How to choose croquettes for small dogs?
If you have a small adult dog, you know that inside that small body is a big personality and a lot of energy. In fact, for a small dog to keep up with its high energy level, it needs a healthy and adapted diet that includes whole foods. This is why, in the rest of this article, we will explain how to choose good kibble for small dogs.
What are the different small dog breeds?
There are many small dog breeds. Here are the 20 most famous:
- Yorkshire Terrier;
- Dachshund;
- Poodle;
- Shih Tzu;
- Miniature Schnauzer;
- Chihuahuas;
- Pug;
- Dwarf Spitz (Pomeranian);
- Boston Terrier;
- Maltese ;
- French Bulldog ;
- Japanese Spaniel;
- Lhasa Apso;
- Jack Russell;
- Chinese Crested Dog;
- Cotton Tulear ;
- Little Lion Dog;
- Maltipoo;
- Pekingese;
- Papillon dog.
What are the nutritional needs of small breed dogs?
Small dogs need a higher concentration of calories and nutrients in their diet and therefore in their kibble. This is because they have a fast metabolism and burn calories faster than large dogs. In other words, not all dog food will necessarily suit them.
Nutrients are components of food that have a specific function within the body and contribute to growth, tissue maintenance and health. Animals need seven main types of nutrients and food:
the water ;
carbohydrates ;
the proteins ;
fats ;
fibers ;
the minerals ;
the vitamins.
Dogs are considered opportunistic carnivores. This means that their diet can be more diversified, their animal protein intake can be limited. All sources of protein are essential for your furry companion: lamb, salmon, poultry, tuna, insects. Whether it's his vitality or the shine of his coat, your dog's food is the basis of his health.
Why should you buy special kibble for small dogs?
Your small canine friend is quite different from its larger counterparts. And their difference starts with the foods they eat and their nutritional needs. Despite their small size, small breed dogs may require more calories per pound of body weight than large breed dogs. This is because small breed dogs have a very fast metabolism.
However, even though small dogs may need more calories per pound than larger dogs, that doesn't mean they need to be overfed. One of the biggest concerns about dog nutrition is obesity. Obese dogs are more prone to a variety of health issues.
This is why it is important to give your small dog only kibble for small dogs. These special croquettes contain only the calories he needs to be in shape and to stay healthy by avoiding overweight or obesity.
How to choose the best food for your small dog?
Unlike large dogs, small dogs have different calorie needs. This is why it is important to feed them with kibble adapted to their size. This is the best way to ensure that your dog will get the proper concentration of calories and nutrients from his diet. Here's what to look for in kibble for small dogs:
- Natural and Whole Food Ingredients: The quality of food ingredients is directly related to nutritional value, so you're looking for a recipe made with natural and whole food ingredients;
- Protein: remember that your dog needs a minimum of 22% protein in his diet;
- Healthy fats: Small dog foods generally have a higher concentration of calories and fat;
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Nutrients: synthetic vitamin and mineral supplements are generally needed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for dogs;
• Smaller kibble: Your small dog has a smaller mouth and stomach than the average dog, so his food should be smaller for easier chewing and digestion.
How to choose the best food for a small puppy?
Small puppies are susceptible to hypoglycemia due to high metabolic rates and low stores of sugar and body fat. This means they must be
fed with kibbles for small puppies and this 3 to 4 times a day. Talk to your veterinarian about the risks of hypoglycemia and what you can do to keep your pup healthy.
Finding the best kibble for small dogs can be tricky. Currently, there are many offers that are all sold as the croquettes with the best nutritional package. You can also find dog food in all price ranges. You can limit the search by asking your veterinarian which brands and type of kibble they recommend.
Small Dog Food FAQ:
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What is the ideal food for a small dog?
For the diet of a small dog, the ideal is to choose croquettes specially designed to meet the needs of small dogs. Above all, they must be rich in protein.
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What are the small dog breeds?
Discover 8 small dog breeds:
- The Chihuahua;
- The Yorkshire Terrier;
- The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel;
- The French Bulldog;
- The Jack Russell;
- The Dachshund;
- The Bichon Maltese;
- The Pug.
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Is rice a good food for small dogs?
Rice contains carbohydrates and fiber which are a good source of energy for small dogs. It can calm diarrhea and treat constipation problems.
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How much food for a small dog?
In general, small dogs eat a smaller amount of kibble per day. Depending on the breed, age and activity of the dog, this can range from 33 to 255 grams of kibble per day.
