10 Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Small Breeds

Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Small Breeds, What is the best Grain-Free food to feed a small dog, What is the most popular grain-free dog food?

The nutritional needs of small dog breeds are unique compared to large dog breeds. Small dogs have a metabolism and require more calories per pound than large breed dogs.

These small breeds require small kibble to fit their small jaws and teeth. The smaller kibble is also beneficial for digestive health. You should feed them the best small dog food.

There are many choices when it comes to choosing the best small-breed dog food. There are many things you need to consider when making a choice.

In this guide, we will look at some of the best small dog food; foods formulated to meet the nutritional needs of small dogs.

10 Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Small Breeds
Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Small Breeds

10 Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Small Breeds

All dog foods included on this list meet the standard AAFCO nutrient profile guidelines for dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet.


1. ORIJEN Dog Original Recipe

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Whole Mackerel, Chicken Liver, Turkey Giblets
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 38% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,940 kcal/kg, 473 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, Gluten Free, Natural, Raw, No Corn No Wheat No Soy

Reasons to suggest

  • Orijen Dog Original Adult is a delicious meal for adult dogs, containing the best parts of fresh chicken and fish and various precious medicinal herbs.
  • High-quality dog ​​food, Orijen Original has been formulated for adult dogs thanks to their high protein content provided by both the strictly fresh white meat and the fish used.
  • Meat proteins help maintain lean muscle mass while fish, in addition to ensuring the energy your four-legged friend needs, helps protect the kidney system. The fish selected to make this dog food includes king salmon and dehydrated herring.
  • To make this dog food complete is a high quantity of fruit and vegetables strictly grown on-site. 
  • Apples are rich in antioxidant and anti-aging properties, blueberries, on the other hand, are precious allies for the health of the urinary tract while spinach is useful for counteracting the onset of cancer finally vegetables, such as carrots, are a natural source of vitamins.
  • Grain-free and low in carbohydrates, Orijen Original Dog boasts a low glycemic index and low carbohydrate formulation. Naturally rich in Omega 3, they help keep the dog’s coat soft and shiny.

2. Merrick Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe

Merrick Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe – 22 lb. Bag
  • One (1) 22 lb Bag – Merrick Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe
  • Real deboned chicken is always the first ingredient in this natural dog food

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 11% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,668 kcal/kg, 388 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free

Reasons to suggest

  • Merrick Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken, and Sweet Potato Recipe are healthy, affordable, and ideal for the most loved product for the small dog breed!
  • The main ingredient is real Deboned Chicken Additional proteins include Chicken Meal and turkey meal. Healthy poultry fat helps your dog to maintain continuous energy throughout the day. 
  • Salmon oil contains long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids to ward off dry, irritated skin and promote a healthy coat. Glucosamine and chondroitin help encourage your dog’s joints and avoid hip dysplasia.
  • It’s a grain-free recipe, carbohydrates include sweet potatoes and legumes. These are low-glycemic carbohydrates, essential for your dog. 
  • Apples, blueberries, and alfalfa provide calcium, vitamins, and fiber for digestion. Blueberries are a rich source of Vitamin C and Vitamin E, essential for protecting your dog’s vision.

3. Taste of the Wild Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients: Venison, Lamb Meal, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Lentils
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,719 kcal/kg, 422 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Extra Small Breeds, Small Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: Grain-Free

Reasons to suggest

  • Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular dog food brands, and the company has done a great job of maintaining its reputation. 
  • This small breed formula from Taste of the Wild may be the answer to your small dog’s digestive problems. This food is formulated for small dogs and is also aimed at dogs with sensitivities and allergies.
  • The formula is 100% grain free and contains no traces of soy, wheat, or corn. It is also free from artificial ingredients such as preservatives, colors, and flavors.
  • This food contains no meal by-products. Since it is rich in probiotics, it is easy to digest.
  • This food has five main ingredients: venison, lamb meal, and chickpeas. Peas, lentils, and lentils are the last five.
  • Your furry friend will get all the protein he needs from venison as his primary protein source. Other protein sources include lamb, duck, and fish.
  • This formula is also gluten-free and contains many vitamins and minerals rich in vegetables and fruits for a healthy immune system.
  • Your dog’s skin and coat will remain healthy and shiny, thanks to the omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids contained in this food. All the ingredients used to make this food come from high-quality sources.
  • This highly digestible, nutrient-rich recipe is made with proprietary probiotics from the K9 strain for your little breed’s digestive health. Contains 32% protein, 18% fat, 4% fiber, and 422 kcal/cup.

4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken 24-lb
  • MORE CHICKEN IS COMING: An evolution of your dog’s formula with more chicken than ever, plus wholesome grains

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients:  Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine), Peas, Pea Protein, Tapioca Starch
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,599 kcal/kg, 409 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, No Corn No Wheat No Soy

Reasons to suggest

  • Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein recipe is what your dog needs to be healthy and happy. 
  • The main component is Deboned Chicken and in addition, it also has Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine), Peas, Pea Protein, and Tapioca Starch & this recipe comes with 34% Crude Protein.
  • The recipe also contains flax seeds, which contain Omega-6 fatty acids, and canola oil, which includes Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. 
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin promote joint health and cartilage development, which are necessary for your dog. 
  • Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein recipe also includes a vitamin E supplement and organic vitamin C resources, ideal for eye health.
  • It’s a 100% grain-free recipe, carbohydrates are derived from legumes, potatoes, and tapioca starch. There are no meat-derived fillers or additives. 

5. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food,

Wellness CORE Grain-Free High-Protein Dry Dog Food, Natural Ingredients, Made in USA with Real Meat, All Breeds, For Adult Dogs (Wild Game Duck, Lamb Meal, Boar & Rabbit, 26-Pound Bag)
  • GRAIN-FREE ADULT DRY DOG FOOD: Premium protein from responsibly sourced duck is expertly balanced with nutrient rich superfoods for a complete and balanced dog food, with guaranteed levels of all the nutrients your dog needs to thrive.

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients:  Duck, Lamb Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chickpeas, Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Peas
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,643 kcal/kg or 379 kcal/cup 
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: Grain-Free, Gluten Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, High-Protein, Natural

Reasons to suggest

  • This is a great food for small dogs. This dry dog ​​food provides a balanced diet for small dogs. The top five ingredients in this food are Duck, Lamb Meal, Chickpeas, Chicken Meal & Peas
  • This is the best dog food you can buy for daily nutrition. This is a 100% grain-free formula based on chicken and turkey to provide your small dog with a well-balanced diet.
  • It is high in protein and provides small dog breeds with the necessary protein. It also contains probiotics to aid in easy digestion. 
  • Contains chondroitin, glucosamine, and other nutrients that support healthy bones and joints. Your pet will have shiny skin thanks to the omega-3 and 6 fatty acids found in this food.
  • This food is packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients to ensure your pet’s health. 
  • This food is well-balanced for small dogs thanks to all these ingredients. It is also free of fillers. It is not colored, flavored, or artificially preserved which is why it is a great option for small dogs with allergies and sensitivities.
  • This food contains an impressive 34% protein and 16% fat. The maximum amount of crude fiber is 6%, while the total calories are 379 kcal/cup.

6. CRAVE Grain Free Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food

CRAVE Grain Free High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken, 22 lb. Bag, brown
  • Contains one (1) 22 lb. bag of CRAVE High Protein Adult Grain Free With Protein from Chicken All Natural Dog Food Plus Vitamins, Minerals, and Other Nutrients

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients:  Chicken, Chicken Meal, Split Peas, Lentils, Pork Meal
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3795 kcal/kg, 449 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, No Corn No Wheat No Soy

Reasons to suggest

  • CRAVE Grain Free Adult High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food contains a combination of animal and plant-based proteins to ensure a balanced amino acid profile. Crave uses high-quality, easily digestible proteins, such as chicken, lamb, fish, and peas.
  • With its high content of animal components and protein content of 34%with proteins derived from both animal and vegetable fonts, this dry food complies with the natural diet of dogs. 
  • All CRAVE recipes are prepared with proteins of animal origin as the brand has faith in the nature of our pets and respects it. 
  • Animal-based components provide a good source of protein and a protein-rich diet provides essential nutrients for a healthy and active dog life.
  • If you are offering your dog CRAVE for the first time, we recommend that you gradually switch to the new food over six days. Increase the amount of CRAVE ™ proportionally to the previous food and mix them together.

7. Canidae PURE Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 4.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,560 kcal/kg, 459 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adults only (not for puppies)
  • Type: Grain-free
  • Key Feature: Sensitive Digestion, Grain-Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Gluten Free, Limited Ingredient Diet, Chicken-Freetein

Reasons to suggest

  • This food is a great option for sensitive dogs. This dry dog ​​food for small dogs is 100% grain free from CANIDAE. 
  • This food contains five ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, and peas. Salmon is the main source of protein. This formula also contains whole foods to aid digestion.
  • It is made with many vegetables and fruits, which are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Probiotics are added to promote gentle absorption.
  • This food does not contain soy, corn, or wheat. It has nine ingredients that make it safe for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. It has 32% protein, 14% fat, 4.5% fiber, and 459 kcal/cup.

8. ACANA Red Meat Recipe, Grain-free Dry Dog Food

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Roasted Venison Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Taste of the Wild High Prairie with ROASTED BISON and VENISON dry dog food; REAL MEAT is the #1 ingredient; high-protein (32%) to help support bones, joints and LEAN, STRONG MUSCLES

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients:  Beef, Deboned Pork, Beef Meal, Whole Red Lentils, Whole Pinto Beans
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 29% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,405 kcal/kg, 388 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: Grain-Free, Chicken-Free, Natural, High-Protein, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Gluten-Free, Raw

Reasons to suggest

  • ACANA® Red Meat Recipe for adult dogs of all breeds is a dry food rich in beef, pork, and lamb, irresistible even for dogs with the most demanding palates. The treats contain an unrivaled variety of ingredients from Canada.
  • ACANA® Red Meat Recipe is a food inspired by the opinions of canine nutrition experts, a complete and balanced feed from a nutritional point of view, consisting of:
  • The composition of these dog food is characterized by the presence not only of muscle but also of organs and cartilage to provide vitamins, minerals, calcium, and phosphorus in a natural way. 
  • This type of premium quality dog ​​food is based on a diet close to that of your pet in the wild, with the doses that nature recommends.
  • Acana’s choice to propose the consumption of whole animals (whole prey) is part of the perspective of offering a rich diet similar to that which the dog would follow in nature.
  • ACANA® Red Meat Recipe dog food is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of your adult dog. 
  • In addition, the recipe does not contain high glycemic index wheat, in its place as a source of carbohydrates is used:

9. Purina ONE Grain Free Natural Dry Dog Food

Purina ONE Grain Free Natural Dry Dog Food, True Instinct With Real Beef – 12.5 lb. Bag
  • One (1) 12.5 lb. Bag – Purina ONE Grain Free Natural Dry Dog Food, True Instinct With Real Beef

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Chicken Meal, Soybean Meal, Canola Meal, Cassava Root Flour
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 30% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,764 kcal/kg, 386 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: Grain-Free, Natural

Reasons to suggest

  • Purina One Adult Dog Beef, Chicken Meal is a complete and balanced food for your adult dog & this adult dog formula is rich in chicken or Beef and contains protein from high-quality ingredients.
  • The recipe has been formulated to be highly digestible and helps support healthy immune function. 
  • Purina One Adult Cane with beef, Chicken flavor will ensure that the muscles of your faithful four-legged friend are toned and strong. 
  • Purina ONE Grain Free Natural Dry Dog Food is very well designed without using soy, corn, or wheat. This food is completely safe for small dog breeds. It has 30% protein, 17% fat, 12% fiber, and 386 kcal/cup.

10. Wellness Complete Health Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Wellness Complete Health Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food
  • GRAIN-FREE SMALL BREED ADULTDRY FOOD: High quality protein from turkey, healthy fats and fiber are expertly balanced to deliver a complete, grain free food packed with the nutrients your small breed needs to thrive.

Main features –

  • First 5 Ingredients:  Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Peas, Lentils, Chickpeas
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 5.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 3,719 kcal/kg, 422 kcal/cup
  • Breed Size: Small Breeds, Medium Breeds, Large Breeds, All Breeds
  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Key Feature: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Grain-Free, Natural, Grain-Free

Reasons to suggest

  • Small dog breeds have unique nutritional needs, especially during the infant stage. Wellness Small Dog Formula provides small dog breeds with the balanced nutrition they need.
  • This food is rich in vitamins, proteins, and minerals that will help your dog live a happy and healthy life & it’s 100% grain-free dog food.
  • This food is made with the finest natural ingredients to provide your puppy with a healthy and delicious diet.
  • This food also helps in the development of your dog’s bone and tooth strength, healthy muscles, healthy brain structure, liveliness, optimal energy, and overall health.
  • It is rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. 
  • The number one ingredient in this food is chicken. The food also contains chicken meals, with nearly 300 percent more protein than fresh chicken.
  • Peas are a good source of carbohydrates, but they also contain around 32% protein. Peas are packed with fruits and vegetables that are packed with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that support healthy growth. 
  • This food is also very high in calories, as it contains a whopping 422 kcal/cup.

FAQ About Small Dogs –

What are the healthiest recipes I can make at home?

To make sure your puppy is getting all the nutrients and calories he needs, it’s critically important to pay attention to the ingredients. Always include a resource of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, water, and even any other supplements you may need.

Normally proteins, fats, and amino acids are nutrients that all come from meat, the healthiest and most natural resource possible. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables, and also in cereals if your dog is not sensitive or allergic to them. Supplements such as Omega fatty acids, L-carnitine, or glucosamine are extremely important.

Can a small dog eat regular dog food?

Dogs have a basic nutritional requirement common to all, which is why even small dogs can eat regular dog food. 

This food will meet its basic requirements of essential proteins, fats, and nutrients; however, it may not be quite ideal in terms of the concentration of these nutrients. Small dogs have a faster metabolism than the average dog, which is why they need food with a higher concentration of fat and calories, to keep up with all the energy they burn throughout the day. 

If you decide to give your pooch some regular food, then you may want to give him more or more frequently to meet all of these needs.

What is the difference between small dog food and dog food?

By doing a direct comparison on the spot, we are sure that you will immediately notice a couple of differences. The main difference, the one that catches the eye the most, is the size; dry dog ​​food for small dogs is smaller. 

As for nutrients, food for small dogs tends to have a high concentration of fat, which consequently increases the energy value, an important factor since, as already mentioned above, these creatures have a fast metabolism and burn. calories quickly.

How much food should I give my puppy?

The amount depends on age and weight. The best thing to do is to start with small dog food and refer to the recommended doses, indicated on the back of the package. 

These recommendations will give you a general idea of ​​how much to give your dog each day, an amount that you will need to divide into 2 or 3 meals, depending on your needs and your needs. 

Keep an eye on the dog’s weight and physical condition, and feel free to make adjustments if you start seeing excessive weight gain or loss.

How many times a day should I feed my dog?

Most dogs get along well with two servings a day, but some breeds may benefit from an extra meal to support that extremely fast metabolism. If you decide to feed the dog 3 times a day, divide his daily dose into three servings. Just remember that the third serving is not an extra meal. 

It is also important to take into account all the calories represented by various appetizers and snacks, in order to avoid overeating.

Warning: Our reviews on the Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Small Breeds are mostly based on information from experts and manufacturers. We test many products, but it is impossible to test them all. That said, we ask that you remember that the recommendations above are opinions, and before using a treatment, we recommend that you consult with your veterinarian.

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