Dog Foods to Avoid: What Small Breed Owners Should Know
Feeding your dog the right diet is essential for maintaining their health and quality of life. Small and toy breeds, in particular, have unique nutritional needs that can be easily compromised by poor food choices. While many dog food brands claim to be healthy, not all are suitable—especially for small breeds. Below we cover which dog foods to stay away from, and why making informed decisions is vital for your canine companion.
1. Watch Out for Artificial Additives
- Artificial colors: Often added to make the food more appealing to owners, but they offer no nutritional benefit and may cause allergic reactions.
- Artificial flavors and sweeteners: These can lead to hyperactivity or digestive issues in sensitive dogs.
- Preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin: These may be linked to potential health risks and are better avoided.
2. Avoid Unnamed Meat Byproducts
Look for dog food that lists specific meat sources like “chicken” or “lamb” instead of vague terms such as “meat meal” or “animal byproducts.” These could include low-quality off-cuts or unidentifiable sources, making them unsuitable, especially for small breeds with sensitive stomachs.
3. Steer Clear of Unnecessary Fillers
- Corn, wheat, and soy: Although not harmful to all dogs, these are often used as cheap fillers and may contribute to food intolerance or allergies in smaller breeds.
- Excess carbohydrates: Foods high in grain or starchy ingredients can lead to obesity, a common problem in toy breeds.
4. Skip Foods Not Meeting AAFCO Guidelines
Make sure any food you purchase complies with the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards. These guidelines ensure that the food is nutritionally balanced for the intended life stage of the dog. Avoid brands that do not clearly state their compliance with AAFCO norms.
5. Beware of Poor Protein Sources
Small breeds require high-quality protein to support their fast metabolism. Foods using low-quality or plant-based proteins as the main source may not provide the essential amino acids your dog needs for optimal health. Stick to named animal proteins like chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish.
6. Don't Use Non-Life-Stage Appropriate Formulas
- Puppies vs. Adults: Puppy foods need higher levels of protein and fat. Feeding adult maintenance food to growing puppies can result in nutrient deficiencies.
- Seniors: Older dogs may need fewer calories and more targeted nutrients. Feeding high-calorie puppy or adult food to a senior could contribute to obesity and other age-related conditions.
7. Avoid Inappropriately Sized Kibble
Small breeds often struggle with large kibble sizes, which can lead to choking or difficulty chewing. Foods not designed for small breed dogs may not accommodate their dental structure, leading to plaque buildup and oral health issues.
Better Options and Practices
To keep your small breed dog healthy, prioritize:
- Foods with named animal proteins like chicken or fish listed first
- No artificial additives or fillers
- Balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
- Probiotics and prebiotics for gut health
- Complete diets that meet AAFCO requirements
Vet-Approved Nutritional Brands
Brands like Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, Hill’s Science Diet, Wellness, and Blue Buffalo offer specialized diets formulated to meet the needs of small and toy breeds. Many of these have veterinary endorsement and include research-based ingredient choices.
Safe Ingredients and Key Nutrients
- Protein: Aim for ~30–32% from quality animal sources
- Fat: Around 20% with added omega fatty acids
- Fiber: ~5% to support digestion
- Essential vitamins and minerals including calcium, phosphorus, and antioxidants like Vitamins C and E
Summary
Choosing dog food for small breeds involves more than just picking a popular brand. Avoid foods with poor ingredient quality, artificial additives, and inappropriate nutritional balance. Always look for diets tailored to your dog’s specific size, age, and health needs. A thoughtful approach to feeding can prevent common issues like obesity, dental disease, and food allergies, ensuring a long and healthy life for your furry friend.
