Best Dog Food For Pugs

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All the way from the Ming dynasty of China comes this ancient dog breed. Pugs are popular toy dogs that are very companionable, well-tempered, and energetic.

Their mood is usually dependent on their own because of their sensitive and intuitive nature. Moreover, these dogs are small, attention-seeking, and also love to get a lot of sleep. Although they are not big barkers, they will captivate you with their large, dark, and round eyes.

Compare Best Dog Food For Pugs

OVERALL BEST 1. Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Adult Recipe View on Chewy Read Review	BEST FOR ALLERGIES 2. Eukanuba Lifestage Formulas Small Breed Dog Food View on Prf Read Review	BEST FOR WEIGHT LOSS 3. Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food View on Prf Read Review	BEST BUDGET OPTION 4. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Formula Dog Dry Food View on Prf Read Review	BEST HIGH PROTEIN 5. Farmina Chicken & Pomegranate Adult Mini View on Chewy Read Review
Protein 25% Min	Protein 28%	Protein 21% Min	Protein 25.0% Min	Protein 30% Min
Fat 16% Min	Fat 18%	Fat 12% Min	Fat 14.0% Min	Fat 18% Min
Fiber 4% Max	Fiber 4%	Fiber 4% Max	Fiber 3.0% Max	Fiber 2.9% Max
Calories 3,645 kcal/kg or 408 kcal/cup ME	Calories 406.42 kcal/cup	Calories 382 kcal/cup	Calories 370 kcal/cup	Calories 435 kcal/cup

Our criteria

Many popular dog food theories are based on dog food marketing, which is not suitable for dogs as they have a unique gastrointestinal system. To keep your dog healthy and live a long life, follow the World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s guidelines when choosing dog foods.

These include meeting AAFCO guidelines, investing in nutritional research, having canine or veterinary nutritionists on staff, and having strong quality control measures. It is crucial to remember that good nutrition is more important than clever marketing, and the dog food you buy should be the most nutritious for your dog, even if the ingredients don’t appeal to you personally. Strong quality control measures are essential for any pet food company.

The 5 Best Dog Food For Pugs Reviewed

The decision to feed your pug food specifically for small breeds is important to nurture your pet. Such foods usually contain more calories per ounce compared to other dog foods. A nutritious and healthy diet will be great for the health and mood of your pug. From the many small-breed dog food types to choose from, we selected some of the best.

OVERALL BEST

1.

Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Adult Recipe

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Product Info

• Protein: 25% Min
• Fat: 16% Min
• Fiber: 4% Max
• Calories: 3,645 kcal/kg or 408 kcal/cup ME

Pros

• Made with deboned turkey and oatmeal
• Optimized to support ideal body weight in small breeds
• Plenty of essential fatty acids for healthy skin and coat

Cons

• Some dogs are sensitive to chicken ingredients
• Not a grain-free recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy, high-quality diet for your pug try this Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Adult Recipe. Made with deboned turkey and oatmeal, it is protein-rich and highly digestible.

It features three animal proteins for high energy and strong muscles, plus plenty of healthy fats for beautiful skin and coat. It is also optimized to support your dog’s ideal body weight.

BEST FOR ALLERGIES

2.

Eukanuba Lifestage Formulas Small Breed Dog Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 28%
• Fat: 18%
• Fiber: 4%
• Calories: 406.42 kcal/cup

Pros

• Prebiotics that are good for your Pug’s digestion
• Antioxidants to support your dog’s immune system
• 3D DentaDefense System to reduce tartar build-up

Cons

• This is a maintenance dog food, not suitable for puppies
• Suitable for small dogs but if your Pug is larger you should look for a different food

Eukanuba Lifestage Formlas Small Breed Dog Food has a specialized fiber system made from natural beet pulp and prebiotic FOS (fructooligosaccharides), a natural sugar, to promote nutrient absorption and healthy digestion. This formula is rich in antioxidants to support a strong, healthy immune system.

This Eukanuba formula also has a smaller, nutrient-dense kibble that makes it easier for your small dog to grasp and chew the food. The 3D DentaDefense System has been proven to reduce tartar build-up in 28 days.

BEST FOR WEIGHT LOSS

3.

Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 21% Min
• Fat: 12% Min
• Fiber: 4% Max
• Calories: 382 kcal/cup

Pros

• Affordable and high in quality
• Made in the USA
• Picky eaters may love this dog food

Cons

• Contains some plant protein (pea protein)

For Pugs with sensitive digestion or food sensitivities, we like Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dog Food. This formula contains omega-6 fatty acids and other nutrients to help your dog regain his healthy skin and glossy coat.

It has a clinically-proven blend of antioxidants with Vitamins C and E to help support your dog’s immune system. This formula contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Also available in a canned version.

BEST BUDGET OPTION

4.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Formula Dog Dry Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 25.0% Min
• Fat: 14.0% Min
• Fiber: 3.0% Max
• Calories: 370 kcal/cup

Pros

• Perfect for a small dog’s metabolism
• Helps a small dog maintain a healthy weight
• Enhanced palatability
• Reduces the formation of tartar

Cons

• Royal Canin formulas can be confusing to buyers because they have so many
• Not suitable for puppies

Our top pick for the best dog food for Pugs is Royal Canin Health Nutrition Small Adult Dry Dog Food.

Royal Canin has several product lines including a line based on breed size. Small dogs, like Pugs, can burn up more calories per pound than bigger dogs.

They are dynamos! This Royal Canin formula meets the high energy needs of small dogs and uses L-Carnitine to ensure calories don’t get turned into fat.

Ideal levels of EPA and DHA give your Pug a healthy skin and coat. Plus, the kibble formula can help reduce the formation of tartar.

BEST HIGH PROTEIN

5.

Farmina Chicken & Pomegranate Adult Mini

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Product Info

• Protein: 30% Min
• Fat: 18% Min
• Fiber: 2.9% Max
• Calories: 435 kcal/cup

Pros

• This formula is 60 percent protein, 20 percent organic spelt and organic oats, and 20 percent vegetables and fruits, vitamins and minerals
• 92 percent of the protein comes from animal sources
• Farmina has chicken, lamb, and cod low grain formulas
• Comes in Medium and Maxi sizes with larger kibble pieces for bigger dogs

Cons

• This food is more expensive than some of the American brands we have recommended
• Customers report that the food has a strong, fresh odor, especially the cod formula, that some buyers don’t like; but dogs like it

Deboned chicken is the first ingredient in Farmina Chicken & Pomegranate Adult Mini dry dog food. This formula is high in protein with limited carbohydrates and lower fiber. It has a smaller kibble size that makes it easy for small and mini breeds to eat.

Unlike many dog foods that are higher in protein, this food has 92 percent protein from animal sources. Farmina foods are also low-glycemic and GMO-free.

This low grain formula does not contain peas, lentils, pea protein, chickpeas, or added plant oils. Farmina is one of the dog food brands that have been testing very well with dogs tested for DCM and taurine levels. Made in Italy.

Considerations When Buying The Best Dog Food For Pug

Feeding pugs a balanced diet is crucial for their health. A wide and low-rimmed bowl is ideal for better breathing. When choosing the best dog food, consider factors like calorie- density, healthy fats, antioxidants, and weight management. Pugs have fast metabolisms, requiring more calories per pound than larger breeds.

Healthy fats provide energy, support healthy skin and coat, and promote brain development. Antioxidants boost the immune system and keep the dog healthy. Regularly weigh your dog to avoid overeating and consider weight management for health issues.

Consult your veterinarian for expert advice on choosing the right dog food for your pet. Remember, weight management is essential for pugs due to potential health issues.

Nutritional Requirements

Pug nutrition is very important for their steady growth and overall development. The nutritional requirements here are recommended by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials).

• Protein: This is the most important nutritional requirement for your energetic friend. You should feed your pug between 18 and 22 percent protein. This should depend on their age and energy needs. Although some high-quality dog foods tend to exceed this protein requirement, each serving should depend on your observation of the dog’s activities.
• Carbs: Many people believe that carbohydrates in dog foods are empty calories or filler ingredients, but this is false. Carbs provide your dog with energy, fiber, and other nutrients. Simple sugars and starches in carbohydrates help brain function. Complex carbohydrates help regulate your dog’s glucose levels, preventing sugar spikes. They keep your dog from feeling hungry all the time. The fiber from some carbohydrates helps regulate digestion.
• Fiber: Your dog also needs fiber in his diet. Fiber generally comes in soluble and insoluble forms. Soluble fiber, found in beet pulp, chicory, and inulin, attracts water and turns material into a gel. This slows down the digestive process. Insoluble fiber, such as cellulose, adds bulk to your dog’s digestive matter and can help speed the process. It is also used in some weight-control diets.
• Minerals and Vitamins: Fruits and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and green beans are great additions to your dog’s meal. Moreover, you should not force them to eat this exclusively because their digestive system is not suitable for a vegetarian diet.

How Much Should You Feed Your Pug by Age?

Every pug is unique in its own way and also has unique needs. Moreover, they have different energy levels, which may require that they be fed according to their caloric needs. Feeding your pug the right kind of food in proper amounts will go a long way. Furthermore, a good feeding pattern will keep your dog very healthy and happy.

• Puppy: Puppies require about 22% protein for rapid growth and development. They will also need 50 calories per pound of the puppy’s body weight. Also, 1/4–1/2 cup of puppy food is necessary four times a day when they are 8–12 weeks old. Furthermore, at 3–6 months, they should be fed 1/4–3/3 cups of dog food three times a day.
• Adults: Adults need about 18% protein to help maintain the body’s organs. You should also give them 40 calories per pound of body weight. They will also require 1/3 to 1/2 cups of quality food twice a day. Moreover, as they approach their senior years, you can reduce this gradually.
• Senior pugs have a slow metabolism and little or no activity level. You should also give them 1/2 cup of quality dog food once a day.

Pug Food Allergies And Food-Related Health Issues

There are a lot of health issues with pugs, and most of them have a lot to do with their weight. Additionally, weight management is essential for this dog breed. Some of the food allergies and other food-related health issues are:

• Allergies: Most of the allergic reactions your dog may have could come in the form of skin problems. Allergies may come up as a result of a weak immune system. So, your pug’s diet should contain low carbohydrates and no grains to avoid allergic reactions. Moreover, as a pug owner, you should know the kinds of ingredients that trigger your pet’s allergies. Also, your veterinarian can help you identify these triggers. Knowing these allergens can help you carefully select the right food for your dog.
• Arthritis: These compact and sturdy dogs are often bulky. This will put too much weight on their joints. Also, this may, in turn, lead to arthritis. Moreover, canine glucosamine is great for arthritic joints and comes highly recommended.
• Hip dysplasia: This condition occurs when the hip joint’s ball and socket do not fit well together. It could be caused by several factors, including genetics, injuries, trauma, and overfeeding. The resultant effect is mobility problems, which may or may not show on the outside. When it comes to hip dysplasia in small-breed dogs, pugs rank as the second most likely to have such a condition. This ranking was done by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). Moreover, to prevent or provide relief from this condition, your dog should maintain a lean diet. Guard against extra weight and include glucosamine and chondroitin in their diet to act as joint supplements. Furthermore, if you notice your dog having problems with mobility, get joint support or weight management dog food.
• Breathing Difficulties: The narrow nostrils of these dogs cause them to have short snouts. This can develop into severe issues if your pugs become overweight. Additionally, extra weight can put their breathing under too much pressure and obstruct their airway. Conditions like stroke and heart disease are not uncommon in this breed. Furthermore, pugs should be placed on a very healthy, lean diet, complemented by frequent exercise. These measures can help manage their weight effectively.

Final Thoughts

Pugs are comfortable house dogs that require a high protein and essential nutrients diet to prevent excess weight. They enjoy eating and playing, and daily exercise helps keep them fit. This review of the best dog food for pugs will help you make the perfect choice for your pet.