Dogs

Best Dry Dog Food For Small Dogs 2024

LifeLines1 year ago2 months ago233 mins

For small breed dogs to enjoy the longest, happiest lives possible, they require specific food requirements. For instance, little dogs are more likely to become obese if fed a diet greater in calories per unit of body size than large dogs, who normally have higher energy needs. Additionally, small dogs require smaller food—kibble that is gentler on their little mouths. Certain wet dog feeds are packaged in bulky receptacles that make quantity control challenging. Additionally, Foods designed for small breeds will also have serving guidance that can help you feed your dog properly.

Quick List: Best Dry Dog Food For Small Dogs

Here are The Mdharunst top 10 best dry dog food for small dogs with sensitive stomachs

Best overall dry dog food: Royal Canin

Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

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Royal Canin is one of the 20 stick recipes reviewed in our review of the Royal Canin product line.

First 5 ingredients: Weight Management, Active, Nutrition, Skin, Coat
Flavor: Chicken;Vegetable
Item Form: Stick
Price: $56.99

Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is specially formulated with specific nutrients for small dogs aged 10 months to 8 years to help maintain a healthy weight and meet the high energy needs of small dog breeds. As well as helping to maintain dog skin and coat health, optimal levels of fatty acids such as EPA and DHA support skin and a healthy dog coat. Small Breed Adult Dog Food is formulated with exclusive kibble adapted for small jaws. Great for picky eaters. Food satisfies the hunger of small dogs.

Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is specially formulated with specific nutrients for small dogs aged 10 months to 8 years to help maintain a healthy weight and meet the high energy needs of small dog breeds. As well as helping to maintain dog skin and coat health, optimal levels of fatty acids such as EPA and DHA support skin and a healthy dog coat. Small Breed Adult Dog Food is formulated with exclusive kibble adapted for small jaws. Great for picky eaters. Food satisfies the hunger of small dogs.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Royal Canin

I went through a lot of brands with my dog and Royal Canin is easily the one that gave the best results. His skin problems are gone and his coat is great now. He thrives on it. Vets recommend it for a reason. Royal Canin is also really transparent with the way they formulate and manufacture their kibble, and they do actual research with their food. Not a lot of brands care to do that at all. Don't listen to all that "filler ingredients" crap people say cause it's all made up.

Best Small Paws For Small Breed Dogs Food: Hill's Science Diet

Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws For Small Breed Dogs

Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws For Small Breed Dogs

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Hill’s Science Diet is one of the 35 stick recipes reviewed in our review of the Hill’s Science Diet product line.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Soybean Meal
Flavor: Chicken Meal & Rice
Item Form: Pellet
Price: $$

Hill’s Science Diet adult dog food made with highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your little dog’s stomach Nutritious and weight-regulating omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E help promote healthy skin and a radiant complexion. It helps maintain lean muscle mass in small-breed dogs. Provides high quality protein. This food is specially formulated using an antioxidant blend to boost the lifelong immune system of toy and miniature dogs.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Hill's Science Diet

This is our 4th dog and this is the only dog food brand we'll buy! It was recommended by our veterinarian when our dog was overweight and we've used ever since with our new dog too! Some dog foods make dogs gassy and stink horrendously but this seems to ease any and all tummy problems and leaves no after effects for them and keeps their gas to a bare minimum practically non existent and makes them not stink!!! And even when picking up and disposing has minimal odor!!!

Best Dog Food With Probiotics For Dogs : Purina Pro Plan

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs

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Purina Pro Plan is one of the 24 Kibble recipes reviewed in our review of the Purina Pro Plan product line.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Soybean Meal, Whole Grain Corn
Flavor: Chicken & Rice Shredded Blend
Item Form: Kibble
Price: $19.65

Purina Pro Plan is a nutrient-dense bite-sized kibble and small kibbles for a soft, great taste and texture that makes it a favorite for dogs to eat. High-protein formula with real chicken as the first ingredient Made with SAVOR Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice formula fortified with live probiotics guaranteed to support digestion and immune support. Purina Pro Plan Small Dog Food is formulated high in protein to meet the needs of highly active small dogs.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Purina Pro Plan

My dog loves it and has been on Purina One scene a puppy. Vet say she looks great. Perfect weight.

Purina Pro plan! Great stuff, my 3 yr old Shih tzu devours it. Other places are all the same price, since I found other dog treats here! I just bought Purina because it came all together.

My dog enjoys purina pro plan, and it's so convenient to have delivered.

Minichunks Small Kibble High Protein Dry Dog Food : Iams

IAMS Adult Minichunks Small Kibble High Protein Dry Dog Food

IAMS Adult Minichunks Small Kibble High Protein Dry Dog Food

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IAMS is one of the 18 dry recipes reviewed in our review of the IAMS product line.

First 5 ingredients: mmune Support, Weight Management, Digestive Health, Nutrition, Muscle
Flavor:
Item Form: Dry
Price: $44.63

Give your dog the nutrition they need in their favorite small-kibble form. It helps strengthen and promote muscle growth with premium-sourced protein. With farm-raised chickens, vets recommend IAMS. This tasty kibble supports healthy digestion with a balanced mix of fiber and prebiotics, as well as antioxidants to support a strong immune system. IAMS dog food is formulated with high-quality animal protein for complete and balanced nutrition and no artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers. Suitable for your dog, we carry a complete line for your dog’s age, size, and dietary needs, from puppy to adult, small breed to large, and with recipes to support healthy weight and digestion. Choose nutrition that is best for your dog, tailored to their unique needs.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Iams

Iams Mini Chunk dry dog food has been a staple for my large breed dog for an impressive 14 years, and I've raised a total of 5 dogs on this brand. The formula's balance of nutrients supports their health and vitality, especially tailored for large breeds. The size and texture of the kibble are suitable for their needs, aiding digestion and dental health. Consistency in quality and the brand's focus on nutritional value make it a reliable choice for long-term dog care.

Diamond Naturals Dog Food Adult Small Breed Dog: Blue Buffalo

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

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Blue Buffalo is one of the 20 pellet recipes reviewed in our review of the Blue Buffalo product line.

First 5 ingredients: Active, Immune Support, Joints, Hip, Coat
Flavor: Chicken & Brown Rice
Item Form: Pellet
Price: $56.93

Blue Buffalo Dog Foods are made with high-quality protein from real chicken, as well as healthy whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruits to help your dog build and maintain healthy muscles. It helps keep your dog healthy. Blue Life Safety Formula for Adult Dogs Adult dog food contains essential protein and carbohydrates to help meet the energy needs of adult dogs and contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to promote clear and healthy skin. A precise combination of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, increased life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance. Blue Dry Dog Food is made with natural ingredients rich in vitamins and minerals.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Blue Buffalo

I am very pleased with Blue Buffalo Life's chicken and brown rice formula, but more importantly, my dog is! She is quite picky with her dry food, but she gobbles this kibble down at the speed of light. I love knowing that I am feeding my pupper quality ingredients that ultimately invest in her health. This dog food gets delivered to our home every 6 weeks, and I do not plan on stopping this!

Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin : Hill's Pet Nutrition

Hill's Pet Nutrition Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach

Hill's Pet Nutrition Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach

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Hill’s Pet Nutrition is one of the 30 pellet recipes reviewed in our review of the Hill’s Science Diet product line.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Yellow Peas, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice
Flavor: Chicken & Barley
Item Form: Pellet
Price: $52.24

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Science Diet Best Dry Dog Food promotes digestive health while nourishing the skin. A source of prebiotic fiber to support a balanced gut microbiome in your growing puppy This dog food is highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and is formulated to pass easily. Packed with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. Coats and healthy skin are made with natural ingredients to help your growing dog shine.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Hill's Pet Nutrition

I have a rescue who is part beagle with a bit of collie in her. She was abused and nearly starving when she found me. She has had trouble with digestion and some itching. I've spent tons on different types of food and finally found the perfect balance with Hills Science Diet. She loves the taste. The difference in her coat and especially her eyes is like night and day. She seems to feel better with extra energy. This creature is smart, loyal, funny and loving. She deserves all good things in life and I think I have found (most likely) the best food available.

Best Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Small Breed: Nature′s

Nature′s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Small Breed

Nature′s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Small Breed

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Nature’s Recipe is one of the 12 dry recipes reviewed in our review of the Nature’s Recipe product line.
First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Pea Starch
Flavor: Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin
Item Form: Dry
Price: $9.40

Nature’s Recipe: Dry Dog Food Four-pound bags of Nature’s Recipe grain-free small-breed dog food formulated by expert pet nutritionists. Using only purposefully selected ingredients The number one ingredient is real chicken, a good-quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength. Fiber from sweet potatoes and pumpkin supports digestion and immunity, as does natural dog food with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients—no poultry by-products or artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors, and no added corn, wheat, or soy. Premium nutrition in delicious, small dog kibble form that’s made with integrity.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Nature′s Recipe

I have 5 chihuahuas, chihuahua mixes. One is about 12 lbs, the other 4 are all under 5 lbs. 2 are under a year old. I’m on auto delivery for the dry food. I mix it with Royal Canin Chihuahua Puppy dry food so all of my fur babies get the needed nutrition. They love this food. 2 of my pups are sensitive to beef so this chicken, pumpkin and sweet potato recipe works great! Mine are all grazers so they have their dry food available to them all day. I even grab a few to use as treats.

The Best Small Breed Dry Dog Food : Cesar

CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

CESAR Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

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CESAR Recipe is one of the 35 dry recipes reviewed in our review of the Cesar Recipe product line.
First 5 ingredients: Weight Management, Dental Care
Flavor: Filet Mignon
Item Form: Dry
Price: $10.81

A nutritious meal with the perfect balance of taste and nutrition is made of tender pieces that are easy to chew, crunchy, and bring big flavor to every bowl. Supports small dog health This product contains 26 essential nutrients that support the health of small-breed dogs. Creating happy and healthy dogs, H-Shaped Kibble contains CESAR Small Bread’s best dry dog food, Fillet Mignon Flavor, and Spring Vegetable Garnish. H-Shaped Kibble helps prevent plaque buildup. Supporting dental hygiene, the meticulously crafted recipe with ingredients from real beef is the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, with real beef as an ingredient and no artificial flavors, fillers, or high fructose corn syrup. This product is made in the USA with the best ingredients from around the world. So you can be sure that you are giving your best friend the best food. The meal includes (1) 5 lb. bag of CESR Small Breed Dry Dog Food Filet Mignon Flavor and Spring Vegetable Garnish.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - CESAR

I have 4 Chihuahuas that love this food! My little girl, Tilly, was losing her hair, her head was almost hairless, but with Little Cesars food she has re-grown her hair. Their coats are so soft and thicker since switching their food.

Grain Free Dog Food For Small Dog: Pedigree

Pedigree Small Dog Food Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble

Pedigree Small Dog Food Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor Dog Kibble

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Pedigree Recipe is one of the 16 dry recipes reviewed in our review of the Pedigree Recipe product line.
First 5 ingredients:
Flavor: Steak
Item Form: Dry
Price: $16.98

PEDIGREE Dry Dog Food for small dogs has a delicious steak and vegetable flavor that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. This food helps maintain a healthy lifestyle. Pedigree food for dogs is accented with whole grains, proteins, and vegetables to aid digestion. Complete and balanced nutrition provides optimal levels of omega-6 fatty acids. It helps nourish the skin and keep your little dog’s coat shiny and healthy. Proudly made with the world’s best ingredients—no high-fructose corn syrup, no artificial flavors, and no added sugar. Small pieces for small mouths are the best food, made with the best ingredients.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Pedigree

I adopted a little 15-lb. rescue dog with a severe underbite. Max has a hard time eating most dry food, because his teeth only meet in the back. He is also a bit picky, and has turned up his nose at a few types of dry dog food I tried before. However, he likes the taste of this one! The smaller pellets are easier for his small mouth to eat, and he really likes the X-shaped kibble that I pick out and hand-feed to him as a treat. To make it even easier (and tastier) for him, I just barely cover the pellets with hot tap water for a minute or two before serving, which creates a bit of flavored gravy and makes the pieces a bit softer. My boy eagerly cleans his bowl now, and I would recommend this to anyone with a small dog or one with an underbite.

Best Dog Food For Puppies: Little Bites

Little Bites Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Veggies Recipe

Little Bites Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Veggies Recipe

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Rachael Ray Nutrish Little Bites is one of the 10 dry recipes reviewed in our review of the Nutrish Little Bites Recipe product line.
First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Soybean Meal, Whole Corn, Grain Sorghum
Flavor: Chicken & Veggies
Item Form: Dry
Price: $10.68

Little Bites of Rachael Ray Nutritious Dry Dog Food. The specially formulated recipe with farm-raised chicken ingredients supports high energy levels in small dogs. Supports the immune system of small dogs and is suitable for all life stages. No poultry by-products, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives. Small-kibble dog food with a crunchy texture helps clean teeth and freshen breath. It is made of the best material and is the perfect size for a small face.

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews - Rachael Ray Nutrish

I’ve been looking for a nutritious small dog dry pellet brand that my Daisy will like. Over the past eight years, this is the first product that she actually reacts to like eating a dog treat. I’m thrilled. The ingredients are healthy and a great balance to her cooked meat diet.Great price and easy for her to chew. Very happy and will reorder as a regular food choice.

How we found the best dog food for small dogs.

To find the best dog food, our research panel developed an extensive questionnaire, asking everything from the qualities pet owners are looking for in their dog food to information about their dog’s breed, age, and size.

With the help of our veterinary review panel, we looked for brands with trusted ingredients, reliable reputations, and specific formulas for different needs, including small-breed dog food. We collected data from hundreds of dogs and polled 345 dog owners. This polling data is used to develop a numerical scoring system and detailed feedback, which we use to select the best dog food in a wide range of categories.

How to Switch to a New Food - without Making Your Dog Sick

In this video…

Switching your dog’s diet can be tricky. We share our Nutrition Team’s advice for changing your dog’s food. shares a simple feeding tip. When you switch to a new food. That can help reduce the risk of your little dog getting sick.

For a small dog, how much dog food is appropriate?

Since it is impossible to predict with any degree of precision how important the ideal food is for each small dog, particularly when presenting a certain brand of food, each of which has a different calorie count per serving,.

So, start by giving your dog the recommended amount of food according to the directions on the bag.

For example-

Then gradually adjust the amount of food your dog is eating as needed to keep your little dog at his ideal weight.

What is the safest way to switch your puppy to a new food?

It’s best to switch your little dog to a new food slowly.

Start by mixing together 80% “old” and 20% “new” foods. Then, slowly increase that amount to a full 100% over the next 10 days.

Don’t rush the food conversion process. To reduce the risk of digestive upset, take your time to transform the food.

A Final Word

The Mdharunst does not accept gifts, money, samples, or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.

We do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Amazon or Chewy) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operating our free blog. Thanks for your support.

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