The Healthiest Dry Dog Foods for Small Dogs

Share this post!

When it comes to keeping your small dog happy and healthy, their diet plays a crucial role. Small dogs often have unique nutritional needs, requiring high-quality, nutrient-dense food to support their energy levels and overall health.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the healthiest dry dog foods for small dogs, ensuring your fur baby gets the best of the best.

---

1. Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

• Protein Source: Real chicken as the first ingredient.
• Targeted Nutrition: Omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Size: Small kibble for tiny mouths.

Pros: Highly digestible, vet-recommended, and great for picky eaters. They also have a puppy formula, a senior formula and a weight management formula.
Cons: Slightly higher price point.

Buy Here: Hill’s Science Diet on Amazon

---

2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Formula

Key Features:

• Protein Source: Deboned chicken for lean muscle maintenance.
• Added Nutrients: DHA for brain health and calcium for strong bones.
• Size: Bite-sized kibble perfect for small jaws.

Pros: No by-product meals, corn, or soy; contains wholesome ingredients. They also have a lamb and brown rice flavor, a senior formula, a healthy weight formula, and a puppy formula for small breeds.
Cons: Some dogs may find the LifeSource Bits too crunchy.

Buy Here: Blue Buffalo Life Protection on Chewy

---

3. Wellness CORE RawRev Small Breed

Key Features:

• Protein Source: Turkey and chicken for lean muscle support.
• Enhanced Nutrition: Probiotics, omega fatty acids, and glucosamine for joint health.
• Size: Tiny, nutrient-dense pieces for small dogs.

Pros: High protein and raw nutrition for active pups.
Cons: May not suit dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Buy Here: Wellness CORE RawRev on Chewy

---

4. Royal Canin X-Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Key Features:

• Protein Source: Chicken meal for easy digestibility.
• Tailored Nutrition: EPA and DHA for healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Size: Specialized kibble texture for small teeth.

Pros: Highly palatable and supports weight management. They also have a Sensitive Skin formula, Digestive Care formula, X-Small Aging formula, Chihuahua formula, and Chihuahua puppy formula.
Cons: Contains some grains, which may not suit grain-free diets.

Buy Here: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult on Amazon

---

5. Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Small Breed Recipe

Key Features:

• Protein Source: Deboned beef is the first ingredient.
• Grain-Free: Sweet potatoes and peas for easy digestion.
• Size: Tiny kibble for small breed mouths.

Pros: No artificial preservatives or fillers; supports digestion. They also have a chicken and sweet potato flavor, salmon and sweet potato flavor and a puppy formula
Cons: Can be pricier than grain-inclusive options.

Buy Here: Merrick Lil’ Plates on Chewy

---

---

What to Look for in Dry Dog Food

Choosing the right dry dog food for your small dog can make a big difference in their overall health. Here’s what to prioritize when shopping:

1. High-Quality Protein: Look for a food where real meat (like chicken, beef, or fish) is the first ingredient. Protein supports muscle maintenance and overall health.
2. Whole Grains or Grain-Free Alternatives: Whole grains like brown rice or oatmeal provide energy and fiber. If your dog has sensitivities, look for grain-free options with ingredients like sweet potatoes or lentils.
3. Healthy Fats: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids (from fish oil or flaxseed) promote a shiny coat, healthy skin, and brain health.
4. Size-Appropriate Kibble: Small dogs benefit from kibble designed for their smaller mouths. It’s easier for them to chew and digest.
5. No Fillers or By-Products: Foods with minimal fillers (like corn and soy) and no animal by-products are usually better quality and easier to digest.
6. Added Nutrients: Look for vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to support overall health, including joint care, digestion, and immunity.

---

What to Stay Away From in Dry Dog Food

Certain ingredients can be harmful or provide little nutritional value. Avoid the following when selecting dry dog food:

1. Artificial Additives: Steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin.
2. Low-Quality Protein Sources: Avoid foods with vague ingredients like “meat meal” or “animal by-products,” as they can include lower-quality protein.
3. Excessive Fillers: Corn, soy, and wheat are often used as cheap fillers and may trigger allergies in some dogs.
4. Sugar or Sweeteners: Added sugars or sweeteners like corn syrup are unnecessary and can contribute to weight gain or dental issues.
5. Unnecessary Carbohydrates: While some carbs are healthy, too many can lead to obesity. Ensure the food is balanced and not overly reliant on starches.

---

Conclusion

Your small dog deserves the best, and these dry dog foods offer the perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and size-specific benefits. From grain-free options to those packed with probiotics and omega-3s, there’s something here to fit every pup’s needs. Whichever option you choose, remember to transition gradually and consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

And if you are interested in trying homemade dog food, check out my homemade dog food post.

Happy feeding! 🐾

Has your dog tried any of these foods? If so what did they think of it and would you recommend it to others? What other foods should be on this list? Share in the comments!