Last Updated: 27/10/2025
Best Dry Dog Food for Small Dogs: A Vet's Top Picks
Choosing the right food for your small dog is key to a long, healthy life. Our vet-written guide breaks down their unique needs, from dental care to faster metabolisms. Discover our top-rated dry food picks for every small dog, from puppy to senior.
Author: Dr Emilee Lay BVSc BSc (Vet) Hons
Reading Time: 20 minutes - medium read
With so many dog foods on the market, it can feel overwhelming to know which one is best for your small breed dog. When choosing food for our pets, it's important to take into account their age, size, and whether they have any underlying health issues.
Small breed dogs (i.e., those under 10kg when fully grown) often have faster metabolisms and much longer lifespans compared to their larger counterparts. This makes it vital to ensure they are on a high-quality diet right from the start.
Why is choosing the right dog food for small dogs important?
Along with providing water, shelter, and plenty of love, food is one of the most important foundations for your dog's daily health. Just like in humans, what your dog eats has a major impact on their wellbeing. Science increasingly shows how nutrition influences long-term health, proving the old saying "you are what you eat" holds true for our canine friends, too.
This is especially crucial for small breed dogs, as they often have a much longer life expectancy. Feeding a high-quality diet is the cornerstone of a long and healthy life.
Dry foods made specifically for small breed dogs offer several key benefits. They are convenient, easy to feed, and less likely to spoil than wet foods. Dry dog food can also be more beneficial for dental health; the mechanical action of crunching the kibble helps to scrape plaque build-up from the teeth.
Four factors to consider when choosing a dry food for small dogs are:
- Health conditions: Given their longer lifespans, small breed dogs are prone over the course of their lives to heart, mobility and gastrointestinal issues. Many dry foods have a wellness range to target these issues. In addition prescription diets are now readily available to help manages these conditions.
- Complete and balanced: Dry foods are more nutritionally dense and completely balanced - compared to home-cooked diets, meaning its convenient to feed, but also you can rest assured that your pooch is getting everything they need. Kibble size is often an important factor for our smaller dogs. Having smaller and sometimes abnormal jaws means they need smaller kibble to help chew their food easier, this is especially important as small breed dogs are particularly prone to dental disease.
- Age: Small breed dogs of different ages have very different nutritional requirements. Puppies require energy-dense food which meets their intense growth rates, while senior dogs are often less active have a slower metabolism which means that they require fewer calories and less fat, but an easily digestible diet, to help them maintain good body condition.
- Quality: The quality of the ingredients and the digestibility of the nutrients they provide should be a key factor in choosing a food. Premium dog foods are designed to be highly digestible (which means smaller, firmer stools) and do not change ingredients batch to batch like grocery type brands, which means less tummy upsets. They also tend to contain higher levels of added beneficial nutrients, such as omega fatty acids for joint and skin health, and some are backed by testing to ensure they deliver the results they promise. Learning how to read pet food labels and knowing the ingredients in your dog's food is a crucial part of knowing what is the best food for them.
How We Review Our Products
Our Vet team use their health and husbandry knowledge, along with their own personal and clinical experiences to evaluate each product and provide detailed, informative reviews, free of any commercial bias. We then collate this information into our 'best of' recommendations.
Top Recommended Small Breed Dog Foods in Australia [Vet Reviewed]
Best for Small Breed Puppies
Royal Canin Mini Puppy
Pros
- Highly palatable, and smaller kibble size specific for small breed dogs
- Balanced levels of calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone and joint development
- Contains a patented complex of antioxidants including vitamin E
- Available in a range of bag sizes - 2kg, 4kg and 8kg.
Cons
- Suitable for puppies from 2-10 months of age, small breed dogs will need to transition to adult foods a little bit earlier i.e. at 10 months, rather than at 12 months
- Larger bags aren't resealable, so will need air tight storage to keep them fresher for longer once the bags are opened
- Poultry based diet that may not be suitable for puppies with food intolerances or allergies.
Royal Canin have utilised its accumulated vast knowledge of pets to ensure that their foods are perfectly designed to meet the nutritional requirements of dogs based on their size, age, lifestyle, breed and specific needs - this has been accrued through rigorous scientific research and ongoing commitments to developing and improving their formulations alongside industry professionals. Their Mini Puppy range also includes breed specific puppy formulas including those for Miniature Schnauzers, Pugs, Poodles, Shih Tzu and Chihuahuas.
All varieties are highly palatable, with a complex of antioxidants and prebiotics to support optimal immune and digestive function, as well as omega fatty acids to support brain development in growing puppies. Their food is often very palatable - satiating the hunger of even the fussiest of pooches.
What our customers say: "My 6 month old CKCS just loves this dry food. He has absolutely flourished and has maintained a steady growth without ever having that bloated, rolly polly look that puppies often get. He is long limbed, strong and very healthy. His coat is glossy and he is full of energy."
Black Hawk Puppy Small Breed Chicken and Rice
Pros
- High Quality Australian Made natural diet, with smaller kibble size specific for small breed puppies
- Packed with natural ingredients like sweet potato to promote good digestion, omega fatty acids for brain development and blueberries and cranberries to boost immunity
- Made from Australian Chicken and is available in a 3kg and 10kg bag
Cons
- Poultry based diet that may not be suitable for puppies with food intolerances or allergies
- Puppies with an expected adult weight of up to 5kg need to transition over to adult food at 8 months, and those with an expected weight of 7kg will need to transition over to adult food at 10 months of age
Made in Australia, from locally sourced ingredients, Black Hawk foods provide the nutrition for a strong start to life for your dog. With nothing but the best for your best mate, Black Hawk also are committed to supporting local farmers and regional communities - meaning your pooch is doing their part with every bite!
Made with delicious Australian Chicken, this food is rich in amino acids, antioxidants, high in fibre, and omega fatty acids to maximize brain development, good digestion as well as bone and muscle development.
What our customers say: "My dogs love Black Hawk, I have tried a lot of dog food but so far this has suited all my dogs the best, I have a Jack Russell foxy that would itch from most kibbles even Royal Canin, I also have 2 Chihuahuas so this is perfect for all of them, best part is its Australian made and owned, so I can feel confident that all standards have been met. My Chihuahua puppies are loving it too! "
What our vets say: "I love recommending Black Hawk products to my clients, including the Black Hawk Puppy Small Breed Chicken and Rice. I've used Black Hawk for my own dog since puppyhood and been thoroughly impressed with the results. Not only do they love the taste, but they always get complimented on how soft and shiny their coats are and they never have tummy upsets thanks to the highly digestible, high fibre formulation! The inclusion of joint support was a major tick in my book as arthritis and joint problems can affect any breed, including small breeds. I also love that there are alternative flavour options with Lamb and Rice and Puppy Ocean Fish in case you have a fussy eater." - Dr. Brittany
For more options, see our full list of the Best Puppy Foods.
Best for Adult Small Breed Dogs
Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food Small Breed
Pros
- Protein-rich (around 36%), with deboned turkey and chicken/turkey meals as the first ingredients
- Kibble is specifically designed in a smaller, triangular shape, making it easier for small dogs to pick up and chew.
- Fortified with guaranteed levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
- Includes probiotics for digestive health, antioxidants from superfoods, and omega fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- Grain-free, with no artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives
Cons
- Not Australian made
- Unsuitable for dogs that have a known or suspected food allergy to chicken.
Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds is a nutrient-dense and protein-rich formula designed to support the high energy needs and lean muscle mass of small dogs.
Its grain-free recipe features deboned turkey, turkey meal, and chicken meal as the primary ingredients. The diet is fortified with a range of beneficial nutrients, including probiotics for digestive health, antioxidants from superfoods like spinach and kale, and omega fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed to promote a healthy coat. To support joint health, it also contains guaranteed levels of glucosamine and chondroitin.
The kibble itself is small and specially shaped, making it easy for small mouths to chew, and the formula is made without any corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives.
What our customers say: "My dog is really fussy when it comes to kibble size. The size of this kibble is just right for her. The recipe is good, the price is good, my dog would only eat this, would keep purchasing it for sure!"
Advance Small Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb with Rice
Pros
- Super Premium Australian made lamb based small sized kibble specific for small breed dogs and great for fussy eaters!
- Controlled mineral levels to promote a healthy urinary tract and high digestibility with prebiotics to help promote healthy bacteria and smaller, firmer stools
- Specifically designed to help reduce tartar formation with the addition of Sodium Tripolyphosphate - which helps to bind to salivary calcium
Cons
- Does contain chicken meal - which may not be suitable for dogs with allergies or food intolerances to these ingredients
- Only suitable for dogs up to 8 years old, after which they need to transition to their Senior specific range
If you're looking for a super premium Australian-made dry food - look no further than ADVANCE. Complete and balanced, this food is made locally in the Central Tablelands of NSW, by leading animal nutritionists. As an added bonus this range is available in multiple sizes, which is perfect if you have a little army of small dogs to feed.
Their adult range also comes in a Turkey and Chicken formula as well, which means you can provide some variety in terms of flavor at home. The accompanying wet food also comes in a loaf and gravy formula - to tempt event the fussiests of dogs. This affordable yet premium brand is perfect for balancing the health and nutrition of your pet as well as your back pocket!
What our customers say: "The best thing is, the moment the bowl hits the floor it gets scoffed down and there are never any leftovers. Our Cavalier turned into a fussy eater but loves this one. I think he likes the small size which seems great for smaller dogs!"
Best for Sensitive Skin and Stomachs
Hill's Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Small and Mini Dry Dog Food
Pros
- Scientifically formulated dry kibble diet, designed for small and mini breeds
- Gentle fibre blend for easy digestion and healthy bowel function
- Exclusive blend of omega fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins to support a healthy, shiny coat
- Available in multiple dizes 1.81kg, 3.62kg and 6.8kg
Cons
- Poultry based diet may not be suitable for dogs with food intolerances or allergies
- Kibble may not be suitable for certain small breed dogs - recommend feeding the Small Bites Sensitive Skin and Stomach
Often skin and stomach sensitivties can go hand in hand and this Hill's Science Diet is the perfect food to approach both issues in one go, formulated specifically for small and mini breeds.
Containing only the highest quality of ingredients, the extra small kibble size is perfect for even the tiniest of breeds. The fortified blend of omega fatty acids is ideal for supporting dogs with dry, itchy or flaky skin whilst the unique blend of fibres encourages a healthy bowel movement.
What our customers say: "We were given meal plans for our two mini Dachshunds from the breeder which were not suitable and after trying other diets, I opted for Hills Science Diet which i have had for many years for my late Pomeranian. There are a lot more varieties than I had for her and the sensitive stomach and skin has proven the best for our two babies...they are very healthy now and they love it!!!"
What our vets say: "I love that Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Small and Mini Dry Dog Foods has an option designed to address the unique needs of small and miniature breed dogs with sensitivities. This diet includes highly digestible ingredients to support sensitive stomachs and includes a blend of prebiotics for balanced gut microbiota. The stand out is the inclusion of high-quality protein sources and essential fatty acids aims to promote healthy skin and coat." - Dr. Nicole
Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin And Stomach Small And Toy Breed Dry Dog Food
Pros
- Excludes common food allergens such as chicken, beef, corn, wheat, or soy
- Designed to support both skin and gut health
- Rich in omega-3s to help reduce skin inflammation
- Formulated with highly digestible ingredients and a natural prebiotic (chicory) to nourish gut bacteria and improve stool quality
- The kibble is small and bite-sized, making it easy for dogs under 10kg to chew
- Made in Australia
Cons
- Priced as a specialised, science-based diet.
- Not suitable for the small number of dogs that have an allergy or intolerance to fish.
Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin and Stomach Small and Toy Breed Dry Dog Food is scientifically formulated for dogs under 10kg who show signs of skin or digestive sensitivities. It offers a dual-action approach, using high-quality salmon and mackerel as the main protein sources. These fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help manage skin inflammation and support a healthy coat.
The formula is made without common food allergens such as chicken, beef, corn, wheat, or soy. To support a sensitive stomach, it includes highly digestible ingredients and a natural prebiotic from chicory to nourish beneficial gut bacteria and promote better stool quality. The kibble is small and bite-sized, making it easy for small mouths to chew, while its crunchy texture also helps to reduce tartar build-up.
What our customers say: "My dogs are very happy with Pro Plan. Their coats are best they've been, and the food is gentle on their sensitive stomachs."
For more options, see our full list of the Best Food for Sensitive Stomachs.
Best for Senior Dogs
Hills Science Diet Adult 11 Plus Small And Mini Dry Dog Food
Pros
- Formulated with a controlled and balanced set of minerals (including phosphorus and sodium) to support the long-term health of the heart, kidneys, and bladder
- Contains a special prebiotic fibre blend, known as ActivBiome+, designed to nourish the gut microbiome
- Includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to support joint mobility, as well as omega-6s and vitamin E to nourish the skin and promote a healthy, shiny coat
- The kibble is specifically designed to be tiny, making it very easy for small and miniature breeds to chew
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs with sensitivity to chicken or poultry
- Not made in Australia
- Only available in 2kg bag
Hills Science Diet Adult 11 Plus Small And Mini is scientifically formulated to support graceful ageing in small dogs aged 11 years and older.
It features a precisely balanced blend of minerals to help maintain the health of vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and bladder, which is a key consideration for senior pets.
The formula includes a special prebiotic fibre blend to promote healthy digestion and support a strong immune system. To help keep your senior dog comfortable and mobile, it contains omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil for joint support.
It also includes omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E to nourish the skin and maintain a healthy, shiny coat. The kibble itself is extra small, making it very easy for little mouths to chew, which is especially helpful for older dogs who may have dental sensitivities.
What our customers say: "I've been buying this for years for my now, 18 year old dog. He's always had a tricky stomach, but this food has agreed with him for years. Good size bites for a just under 10kg old dog and Vet is happy with it's nutritional value."
Royal Canin Mini Ageing 12 Plus Dry Food
Pros
- Premium, highly digestible and balanced nutrition for super senior dogs over the age of 12
- Enriched with plenty of omega fatty acids to support the kidneys, brain and heart
- Kibble is rehydratable which is perfect for those pooches missing teeth or who are becoming a bit fussy with age
- Wet food variety also available
Cons
- Available in small bags only - 1.5kg and 3kg
- Not made in Australia
- Poultry based diet may not be suitable for dogs with food intolerances or allergies
Royal Canin have done it again with a senior specific small breed formula for dogs over 12 years old. Many of our small breed dogs have a much longer life expectancy, and this food has been designed to account for that particular life stage, Being highly palatable, with extra small kibble sizes and rehydratable, pet owners of senior dogs can rest easy that they are feeding only the best.
This range also comes with a accompanying wet food, and the added antioxidant can help neutralise free radical for a healthy ageing process. The adapted phosphorus content of these foods are particularly handy for supporting kidney health in these twilight years.
What our customers say: "After trying ALL the other aged dog foods this one excelled. Dry food was gentler on his teeth and the wet food he loved. Pricey, but compared to all I have wasted over the years - I am now saving... anyone who is in the same boat and has tried everything including gourmet chicken and raw should try this"
What our vets say: "I love recommending the Royal Canin Mini Ageing 12+ for small senior dogs because it provides optimal and tailored nutrition at this advanced stage in life. It has an adapted phosphorus content for urinary and renal health, calcium chelators for dental health, as well as a blend of beneficial omega fatty acids and antioxidants for healthy ageing. You can also add a bit of warm water to rehydrate the kibble and boost the aroma and palatability of the diet, offering a unique choice of texture for fussier pooches." - Dr. Antonella
For more options, see our full list of the Best Senior Dog Foods.
Best for Weight Loss
Hill's Adult Perfect Weight Small and Mini Dry Food
Pros
- Proprietary formulation to ensure healthy weight and lean muscle maintenance in small breed dogs that are less active, neutered and prone to weight gain
- Antioxidant blend, packed full of vitamins for immune system support
- Easily digestible with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
Cons
- Not Australian made
- Poultry based diet may not be suitable for adults with food intolerances or allergies
Hill's Pet Nutrition formulations are firmly rooted in science with the main mission of creating the highest-quality dog food, backed by evidence based research. Their range encompasses a variety of wellness and health profiles and they are leading the industry with their innovative product range - transforming lives through nutrition, for every lifestage and health condition.
Neutered dogs are often more prone to weight gain, and our small breeds in particular can be quite the lazy lap dogs at home. This diet is designed to help maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of joint disease and straining the heart long term. Obesity in pets can increase the risk of diabetes. pancreatitis and worsen pre-existing health conditions. Feeding this food long-term can help lengthen and improve your dog's quality of life. The smaller kibble size is perfect for even the smallest of dogs!
What our customers say: "Our two mini fox terriers eat this food faster than a speeding bullet, burp and then sleep. They are healthy active and very entertaining. I think their diet is of Hills has a lot to do with their excellent health"
Royal Canin Mini Lightweight Care Dry Food
Pros
- Specially formulated for small breed dogs
- Reduced energy and fat levels to limit calorie intake and maintain lean muscle mass
- Higher levels of quality protein
- Fortified with omega fatty acids to support joint health
- Optimal blend of fibres to help your dog feel fuller for longer
- Accompanying wet food is also available here
Cons
- Not made in Australia
- Only available in 3kg bag
- Contains chicken as the primary protein source, which may not suit some dogs
- Not as effective for weight loss as prescription weight loss diets
Royal Canin has specially crafted this diet to not only support your dog's overall health and well being but also to keep them trim, active and light on their paws! Their testing showed that 80-90% of slightly overweight dogs fed on Light Weight Care achieved a healthy body condition in 8 weeks.
Only the highest quality proteins have been used to ensure they maintain lean muscle mass, whilst utilising proven supplements like Omega 3 fatty acids to help support your dog's joints.
For dogs with significant amounts of body weight to lose, the prescription weight loss diets are more effective, however they do need to be used only on the recommendation of your vet.
What our customers say: "Love it! We have 2 pugs, One which was getting very Fat on the Royal Canin Pug. In one month after switching to Light Weight Care she's back to a very healthy weight! They seem to love the taste, and the small size helps them to chew it better."
What our vets say: "I love recommending this premium diet for those more sedentary small breed dogs prone to weight gain. This diet helps your dog maintain a healthy weight by containing reduced energy and fat levels to limit the number of calories your dog is consuming, whilst also providing high levels of quality protein to maintain lean muscle mass. The addition of soluble and insoluble fibres in this diet leaves your dog feeling fuller for longer and helps prevent them from begging for snacks between meals!" - Dr. Jacqui
For more tips on weight loss, check out our article on How to Help Your Dog Lose Weight. We also recommend learning how to tell if your dog is overweight.
Best Air and Freeze Dried
Ziwi Peak Air Dried Mackerel and Lamb Dry Dog Food
Pros
- Delicious sustainably sourced and air dried Blue Mackerel and New Zealand Lamb
- Grain free with no artificial colours or preservatives
- Added Green Mussel for joint and mobility support
- Relatively small size and soft texture makes it perfect for small breed dogs
- Suitable for all life stages
- Alternative to raw feeding, while still retaining the benefits of the raw ingredients
- Available in a range of other proteins - check them out here!
Cons
- Expensive in comparison to other dry foods
- Freeze-dried foods may not be as safe from bacterial and parasitic contamination as foods cooked with heat
- Very calorie dense, so may contribute more to weight gain if overfed
Air-dried to retain raw nutrition, all Ziwi recipes are high in meat, organs and bones with beneficial inclusions like green-lipped mussel. With complete and balanced recipes, they are also grain free and all ingredients are sourced sustainably. Ziwi recipes are highly palatable, making them a great choice for fussy eaters.
Ziwi-Peak dry foods have a firm jerky texture, so are an excellent choice as treats, for training or as a topper to provide variety to other foods.
Ziwi-Peak dry foods should be stored in their original packaging after opening, and away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.
Like freeze-dried foods, the air-drying process is not an equal substitute for cooking with heat in terms of bacterial and parasitic control, so extra caution must be taken in the handling of air-dried foods and hygiene control.
What our customers say: " My toy poodle has been on Ziwi Peak for six years. Her coat is excellent, poops firm and her gut has remained calm. Previous pets (prior to Ziwi) over the decades have suffered from dodgy tummies but Ziwi has been a consistent benefit for general health and satiety (they eat less) with only benefits over the year "
What our vets say: "Ziwi Peak is peak premium air dried nutrition - they have a reputation and it has been earned through many happy pet parents that want to feed a balanced more natural diet. The Lamb and Mackerel formulation provides a different taste profile for fussy small breed dogs. It can be used as a main meal, a treat or even a topper"- Dr. Nicole
Prime 100 skd Air Kangaroo and Pumpkin Dry Dog Food
Pros
- Utilises Kangaroo - a novel protein that is perfect for weight management
- Whole Australian Pumpkin with added prebiotics and probiotics for gastrointestinal support
- 100% Australian Made
- Zero grain and zero gluten
- Perfect for skin and digestion issues
Cons
- Can be quite expensive
- Air-dried foods may not be as safe from bacterial and parasitic contamination as foods cooked with heat
- Only available in 600g and 2.2kg sizes
Prime 100 has a fantastic range of dog rolls and have extended their knowledge in producing quality, tasty, premium foods into the air dried sector. This food is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin and stomach issues. Unlike other air dried foods they have tailored the nutrition to specific life stages, ensuring pet owners are feeding only the best.
As an added bonus it is 100% Australian Made with ingredients sourced from Australia. Their novel protein, hypoallergenic formulations are perfect as a complete diet, as a topper or even as a treat for dogs with food allergies.
Like freeze-dried foods, the air-drying process is not an equal substitute for cooking with heat in terms of bacterial and parasitic control, so extra caution must be taken in the handling of air-dried foods and hygiene control.
What our customers say: "My two loved this the first time so had to try again. Used as a topper and they would never eat anything with Kangaroo - but they love this
For more information, read through our article on Air-Dried and Freeze-Dried Dog Food.
Best Dry Grain Free Foods for Dogs
Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Venison
Pros
- Delicious novel protein diet containing venison, lamb, egg duck and ocean fish protein
- Added prebiotic fibre and probiotic gut bacteria for digestive supportÂ
- Rich in anti-oxidants to boost overall health and vitality
- Small breed specific sized kibble
- Available in a range of flavours - check them out here
Cons
- Not made in Australia
- Expensive compared to other grain free dry foods
- Very calorie dense, so may contribute more to weight gain if overfed
- Other flavours available are not small breed specific
Taste of the Wild bases it formulations on the concept of creating high quality, grain free diets that mimic ancestral diets of our pets. Their range is quite extensive and other protein profiles include quail, turkey, wild boar and even bison. This is perfect for dogs with allergies to common proteins and who need to be on a novel protein diet.
Their use of a proprietary blend of K9 strain probiotics specifically developed for dogs provides maximum support for a healthy digestive system and immune function. In addition their formulas are made with non GMO ingredients with no rendered meats or by products.
On the down side, the Taste of the Wild foods are expensive options, though you do 'get what you pay for' - a premium quality grain free diet.
What our customers say: "I've tried 4 different adult brands of biscuits to get 3 very fussy chihuahuas off another puppy brand . With very sensative tummies I have to be careful what I feed them.. After days on petfood reviews I decided the small breed was worth a try. My 3 chihuahuas took to it straight away. Very happy with tiny tummies you need a Great product... Very happy great ingredient list . Low carbs and low allergy."
Black Hawk Grain Free Adult Small Breed Chicken
Pros
- Australian Made Holistic Formula specific for adult small breeds
- Nutritious blend with lean protein to minimise weight gain
- Highly palatable for fussy dogs
- Free from wheat, corn, soy, gluten, artificial colours, preservatives and flavours
- Available in 2.5kg, 7kg, 10kg and 14kg bags
Cons
- Poultry based diet may not be suitable for dogs with food intolerances or allergies
- Contains tapioca and potato which are considered carbohydrates with little nutritional value
Black Hawk foods are a favourite among dog-owners looking to feed their dogs locally made diets. The other Black Hawk grain-free dog ranges includes kangaroo, salmon and lamb options. Unfortunately, these varieties do not come in a smaller kibble size. The foods are also only suitable for adult dogs over 12 months of age.
Black Hawk is a premium, natural brand with a focus on quality ingredients, and where every product is free of wheat, corn, soy, gluten, artificial colours, preservatives and flavours. It is 100% Australian-made, giving you peace-of-mind about the manufacturing quality of the food, and that you are supporting local industry.
Black Hawk diets are a very reasonably priced premium option compared to other grain-free options for dogs.
What our customers say: "My little family love this kibble. Olly talks and dances in the kitchen as soon as the tv is turned off at night until they all have scatters. I've had to adjust their meals so they don't over indulge. haha What a fun way to end the day, we all go to bed on a smile"
For more information, read through our article on the Best Grain Free Dog Food.
Best for Dental Health
ADVANCE Adult Dog Triple Action Dental Care Small Breed Chicken with Rice
Pros
- Added Sodium Tripolyphosphate to help bind minerals in the saliva to reduce tartar
- Added Green tea to help freshen the breath and reduce bacteria
- Larger kibble size that enables mechanical abrasion at the tooth surface, helping to reduce the build up of tartar and plaque
- Beneficial blend of essential vitamins, natural prebiotics that is highly palatable to tempt fussy dogs
Cons
- Not as good as prescription specific oral care foods
- Does contain chicken meal - which may not be suitable for dogs with allergies or food intolerances to these ingredients
- Kibble size may not be amenable to all small breed dogs
Aussie, Aussie, Aussie! Thats what Advance is all about, delivering optimal nutrition by cominging their scientific knowledge, wholesome ingredients and vast experience to produce only the best. This dental specific diet has a three fold approach to maintaining good dental health - by not only having larger kibble compared to their standard small breed range - but added Sodium Tripolyphosphate and Green Tea to inhibit tartar and bacterial growth.
It's also great to see that this particular formulation has also considered the entire dog - having natural prebiotics, to help promote a healthy gut, vitamin E to boost the immune system and zinc and linoelic acid to a shiny coat - truly an all rounder. This food is available in a range of sizes to suit the needs of different households.
What our customers say: "I have 2 maltesse/Shih Tzu They eat this one combined with some meat. They like it and vet said that their dental health is very good. I am grateful that I was recommended this food 2 years go, as it keep my babies healthy"
Hill's Adult Oral Care Dry Dog Food
Pros
- Uniquely formulated kibble to reduce plaque and tartar build up
- Antioxidant blend, packed full of vitamins for immune system support
- Perfectly designed for small breed adult dogs
- Available in 2kg, 4kg and 12kg bags
Cons
- Not as good as prescription specific oral care foods
- Does contain chicken meal - which may not be suitable for dogs with allergies or food intolerances to these ingredients
Small breed dogs are particularly prone to dental disease, and this diet is perfect for maintaining good oral health as well as ensuring that they are still receiving a premium quality, nutritionally balanced diet.
The larger kibble size compared to other Hills standard small breed adult foods encourages dogs to chew their food, which can help with dental health via the mechanical action of crunching through the kibble helps to scrape plaque from the teeth. However, the larger kibble size may not suit all dogs.
This food is available in a range of sizes to suit the needs of different households.
What our customers say: "My 9kg dog loves the oral care Hills diet. I've been using this since he was 1 years old. At most recent vet visit, the vet was surprised to see no signs of peridontal disease (my dog is now aged 4 years)"
For more information, read through our article all about Dental Care for Dogs.
What to look for in dry dog foods
High-quality premium food
Premium foods are not only trustworthy but contain beneficial nutrients above and beyond what is required. Look at the quality control processes and product safety records of the food you intend to feed. Assess if their formulations are designed by a qualified animal nutritionist or veterinary nutritionist.
Complete and balanced
In choosing a food, the most important consideration after any health factors is that the diet is complete and balanced for your dog's stage of life. Ensuring that it meets AAFCO or FEDIAF pet food control guidelines is crucial to ensure that your dog receives all the nutrients they require in the correct ratios.
Digestibility
Look for dry dog food that is highly digestible. This means the nutrients are readily absorbed and utilised by your dog's body. Good digestibility is often indicated by high-quality ingredients and the absence of excessive fibre content. Learn more about the ingredients in your pet's food.
Consider your small breed dog's specific needs
Small Breed dogs have specific needs including slightly smaller kibble, appropriate nutritional profiles, ingredients to help reduce tartar and joint support. Some dogs may have special dietary requirements due to health conditions or sensitivities. If your dog has specific dietary needs, consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Mon 27 Oct 2025
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Emilee Lay BVSc BSc (Vet) Hons
Veterinarian
Dr. Emilee graduated from the University of Sydney in 2018 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Studies) and as a student worked for a number of years as a small animals and exotics nurse in clinics across Sydney. She is currently a practicing small animal and exotic vet along the Coast. Emilee holds a special passion for avian and exotic medicine (bunnies being her favourite patients), as well as animal behavioural medicine!
