If you have recently acquired a new puppy, it is possible that you may be feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of food choices available, particularly if you do not have any prior knowledge about them.
One consideration you should make when searching for a food is to find one that’s made for your dog’s size. These foods come with many health benefits, especially if you have a small-breed dog.
The Dodo interviewed Dr. Keston Smith, the medical director at Bond Vet, and Dr. Sara Ochoa, a veterinarian consultant at Senior Tail Waggers, in order to understand the reasons behind the dietary requirements of small-breed puppies and to receive suggestions for the top small-breed foods available in the market.
Why do small-breed dogs need different food?
Similar to how puppies require different food from adult dogs, small breeds necessitate distinct food from large breeds due to their varying nutrient requirements.
Small-breed puppies require a higher calorie intake in their food due to their rapid growth and maturation, as well as smaller kibble pieces to accommodate their tiny mouths and stomachs.
According to Dr. Smith’s statement to The Dodo, toy and miniature breeds have a shorter growth period and a faster growth rate than larger breeds. Due to this, they require food that provides high energy, good nutrition, meets their specific fiber needs, and has smaller kibble pieces.
Large-breed vs. small-breed puppy food
Small-breed dogs are more prone to hypoglycemia due to their high energy levels and fast metabolisms. Therefore, puppy foods specifically designed for small breeds have a higher calorie content compared to those meant for medium and large breeds, enabling them to match the rapid calorie consumption.
Because larger dogs consume more food, they usually require adjusted nutrient levels, such as reduced calorie intake, to prevent weight gain. Moreover, as big dogs experience significant growth, their food is formulated to facilitate optimal bone development.
Dr. Smith explained that large breeds have a slow growth rate and can potentially reach a weight that is 70 to 90 times their birth weight. As veterinarians, our primary concern for these breeds is maintaining their bone and joint health. It is important to note that diets with excessive amounts of phosphorus, calcium, vitamin D, and fats may have a negative impact on their bone and joint health.
According to Dr. Smith, an abundance of meat in diets, particularly, can result in bone and joint issues due to their high phosphorus content.
What to look for in a small-breed puppy food
According to Dr. Smith, the most important aspect when it comes to small-breed puppy food is that the percentage of crude protein is 22.5 percent or higher, and the crude fat is 8.5 percent or higher.
The percentages mentioned are based on the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines for puppy food, which is specifically designed for growth and reproduction. The AAFCO advises that puppy foods should have at least 22.5 percent protein, 8.5 percent fat, and 1.2 percent calcium, in addition to an abundance of other minerals.
Dr. Smith advised that you must make sure the dog food has received approval from AAFCO. He explained that you can verify this by checking the nutritional adequacy statement on the label of the dog food you are buying. If the phrase ‘complete and balanced’ is present, it means that the food has satisfied AAFCO’s nutritional profile regulations.
To ensure the food is made with authentic ingredients, like lamb, beef, and corn, it is preferable for the first ingredient in the food to be a natural ingredient.
Dr. Smith suggests not opting for grain-free food as well. According to Dr. Smith, grain-free diets that are not prescription might cause heart disease when consumed for extended durations.
Make sure to check that the food is labeled for small puppies or small breeds to ensure that your puppy receives the appropriate nutrients according to his size.
Vet-recommended small-breed puppy foods
Dr. Smith and Dr. Ochoa both recommend some of the best puppy foods for small breeds. Specifically, Dr. Smith suggests Royal Canin, while Dr. Ochoa recommends Purina Pro Plan, Royal Canin, Eukanuba, and Hill’s Science Diet.
All of these puppy foods are formulated for small-breed puppies and meet the AAFCO nutrition recommendations.
Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
This dog food is designed for puppies that are less than 10 months old and will reach a weight of 9 to 22 pounds. The size of the food is small, making it ideal for small puppies. It supports a strong immune system by providing antioxidants and vitamins, along with essential proteins, prebiotics, and minerals required for your puppy’s growth.
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Small Breed Puppy Food DHA Chicken & Rice Formula
This puppy food is ideal for high-energy small-breed puppies as it is extremely rich in protein. It is crafted with real chicken and incorporates DHA to support the healthy development of their brains. Moreover, it does not contain any artificial colors or flavors.
Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food
This puppy food is designed for puppies that are expected to weigh around 23 pounds and are up to 12 months old. It is made using high-quality chicken and contains DHA to promote a healthy brain, balanced levels of phosphorus and calcium for bone development, and vitamin E to support a strong immune system.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
This food made from natural ingredients without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives will be adored by your puppy. It is specifically formulated for puppies up to 12 months of age and weighing up to 25 pounds. The inclusion of Vitamins E and C ensures a healthy immune system for your puppy, while DHA aids in their development to become exceptionally intelligent.
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free
Merrick offers puppy food specifically designed for small dogs. Their puppy food is available in 4lb and 12lb bags. The primary ingredient in this food is real chicken, which is flavored alongside sweet potato. There are no grains included in this product. Additionally, it is enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Furthermore, it contains Omega-3 & 6s which promote a healthy skin and coat.
The food is equipped with probiotics and prebiotic fibers to promote healthy digestion. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health, DHA to aid in brain development, ample protein derived mostly from animals (80%), and beneficial fats that contribute to strong muscles, maintaining a healthy weight, and sustaining high energy levels.
In addition, the kibble pieces are designed to be small enough for puppies to eat comfortably and have a shape that helps remove bacteria and maintain clean teeth. The brand ensures that all of their products are cooked in a facility located in the USA, which adheres to strict guidelines set by the FDA. Furthermore, the reviews for their products are primarily positive.
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Small Dog Wet Food
Merrick’s offers another tasty wet food choice, which incorporates a generous amount of the same nourishing ingredients. This option is produced in the same excellent facility. The product is conveniently packaged in boxes of 12 user-friendly “plates” and includes real deboned chicken infused with notable omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
The formulation of the product is nutritionally complete and balanced. Additionally, it contains added prebiotics, probiotics, and essential minerals that promote healthy digestion. The reviews from buyers also highly praise the generous portion sizes.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural
Blue Buffalo’s puppy food flavor called chicken and oatmeal consists of actual chicken, garden vegetables, and nutritious oatmeal. Additionally, this specific product is enriched with LifeSource Bits, a unique combination of vital vitamins and minerals that have been carefully selected by veterinarians and experts in animal nutrition. These added antioxidants are specifically designed to bolster the immune system and aid in the growth of strong bones.
Furthermore, this product also contains DHA & ARA which aids in supporting renal function, vision, and cognitive development. In addition, the small size of the bites makes it suitable for puppy mouths, and the shape and texture of the kibble bits aid in the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, thus promoting optimal dental health.
The food is manufactured in the USA and can be purchased in bags weighing 6lb and 15lb. Additionally, it does not contain meat by-products, wheat, corn, soy, or artificial additives, as mentioned by reviews that describe it as a great value for the price.
Wellness Complete Health Natural
Wellness offers dry dog food designed for small breed puppies, available in bags weighing 4lb and 12lb. This dog food provides a comprehensive and balanced diet that is specifically formulated for small breed puppies, enhancing overall health. In addition, it supports the wellbeing of the skin, coat, digestive system, eyes, and oral health, while also boosting energy levels and the immune system.
In addition, this pet food primarily consists of turkey, oatmeal, and salmon meal, aiming to support brain development through DHA and promote bone and muscle growth through high-quality proteins, fats, carbs, and calcium.
This crunchy kibble is also made in the USA and does not contain any by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. Reviews are highly positive, and it is an Amazon’s Choice product.
CANIDAE Petite Small Breed Raw
Canidae’s food for small pups is made with 8 identifiable ingredients. It incorporates salmon as the only protein source, which is highly delicious, and includes a generous amount of Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids to promote a gorgeous coat and maintain healthy skin. Additionally, it is enriched with antioxidants to support a robust immune system and probiotics for optimal gut health.
In addition, the food has undergone a freeze-drying method for preparation. This method preserves both the flavor and nutrients, and the uncooked layer adds to its healthiness and deliciousness. It is available in bags weighing 4lb and 10lb and is completely devoid of grains such as wheat and corn. As an Amazon’s Choice item, it has garnered excellent reviews and comes highly recommended.
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy High-Protein Dog Food
This food by Diamond Naturals, which is made with chicken and rice, provides puppies with complete nutrition and consists of all-natural ingredients such as cage-free chicken. Additionally, it contains an ideal amino acid profile that promotes the development of lean, strong muscles, making it an excellent choice for energetic puppies.
Additionally, the food does not contain any fillers or artificial additives, and it includes various fruit and vegetable superfoods, added vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, DHA, and antioxidants.
The brand manufactures its products in the USA using scientifically advanced safety protocols and is owned by a family. Additionally, it has been designated as an Amazon’s Choice product and has received highly favorable reviews.
Now Fresh Grain-Free Small Breed Puppy Recipe
Now Fresh’s puppy dry food is made up of fresh turkey, salmon, and duck, as well as fresh omega 3 & 6 oils derived from coconuts and canola. It also includes various nutritious berries, fruits, and vegetables such as peas, spinach, cranberries, pumpkin, blackberries, alfalfa sprouts, kelp, lentils, and carrots. Furthermore, it contains added DHA and EPA for brain development, as well as pre and probiotics and antioxidants from coconut oil to enhance the immune system.
In addition, the product does not contain grains, gluten, wheat, beef, corn, soy, rendered meats, by-products, or artificial preservatives, which makes it suitable for dogs with allergies and sensitivities. Additionally, customer reviews are positive, stating that the product is effective even for picky eaters.
Bil-Jac Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food
Bil-Jac’s 6lb bag of food is made up of 5lbs of fresh chicken, along with wholesome oatmeal and tasty yams. It includes essential nutrients for your puppy’s initial year and supports their immune system, all in the form of easily consumable pellets. The food is filler-free and is cooked slowly to maintain its nutritional value and flavor.
The brand, which has been producing reliable, high-quality products since 1947, also manufactures this food in the USA. The product has received exceptional reviews, with numerous purchasers praising the ingredient quality and even claiming it to be the best in its category.
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Small Paws
Hill’s Science Diet for small paws, recommended by veterinarians, is a dry puppy food that includes DHA from fish oil for promoting healthy eye and brain development. Additionally, it consists of high-quality protein to support muscle development.
Furthermore, this Science diet incorporates balanced minerals to promote the growth of robust teeth and bones. Furthermore, it includes antioxidants that enhance the immune system of your dog. Furthermore, its single-serve tray makes mealtime more convenient.
Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Small Breed
The Natural Grain-free dry dog food by Wellness is another high-quality option for small breed dogs. It supports your puppy’s energy requirements with the right amount of calories and proteins. Additionally, it aids in the development of lean muscles. Furthermore, this dry dog food includes wholesome grains that serve as an extra source of energy for your dog.
In addition, it supports the nutritional needs of small breed dogs by promoting balanced and complete nutrition. It does not include any fillers or by-products that may lead to an upset stomach. Additionally, it is free from artificial preservatives, additives, colors, and flavors. Moreover, it helps maintain a healthy heart, gut, bones, and joints through the inclusion of glucosamine, probiotics, antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and taurine.
