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If you're the proud owner of a dachshund, you already know that these little sausages on legs are packed with personality. With their long bodies, short legs, and boundless energy, dachshunds are a unique breed that requires special care — especially regarding their diet.
You see, those long spines and stubby legs put extra strain on a dachshund's back and joints, making weight management and proper nutrition crucial for their health and mobility. Plus, dachshunds are prone to conditions like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and obesity, which can seriously cramp their "hot dog" lifestyle if not managed properly.
That's why choosing the right chow for your dapper dachshund is so important. However, with so many options out there, it can feel like navigating a dog park obstacle course filled with marketing claims and ingredient lists.
Consider this blog your compass, helping you avoid confusion and find the perfect food to fuel your dachshund. From kibble to wet food and everything in between, we've got the scoop on what will keep your petite pup happy, healthy, and ready for their next adventure.
What to Think About When Buying Dog Food for Your Dachshund
Feeding your dachshund involves more than just picking up a bag of kibble from the store. Their diet needs to be tailored to their unique anatomy and lifestyle. You'll need to include some very specific nutritional requirements to keep those short legs strong and that long body healthy.
Food Quality
The quality of food you choose for a dachshund impacts their health, energy levels, and longevity in a direct manner. High-quality dog food will contain whole-food, natural ingredients that come with a proper amount of vitamins and minerals.
Dachshunds have serious susceptibility to weight gain and joint issues, so diet is very important for them. They need foods with high-protein content that are low on filler content so that they can keep a healthy weight as well as retain strong muscles and joints. These are crucial components for them as they struggle with serious back issues.
Food Allergies
Dachshunds are known to have food allergies, as well as sensitive stomachs in general. Common allergens that bother them are grains, various proteins, and artificial additives (which can lead to skin irritation and digestive problems).
When choosing a dog food for them, it's best to pick options that are free from allergens or food formulas that are crafted for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This helps to ensure that your dachshund feels their best, but it also prevents any long-term health issues from creeping up due to a food allergy.
Calorie Needs
Dachshunds have caloric needs based on their size, activity level, and overall age. Since they can gain weight rather easily, it's prudent to choose a dog food that gives just the right amount of calories. Otherwise, obesity can spiral out of control with these small dogs.
Overfeeding a dachshund can lead to natural health issues they deal with, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), as well as joint problems due to any additional weight they might carry. That's why a balanced diet is so important for them, so they get the vitamins and minerals they need without needing massive amounts of calories in order to get them.
Dachshund's Special Health Needs
As mentioned earlier, dachshunds are prone to specific health issues, including IVDD, obesity, and even dental problems. Their longer spines make it to where they can get back injuries easier, and their smaller jaws can lead to dental problems if they are not properly managed.
It's important to select a dog food that has joint-supporting properties, like glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as dental-friendly options. This can help them to stay healthy and keep long-term complications at bay.
Life Stage
As dachshunds go through various stages of life, such as puppy, adult, and senior, their nutritional needs can change in a big way.
Puppies, for example, need dog food that promotes growth and development. Adults, however, need a more balanced diet in order to maintain a proper weight and longevity of health overall. Seniors, on the other hand, need food that is lower in calories while still having enough essential nutrients to keep their joints healthy after a long life of overuse.
So, as you can see, proper dog food for your dachshund can be entirely dependent on what age range they are currently in.
Wet Versus Dry Food
Choosing wet or dry food is entirely up to your dachshund's specific needs. For instance, dry food is much more convenient and can help to deter dental problems by reducing plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. Wet food, however, is great for dachshunds with pre-existing dental issues or who need a more digestible food source in their diet due to pre-existing stomach issues. The right choice here ultimately depends on your dog's individual needs and/or complications they may already deal with.
Your Dachshund's Preferences
Your dachshund is an individual, too, and their own preferences are going to play a key role in what dog food you end up purchasing for them. Some have preferences for certain flavors or textures, and finding a food that satisfies those preferences can be the difference between a fussy sausage dog and a happy one.
The only thing that really matters here is finding a golden mean between their palates being happy and supporting their long-term health.
The Best Dog Food for Dachshunds
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Before we dive into our top food picks, here is a quick disclaimer: Every dachshund is unique, so it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your pup’s diet.
In curating this list, we considered several key criteria like optimal protein and fat levels for dachshunds, high-quality ingredient sourcing, brand reputation, and special formulas tailored for small breeds.
Our top picks include both dry and wet food options. Dry food is convenient and helps keep teeth clean, while wet food provides additional hydration and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Combining both can offer a balanced and varied diet for your dachshund.
1. Royal Canin Dachshund Adult Dry Dog Food
Our Rating: ★★★★★ 5 out of 5
Why we like it
It’s a dog formula that is specifically made for dachshunds and their specific health concerns.
Key Notes
Breed-specific formula, tailored kibble size, supports bone and joint health.
Royal Canin is a solid choice if you’re looking for a convenient, breed-specific food that addresses dachshund concerns like weight and joints. Formulated with 28% protein, it helps dachshunds maintain muscle mass without excess calories, supporting a healthy weight.
Additionally, the kibble size and shape are perfect for a dachshund’s unique jaw structure, making it easier for them to eat and enjoy their meals. The only notable drawback is that Royal Canin products tend to be more expensive compared to other brands.
Pros
- Keeps dachshunds healthy
- Incredible food quality with 28% protein content
- Helps keep weight manageable
Cons
- It can be expensive
2. Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Adult Shredded Blend
Our Rating: ★★★★★ 4 out of 5
Why we like it
It’s budget-friendly and has probiotics, which makes it perfect for digestion.
Key Notes
High protein content, extra probiotics, crunchy kibble mixed with shredded chicken.
If your dachshund doesn’t have grain sensitivities and you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with probiotics, this formula could be a good fit. Purina Pro offers a good balance of protein content, texture variety, and affordability compared to other brands.
The shredded pieces mixed with crunchy kibble offer a variety in texture, potentially enticing picky eaters. However, some owners may find corn and by-products less desirable than premium ingredients.
Pros
- Incredible value for the money
- Probiotics promote healthy digestion
- Texture variety for the most picky of eaters
Cons
- Can make dogs gassy
3. Hill’s Science Diet Small and Mini Breed Adult Dog Food
Our Rating: ★★★★★ 4 out of 5
Why we like it
It’s a well-respected brand that’s focused on digestion, which is perfect for dachshunds who have stomach problems.
Key Notes
High-quality ingredients, specially formulated for small breeds, nutrient-rich.
Hill’s Science dog food is worth considering if you’re looking for a well-respected brand with a convenient kibble size and a focus on digestion. It’s a brand often recommended by veterinarians.
This specially formulated dog food for small breeds lives up to its claims. It’s enriched with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat. The balanced blend of high-quality protein and nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, helps with overall health.
Pros
- Great for sensitive stomachs
- Great size
- Easily chewable and digestible
Cons
- Expensive
4. Nutro Natural Choice Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Our Rating: ★★★★★ 4 out of 5
Why we like it
All-natural ingredients and vitamin and mineral fortified make this a health-conscious choice.
Key Notes
High-quality ingredients support healthy digestion, and there are no artificial flavors.
Nutro Natural is the ideal option for dachshund owners who prioritize natural ingredients. This food features high-quality chicken and brown rice as the primary protein sources, ensuring your dog gets the essential nutrients for muscle maintenance and overall health.
The inclusion of natural fiber aids in healthy digestion, which is particularly important for small breeds prone to digestive issues. Additionally, the balanced nutrition supports overall health, while the kibble size is perfect for small mouths, making it easier for your dachshund to eat.
Pros
- All-natural ingredients
- Natural fiber is added for enhanced digestion
- Great price for the quality
Cons
- The smell of the product can be off-putting
5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Small Breed Wet Dog Food
Our Rating: ★★★★★ 3.5 out of 5
Why we like it
It’s protein-rich and grain-free, which is perfect for dogs with gluten and other food sensitivities.
Key Notes
Protein-rich, natural ingredients, dual-action nutrient blend.
Blue Buffalo is a meat-rich and nutritionally-complete dog food that claims to use only the finest ingredients. This formula provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and energy. It is made with real chicken, turkey, flaxseeds, and potatoes. It also includes added vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet and helping support immune function.
The grain-free recipe is ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities, ensuring they receive a diet supporting their overall health without unnecessary fillers. However, the higher price point and lower fiber content might be drawbacks for some pet owners.
Pros
- Grain-free
- Meat-rich content that adds lots of protein to your dog’s diet
- Added vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Costly for the amount
Your Guide to Buying Dog Food for Dachshunds
Now that you’ve got the scoop on the best foods for your dachshund, it’s time to make sure you’re serving it up right. Proper feeding habits are just as important as what’s in the bowl.
Here are some commonly asked questions about how to keep your pup’s nutritional needs met:
What Do the Best Dog Foods for Dachshunds Contain?
The best dog foods for dachshunds will almost always contain high-quality sources of protein as the main ingredient. This is because protein supports muscle building and overall health for the tiny dogs. Dachshunds, due to their propensity towards obesity and joint problems, need to be very careful with the amounts of fat and carbohydrates they take in.
Make sure the dog food you buy for your dachshund contains high-quality protein sources and nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. Omega fatty acids are also another great property for their food to have since they help promote healthy skin and vibrant coats. Fiber content is also another positive, as it can help to regulate stomach issues that these stubby little friends have on occasion.
How Can I Make My Dachshund Like a New Type of Food?
Like many dogs, transitioning dachshunds to a new type of food can be quite a challenge, especially if they are already picky eaters or have very specific preferences due to dietary needs. To smooth out the switch, start by gradually mixing the new variant of food into their current diet. Slowly increase the portion size of the new type of food over the older type over the course of several weeks.
This transitory stage will usually be a surefire way of adjusting your dachshund to their new diet. If they are being especially picky, add a little bit of a savory treat to their food mix, such as some tasty chicken or beef broth, in order to enhance the flavor of the new food and give them a reason to look forward to mealtimes.
How Can I Tell if My Dachshund Has Food Allergies?
Dachshunds have specific actions that can indicate they have stomach problems. Diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting are all signals that something might be wrong with your dog’s digestive capacity. Additionally, you might notice your dachshund not wanting to eat, having lots of gas or loud stomach gurgling, or even whining while lying down.
So, if your dog is showcasing any of these traits, take a closer look at them. Lightly touch their stomach area and see how they react. If they show a form of discomfort, then perhaps it’s time for a visit to the vet in order to take the necessary next steps to get them back to a healthy state.
Are Grains Bad for Dachshunds?
Grains are not necessarily bad for most dachshunds unless they have a pre-existing food allergy. That said, they are not necessary either. Considering dachshunds have such sensitive stomachs already, it might be a good idea to purchase grain-free dog food for them just for the sake of safety.
That said, grain-free dachshund diets sometimes lack necessary nutrients that you might have to make up with additional food supplementation, such as sources of fiber. As always, the best thing to do is monitor your dog’s health and consult a veterinarian if you run into any issues.
When Should I See a Vet About My Dachshund’s Diet?
Please consider seeing a vet when your dachshund is having serious changes in their weight, appetite, bowel movements, and their energy levels. All of these factors can indicate that your dog isn’t getting their nutritional needs from their current diet, or perhaps something that has nothing to do with their diet at all. It’s better to be safe than sorry in these cases.
Also, suppose your dachshund already has a pre-existing history of health problems, including food allergies and/or sensitivities. In that case, it’s a good idea to have a chat with your vet before starting your dog on a new dietary regimen. They can help you smooth the way forward to make sure a safe transition can take place. Additionally, regular checkups can never hurt, and it’s best to do these on a regular basis in order to make sure your dachshund is on the right track as far as their overall health is concerned.
Dog Food for Dachshunds: A Tailored Approach to Nutrition Is the Best Way Ahead
Providing premium nourishment is only half the battle — proper feeding habits are equally crucial. By sticking to a consistent routine, controlling portions, and monitoring weight, you’ll ensure your dachshund gets everything they need without overdoing it on the calorie front.
While this guide offers a great starting point, the key is tuning into your pup’s specific needs and adjusting accordingly. Ultimately, every dachshund is one-of-a-kind, with their unique nutritional profile shaped by factors like age, activity level, weight tendencies, and even food sensitivities.
The journey to optimal nourishment for your dachshund may have some trial and error, but it’s a rewarding investment into their long-term wellness and vitality. So, keep exploring.