Guide to Finding the Best Puppy Food for Small Breeds
Congratulations on your new four-legged friend! With a new addition to your family, there are also a ton of responsibilities to take care of. As a new dog owner, you will find yourself searching for the best food your dog requires, training sessions, and much more. With so much information available, searching for the best food for your dog is quite a dilemma.
Every dog is different. Hence, all dogs have various requirements that you must take care of. Food is a dog’s primary need that dog owners need to take into deep concern. There are 90 small dog breeds throughout the world. It is possible that your dog falls under a small breed category.
This article will address why small breed dogs need different food than large breeds and what exactly counts as the best puppy food for small breeds.
Why Do Small Breed Dogs Need Specific Food?
Every dog has different nutritional needs. That is why we feed special food to puppies and adult dogs. A small breed dog matures and grows much faster than a large breed dog. Hence, their essential requirement is energy, which they need in abundance. Owners should feed small breed dogs more calories to grow healthy and energetic.
In contrast, a large breed dog grows slowly and needs more calcium to enhance bone strength. If a large breed dog is fed the food of a small breed dog, it will grow much faster than intended and have weaker bones. Similarly, if a small breed dog is given food made for the large breed dog, it will not get enough nutrients and will lack certain growth functions.
Additionally, small breed dogs have small mouths. Hence, their food consists of tiny pieces of kibble that the dogs can easily chew on. The best puppy food for small breeds includes a handsome amount of fiber and overall high energy.
What is Considered the Best Puppy Food for Small Breeds?
Small breed dogs have fast metabolisms and a lot of energy which puts them at the risk of obtaining low blood sugar levels, also known as hypoglycemia. The main reason small breed dogs need additional calories is to keep their energy levels high and save them from low blood sugar levels. Symptoms of Hypoglycemia are weakness, seizures, and lethargy.
The best puppy food for small breeds fulfills the dog’s daily requirements, provided that it does not overfeed them. Overfeeding a dog is not a way to fuiflill their calorie intake, as it can result in obesity and laziness. The perfect dog feed for small breeds contains high calories in less quantity and is also filled with essential nutrients.
How Much Does the Best Puppy Food for Small Breeds Cost?
There is an ocean of dog food available for small breeds. Unsurprisingly, most brands market them as the best food for your dog. Do not worry; there are simple ways to shortlist a good product for your dog to get started with. First, reject the cheapest option in the market as you do not want to compromise your dog’s health by feeding it low-quality food.
Additionally, the most expensive product is not guaranteed to be of the highest quality. Look for the essential nutrients labeled on the packaging of the product. If a product has adequate protein, fiber, fats, and vitamins, it is a safe option to consider. Pick a few products and consult your vet to compare the best among them.
Expert Recommended Best Puppy Foods for Small Breeds
To save you from all the hassle, we have listed the best puppy foods for small breeds that are AAFCO approved and recommended by renowned vets worldwide!
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Small Breed Puppy Food
Purina Pro Plan is packed with chicken protein, and omega-rich fish oil nourishes your puppy’s brain development, providing it with the additional energy it needs. The formula comes with essential calcium and minerals that boost bone strength and nourish skin and coat. Purina Pro Plan has been recommended by innumerable vets worldwide.
Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Small Breed Puppy Food comprises an exclusive blend of antioxidants and vitamins that provide immune support to your dog. Royal Canin is a complete package that will fulfill your dog’s nutritional requirements, enhancing its digestive system and elevating its energy levels. Royal Canin is highly recommended by many veterinary nutritionists.
Diamond Naturals Small And Medium Breed Puppy Formula
Diamond Naturals consists of high-quality cage-free chicken as their essential ingredient that provides adequate protein to your pup. It also contains omega fatty acids, essential vitamins, and minerals to boost growth and nourish the skin. The blend of important antioxidants and probiotics aids healthy digestion and promotes healthy bowel movements. Read why Diamond Naturals is recommended by many vets across the USA.
Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dog Food provides a balanced diet to your little pup, supporting muscle growth and bone strength with high-quality protein and calcium. Eukanuba is great for training puppies as it boosts their brain and helps with the fast development of the overall body. The product comprises high-quality ingredients that are clinically tested and approved. Eukanuba is a grain-intensive dog food that can help get your dog additional calories to fulfill its daily intake.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food provides an essential dose of natural DHA from high-quality fish oils that supports healthy brain development and sharper vision. The blend comprises natural ingredients with no artificial colors and flavors. Antioxidants and various vitamins provide a healthy immune system for your dog.
Final Thoughts
There are various reasons why small-breed puppies require different food than large breeds. Consider all the relevant factors before choosing the best puppy food for small breeds that fulfills the dog’s requirements.
Click here to read the best puppy food for large breed dogs.
