How To Select The Right Pet Food for Small Breed Dogs?

Any dog under 10 kgs falls in the category of small breed. If you have small breed fur babies and are looking for the right kind of food for them, then there are various points to consider before selecting the brand or product. Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than large or medium sized dogs. They are more active in comparison and also have a higher metabolic rate. Owing to their small frame and a super energetic personality, they need higher concentration of nutrients for a healthy lifestyle. 

On the other hand, the diet selection has to be so precise that their nutritional requirements are not only met, they do not pile even a single ounce of body weight than their ideal weight. Any kind of excess weight can lead to several diseases or disorders in these little fur babies that can even be life threatening. 

Here are some points to consider when looking for the appropriate food for small breed dogs. 

• Small breed dogs are more likely to get low blood sugar on account of their high BMR. Hence, choose the food as per it.  
• Feeding these furries kibble that is smaller in size, is advised as smaller kibble is easier to nibble upon and also reduces choking hazard.
• Choose premium-quality food with proteins like beef and chicken. It should also have healthy fats such as Omega 3 and Omega 6. These fats aid in keeping the coat healthy. 
• To manage their glucose levels, you can feed them whole grains in limited quantities. 
• Read the label for ingredients such as Vitamin A, Linoleic acid, as these promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Avoid foods that contain too many preservatives and heavy ingredients such as corn, soy, or wheat. 

Before Taking The Decision

Research & Counsel

With a variety of products, dog food online, cat food online, it is important to look into multiple factors. After all, we only want the best for our fur babies. One of the most important factors is to have a full-fledged understanding of pet nutrition and their nutritional needs. Read the product label carefully. Collate data from reliable sources only. Most importantly, talk to a veterinarian before making the final decision.

Select the Right Formulation

On a broader note, commercial dog food can be segmented into two categories - wet and dry. There is an additional category in which you can add water to the food that has been dehydrated. Let your furry decide once they get a taste of all. See what suits your furry’s health most. Accordingly, you can pick out the brands in that segment that offer the best dog food in India. 

Gather Reviews

When you want to expand your information base regarding different brands, you can seek the opinion of others in that particular category. Asking a veterinarian is undoubtedly the best way to move forward. Alternatively, you can seek advice from breeders and trainers. 

Search for a ‘local pet food shop near me’ online and explore the best options from the list. Whatever you choose, it is important to remember that these are just views and do not qualify as the ultimate source for taking the final call.

Starting the Feed

Now that you have narrowed down to a few pet food brands and the diet formulation, the ultimate decision is still reserved with your furry. Let them try out the food samples and see what suits their palette and demeanor most. 

Once they select one, start replacing the old diet with the new one. But make sure it is a gradual process. It takes about 3-4 weeks for the fur babies' physical and mental compositions to adjust to the new food. Keep a close eye on the food and its adaptability to the doggo’s body.

If you notice little or no change in their health and development, then switch to another brand. If the furry shows any signs of reluctance or illness towards a particular brand or product, get online vet consultation immediately. 

Please note that it is a healthy idea to rotate the furry’s diet every 2-6 months for gaining benefits from different formulations. 

Happy Petting!