Last Updated: 07/05/2025
Author: Dr Emilee Lay BVSc BSc (Vet) Hons
Reading Time: 124 minutes - extensive read
With so many options for our four-legged pooches on the market - it can be very overwhelming to know which one is the best! When choosing foods to feed our pets, its important we 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, have much longer lifespans, and faster metabolisms compared to their larger counterparts. This makes it all the more important to ensure they're on a good diet from the get go
Why Is Choosing the Right Dog food for Small Dogs important?
Apart from providing water, shelter and love, food is one of the most important ways you can support your dog's health on a daily basis. Just like for humans, what your dog eats has a major impact on their health. The science of nutrigenomics (that is, how nutrients affect DNA gene expression and thereby health) in pets is showing more and more that the old adage "you are what you eat" is the same for our canine friends just as it is for us.
As small breed dogs have a much longer life expectancy - feeding a good diet is the foundation for a long healthy life. Dry foods specifically for small breed dogs have a number of benefits - namely being easy and convenient to feed, and less likely to spoil compared to wet foods. Dry dog food is also be more beneficial for dental health than wet food, as the mechanical action of crunching through the kibble can help to scrape built up plaque 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.Â
- 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.Â
- 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.
Results:
- Best for Small Breed Puppies: Royal Canin Mini Puppy and Blackhawk Small Breed Puppy Chicken and Rice
- Best for Small Breed Adults: Hills Science Diet Small Bites and Advance Small Adult Lamb and Rice
- Best for Sensitive Skin and Stomachs: Meals for Mutts Salmon and Sardine and Hill's Small and Mini Sensitive Stomach and Skin
- Best for Senior Dogs: Eukanuba Senior Small Breed and Royal Canin Mini 12 Plus
- Best for Weight Loss: Hill's Perfect Weight Small and Toy Breed and Royal Canin Mini Lightweight Care Dry Dog Food
- Best Air and Freeze Dried: Ziwi Peak Mackerel and Lamb and Prime 100 skd Kangaroo and Pumpkin
- Best Grain-Free: Taste of the Wild Venison Small Breed and Black Hawk Small Breed Chicken Grain Free
- Best for Dental: Advance Triple Action Dental Care Small Breed and Hill's Adult Oral Care
How We Review Our Products
Our Pet Circle Vet Squad comprises 30 vets with over 120 years of collective, independent veterinary expertise. 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 Small Breed Dog Foods in Australia
Best for Puppies
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 10kg.
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 utilized 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.Â
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.Â
What our customers say: "It's a fantastic dry food product. He doesn't have teeth problems and is perfect in weight with a beautiful shiny coat. I recommend this product as it was recommended by our vet and breeder. Can't go wrong there. Great to come in such a huge bag" and "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."
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 ageÂ
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
Pros
- Hills is a premium, high end brand which conducts laboratory analyses of their foods to ensure that they are meeting optimum levels of nutrient, and ensure consistency across batches.
- Available in a range of bag sizes - 2kg, 4kg, 6.8kg and 13.6kgÂ
- Smaller kibble size perfect for smaller breeds - approximately 9 x 4mm
- Antioxidant blend, packed full of vitamins for immune system support
- Easily digestible with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
- Great range of other Small Adult specific foods - check them out here.Â
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.Â
This small breed specific range, has been designed to the very last detail for small breed adult dogs. They cater not only to every lifestage but to many health conditions as well. But they haven't forgotten about you owners as well - as this food is available in a variety of sizes to suit the needs of different households and storage abilities - some of the bags also feature a zip lock feature to keep the kibble fresh.
What our customers say: "My English Cockerspaniel absolutely loves Hills Science Diet. I had tried another in expensive supermarket product and l found that she was not satisfied after eating same. Her coat is glossy and she is full of beans and she is content after eating "
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 rangeÂ
If you're looking for a super premium Australian-made dry food - look no further than Advance Nutrition. 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.Â
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!Â
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
Pros
- Hypoallergenic, gluten and dairy free salmon and sardine based dry kibble - perfect for those with sensitive stomachsÂ
- Rich in omega 3, 6 and 9 which promotes a healthy coatÂ
- Australian Made and available in multiple sizes - 2.5kg, 5kg, 9kg and 20kgÂ
Cons
- Not small breed specific, so kibble size may be a bit on the larger endÂ
- Can be expensiveÂ
Meals for Mutts, is a leading premium, holistic dry food that not only looks at sustainable practices when sourcing their proteins, but providing a wide range of novel proteins and formulations for dogs of all shapes and sizes. This makes it a great option for fussy dogs, or owners looking to provide variety and consistenty to their pets meals.Â
This more natural approach to their formulations and the use of a wide variety of ingredients also means their foods are a great option for those dogs with allergies. In addition their use of natural preservatives with added Vitamin E and rosemary extracts give many owners peace of mind. Their grain based and grain free formulations, provide even more flexibility for them to chose from. This is particularly important for those concerned about grain free foods and the potential risk of heart disease in certain breeds of dogs. You can read more here.Â
What our customers say: "I recommend this Meals for Mutts Salmon and Sardine my dogs love it. My beagle has a sensitive tummy and use to have terrible smelling air biscuits that would make you leave the room to escape the smell, and it didn't matter what dog food we feed him it didn't help even prescription diet from Royal Canin. Since I started him on Meal for Mutts his terrible smelling air biscuits are no more. He has shinny coat plus he loves the food. Highly recommend"
What our vets say: "I love being able to recommend a premium, natural diet like Meals for Mutts Salmon and Sardine that does not contain any chicken, beef, dairy, wheat or corn. It's ideal for dogs with food sensitivities, those who would benefit from the omega fatty acids for skin health, for dogs who do well on a limited ingredient recipe, or just for dogs whose owners are after a good quality natural diet. One of the other major benefits is that it is suitable for dogs of all ages, so it's also great for growing puppies" - Dr. Gill
Pros
- Scientifically formulated dry kibble diet, designed for small and mini breedsÂ
- Gentle fibre blend for easy digestion and healthy bowel functionÂ
- Exclusive blend of omega fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins to support a healthy, shiny coatÂ
- Available in multiple dizes 1.81kg, 3.62kg and 6.8kgÂ
Cons
- Poultry based diet may not be suitable for dogs with food intolerances or allergiesÂ
- Kibble may not be suitable for certain small breed dogs - recommend feeding the Small Bites Sensitive Skin and StomachÂ
Often skin and stomach sensitivties can go hand in hand and this is the perfect diet to approach both issues in one go. Hill Science Diet is scientifically formulated, with proven results and cater to a wide range of sensitive stomach and digestive issues - should a more targeted approach be needed - such as their Perfect Digestion range OR Small Bites . The extra small kibble size is perfect for even the tiniest of breeds.
Containing only the highest quality of ingredients the fortified blend of omega fatty acids is perfect for supporting dogs with dry, itchy or flaky skin whilst the unique blend of fibres encourages a healthy bowel movement.Â
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
Best for Senior Dogs
Pros
- Suitable for dogs up to 10kg and from 7 years of age, available in bulk with 3, 7.5 and 15kg bags
- Additional glucosamine to support healthy joints in senior dogsÂ
- Activ Advantage formulation with added omega fatty acids to improve the mind and formulated to provide optimal energy to sustain an active lifestyleÂ
- Denta Defence - to reduce tartar build-up
Cons
- Poultry based diet may not be suitable for dogs with food intolerances or allergiesÂ
Another great locally manufactured dry food option for those who are keen to feed premium and Australian made foods for their pooch! Eukanuba has undergone thorough palatability testing to tempt even the fussiest of dogs, with a special focus on activating every last cell with the nutrients needed to push your dog harder, further and better! They not only meet but exceed AAFCO Standards and are made with only the highest quality of ingredients.Â
In addition this food has been made with small breed dogs in mind - with a special formula designed to reduce tartar, boost the immunity with additional anti-oxidants, added glucosamine to support the joints and optimal energy levels to keep those senior pooches active!
What our customers say: "Our old girl Bella is thriving on Eukanuba Senior small breed dry food. Very tolerable, no sensitive tummy issues, firm stools, her weight is healthy,her coat soft ; silky, kibble size is perfect. Best of all she is happy, alert and looks forward to her dinner, as a fussy girl this has been great to see her still excited for her food. Highly recommend this food"
What our vets say: "I love being able to feed a premium food for my senior pooches. I have had my very fussy pomeranians on this for a long time and its great that it comes in bulk and I have peace of mind that they are on a great quality diet. The added glucosamine is especially useful to help maintain their joint health at home!" - Dr. Emilee Lay
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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 heartÂ
- Kibble is rehydratable which is perfect for those pooches missing teeth or who are becoming a bit fussy with ageÂ
- Suitable wet food options available here
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 allergiesÂ
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.Â
This range also comes with a accompanying wet food, and the added antixodiant can help neutralise free radical for a healthy ageing process. The adapted phosphorus content of these foods are particuolarly handy for supporting kidney health in these twilight years.Â
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
Best for Weight Loss
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.Â
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!Â
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"
Pros
- Specially formulated for small breed dogsÂ
- Reduced energy and fat levels to limit calorie intake and maintain lean muscle massÂ
- Higher levels of quality proteinÂ
- Fortified with omega fatty acids to support joint healthÂ
- Optimal blend of fibres to help your dog feel fuller for longerÂ
- Accompanying wet food is also available here.Â
Cons
- Not made in Australia
- Only available in 3kg bagÂ
- 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.Â
Only the highest quality proteins have been used to ensure they maintain lean muscle mass, whilst utilising proven supplements like Omedga 3 fatty acids to help support your dog's joints.Â
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. 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.
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
Best Air and Freeze Dried
Pros
- Delicious sustainably sourced and air dried Blue Mackerel and New Zealand LambÂ
- Grain free with no artificial colours or preservativesÂ
- Added Green Mussel for joint and mobility support
- Relatively small size and soft texture makes it perfect for small breed dogsÂ
- Suitable for all life stagesÂ
- 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
Pros
- Utilises Kangaroo - a novel protein that is perfect for weight managementÂ
- Whole Australian Pumpkin with added prebiotics and probiotics for gastrointestinal supportÂ
- 100% Australian MadeÂ
- Zero grain and zero glutenÂ
- Perfect for skin and digestion issuesÂ
Cons
- Can be quite expensiveÂ
- 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 sizesÂ
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 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
Best Dry Grain Free Foods for Dogs
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 foodsÂ
- 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.Â
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.Â
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."
Pros
- Australian Made Holistic Formula specific for adult small breeds
- Nutritious blend with lean protein to minimise weight gainÂ
- Highly palatable for fussy dogsÂ
- Free from wheat, corn, soy, gluten, artificial colours, preservatives and flavoursÂ
- 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"
Best for Dental Health
Pros
- Added Sodium Tripoluyphosphate to help bind minerals in the saliva to reduce tartar
- Added Green tea to help freshen the breath and reduce bacteriaÂ
- 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 foodsÂ
- 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.Â
Itâs 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.Â
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"
What our vets say: "Having an army of pomeranians at home - ensuring their teeth are in tip top shape is a must. This diet is perfect and doesnât break the bank either - also it has to be super tasty because they gobble it down without much fuss."
Pros
- Uniquely formulated kibble to reduce plaque and tartar build upÂ
- 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 foodsÂ
- 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
You know that Hillâs has done it again given that this is one of our most highly rated over the counter dog foods for dental health. Small breed dogs are particularly prone to dental disease, and this diet is perfect for maintaing 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.Â
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)
Find out more 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.Â
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.
Further Reading
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