The Best Pet Food for Small Dogs

The diet of small dogs differs from that of medium-sized and big dogs. A small dog has a small mouth and a matching small stomach. You cannot feed a small dog what you would a dog twice its size. Instead, you must choose food carefully and check the nutrient quantity well to ensure that your little pooch is getting all the nutrients her body requires.

  1. Essential Ingredients

    • Like humans, dogs, whatever size they come in, require a diet that is wholesome and inclusive of all kinds of essential nutrients. Lack of any kind of food group could lead to health problems and a visible dip in vitality of your dog.

      Ideally, all dog food should incorporate certain beneficial elements. For instance, it should have fish oils that are rich in vitamin and keep the skin healthy and shiny. It should feature essential minerals and vitamins that support the immune system and maintains overall health. A good food also contains animal-based proteins that help build and maintain muscles. An ideal food contains a source of fiber that aids in absorption of nutrients, digestion, and healthy bowel movements. Finally, the food should have special carbohydrates found in grains that help maintain the dog's blood sugar levels.

      Whether you are looking for canned or dry food, or making food at home, incorporate these ingredients in your dog's diet.

    Dog Food Brands You Can Count On

    • The market is full of pet brands, making it difficult to choose the best brand for your small dog. Look for food that keeps a balance between the ingredients mentioned above, without using too many harmful preservatives. Karma Organic brand is 95 percent organic, making it by far the most organic dog food in the market. Karma Organic makes use of free-range chicken, not poultry by-products. It also uses organic rice.

      Canidae is another popular brand that uses human-grade meats free of chemicals like hormones and antibiotics. Other Canidae ingredients include chicken, lamb and turkey meal, white and brown rice, flax seed and sunflower oil.

      The Eagle Pack Duck and Chicken Formula adds variety into your dog's food. This pet food features duck, duck broth and chicken. It doesn't contain any chemical preservatives, which means that once you open a can, you must use all contents within 48 hours.

    What Not to Feed

    • The "do not feed" list starts with chocolates. Even small quantities of chocolate can be deadly for your dog, as it can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.

      Other foods that are not beneficial to a small dog include raw eggs, raw salmon, chili, cat food and onions.