Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Small Dogs

Small-breed dogs need foods specifically formulated for them in order to prevent them from developing nutrition-influenced diseases. The most common diseases among small-breed dogs that stem from a poor diet include obesity and hypoglycemia, and their nutrition differs from that of large-breed dogs. The best dog food for small dogs will give your adult canine companion the balanced nutrition that his body requires and help to prevent potential illnesses.

Commercial adult dry dog food brands are specifically designed to hit every nutritional marker in canines, but homemade dog food is another possible option for small breeds. However, while homemade dog food has its advantages, it also becomes easier with this method to over- or underfeed your dog.

Depending on the recipes that you use, you may also go wrong on the nutrients, resulting in a malnourished dog, according to this guide (PDF). Many owners assume that small breeds are easier to feed because of their size, but it actually makes finding the best small-breed dog food more difficult.

We've done a lot of research to find the ten best dog foods for small dogs, and we've listed the pros and cons of each brand for you here. We'll also discuss how to feed a small-breed dog, but for now, here's a peak at the five recommended small-breed dog foods:

Small Breed Dog Food Brands	Price	Value	Rating
Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed	$$$	$3.7/lb
Wellness CORE Natural Dry Grain Free Small Breed Food	$$$	$3/lb
Diamond Naturals Food for Small Breed Adult Dogs	$$	$3.1/lb
Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed Dry Food	$$$	$2.6/lb
Merrick Lil Plates Grain Free Small Breed Recipe	$$	$3.5/lb

* Click on the best dog food for small dogs for more information, prices, and details. Scroll below to read reviews.

Dogs, in general, need adequate levels of protein to support their growing needs and body functions, and meat is the best source for this. However, animal-derived protein also contains high levels of calcium and phosphorous, which must be kept at controlled levels and ratios.

Your dog also needs certain vitamins and minerals added to their diet. Depending on your Fido's energy level, overall health condition, and age, you also need to ensure that he's getting the right amount of calories. There's a lot more to properly feeding a dog than you may have originally thought, and most commercial best small breed dog food brands design their formulas around the specific needs of small dogs.

Feeding a homemade diet is possible, and pet owners who are extremely careful about their dog's nutrition can figure this all out on their own. It's not impossible, but it makes for an extremely complicated process of daily cooking and measuring food to meet your dog's exact nutritional needs. Picking a pre-made small-breed dog food brand with a formula designed for a small dog is often what vets recommend.

A consultation with your veterinarian is always a great starting point, but remember that your veterinarian may not even be able to give you the most accurate information either, but rather guide you to better sources. Below, we've got ten of the best dog foods for small dogs that have been specifically designed for adult small breeds and their exact nutritional needs.

What Is the Best Dog Food for Small Dogs?(Top 10 best small breed dog food brands)

1Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Food
by Wellness Natural Pet Food

Puppy food: Wellness Complete Health Puppy Food
Rating: 
Value: $3.7/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 28.0% min
CRUDE FAT 15.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 4.0% max
MOISTURE 11.0% max
CALCIUM 1.2% min
PHOSPHORUS 0.9% min
CALORIES 420 kcal/cup

Small-breed dogs have much higher metabolic rates than large-breed dogs. On top of our list is a product from Wellness, a special line of whole food and grain-free nutrition products. Wellness Small Breed Turkey and Oatmeal dog food is specially formulated for the special dietary requirements of small breeds. Six other recipes and three other sizes are available for buyers to choose from.

• Small dog breed food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners.

Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground Barley, Rye Flour, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols, a natural source of Vitamin E), Menhaden Fish Meal, Tomato Pomace, Natural Chicken Flavor, Pea Fiber, Tomatoes, Salmon Oil, Ground Flaxseed, Carrots, Spinach, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Potassium Chloride, Minerals [Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite], Vitamins [Beta-Carotene, Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin, Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B-12 Supplement], Choline Chloride, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols (a natural preservative), Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation products.This is a naturally preserved product.

This best dog food for small dogs packs 408 kcal per cup and contains 28% protein, 16% fat, vitamins and minerals, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin, taurine, lactic acid, and probiotics. Its ingredients include deboned turkey, chicken meal, salmon meal and oil, fruits, vegetables, herbs, and probiotic sources. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Dog Food does not contain grains or artificial products. This will ensure balanced nutrition for your puppy, including antioxidants that small-breed dogs need for their senior life.

The small kibble size is perfect for feeding small dogs. There’s obviously less or no filler because dog owners observed smaller stools now than when their dogs were fed with another brand. That translates to optimal nutrient absorption, which is another thing dog owners look for in dog food. This product is made in the USA.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “Yesterday I came here to purchase this food for the third time and happened to look at the reviews for the first time. I hadn't bothered to check reviews before hand because I was already…”

2 Core Natural Grain Free Dry Food
by Wellness Core

Puppy food: Wellness CORE Natural Puppy Food
Rating: 
Value: $3/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 36.0% min
CRUDE FAT 16.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 5.0% max
MOISTURE 10.0% max
CALCIUM 2.0% max
PHOSPHORUS 1.3.0% max
CALORIES 396 kcal/cup

Like our top-ranked product, our second pick comes from Wellness – it’s Wellness Core Grain-free Protein-rich Nutrition for Small Breeds. This time, though, it comes from their Core line of dog food products, which focuses on meat-derived protein, grain-free, and calorie-dense dog formulas. Wellness Core food for small breeds is made from deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, and a long list of real food, fruits, vegetables, herbs, botanical extracts and oils, and probiotic sources.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace, Natural Chicken Flavor, Ground Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Broccoli, Carrots, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Kale, Sweet Potatoes, Taurine, Spearmint, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Beta-Carotene, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Chicory Root Extract, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dr, ied Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.This is a naturally preserved product.

Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food provides 396 kcal per cup and contains 36% of protein and 15% fat. This best dog food for small dogs is protein-packed and contains superfoods, antioxidants, and probiotics to ensure overall health. Small breed dogs tend to live longer than large breeds, so it’s important to pack their diet with antioxidants to fight off diseases associated with free radical damage and aging.

According to dog owners, they trust Wellness Core so much that they have long stopped counting calories or worrying about their dog’s nutritional requirements. Wellness Core takes care of those things, and that’s pretty obvious in how beautifully their dog’s skin and coat have turned and how energetic and healthy they have become. Pet owners are also happy that this dog food is made in the USA.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “I am a dog owner and dog trainer with a thirst for knowledge. When I first started hunting for a great dog food I did my research and began with Blue Buffalo. I tried a number of premium brands…”

3Naturals Dry Food for Small Breed Adult Dogs
by Diamond Pet Foods

Puppy food: Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Puppy
Rating: 
Value: $3.1/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 27.0% min
CRUDE FAT 16.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 3.0% max
MOISTURE 10.0% max
CALORIES 345 kcal/cup

Diamond Naturals Small Breed Adult Dry Food made by Diamond Pet Food is next on our list, and this is their Chicken & Rice recipe. The other variation is Lamb & Rice. It is always helpful to check your dog food’s ingredients list. This way, you will know the primary sources of the nutrients your dog is getting. If your dog has allergies, the first thing to do before ordering the best dog food for small dogs would be to check whether it contains anything that Fido might react to adversely.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice, peas, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), dried beet pulp, egg product, flaxseed, natural flavor, potassium chloride, salt, choline chloride, dried chicory root, L-Carnitine, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus reuteri fermentation product, vitamin E supplement, beta carotene, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin D supplement, folic acid. Contains a source of live, naturally occurring microorganisms.

Checking out Diamond Naturals Dry Dog Food for Small Breed Adult Dogs, it shows that its main ingredients are chicken, chicken meal, fish meal, barley, rice, flaxseed, yucca, potatoes, and superfoods like kale and chia seeds. It also contains probiotics, which are important for digestive health and the immune system. This dog food is packed with 345kcal per cupful and contains 27% protein and 16% fat. It does not contain corn, wheat, or soy.

The kibble size is small enough, even for toy breeds, and that often matters a lot to pet owners. When eating and moving their jaw takes so much effort, pups tend to lose interest before they can even have their fill. With this best dog food for small dogs, though, pups enjoy their food and are very healthy for it.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “The shelter in Alabama fed this to our rescue pup, so I opted to buy it on Amazon so as to not disrupt his food. The price seems reasonable, and I am glad to see that the ingredients are…”

4Small & Toy Breed Dry Food
by Hill's Science Diet

Puppy food: Hill's Science Diet Puppy Food
Rating: 
Value: $2.6/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 21.5% min
CRUDE FAT 12.5% min
CRUDE FIBER 4.0% max
CALCIUM 0.65% min
CALORIES 364 kcal/cup

Having Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed dry dog food in the pet pantry is like having a scientist prepare your dog’s food every single day. This Chicken Meal & Rice recipe for an adult small-breed dog is scientifically prepared to provide the precise nutritional requirements of your dog. This best dog food for small dogs is formulated to strengthen your dog’s immune system and provide optimum health to support the long life expectancy of small breeds.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Soybean Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Pork Fat, Soybean Oil, Chicken Liver Flavor, Flaxseed, Lactic Acid, Pork Flavor, Carrots, Spinach, Dried Grape Pomace, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Citrus Pulp, Iodized Salt, Oat Fiber, Choline Chloride, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene

Its ingredients include chicken meal, whole grain wheat and sorghum, brewer’s rice, pork fat, soybean meal and oil, flaxseed, carrots, spinach, lactic acid, and many more. A cupful of Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food provides 364 kcal. Protein is 24.5%, and fat content is 16%. Ingredients are sourced from different parts of North America, Europe, and New Zealand. Hill’s Science prepares every dog food delivered to your doorstep from their facilities in the USA.

It’s difficult to experiment with dog food, especially for small and toy-breed dogs that are prone to hypoglycemia and other emergencies. This has usually been the reason why dog owners have relied on Hill’s Science. It’s soon visible how the dogs agree with their food – shiny coat, great energy, no health issues, and weight is ideal. You can’t ask for more.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review + PHOTOS): “My Yorkie won't eat anything. Well, she likes cat food and people food but hates dog food. I have tried all kinds of dry food plus many kinds of wet food including the really high priced gourmet…”

5Lil Plates Grain Free Small Breed Recipe
by Merrick

Puppy food: Merrick Lil'Plates Grain Free Puppy Food
Rating: 
Value: $3.5/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 38.0% min
CRUDE FAT 17.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 3.5% max
MOISTURE 11.0% max
CALORIES 460 kcal/cup

Merrick Lil Plates offers four recipes for small-breed dogs with the same commitment to optimum nutrition and highest palatability. This beef recipe is 5th in our top 10 list of the best dog food for small dogs. All of these recipes are grain-free and gluten-free and contain only real meat as the first ingredient. Other ingredients also include farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. Your small-breed dogs can’t possibly have it any bigger or more delicious than this dog food made from real Texas beef.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes, Natural Flavor, Potato Protein, Salmon Meal, Pork Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Pea Protein, Salmon, Inulin (from chicory root), Flaxseed Oil, Apples, Blueberries, Organic Alfalfa, Gelatin, Salmon Oil (source of Omega-3 fatty acids), Salt, Minerals (Zinc Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Potassium Iodide, Cobalt Amino Acid Complex, Sodium Selenite), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Niacin, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Thiamine Mononitrate), Choline Chloride, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.

Aside from deboned beef, it also contains lamb meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, and other sources of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics. Merrick Lil Plates Grain Free Small Breed Recipe is energy-packed at 403 kcal per cup and protein-packed at 38%. Fat content is 15% at the minimum. All Merrick Lil Plates products are prepared in their organically-certified kitchen and facilities in the USA.

It’s not easy finding this combination of grain-free, poultry-free, high-protein, high-calorie, and wholesome ingredients in one dog food specific for small breeds. This best dog food for small dogs is also completely grain-free. That used to cause frustrations for many pet owners because many small breed dogs have sensitivities to poultry. But not anymore! As for the dogs, they really had no opposition to the idea of making Merrick beef their regular fare.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review + PHOTOS): “I have a Maltese I rescued about two years ago and he has lots of allergies so he is always sneezing and wheezing. In addition to the allergies, ever since we've had him he's had really bad…”

6 Life Protection Dry Adult Food
by Blue Buffalo

Puppy food: BLUE Life Protection Puppy Food
Rating: 
Value: $1.7/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 26.0% min
CRUDE FAT 15.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 4.0% max
MOISTURE 10.0% max
CALCIUM 1.1% min
PHOSPHORUS 0.8% min
CALORIES 383 kcal/cup

Blue Buffalo has created this Life Protection Formula that fills the needs of small breed dogs. This Small Breed Chicken & Brown Rice formulation, for instance, supports the high-calorie requirements of these dogs and has high protein and carbohydrate levels. Each cup of Blue Buffalo Chicken & Brown Rice contains 26% protein and 15% carbs, and it’s energy-packed with 383 kcal. Other variations include Fish & Brown Rice and Lamb & Brown Rice. There’s another formulation for toy breed dogs, too.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Ground Barley, Whole Ground Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Chicken Fat (naturally preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Tomato Pomace (natural source of Lycopene), Natural Chicken Flavor, Whole Potatoes, Peas, Menhaden Fish Meal (natural source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Whole Carrots, Whole Sweet Potatoes, Blueberries, Cranberries, Flaxseed (natural source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Barley Grass, Dried Parsley, Garlic, Alfalfa Meal, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, L-Carnitine, L-Lysine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Turmeric, Sunflower Oil (natural source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Dried Chicory Root, Oil of Rosemary, Beta Carotene, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Niacin (Vitamin B3), d-Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Biotin (Vitamin B7), Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Calcium Ascorbate (source of Vitamin C), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Choline Chloride, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Salt, Caramel, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bacillus subtilis, Enterococcus faecium.

This best dog food for small breeds has deboned chicken as its first ingredient. Other ingredients include chicken meal, brown rice, barley, peas, flaxseed, menhaden fish meal, alfalfa, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and other wholesome grains, fruits, vegetables, and probiotic sources. The kibble of Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Adult Dog Food is flat and pea-sized, so small jaws will have no trouble chewing it. The small bits come in a brown triangular shape and dark pebble shape – the shapes promote tartar removal and healthier gums and teeth.

Dogs love the taste of this food, and their owners can’t be more satisfied that what their dogs find tasty also provides them with the nutrition they need. It’s good, too, that there are variations available because dogs can enjoy other taste options without the need to experiment with other brands and formulations. This is a USA-made product.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “My 1 yr old Yellow Lab had a problem of skin rash and she was chewing on her paws a lot, we tried several foods on her, never success until we switched to Blue Buffalo. It is starting…”

7High Protein Dry Adult Food
by BLUE Wilderness

Rating: 
Value: $4.6/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 36.0% min
CRUDE FAT 16.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 5.0% max
MOISTURE 10.0% max
CALCIUM 1.4% min
PHOSPHORUS 0.9% min
CALORIES 425 kcal/cup

Blue Buffalo Wilderness is another dog food line from Blue Buffalo, and it focuses on high-quality protein, grain-free and complex carb sources, and antioxidants-rich fruits and vegetables. This is especially made for small-breed dogs. It is calorie-dense at 425 kcal per cup with 36% protein and 16% fat. Ingredients are processed using a technology that minimizes the use of heat to retain the potency of food nutrients. With this process, your dog gets the full nutritional benefit from every bag of dog food you buy.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine), Pea Protein, Peas, Tapioca Starch, Menhaden Fish Meal (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Dried Egg, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Natural Flavor, Dried Tomato Pomace, Pea Starch, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, DL-Methionine, Salt, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Pea Fiber, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Caramel Color, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Potassium Chloride, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Kelp, Turmeric, Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), L-Carnitine, L-Lysine, Oil of Rosemary, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Taurine, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Dry Adult Dog Food derives its protein content from deboned chicken, chicken meal, menhaden fish meal, dried egg, and peas. This best dog food for small dogs contains high-quality complex carbs from sweet potatoes, pea starch and fiber, and potatoes. Fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, blueberries, cranberries, barley, turmeric, and dried yeast, are enriched with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics. This dog food is made only with natural ingredients and contains no grains. It is proudly made in the USA.

Rashes and skin irritations were the usual complaints of dog owners before they started feeding their small-breed dogs with this formula. This was the surest and easiest way to avoid corn, soy, wheat, and other grains in their dog’s diet. After a week in this product, the itching was noticeably reduced, and there was less paw biting.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “I don't know why we ever switched from blue. We tried to cut cost by switching to one of the many foods that have been said to be comparable to blue and I saw a big difference in my dogs. We actually tried a…”

8Wholesome Essentials Adult Dry Food
by NUTRO

Rating: 
Value: $2.6/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 24.0% min
CRUDE FAT 15.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 4.0% max
MOISTURE 10.0% max
CALORIES 377 kcal/cup

This dog food from Nutro is one of the best products out there that use clean, real, and non-GMO food ingredients. This dog food contains farm-raised chicken as its first ingredient. It also includes chicken meal, lamb meal, whole brown rice, brewer’s rice, barley, whole grain oatmeal, rice bran, sweet potato, beet, flaxseed, blueberries, carrots, apple, and herbs.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Split Peas, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Barley, Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Oatmeal, Rice Bran, Dried Sweet Potato, Natural Flavor, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Dried Apples, Dried Blueberries, Dried Carrots, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid (preservatives), Zinc Sulfate, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Inositol, Biotin, Niacin Supplement, Marigold Extract, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Selenium Yeast, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

A cup of this dog feed packs 345 kcal of energy and contains 24% protein and 15% fat. Dogs find this highly palatable, and that’s not really surprising considering that only natural and premium ingredients were used in preparing Nutro Wholesome Essentials Adult Dry Dog Food. The smaller bites are also easier for small mouths to bite and chew.

Picky dogs instantly liked this chicken, brown rice, and sweet potato recipe, and their owners were thrilled to find their dogs filling out when it had been very difficult to gain and keep a pound with their previous brand. This is better priced, too, so they look forward to a healthier future for their pet that’s within their budget.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “We just found out that my 4 yr old lab mix is allergic to corn, barley, flax, alfalfa, and kelp. With all those allergies it was hard to find him food for him that wouldn't set his allergies off. Then I found this…”

9Ultra Adult Dry Food
by NUTRO

Rating: 
Value: $2.3/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 26.0% min
CRUDE FAT 15.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 4.0% max
MOISTURE 10.0% max
CALCIUM 1.0% min
PHOSPHORUS 0.9% min
CALORIES 352 kcal/cup

Nutro Ultra is made by the same makers as Nutro Wholesome Essentials. Nutro Ultra is especially formulated to achieve the balance of nutrients with special inclusion of super foods to high-quality protein and wholesome carbohydrate sources. There are twelve carefully proportioned superfoods in every bag of this best dog food for small dogs, namely, kale, spinach, chia seeds, flaxseed, apples, tomatoes, blueberries, carrots, pumpkin, coconut, sunflower oil, and eggs. These, plus chicken, chicken meal, lamb meal, salmon meal, and other natural ingredients, make a formidable source of energy and nutrients for your small breed dogs.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Natural Flavor, Pea Protein, Sunflower Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Whole Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Whole Grain Oatmeal, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Salt, Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid (preservatives), Dried Coconut, Whole Chia Seed, Dried Egg Product, Tomato Pomace, Dried Kale, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Spinach, Dried Blueberries, Dried Apples, Dried Carrots, Zinc Sulfate, Niacin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Selenium Yeast, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food contains 351 kcal per cup, 26% protein, and 15% fat. It contains no GMO-derived or other artificial ingredients to enhance taste or appearance and is kept as wholesome as possible throughout the preparation process. Dog owners learned to trust their dogs when choosing the food that’s best for them. That became apparent when they mixed this dog food with other brands of almost the same appearance.

Their dogs painstakingly picked out the Nutro Ultra pieces, ate only those, and dumped the rest. Though it didn’t look like a dressing-down, the pooches did seem to say that their owners should have known better than to mess with good food. However, some pet owners who purchased this best dog food for small dogs said that it upset their dog's stomachs. But you can find reviews like this for virtually every commercial dog food ever made.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “This dog food has great ingredients, with chicken listed as the #1 ingredient on the list. My dog loves it, and so does her digestive system. She always has firm poops and doesn't have constant gross…”

10Natural Dry Food
by AvoDerm

Puppy food: AvoDerm Natural Puppy Food
Rating: 
Value: $2.4/lb
Deals: Check current deals on Amazon
Guaranteed Analysis
CRUDE PROTEIN 26.0% min
CRUDE FAT 16.0% min
CRUDE FIBER 3.5% max
MOISTURE 10.0% max
CALORIES 354 kcal/cup

Someone said that beauty is simply good health showing through, and what better way to illustrate that than with AvoDerm Natural Dog Food? This special dog formula is made from chicken meal, brown rice, white rice, oatmeal, beet pulp, flaxseed, kelp meal, egg, rice bran, pineapple, papain, herb extracts, probiotic sources, and AvoDerm’s special ingredient – California avocado and avocado oil. This dog food has 450 kcal per cup of metabolizable energy, 26% protein, and 16% fat.

• Small breed dog food reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Ingredient: Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground White Rice, Oatmeal, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Rice Bran, Avocado, Dried Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Alfalfa Meal, Flax Seed (Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acid), Dried Chicory Root, Dried Egg Product, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Kelp Meal, Vitamins (Choline Chloride, a-Tocopherol Acetate (Source of Vitamin E), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Source of Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Source of Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid), Minerals (Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Selenium Yeast, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Calcium Iodate), Avocado Oil, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Rosemary Extract, Sage Extract, Pineapple Stem (Source of Bromelain), Papain, Dehydrated Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Bifidobacterium Thermophilum Fermentation Product, Dehydrated Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product.

The makers of this best dog food for small dogs believe that beautiful skin and coat and overall good health begin with what a dog eats. They have made this special formula from these select ingredients without the grains that often trigger sensitivities, such as corn, wheat, and soy. This is specially formulated for small breed dogs and formed into bite-size kibble for greater ease in biting and chewing. AvoDerm Natural Dog Food is made in the USA with ingredients coming from the USA, Canada, and New Zealand.

Small-breed dogs do very well in this diet. They like the small size and crunch that goes with every bite. It helped a lot in dogs with flaky, itchy skin. In no time at all, they were sporting itch-free skin and shiny coats. They seemed more active, too, and their owners are satisfied that they’re using well all those calories that they’re getting from their food.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “I followed the directions for weaning off old and onto the new, but my dog would pick out and eat all the old food first! Little frustrating. After all her old food was gone she didn't have…”

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