Small dogs typically have a higher proportion of fat than larger breeds. Smaller frames and less muscle means they might be more prone to weight gain. And while some extra love can make them feel like best friends, it’s important to watch their weight. Obesity in small dogs puts them at risk for many health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and heart disease. Fortunately, there are ways you can help your best friend maintain a healthy weight!
Dogs are not just pets, they’re best friends. They deserve the best of everything and that includes their food. If your best friend is a small dog you’ll need to find the best diet dog food for small dogs (wherever you buy pet food) and here’s some information on what low-fat options are available in 2021.
Table of Contents
The Best Diet Dog for Small Dogs
1. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws for Small Breed Dogs

2. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small & Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Chicken Recipe

3. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin 12-Pack Cans

4. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

5. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin Recipes

6. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Small Bites, Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe

7. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Bites, Chicken & Barley Recipe

8. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Small Paws for Small Breeds, Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe

9. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food

Hills Science Diet makes sure that your pup lives a healthy and happy lifestyle while receiving food that is scientifically proven for weight control. Trust the experts who know the ins and outs of helping small breeds maintain a perfect weight while still being able to indulge in yummy memories from time to time. Pets need love too, right?
10. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws for Small Breeds

Summary: Best Diet Dog Food for Small Dogs
Image | Product | Total Reviews | Ratings | |
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws for Small Breed Dogs | 14,733 | 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small & Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Chicken Recipe | 8,477 | 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin 12-Pack Cans | 7,669 | 4.6 out of 5 stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food | 6,625 | 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin Recipes | 6,415 | 4.7 out of 5 stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Small Bites, Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe | 6,321 | 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small Bites, Chicken & Barley Recipe | 6,290 | 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Puppy, Small Paws for Small Breeds, Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe | 5,627 | 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food | 5,148 | 4.8 out of 5 Stars | Buy Now |
![]() | Hill's Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Small Paws for Small Breeds | 5,001 | 4.6 out of 5 stars | Buy Now |
Dry vs Wet Diet Dog Foods
Most people feed their dog’s dry dog food. Wet dog food is normally considered best for more active dogs, or those with higher metabolisms. It can also come in more flavors, and it’s easier to understand the exact nutritional contents of wet dog food because it has a list on the package as human food does.
What can small dogs eat besides dog food?
Low-fat dog food is best for dogs on a diet. However, it can be difficult to find a low-fat dog food that your small pet will enjoy. These best options all have less than five calories per ounce and are perfect for keeping them healthy while they lose weight! Here are some more things you need to know about putting your small pup on a diet:
- Puppies should never be put on strict diets without consulting with their veterinarian first
- Never stop feeding snacks or table scraps entirely; just reduce the amount gradually until you’re able to transition him onto his new meal plan
- Monitor how much water he drinks during this time since high protein foods often cause him to drink less might also want to try using a pet water fountain
- Keep food at room temperature to avoid your best friend eating too fast, which could lead to vomiting or bloat. Here are our top ten best low-fat dog foods for small breeds!
What Ingredients to look for in diet foods for small dogs?
Protein sources like chicken and fish are best for your best friend because they will provide him with the best protein and minerals while maintaining a low-fat content.
What protein is best for small dogs?
Smaller proteins are easier to digest, therefore the best protein for small dogs is smaller proteins when looking at protein in your pet food ingredients. The following are some of the finest sources of protein for your tiny companion:
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Salmon (and other fish)
- Beef
- Soy
- Plant-Based Proteins
What about raw diets for small dogs?
Although a raw food diet won’t solve all of your dog’s weight problems, it can assist. Raw diets are high in calories and easy to digest, allowing you to feed smaller amounts while still providing adequate nutrition and energy to your pet.
Carbohydrate Content
The best carbohydrate content for small dogs is either cooked or raw fruits and vegetables. These foods are easy to digest and provide a low-calorie content, which can be beneficial for weight loss.
How many calories should my dog eat to lose weight?
For one thing, you should never attempt to reduce your dog’s weight on your own. This is because there may be a medical condition that is causing your dog’s overweight problem. Hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s disease) are two examples of physiological disorders that can cause weight gain.
Let’s get this party started by figuring out how many calories your dog needs. You’ll need to have your pet examined by a veterinarian and its ideal weight determined first. You may choose a target weight greater than the optimum weight to begin based on your pet’s degree of overweight. My basic guidelines for safe weight reduction in dogs are 3-5% bodyweight loss every month. To reduce weight in dogs, use the following formula (from Ohio State University):
Table 1. Known life stages and corresponding factors used to estimate daily energy needs for dogs. | |
---|---|
Neutered adult | =1.6 x RER |
Intact adult | =1.8 x RER |
Inactive/obese prone | =1.2-1.4 x RER |
Weight loss | =1.0 x RER for ideal weight |
Weight gain | =1.2-1.8 x RER for ideal weight |
Active, working dogs | =2.0-5.0 x RER |
Puppy 0-4 months | =3.0 x RER |
Puppy 4 months to adult | = 2.0 x RER |
FAQ
Best diet dog food for small dogs?
The best diet dog food is a new topic in canine nutrition. best diets are not classified as low calorie, but rather best foods come from the best ingredient label of short and simple ingredients that your pet can digest easily. you probably want to avoid high fat or carbohydrate content that could lead to obesity if fed over longer periods of time without exercise.
What is considered low fat dog food? What does it mean 'no carbs'?
Low-carb means there's only a few grams per serving so they're not going to affect how much energy your little guy gets on a daily basis - which means he'll have more energy all day long! Fatty acids help encourage healthy cell function and a shiny, soft coat while limiting inflammation.
Why and when you need to put your small dog on a diet?
Best diets for dogs provide enough nutrients without too many calories. best foods are important if your little guy needs to lose some weight or just maintain his figure, but it's also good for all-year round feeding. best food is great for picky eaters who don't want their meals mixed together because they can be fed alone! best food is recommended by vets worldwide - so you know that it will give your pet the balanced nutrition he needs at any age.