | Flavors: Chicken and brown rice | Package Size: 5-pound bag
Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food meets the needs of small dogs aged 8 years and older. Crafted with real chicken as the number one ingredient and enriched with wholesome grains, essential nutrients, and antioxidants, this formula provides tailored nutrition your dog will love.
Nutro Natural Choice formula also contains calcium to support bone health as your furry friend ages. With no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, you can trust that your beloved senior gets the best nutrition possible.
What We Like:
• Can be served dry or moistened
• Made from quality ingredients
• Has calcium to maintain bones and joints
• Packed with essential antioxidants
• Reliable brand
What We Don’t Like:
• Only available in one size
• Needs more flavor variety
Wet Food for Small Breed Dogs
The following premium canine food formulas are perfect for dog owners who prefer wet food over kibble or want to add variety to their pet’s diet.
Purina Pro Plan Adult Complete Essentials
Type: Wet food | Flavors: Beef or Chicken | Package Size: 5.5-ounce cans
Ensure your adult dog receives the complete and balanced nutrition they deserve with Purina Pro Plan Adult Complete Essentials Seared Beef, Green Beans, and Brown Rice Entree. This tasty wet dog food is made with natural beef as the primary ingredient, providing an abundant source of protein to support strong muscles.
In addition, the inclusion of green beans and brown rice offers essential vitamins and minerals that promote overall health and well-being. This formula is easily digestible and ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s the perfect choice for small-breed seniors seeking a flavorful option with high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition.
What We Like:
• Made with real beef as the primary source of protein
• Packed with essential antioxidants
• Has omega fatty acids
• Wholesome veggies and brown rice
What We Don’t Like:
• Would benefit from a broader flavor assortment
• Not available as a single can
Halo Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Food
Type: Wet food | Flavors: Turkey and duck | Package Size: 5.5-ounce cans
Halo Grain Free Small Breed Wet Dog Food is crafted with premium, non-GMO ingredients from reputable farms. The grain-free formula is easy on your pup’s digestion and promotes a healthy coat, strong muscles, and overall wellness.
Halo is an ideal small-breed recipe for health-conscious pet parents seeking grain-free, flavorful meals without artificial additives, with its focus on quality and transparency.
What We Like:
• Free from grains
• Made from non-GMO fruits and vegetables
• Easy to digest
• Has a fantastic aroma
• Contains chelated minerals
What We Don’t Like:
• Not recommended for puppies
Dry Food for Small-Breed Dogs
Dry kibble is ideal for small-breed dog owners seeking a convenient, shelf-stable feeding option. The following formulas are a balanced and complete meal solution.
Purina One +Plus Adult Small Breed
Type: Dry kibble | Flavors: Lamb and rice | Package Size: 3.8-pound bag, 7.4-pound bag, 15-pound bag
Purina ONE +Plus Adult is a top-notch dog food formula exclusively designed to cater to the needs of small-breed dogs. It has potent antioxidants to help maintain a robust immune system and high-quality protein sources to support lean muscle mass.
Although it lacks flavor variety and contains grains, the Purina recipe provides wholesome nutrition and sustained energy for your furry friend. Moreover, the crunchy kibble helps reduce plaque buildup and maintain excellent dental health.
What We Like:
• Available in 3 pack sizes
• Has four antioxidant sources
• Has no fillers
• Made up of high-quality ingredients
• It is super affordable
What We Don’t Like:
• Grains can trigger sensitivities in some dogs
Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Recipe
Flavors: Turkey, whitefish, and quinoa | Package sizes: 3-pound, 5-pound, 11-pound, and 14-pound bags
Nulo Frontrunner Recipe is a premium dog food crafted with real turkey as the first ingredient, whitefish, and quinoa to provide a well-rounded and delicious meal for your furry friend. Plus, it contains more high-quality ingredients, including real whole meat and ancient grains, which help promote optimal nutrient absorption.
Note: Ideal for small breeds with petite mouths and short digestive tracts.
What We Like:
• Non-GMO fruits and vegetables
• Has no meat byproducts or artificial ingredients
• Has a great aroma
• A combination of turkey and whitefish
• Includes probiotics that support the immune system
What We Don’t Like:
• Has limited flavors
Small Breed Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
The following selection of dog food formulas is for small-breed dog owners with pets that have sensitive stomachs. The selected products are gentle and easy to digest, effective in managing digestive issues, and have positive feedback from pet owners.
Wellness Simple Limited-Ingredient Diet
Type: Dry kibble | Flavors: Duck and oatmeal, salmon and potato, lamb and oatmeal, turkey and potato | Package Size: 10.5-pound bag, 26-pound bag, 40-pound bag
Wellness Simple Limited-Ingredient Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for small dogs, especially those with sensitivities to common proteins such as beef or chicken. The natural lamb formula helps to promote muscular strength and maintain a healthy heart and overall vitality. The food is fortified with prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and glucosamine to support digestive health and joint function.
The ingredients in this recipe were carefully selected to be easy to digest and gentle on the stomach, which promotes healthy digestion and reduces the risk of food-related issues. The Wellness formula is low in calories, making it perfect for dogs with reduced activity levels due to illness or injury.
What We Like:
• Great for dogs with chicken and beef allergies
• Highly digestible
• Nutritionally dense, low-calorie food
• Supports heart health and helps with blood pressure maintenance
• Rich in omega fatty acids
• Has glucosamine for joint health
• Contains taurine, prebiotic fibers, and probiotics
What We Don’t Like:
• Not ideal for dogs with pea or grain allergies
• Some pet parents report a strange smell
Hill’s Science Diet Small And Mini Adult
Type: Dry food | Flavors: Chicken and barley | Package Size: 4-pound bag, 15-pound bag
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Adult Small and Mini Breeds is proudly made in the US and free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It is an ideal option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, thanks to the recipe enriched with prebiotic fiber and easily digestible nutrients that promote digestive health.
The formula contains a unique blend of antioxidants that provides lifelong immune support and helps your dog maintain overall well-being. It also features smaller kibble sizes, making it easy for small dogs to chew and promote oral health.
What We Like:
• Balanced nutrition
• Easy-to-digest ingredients
• Comes in two bag sizes
• Contains an antioxidant blend
• Vet-recommended for gentle nutrition
What We Don’t Like:
• Some of the kibble pieces are too hard for tiny teeth
Things to Consider Before Buying Food for Small Breed Dogs
Before picking the first dry food bag in the aisle, be sure to check the following.
Kibble Size and Texture
Small-breed dogs need small kibble that they can easily chew and digest. Look for brands offering small-breed formulas with appropriately sized kibble.
AAFCO Nutritional Standards
Make sure the dog food meets AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Check the label for AAFCO nutrient profiles and the nutritional adequacy statement for the appropriate life stage and/or lifestyle.
Nutritional Requirements
Small breed dogs need specially tailored food to meet their nutritional requirements. They require higher energy levels per pound of body weight and adequate protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, especially omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Adult small-breed dogs need a minimum of 18% protein and 5.5% fat based on dry matter, while puppies need 22.5% protein and 8.5% fat.
Ingredients List
Choose dog food with high-quality protein, like chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid fillers like corn or soy; opt for whole grains and natural ingredients. Also, steer clear of mystery meat or fillers and choose dog food with clearly recognizable ingredients.
Caloric Density
Consult your vet to determine your small dog’s appropriate daily caloric intake. Choose dog food with higher caloric density to meet their diet without overeating. Overfeeding can lead to health issues, so feeding the correct amount is essential to support their well-being.
Dog Food Trials
Choose dog foods that have undergone feeding trials for safety testing and palatability assessment. Unlike formulated foods, feeding trials involve direct testing on a group of animals.
Healthy Extras
Consider additional benefits such as joint support, dental health, or skin and coat enhancement, depending on your dog’s health requirements. Some formulas include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and dental kibbles for tartar reduction. You may also find probiotics for digestion, omega-3 for the skin, and antioxidants for immune system support. Consult with your vet to determine the best options for your dog.
Digestibility
Choose high-quality protein sources, limited fillers, and added probiotics for easy digestion in dogs. Look for ingredients like chicken, turkey, salmon, sweet potatoes, peas, and pumpkin. Consider sensitive stomachs, limited-ingredient diets, or grain-free options. Consult with your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet significantly.
Feeding Tips for Small Dogs
Whether you’re a first-time small dog owner or looking to fine-tune your feeding routine, these tips will help you provide optimal nourishment for your beloved canine companion.
Choose the Right Food
Choose small-breed dog food with high-quality ingredients and a balanced diet, including vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Select kibble size carefully to ensure easy digestion and chewing. Avoid fillers like corn or soy.
Monitor Portion Sizes
Consult your vet to determine your dog’s proper daily caloric intake based on weight, age, and activity level. Divide their daily portion into multiple meals to prevent bloating and maintain steady energy levels. Monitoring portion sizes helps prevent overeating and weight gain, promoting a healthy weight for your small dog.
Avoid Table Scraps and Overfeeding
Human food can be high in salt, fat, and spices, which may upset your dog’s stomach or lead to obesity. Limit treats and ensure they are specifically designed for dogs to avoid overindulgence.
Monitor Weight and Body Condition
Regularly monitoring your dog’s weight and body condition is essential for their overall health. Conduct visual checks for a defined waistline and feel their ribs to ensure they’re not covered with excess fat.
Periodically weigh your dog to detect sudden weight changes, which may indicate underlying health issues. Adjust their food intake accordingly to maintain a healthy body condition.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Consulting your vet is crucial for your dog’s health. They can offer tailored advice, suggest suitable food, and conduct health checkups to detect issues early. As your dog ages, their nutritional needs may change, so consult your vet for guidance on adjusting their diet.
FAQ
Do small-breed dogs need special food?
Yes, small-breed dogs have unique nutritional requirements that may differ from larger breeds, requiring specially formulated food to meet their needs. Small-breed dog food often features smaller kibble sizes, higher protein content, and specific nutrients tailored to their metabolism and energy levels.
What food is best for small dogs?
The best food for small dogs is a high-quality diet specifically formulated for small breeds, providing essential nutrients in appropriate portions. Look for options rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support your small dog’s overall health, growth, and energy levels.
What can I feed my dog daily instead of dog food?
While commercial dog food is a convenient and balanced option for daily feeding, you can also provide homemade meals prepared with veterinarian-approved ingredients. Cooked lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains may be suitable alternatives to commercial dog food. However, make sure to consult a pet nutritionist before attempting this.
What is the one food you should never feed your dog?
One food you should never feed your dog is chocolate, as it contains substances like theobromine and caffeine that are toxic to dogs. Chocolate ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and severe health complications, so it is best to keep chocolate away from your canine companion.
