The best types of food for small dogs - your comprehensive guide to choosing healthy and balanced food - Welcome to Seven Bird Your Trusted Online Pet Store

Are you looking for the perfect food for your puppy? Based on the experience of dog breeders and the latest veterinary recommendations, this article provides a comprehensive guide explaining the best types of puppy food to meet all their nutritional needs. We'll discuss the difference between dry and canned puppy food , how to choose the right dog food based on age , with a focus on high-protein dog food and a practical guide to feeding dry dog food in a way that promotes health and growth. As we know, choosing the right food ensures healthy growth, sustained activity, and minimizes digestive problems in puppies.

What do puppies eat?

Puppy food, also known as puppy food, is a diet specifically designed to support the rapid growth and healthy development of puppies in their early life stages. Puppies' nutritional needs differ significantly from those of adult dogs because their bodies are still developing. Their energy, protein, and vitamin requirements are much higher than those of adult dogs; therefore, choosing the right food for puppies ensures muscle growth, bone strengthening, a boosted immune system, and support for the pup's physical and mental development.

Why do small dogs require more care and attention?

Puppies require more care and attention than adult dogs due to their different nutritional and physical needs and rapid growth. Unlike adult dogs, puppy food should focus on providing high energy, protein, and healthy fats, with portion sizes suitable for their small mouths.

High calorie density: Puppies have a high metabolic rate, which means they need food that provides more energy per meal to avoid low blood sugar.
High-quality protein: Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle, and ideally, it should come from real meat such as chicken, fish, or beef as the first ingredient. An example is Zewi Beek 1kg dry dog food with beef , which provides high-quality protein to support muscle growth.
Kibble size: The pieces should be very small to fit in the puppies' mouths, helping with dental health and reducing tartar buildup, such as Morando dry food for puppies with chicken 15kg .
Healthy fats (omega 3 and 6): These fatty acids support healthy skin and hair, and promote the growth of the brain and nervous system of puppies, helping to develop their mental and motor abilities.

We must know that by choosing a balanced diet that covers these points, we can ensure healthy growth for puppies, strengthen their immune system, and support their daily activity and vitality.

But the most important question is: how can the puppy be fed properly to ensure its healthy growth?

Providing a balanced diet that includes the following elements

To ensure the healthy growth of puppies, it is essential to provide a complete diet that includes all the essential nutrients a puppy needs. These nutrients are not just supplements; they form the foundation of the puppy's health, activity, and vitality, and help build a strong immune system and solid bones and teeth.

Protein and its role in muscle building

Protein is an essential component of a puppy's diet, as protein-rich dog food plays a direct role in muscle building and the development of vital organs. High-quality proteins, such as those derived from meat, poultry, and fish, provide the essential amino acids for healthy growth and development, and help improve the puppy's physical performance and daily activity levels.

Healthy fats and energy

Fats are not just a source of energy; they also contribute to the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and support healthy skin and hair. Healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, provide the energy needed for a puppy's constant activity and support proper brain and eye development, making them an essential part of their daily diet.

Vitamins and minerals to boost immunity

Vitamins and minerals are essential for boosting the immune system and protecting puppies from illness. For example, vitamin A maintains healthy skin and eyes, while zinc and iron contribute to growth and healthy blood. Including these elements in their food ensures the puppy's ability to resist infections and adapt better to its environment.

Carbohydrates and fiber for good digestion

Carbohydrates and fiber provide sustained energy for puppies and improve digestion. Natural fibers promote healthy bowel movements and reduce constipation or bloating, while complex carbohydrates provide a continuous source of energy to support the puppy's daily activity and healthy growth.

The importance of water in the daily diet

Water is the essential element for life and forms an indispensable part of a puppy's diet. Drinking enough water daily keeps the body hydrated, aids digestion, supports kidney function, and promotes the efficient transport of nutrients to all parts of the body.

Best types of food for small dogs

Proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in ensuring the healthy growth and development of puppies. The choice of food depends on the puppy's stage of development, size, and specific health needs. There are several types of food that can be offered to puppies to ensure they receive essential nutrients in a balanced way.

Dry food

Dry food is considered one of the best options for feeding young puppies, due to its numerous benefits for the puppy's health and proper growth. Among its most prominent advantages are:

Supporting dental health: Dry food pellets help puppies use their teeth for chewing, reducing tartar buildup and keeping teeth clean.
Throughout the day feeding: The puppy's daily portion can be left in a slow-feeding dish, allowing it to eat at spaced intervals without spoiling, which is ideal for people who work long hours.
Savings: Dry food is the most economical option for providing daily nutrition for puppies.

The best types of dry food can be obtained from the Seventh Bird store, such as:

What is the difference between dry and canned food for puppies?

While dry food is ideal for chewing and daily feeding, canned food offers different advantages for puppies:

Weaning stage: It is easy for puppies to transition from mother's milk to solid food, as it is easy to chew and swallow.
Hydration: Provides an extra boost of water for puppies, which is especially helpful in hot weather.
Stimulation: It stimulates puppies that have lost their appetite due to illness or stress.
Mixing: It can be used as a "flavor enhancer" (topper) by mixing a small amount of it with dry food to increase its appeal.

Examples of canned food available from the Seventh Bird store include:

In short, combining dry food and canned food in an appropriate way can ensure an ideal nutritional balance for puppies, while supporting dental health, hydration, and stimulation of eating.

Wet food

Wet food is rich in water and has a flavor closer to natural food, making it more appealing to puppies. It's an excellent choice for puppies who need extra moisture or have difficulty chewing dry food. It also provides balanced nutrition and promotes digestive health when the right formula is chosen.

Home-cooked food prepared at home

Healthy meals for puppies can be prepared at home using natural ingredients such as cooked chicken, beef, rice, and dog-friendly vegetables. The meal should be balanced to include protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and vitamins, while avoiding any harmful foods such as onions or chocolate.

Natural vs. Artificial Food

Natural food relies on fresh ingredients and is free of artificial preservatives, while commercial food provides a ready-made, balanced formula specifically designed to meet the puppy's growth needs. Combining both types or choosing a high-quality commercial food is preferable if the goal is to provide a complete diet for the puppy while saving time and simplifying storage.

Popular brands suitable for puppies

When acquiring a dog, the question is always: how do you choose suitable dog food according to age or size? And how do you maintain your pet's nutritional health?

Veterinarians and experts typically recommend leading brands that focus on scientific research. Look for dry food labeled "Small Breed" or "Mini ." Choose dog food that contains all the necessary nutrients, such as Royal Canin Digestive Health 2kg Adult Dog Dry Food , which provides high-quality protein, essential minerals, and vitamins.

Study your dog’s health needs and identify the problems it suffers from in order to obtain dog food, whether dry food or wet food, that addresses these problems, such as Hills C/D Dry Dog Food for Urinary Tract Care with Chicken 1.5kg , which provides balanced nutrition and promotes urinary tract health in addition to being rich in protein.

How to choose suitable dog food according to age

In order for puppies to grow up in perfect health and reach adulthood strong and active, you must know how to choose appropriate dog food according to age, as the puppy's nutritional needs vary between the first weeks and the following months and even after its first year, depending on the size of the breed and the level of daily activity.

From 8 weeks to 12 weeks

At this critical stage immediately following weaning, the puppy begins to rely entirely on solid food. It needs frequent small meals (3-4 times a day) rich in high-quality animal protein such as chicken, fish, or red meat to support bone and muscle growth.

It is preferable to use wet food or dry food soaked in warm water to make chewing and swallowing easier.

It is also advisable to choose formulations specifically for puppies that contain DHA and Omega 3 to support brain and nervous system development.

From 3 to 12 months

During this period, the puppy enters a phase of rapid growth and needs a balanced diet high in protein and energy .

When choosing dog food suitable for each age , pay attention to the fact that the first ingredients in the formula are from real animal protein sources (meat, chicken, fish).

Breed specialization is also taken into account:

Small Breed : Such as Britt dry food for small breed dogs of small size with chicken, designed to meet the needs of rapid growth and high energy.
Large Breed : Like Britt dry food for adult dogs of large breeds with chicken 3kg, with a balanced formula that maintains the health of heavy joints and bones.

For puppies with long, thick fur such as poodles, it is preferable to offer dry food or wet food rich in Omega 3 and 6 and salmon oil such as Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Skin and Fur Support 2kg, to maintain the shine of the fur and reduce shedding.

From one year or more

When a puppy reaches one year of age, its body begins to stabilize in terms of growth, and its calorie needs decrease compared to the puppyhood stage.

It is recommended to reduce the number of meals to twice a day while continuing to provide protein-rich food, but in moderate amounts, to avoid weight gain.

At this stage, formulations specifically designed for "Junior" or "Young Adult" dogs can be chosen to support immunity and digestive health.

After the first year (transition to adult dog food)

This is the stage where the transition to adult dog food takes place .

It is preferable to make the transition gradually over one week, mixing part of the puppy food with the new food to avoid stomach upsets.

The choice of food depends on physical activity:

Active dogs need food rich in protein and energy.
Less active domestic dogs need a lightweight formula to maintain an ideal weight.

How do you choose the right dog food for your puppy?

Choosing the right food for your puppy is the most important decision that will affect its health and activity level for life. It's not enough to choose a food that's "well-known"; it must be appropriate for its age, size, and health condition . Here are some key practical tips to help you make the right decision.

Read the package ingredients carefully.

Always start with the ingredients list :

The first ingredient must be a real animal protein source such as chicken, beef, or fish.
Avoid products that list “animal derivatives” or “processed plants” as main ingredients.
Make sure you have the vitamins and minerals such as zinc, calcium, and vitamin D that are necessary for growth.
The presence of Omega 3 and 6 means healthy support for skin and fur.

Practical advice: Stay away from foods that contain artificial colors or added flavors — they all cause digestive problems in the long run.

Food selection according to breed (small, medium, large)

The needs of puppies vary greatly depending on the size of the breed:

Small breeds such as Chihuahuas and Poodles need food that is high in energy and easy to chew.
Medium-sized breeds such as Cocker Spaniels need a balance between protein and energy.
Large breeds such as Huskies and Malinois need food that supports joint health and reduces calories to avoid weight gain.

Look for dry food that has a clear label on the package such as “Small Breed Puppy” or “Large Breed Puppy” to ensure your dog gets the perfect balance.

Consideration should be given to food allergies and digestive problems.

Some puppies are allergic to certain types of protein or grains.

If you notice itchy skin, hair loss, or abdominal swelling, your puppy may need a grain-free formula or an alternative protein such as fish or duck.
Use dry food with a stomach-friendly formula that contains brown rice or sweet potato instead of wheat.

Consult your veterinarian when changing breeds

Don't change the type of food suddenly. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best formula for your puppy, especially if it has allergies or a poor appetite.

The transition from one type to another should be done gradually over 5–7 days , gradually increasing the proportion of the new food to avoid upsetting the stomach.

The best way to feed a puppy

The way food is presented directly affects a puppy's appetite and digestive health. Organization and routine are key to successful daily feeding.

The appropriate amount of food at each meal

The quantity varies depending on weight and age, but the general rule is:

Very small puppy (up to 5 kg): 50 to 100 grams per day.
Average puppy (5–10 kg): 120 to 200 grams.
Large puppy (over 10 kg): 250 to 350 grams.
Always check the quantity chart included with the food package, as it varies depending on the brand and calorie content.

How to serve the food (dry, mixed, warm)

It is preferable to serve dry food as is to strengthen teeth, or to mix it with a little warm water to make chewing easier for very young puppies.

You can also mix in a small amount of wet food to increase the flavor and encourage the puppy to eat, especially in the first few days after weaning.

Regulating meal times to maintain digestion

Set fixed times each day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Avoid leaving food uneaten all day, as this may lead to obesity or loss of appetite.

Make sure you always have a fresh, clean bowl of water, as water is essential for digestion and regulating body temperature.

What foods are prohibited for puppies?

Caring for puppies isn't just about providing healthy food; it also involves avoiding dangerous foods that can cause poisoning or severe digestive problems. Some foods we consider safe for humans can be fatal to puppies due to their different digestive systems. Here's a comprehensive list of foods that should be completely avoided.

Chocolate, onions, and garlic

Chocolate is one of the most dangerous foods for dogs , as it contains theobromine, which causes disturbances in the heart and nervous system, and may lead to death when large quantities are consumed.

Onions and garlic contain sulfur compounds that damage red blood cells, causing anemia and general weakness. Even small amounts of cooked food containing onions or garlic can be harmful to a puppy.

Fatty foods and cooked bones

High-fat foods such as fried foods and fatty meats cause pancreatitis and liver problems.

Cooked bones, however , are a real danger because they break easily into sharp splinters that may cause choking or tearing of the digestive system .

Instead, use bones specifically designed for dogs (available at pet stores) that are designed to strengthen teeth without risks.

Sweets and savory foods

Excess sugar and salt can cause serious problems for puppies:

Sugar increases the likelihood of developing obesity and tooth decay.
Salt causes severe dehydration and kidney problems.

Stay away completely from human biscuits, chips, or any processed food that contains strong spices or flavorings.

"Little bites" may seem nice, but they do more harm than good to your pet.

raw or undercooked foods

Although some people offer a BARF (raw food) diet , it is not recommended for young puppies except under careful veterinary supervision.

Raw meat may contain Salmonella and Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria , which cause diarrhea and serious food poisoning.

Therefore, make sure to cook the meat thoroughly and ensure that the utensils used are clean to avoid any possible infection.

Nutrition and portion control tips:

Small breeds are known to be "picky eaters." Their appetite can be stimulated by adding a teaspoon of high-quality canned (wet food) to their dry food, or a spoonful of warm, unseasoned chicken broth.
Since puppies are prone to early tartar buildup, the crunchy chew of small kibble helps keep their teeth clean. Hills Dry Food for Small Dogs with Chicken, 3kg .
90% of her daily calories should come from her balanced main meal.
Only 10% of the remaining calories can come from rewards and training.
Provide a quiet, distraction-free place for eating, away from the noise of family or other pets, to ensure they focus on eating and avoid swallowing food too quickly.

In conclusion

Now that you know the best types of dog food for puppies, understand the difference between dry and canned puppy food, and know how to choose the right food for your puppy's age, you can confidently create an ideal feeding plan for your puppy to ensure proper growth and good health. Remember that choosing a dog food rich in protein is essential for building strong muscles and sustained energy, and that adhering to the right amounts and regular feeding times makes digestion easier and reduces the risk of future health problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does a two-month-old puppy eat?

At two months old, a puppy can eat dry puppy food after softening it with warm water to make it easier to chew, with the possibility of adding mashed vegetables such as carrots or potatoes, and small pieces of boiled chicken as a source of protein.

2. Is milk beneficial for puppies after weaning?

After weaning, it's best to avoid cow's milk as it can cause digestive problems like diarrhea. Puppy-specific milk replacers can be used; these are designed to contain a balanced ratio of lactose and essential nutrients.

3. How many meals should puppies have per day?

Puppies need 3 to 4 meals a day until they are six months old, then these can be gradually reduced to two meals a day when they reach adulthood, while maintaining the recommended daily amount based on the puppy's weight and activity level.

4. Can puppies eat eggs?

Yes, puppies can eat boiled eggs in moderation. They are a good source of protein and healthy fats, and help support muscle growth and improve coat and skin health. It's advisable to avoid giving raw eggs to prevent bacterial contamination.

5. When should I introduce solid food to a newborn puppy?

Solid food can be introduced starting at 4 weeks of age, initially mixed with puppy milk to create a soft, easily digestible consistency. The amount of food is gradually increased until complete weaning is achieved at 7–8 weeks of age.

6. What do newborn puppies eat?

From week one to week four: Breastfeeding only.
From week four to six: Beginning gradual weaning with the introduction of soft food.
From week six to eight: complete transition to solid food specifically for puppies.

7. Are boiled eggs good for puppies?

Indeed, boiled eggs contain:

High-quality protein: to support muscle and tissue building.
Healthy fats: to provide the puppy with energy.
Essential vitamins such as A, D and B12.
Important minerals such as iron and selenium, which are essential for healthy blood and immune system function.