Ingredients to Avoid in Small Dog Food And Where They're Commonly Found

Feeding small dogs well involves more than just grabbing any bag from the pet aisle. Small dogs have unique nutritional needs, and they can be more sensitive to certain ingredients than larger breeds. Choosing the right food impacts their health, energy levels, and even longevity. With the flood of pet food choices out there, it’s easy to be swayed by clever marketing rather than actual quality. Here’s a rundown of specific ingredients to avoid in small dog food, why they’re harmful, and what to prioritize on labels to give your little friend the best.

Artificial Preservatives (BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin)

What to Look For: Scan for synthetic preservatives like BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and ethoxyquin. These additives are often found in cheaper, mass-produced dog foods to extend shelf life.

Why Avoid Them: BHA and BHT have been linked to cancer in animals, while ethoxyquin is associated with liver and kidney damage. For small dogs, these ingredients can pose a higher risk over time. Look for foods preserved naturally with ingredients like tocopherols (vitamin E) or rosemary extract, which are safer and come with added antioxidant benefits.

Artificial Colors and Flavors

What to Look For: Avoid Red 40, Blue 2, Yellow 5, and any generic “artificial flavor.” These are non-nutritive additives often found in low-quality commercial dog foods.

Why Avoid Them: Artificial colors and flavors do nothing for your dog nutritionally and can cause allergies, hyperactivity, and skin issues. For small dogs, who are more sensitive due to their size, these effects can be especially pronounced. Choose foods with natural colors and flavors, derived from ingredients like turmeric or beet powder.

Fillers and Low-Quality Grains (Corn, Wheat Gluten)

What to Look For: Watch for terms like “corn gluten meal,” “wheat gluten,” and “grain by-products” on ingredient lists.

Why Avoid Them: Fillers like corn and wheat offer little nutritional value and can be hard on a small dog’s digestive system, causing issues like bloating or chronic diarrhea. They’re also common allergens. Look for foods that prioritize real meat as the primary ingredient, with easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes.

Animal By-Products and Rendered Meats

What to Look For: Terms like “meat by-products” or “poultry by-product meal” signal by-products and should be avoided.

Why Avoid Them: By-products vary widely in nutritional quality and may be harder for small dogs to digest, leading to digestive upset. Foods that specify their protein sources, like “chicken” or “beef,” are generally more nutritious and digestible.

Propylene Glycol

What to Look For: This synthetic ingredient, found in some semi-moist dog foods, should be avoided.

Why Avoid It: Propylene glycol is related to antifreeze, which has known toxic effects. For small dogs with lower body weight, even low levels can lead to digestive distress and other health concerns. Look for foods that use natural moisture agents, such as glycerin from natural sources.

Added Sugars

What to Look For: Ingredients like “sucrose,” “corn syrup,” or “fructose” are common in treats but should be avoided.

Why Avoid Them: Sugar may improve taste but adds empty calories, increasing the risk of weight gain, diabetes, and dental decay. Small dogs, who are prone to obesity and dental issues, will benefit from treats with no added sugars.

Generic Animal Fats

What to Look For: Avoid “animal fat” or “poultry fat” if the source isn’t specified.

Why Avoid Them: Without a clear source, these fats may be of low quality or even rancid, causing digestive problems. Opt for foods with specified fat sources, like “chicken fat” or “salmon oil,” which support coat and skin health.

Carrageenan

What to Look For: This thickening agent often appears in wet or canned foods.

Why Avoid It: Linked to gastrointestinal inflammation, carrageenan can lead to chronic digestive problems, especially in small dogs with sensitive stomachs. Choose wet foods with safer thickening agents like agar-agar or none at all.

Soy and Soybean Meal

What to Look For: Ingredients like “soybean meal” or “soy protein isolate.”

Why Avoid It: Soy is difficult for many dogs to digest and is a common allergen, which can lead to itching and ear infections. Instead, select foods with animal-based proteins, which are more digestible and nutrient-rich.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

What to Look For: MSG or “monosodium glutamate.”

Why Avoid It: MSG can cause adverse reactions, including nausea and muscle weakness, particularly in small dogs. Stick to foods with natural flavors from quality ingredients.

Sodium Hexametaphosphate

What to Look For: Found in dental products and foods marketed for tartar control.

Why Avoid It: Though intended to reduce tartar, this chemical has been associated with digestive and kidney issues. Stick to safer dental chews or regular tooth brushing.

Choosing the Best Food for Your Small Dog

Selecting dog food goes beyond a “natural” label. Check ingredient lists for specifics, prioritizing quality proteins, natural preservatives, and whole foods. Small dogs have unique needs, and feeding them high-quality, clean food free of harmful additives is an investment in their long-term health.