One of the advantages of having a small dog is that they need relatively smaller portions of food. However, there are also dietary challenges unique to their size. Small dogs are more prone to unhealthy weight gain, digestive upset, and malnutrition when their diet isn’t fit for their needs.
The good news is that there are plenty of dog foods especially formulated for small dogs; some are even targeted to specific breeds. In this Sploot Vets guide, we will go over some of the best dog food for small dogs, exploring both wet and dry food options.
Overview:
- Most small dogs benefit from dog food that is especially formulated for their size.
- The best dog foods for small dogs typically offer balanced, complete nutrition, have the right levels of calcium and phosphorus, and have small kibble (for dry food options), among other beneficial product features.
What is The Best Food to Feed a Small Dog?
It’s best to feed your small dog an AAFCO-compliant dog food that is also appropriate for their age, as well as other unique health needs. A veterinarian can give you recommendations or narrow down some options you have in mind.
Dog Food for Small Dogs vs. Other Sizes: Does it Matter?
Yes. It is NOT recommended to feed a small dog any pet food formulated for medium or larger dog breeds. Due to a small dog’s smaller stomach and faster metabolism, they are more at risk of issues like digestive problems, weight gain, or malnutrition if they are not fed appropriately.
Here’s how dog food for small dogs and larger dogs differ:
- Dry dog food for small dogs has smaller kibble that’s easier to chew. The larger kibble from dog food for larger dogs can be a choking hazard for smaller dogs.
- Dog food for small dogs is more calorie-dense to support a small dog’s faster metabolism. The opposite is true for dog food for large dogs, which can cause low blood sugar if fed to smaller dogs.
- Dog food for large dogs has controlled calcium levels, which benefits large dogs. However, this can lead to nutritional imbalance if fed to small dogs.
6 Best Dry Dog Foods For Small Dogs
If you’re looking for the best dry dog food for smaller dogs, here are some great options that you can discuss with your veterinarian.
1. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition - Small Adult Dry Dog Food
- Highlights: AAFCO dog food for small dogs (Nutritional Adequacy Statement); for adult dogs up to 8 years old; general health
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition is tailored to meet the energy and nutritional needs of small breeds, specifically for adult dogs under 22 lbs.
This dog food’s formula supports strong bones with a size-optimized blend of calcium and phosphorus. With highly digestible proteins and an exclusive kibble shape, it promotes healthy digestion and appetite. All in all, it’s one of the best dry dog foods for small dogs on the market for various breeds and mixed breeds.
2. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition - Dry Food
- Highlights: For AAFCO information, see “Nutritional Adequacy Statement” for the product; for adult dogs; breed-specific diet
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition is formulated to meet the unique needs of specific dog breeds, supporting everything from skin health to joint care. Each formula is carefully designed for breed-specific nutritional needs, making it a top choice among the best dry dog food for small dogs.
The Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition product line includes special formulas for: Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, Maltese, Shih Tzus, Pugs, Yorkshire Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and more.
3. Purina® Pro Plan® Focus – Small Breed
- Highlights: All of Purina’s formulas meet or exceed AAFCO standards; for adult small dogs; contains live probiotics
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Purina Pro Plan Focus – Small Breed (also packaged as ‘Purina Pro Plan – Small Breed’) delivers high-quality protein from real meat to support strong muscles and a healthy metabolism. This dog food is also nutrient-dense to support overall health, and contains a size-optimized balance of calcium and phosphorus for stronger bones and teeth.
In addition, this dry dog food is enhanced with live probiotics to promote digestive health. With all of its features, Purina Pro Plan – Small Breed stands out as one of the best dry dog foods for small dogs.
4. Hill's Science Diet - Perfect Digestion Small Mini [Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe]
- Highlights: AAFCO dog food for small dogs (see ‘feeding tips’); for adult small dogs up to 6 years of age; contains prebiotics
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Numerous small dog breeds are prone to having sensitive stomachs, including Yorkshire Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Chihuahuas. For dogs with this health issue, vets may recommend dry dog food like Hill's Science Diet - Perfect Digestion Small Mini, one of the best dry dog foods for small dogs aged 1 to 6 years old.
This dry dog food features ActivBiome+ technology, a blend of prebiotics, whole grain oats, and pumpkin to support a healthy gut flora, digestion, and regular stools. In addition, this dog food offers balanced nutrition, formulated for the overall wellness of small breeds.
5. Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini - Dry Dog Food
- Highlights: AAFCO dog food for small dogs (see ‘feeding tips’); for adult small dogs; kibble technology for oral care
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
With smaller mouths and crowded teeth, many small dogs are prone to tartar buildup and plaque, which can cause a variety of canine dental issues. This emphasizes the importance of regular dental care and toothbrushing.
For dogs that are especially prone to dental issues, veterinarians may recommend Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini, one of the best dry dog foods for small dogs formulated for oral care.
This dry dog food has special kibble technology with interlocking fibers, clinically proven to help reduce or provide protection against plaque and tartar build-up. In addition, this dry dog food offers balanced nutrition, as well as Omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E for a healthy skin and coat.
6. Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Senior Vitality - Dog Food
- Highlights: AAFCO dog food for small dogs (see ‘feeding tips’); for older dogs 7 years old or above; easy-to-digest
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Made for older small dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality is one of the best dry dog food for small dogs in their golden years. It features a special blend that supports brain function, energy, and wellness.
In addition, this dry dog food has easy-to-digest ingredients, balanced nutrients, Omega-3, and Omega-6, helping senior dogs look and feel their best.
→ Learn more - 8 Best Senior Dog Food for Small, Medium, & Large Dogs
3 Best Wet Dog Foods For Small Dogs
While wet food isn’t as commonly used as a daily staple, it may be your dog’s preference (especially for picky eater dogs), part of a mixed-feeding routine, or recommended by your veterinarian. In any case, here are some of the best wet dog foods for small dogs that you can discuss with your vet.
1. Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini – Wet Food
- Highlights: AAFCO dog food for small dogs (see ‘feeding tips’); for adult small dogs; comes in various flavors aside from the ‘Chicken & Barley Entrée”
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Formulated for small breeds, Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini is one of the best wet dog food for small dogs. It delivers balanced nutrition for overall health in a tasty, easy-to-eat texture. It also features easy-to-digest ingredients, including pumpkin, to support healthy digestion in small dogs.
2. Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Paws - Wet Food
- Highlights: AAFCO dog food for small dogs (see ‘feeding tips’); for older small dogs; comes in one flavor: ‘Chicken & Barley Entrée”; contains an antioxidant blend
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Paws is one of the best wet dog foods for small dogs, providing a precisely balanced nutrition for smaller dog breeds over 7 years old.
It contains high-quality protein to maintain lean muscles as well as flavorful ingredients that are easy to digest. Last but not least, this formula also includes Hill’s special antioxidant blend for lifelong vitality and overall wellness.
3. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition - Wet Food
- Highlights: For AAFCO information, see “Nutritional Adequacy Statement” for the product; for adult dogs; the most common flavor is ‘Loaf in Sauce’
- Available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
Royal Canin’s Breed Health Nutrition is a product line that tailors nutrition for specific dog breeds. While this product line has dry dog food options (discussed above), there are also wet dog food options for certain breeds.
Royal Canin’s Breed Health Nutrition Wet Food provides balanced nutrition for various small dog breeds, including Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Yorkshire Terriers. The formulations also provide balanced nutrition, making it a great choice among the best wet dog food for small dogs. Additionally, the soft texture and rich flavors of these wet dog foods enhance palatability.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Food for Small Dogs
Choosing the best dog food for small dogs (whether wet or dry) comes down to finding balanced nutrition that supports their energy, digestion, overall well-being, and specific health needs.
The above options are a great starting point for finding the best dog food for your small dog. However, as always, we recommend consulting a veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs.
For more information on dog nutrition, check out our vet-approved nutritional guides:
- Top 10 Healthiest Human Foods That Dogs Can Eat
- 5 Best Dog Food Brands - AAFCO & WSAVA Compliance
- The Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
- 7 Best Dental Chews & Treats for Dogs [Vet-Approved]
Nutritional Consultations at Sploot Vets: All-In-One Care
At Sploot Vets, we’re your partner in ensuring that your dog stays at their healthiest and happiest; whether you need guidance on your dog’s nutrition or other aspects of veterinary care, you can count on us. We offer all-in-one care, with preventive care, urgent care, and emergency services all under one woof™.
Our vet care team is here to deliver top-tier care and a Fear Free approach that ensures your furry companion’s comfort in every visit.
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Easily book an appointment online or through the Sploot Vets app today!
