Small breed dogs
Our four-legged friends on the smaller end of the spectrum have very fast metabolisms. From their puppy stage, through to when they’re fully grown, small breed dogs require a diet that accommodates their need for higher calorie foods. But despite these fast metabolisms, you should take great care when portioning your dog’s diet, as they can gain weight quickly. Follow the feeding guide on the food’s label or check in with your local Greencross Vets to be sure you’re giving your dog the optimum amount for good health.
It’s also important to take into account the size of the kibble. In order to minimise waste and help smaller breeds gain the most from their diet, the size of the kibble must also suit the size of the dog. Kibble formulated for small breeds will be smaller than kibble for larger breeds as it is made with the size of the dog’s jaw in mind. Smaller breeds can be more prone to gastrointestinal upsets and poor dental health, so feeding a diet specific to them can help manage these issues. This is why choosing a pet food tailored to your pet’s size, life stage and breed is the best choice, as it offers them a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay happy and healthy.
Large breed dogs
Dog breeds that grow to be bigger need pet food that supports strong, healthy bones. Food formulated for these dogs, especially moving into the giant breeds, includes optimal levels of calcium for controlled bone development. High-quality puppy food designed for large breed dogs is a little less energy dense so they can grow at a rate that supports their bones and joints.
Large breeds are also more prone to joint issues, so feeding a diet specific to their breed will help keep joints healthy and mobile. Glucosamine helps maintain healthy joints and fibre blends and prebiotics can boost the levels of gut bacteria for optimal digestion. The right balance of protein, minerals and vitamins will benefit large breeds at all life stages, so finding a high-quality pet food that is formulated with these needs in mind is an easy way to keep them healthy.
What Are the Differences Between Them?
| Edge: | Regular |
Regular dog food has a clear edge over small and large breed dog foods when it comes to variety. There are far more “normal” dog food diets on the market, with a variety that can meet special needs, while large and small breed dog foods may be more limited. This is especially true when a specialty diet is needed.
Is there a difference between large and small breed dog foods?
Each dog needs something different from its food, and it isn’t just about its size but also its age and breed. These dietary needs go beyond how much kibble you put into the bowl.
It sounds complicated, especially when you walk into a store and see a wall of dog food promising you the best nutrition a dog can get. When searching for the best food, you should select a high-quality recipe and ensure you use the correct amount according to your dog’s size. Too much dog food can lead to obesity, and too little can result in malnutrition, which can cause expensive health problems in the future.
When it comes to nutrition, you don’t want to get it wrong. We’ve collected everything you’ll need to make an informed decision, whether your dog is small, medium, or large.