Dog food depends on the size of the dog. It also depends on the breed. Every breed has its unique needs when it comes to food. The same is true with its stature. The food required by a big dog is entirely different from that of a small-sized dog.
The categorization of dogs into small, medium, and large is quite a debatable but interesting topic. Normally, a dog is considered small if its height is less than 12 inches. Similarly, a dog weighing less than 22 pounds can be categorized as small.
On the other hand, dogs are also categorized per their breeds. But it is very possible that a dog may not belong to a small breed though it comes under the category of small dogs based on weight or height.
So, the best criterion is a dog’s weight, which defines whether it is a small dog or a big one. Any dog that weighs less than 22 pounds while fully grown would be considered a small dog regarding its food needs.
Difference Between A Small Dog And A Small Breed Dog
A dog may be considered small even though it does not belong to a small dog breed. Some of the most popular small dog breeds include:
- Chihuahua
- Maltese
- Toy poodles
- Dachshund
- Shih Tzu
- Yorkshire Terriers
However, it is not necessary that a dog be categorized as small only if it belongs to one of the small dog breeds. For example, a Great Dane does not belong to a small dog breed but if it weighs less than 22 pounds when fully grown, it will be rated as a small dog.
Similarly, a fat greyhound will be categorized as medium or large as it normally weighs between 50 to 70 pounds.
Here’s a classification of dogs based on their weight
- Small dogs – weigh less than 22 pounds
- Medium dogs – weigh more than 22 pounds but less than 55 pounds
- Large dogs – dogs that are more than 55 pounds.
The emphasis on weight categorizing a dog as small, medium, or large is not merely an academic discussion; it impacts the food selection for him. So, a small dog, no matter what breed he comes from, would require food meant for a small dog breed.
The selection of appropriate food for a small dog is vital for its growth and health.
Important Factors To Consider For Small Dog’s Food
Food plays a key role in the growth of a dog. His health is also associated with food type, quality, and quantity. So, selecting appropriate food for a small dog is a sensitive issue.
Here are some important factors that you need to consider while selecting the right food for your small dog
Small Dogs – Higher Metabolism
Small dogs are more active and vibrant than medium and large dogs. They normally have a higher metabolism. That makes it necessary for the food they eat to be full of nutrients. It should also include a relatively higher percentage of protein, fats, and various essential nutrients.
However, it is very important to note that small dogs must not be overstuffed with fats and proteins, as they are prone to weight gain. Any undesired weight gain may prove fatal for their health. So, you need to create a balance in their diet.
Small Dogs – Coat And Skin Development
Small dogs need some special consideration for their skin and coat nourishment. So, the food for a small dog must contain a good quantity of Vitamin A, high-quality protein, and linoleic acid.
It gives them a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Small Dogs – Small Kibbles
Small dogs have little mouths and little jaws. Hence their food must comprise small kibbles. They may face difficulty in chewing the large pellets. So, make sure that the food of a small dog is in the shape of small kibbles, easily chewable by them.
Small Dogs – Small Digestive System
Small dogs have a small stomach and digestive system. That’s why they need smaller quantities of food but more frequently than the big dogs. Moreover, their foods need to be rich in nutrients.
Small Dogs – Big Dental Problems
Small dogs have a known dental problem. They tend to be affected by dental health issues that hurt their ability to chew food. Hence, their food must be softer, which leaves a minimum impact on their teeth.
Small Dogs – More Hypoglycemia Risk
Higher activity levels and fast metabolism can result in blood sugar problems in small dogs. They often face low sugar levels if not fed after regular intervals. So, small meals with more frequency can save them from low sugar levels.
Small Dogs – More Dehydration Risk
Due to their small body, small dogs are more prone to dehydration. Some diseases like diarrhea can also cause dehydration very quickly in small dogs. Hence their meals must be supported with ample quantity of fresh water.
Picking A Dog Food For Small Dogs
So, now that you know the needs and limitations of a small dog, here are some important things to consider while choosing appropriate foodstuff for your small dog.
- Select a food that is rich in good-quality protein. Normally their food must contain 25-28% higher quality proteins.
- Carbohydrates are very important to keep their stomach fit. Choose a food that contains a reasonable quantity of carbohydrates. It will go a long way in improving their digestive capacity.
- Small dog food should comprise high-quality natural components supported with all essential nutrients.
- Their food must contain fats such as Omega 3 and Omega 6. These are vital for a healthy heart, shiny coat, and skin.
- Small dog food should contain a reasonable ratio of probiotics and antioxidants.
- Their food should be in small bite-sized pellets, which are easy to chew and digest. Since their jaws are small and their throat is narrow, large-sized food may result in choking of their digestive system.
Types Of Small Dog Food
Raw dog foods are frequently available in the market. However, you must be selective while buying the best food for your small dog.
Here are some most common raw foods for small dogs.
Homemade Raw Foods For Small Dogs
This is the best option. Make your dog’s food on your own. But you need to be fully aware of the needs of your small dog. All the nutrients must be in the right proportion. Proteins and fats need to be added in appropriate proportions.
Commercial Raw Foods For Small Dogs
There are various brands of dog foods available in the market. You need to select an appropriate brand that contains high-quality ingredients. You must also ensure that it contains all necessary nutrients, proteins, and fats.
Frozen Raw Food For Small Dogs
Frozen raw foods are also available under different brand names. It is a good option as well for a small dog owner. It has a prolonged shelf-life. So, you can buy as much as you want and keep it stored for future use.
Important
Make sure that the food you buy for your small dog does not contain the following
- Artificial preservatives
- Meat byproducts
- Grains
- Starch and legumes
- Synthetic food items such as synthetic vitamins
- Excessive quantities of Carbohydrates
Conclusion
Food requirements are different for every dog type, size, and breed. Based on their weight, small dogs need special attention when choosing the right food for them. Small dogs are more active. Their metabolism is higher than that of larger dogs.
Moreover, they have a small stomach and digestive system. That necessitates small meals for them more often than for big dogs. They should be given 4-5 meals daily with plenty of fresh water.
A small dog needs food that is full of nutrients. It should also include high-quality proteins and fats. It must also contain a reasonable quantity of carbohydrates.