What to look for in small breed dog food
Our experts say the following criteria are important to consider when shopping for small breed dog food:
AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for growth, all life stages, or adult maintenance: Pet food labels must indicate that the food is both “complete” and “balanced” to ensure proper nutrition.. Luisana says that pet food labeled “complete” contains all the necessary nutrients for a specific life stage, including essential amino and fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. “Balance” implies that the nutrients are in the right proportions. You can find this information in the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement found on a bag or can of dog food.
Warranty review: Your adult small breed dog needs at least 18% protein and 5.5% fat on a dry matter basis, along with other essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies need 22.5% protein and 8.5% fat. Although the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement confirms that the recipe meets these minimum requirements, a guaranteed test review can provide more detailed information about nutrient values, including fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
List of ingredients: Our experts say that if a dog food has an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for your puppy’s life stage, the combination of ingredients meets the nutritional needs for that life stage. For a closer look at specific ingredients and sources of essential nutrients and vitamins, you can refer to the list of ingredients, ordered by weight. This is especially helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Healthy extras: Welborn says small dogs are prone to weight gain and patellar luxation. Although some health conditions in small dogs are congenital, beneficial additions to dog foods such as omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin can support joint health, while L-carnitine can help to keep your puppy slim. Studies suggest that antioxidants from foods like sweet potatoes, blueberries, and cranberries can improve immune health and cognitive function in older dogs.
Calorie content: Despite their fast metabolism, overfeeding a small dog can quickly lead to weight gain, Welborn said. That’s why it’s important to discuss your dog’s daily calorie needs with your veterinarian.
Breed size formulation: Welborn says the small size of the kibble is the main difference between small breed dog foods and all-size formulas. Our selection for the best dog food for small dogs also focuses on a moderate fat content, based on the insights of our experts and current research indicating that obesity and pancreatitis are more prevalent in small that breed of dog rather than large breeds. Instead of relying solely on dog food labels, talk to your veterinarian to determine your dog’s unique nutritional needs.
Tried feeding trial versus formulated foods: If the label says that a food has gone through feeding trials, it has been deemed safe and palatable by feeding it to a group of animals. On the other hand, formulated foods are not fed to animals during nutritional testing.
Specialized formulations: The best dog food for small breeds comes from reputable manufacturers that adhere to WSAVA guidelines. Among other quality control standards, the brand employs a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist or a PhD-level animal nutritionist.
Next level ingredients. High-quality or premium ingredients, such as organic, sustainably caught, or cage-free proteins, outperform conventional formulas. While these ingredients may not always provide additional nutritional benefits, their production generally prioritizes animal welfare and sustainable practices.
