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Last updated: 29 Apr 2022
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Best Dog Food for Small Dogs

Best Overall
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Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food
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Quality Runner-Up
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NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Natural Dry Dog Food for Small and Toy Breeds
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Top Contender
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CESAR Small Breed Dry Dog Food Spring Vegetables
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Honorable Mention
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Pedigree Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
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Another Option
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Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
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author-image
By Editor
Published 29 Apr 2022
Show contents
  • 1 Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food
  • 2 NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Natural Dry Dog Food for Small and Toy Breeds
  • 3 CESAR Small Breed Dry Dog Food Spring Vegetables
  • 4 Pedigree Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
  • 5 Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

I think we can all agree that the smallest dogs have the biggest personality! Small pups have a need to make their bark heard, for sure. Since our pups are part of our family, we want to keep them healthy and happy for as long as we can while they are here with us. 

Having a smaller dog might mean less food, but you still need to make sure it is packed with nutrients, no matter the dog's size. When choosing the perfect dog food for your furry friend, you want to make sure the ingredients are quality, and the standard is high. You also want to make sure the size of the kibbles are appropriate for your small friend. 

Best Dog Food for Small Dogs

1

Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food

– Best Overall
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THE SCOOP

This natural dog food comes with added vitamins and minerals to ensure your pup’s health. Their intentional ingredient process helps pets everywhere get the most out of each day. 

Pros
  • No soy protein, artificial flavors, or preservatives 
  • Free of grains 
  • Contains active nutrients and antioxidants 
  • Fiber makes it easy to digest
  • Sweet potato and pumpkin flavor 
Cons
  • High salt content 
  • Kibbles have been known to clump up 
  • May arrive damaged 
2

NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Natural Dry Dog Food for Small and Toy Breeds

– Quality Runner-Up
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THE SCOOP

This nutritious brand believes using real, recognizable ingredients makes all the difference. Their commitment to quality makes them a great choice for pets everywhere. 

Pros
  • No chicken by-products 
  • No artificial flavors or colors
  • No corn, wheat, or soy protein 
  • Made with non-GMO ingredients 
Cons
  • Strange odor 
  • Not good for sensitive stomachs 
  • May contain larvae 
3

CESAR Small Breed Dry Dog Food Spring Vegetables

– Top Contender
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THE SCOOP

This option is 100% complete and balanced for adult dogs to keep living a happy life. With the highest quality ingredients, you can be sure you are feeding your dog a meal full of nutrients. 

Pros
  • Real beef is the 1st ingredient 
  • Contains 26 essential nutrients 
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives 
  • Made in the USA 
  • Comes in a variety of flavors 
Cons
  • Contains glycerin 
  • May cause skin allergy in some dogs 
  • Strong odor
4

Pedigree Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

– Honorable Mention
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THE SCOOP

This line of nutritionally balanced food helps ensure your dog can live at their happiest and healthiest. This is the perfect option to return the favor of love and companionship to your furry friend. 

Pros
  • Small pieces for small mouths 
  • Contains omega-6 fatty acids and zinc
  • Reduce tartar and plaque 
  • No high fructose corn syrup 
Cons
  • May contain worms if stale 
  • May make dogs ill 
  • Added coloring 
5

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

– Another Option
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THE SCOOP

This option is made with highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your small dog’s stomach. Other nutrients and vitamins help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. 

Pros
  • Contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E 
  • Uses an antioxidant blend specifically for lifelong immune support in toy and miniature dogs
  • Made with natural ingredients 
  • Made in the USA 
  • Veterinarian recommended 
Cons
  • New formula 
  • May result in rancid gas in certain dogs 
  • May cause some dogs to vomit 

Buying Guide

A small pup is still an extension of your family—just with four legs! Like you would a human, you want to make sure you are feeding your furry friend the finest quality food available. It can be overwhelming at first because there are so many options, which is why we have compiled a list of the factors you should be looking for when choosing. Below you will find key things to look for when choosing the best dog food: 

  • Ingredients: Look for natural quality ingredients. 
  • Size: Since you have a small dog, you should look for small kibbles to avoid any choking hazards. 
  • Benefits: Knowing what your dog needs to improve will help you choose the best food for them. For example, if their coat is dulling, look for a food with Omega-6s and other amino acids to promote healthy skin and coat. 

FAQs

Q: How do I store my dog’s food?

A: It is recommended that you store your dog’s food in a cool, dry, dark place. Many keep it in the laundry room, kitchen, or garage. It is also highly recommended to remove the food from its original packaging and transfer it to an air-tight container. This will ensure freshness and tastiness for your pup! 

Q: How much should I feed my small dog?

A: Obviously, every dog is different, but there are certain guidelines when it comes to dog food. It is important to adhere to these guidelines to ensure your pal’s health and wellness. Most packages feature a feeding guide to help you determine the proper amount for your pet. It is critical to your pet’s health that you monitor their physical condition and adjust food as needed.

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By Editor
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