Small dogs require big decisions, and mealtime is no exception. After all, your pint-sized pup deserves a mighty menu that suits their unique needs.
But how do you know which food best benefits your petite pet? In a market saturated with options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of choices and considerations, from kibble size to calorie content.
“Small dogs’ nutritional needs are different from larger dogs,” says Chewy veterinarian Molly Price, DVM. “In addition to a smaller kibble size, small dogs require higher levels of calories per pound of body weight than large dogs.”
To help you choose, we consulted our expert veterinary panel for their recommendations on the best dog food for small dogs.
What To Consider When Buying Small Dog Food
There are a number of things to consider when selecting a quality food for your small dog, including:
Your veterinarian’s input: First things first—consult your veterinarian about your dog’s individual nutritional and health needs before switching foods. This is especially important if your pet requires a prescription diet.
AAFCO standards: The dog food you choose should meet standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), a private, non-profit organization that establishes standard ingredient definitions and nutritional requirements for pet food. Look for an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement on the packaging.
Your dog’s age: It’s important to choose a food designed for your pet’s life stage. Puppies require specially formulated food to support their growth; older dogs may benefit from senior formulas fortified with nutrients to support age-related health conditions.
Your dog’s caloric needs: Small dogs require more calories per pound of body weight than larger dogs, but they are also at a greater risk of obesity. Your veterinarian can help you determine your dog’s ideal number of calories.
Your dog’s size: Select a kibble that’s an appropriate size for your pet; large kibble can present a choking hazard to small dogs.
Your dog’s health: If your dog has conditions such as a sensitive stomach, obesity, or dental issues, consider a diet that supports their unique health needs.
Budget: Finally, it’s important to keep price in mind. This will be a regular purchase, so make sure it’s a long-term fit for your budget.
How We Selected the Best Dog Food for Small Dogs
This list of the best dog food for small dogs was meticulously curated by a panel of veterinarians and veterinary technicians who are employed by Chewy, the publisher of PetMD.
They were asked to choose the best dog food for small dogs in their honest opinion, across multiple categories, based on the following:
Their knowledge and practical experience
Review of information published by the manufacturers
Attributes such as quality of ingredients, palatability, and affordability
Opinions and product recommendations in this article belong solely to the review panel of vets and animal health experts. Manufacturers and vendors cannot buy placement in Vet Verified content, or exert influence on our panelists as they evaluate products.
Our sole goal with this program is to provide pet parents with the information they need to make the best decision for their pets.
Small Dog Food FAQs
Q: What is the best food to give a small dog?
A: Every dog is an individual, and their ideal diet will depend on factors including their age and health. Small dogs should eat small-size kibble or wet food that’s formulated for their metabolic needs.
Q: Is dry food good for small dogs?
A: Dry food is a good choice for many small dogs. Dry food can help keep teeth clean while reducing plaque and tartar, and is convenient for pet parents.
However, every small dog is different, and soft (wet) food is preferable for some individuals.
Q: Is soft or hard food better for small dogs?
A: The ideal food for a small dog depends on factors including their age, health, and activity level. Soft (wet) food is easier to chew and is usually more palatable. Hard (dry) food can help keep teeth clean and is more convenient.
Sometimes a combination of both wet and dry dog food is recommended. Your veterinarian can help you decide which is best for your pet.
