18 Best Dog Foods for Dachshunds

Best Dog Foods for Dachshunds

Dachshunds are small dogs. They are the smallest of the hound breeds. They are also known as wieners due to their short stature and elongated bodies. The best foods for their small but tough bodies are those with the perfect mix of proteins, carbs, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Dachshunds are playful and energetic dogs but not as much as toy breeds. Therefore, their best foods should have enough calories to sustain their activity levels.

Although they need calories for energy, the caloric content should not be very high since Dachshunds are prone to obesity. The fat value for their best foods should be low to moderate. In addition, Dachshunds are predisposed to stomach sensitivities so their food should be free from artificial additives and fillers.

Furthermore, Dachshunds are susceptible to joint pain, arthritis, and hip dysplasia, so their best foods should have calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine. Their high activity levels call for frequent feeding to lower the risk of hypoglycemia. Choosing the right food lowers the risks of obesity, allergies, and digestive problems for a happy life.

The top-selling brands for the best dog food for Dachshunds are Royal Canin, Nutro, Wellness, Hill’s Science, and Farmina N & D. The average price is $41, ranging from $20 to $90. Puppies need more calories and proteins than adults and seniors for growth.

Here are our top 5 picks for the best food for Dachshunds:

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Best Overall
Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Made specifically for small dog breeds from 10 months and older
  • Fatty acids such has EPA and DHA help support healthy skin and coat
  • Contains L-carnitine to help maintain healthy weight
10
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Best Value
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Dog Food
Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Dog Food
  • Made only from high-quality protein sourced from real chicken
  • Kibble shape and texture helps clean teeth
  • Does not contain corn, wheat or soy protein
9.9
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Best Natural Option
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey & Oatmeal
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey & Oatmeal
  • Chicory root extract and oatmeal helps aid in gentle digestion
  • High-quality proteins and vitamins A and E support immune system
  • Flaxseed oil provides essential omega fatty acids for healthy skin
9.7
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Best Raw Food
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Stella's Super Beef Meal Mixers Dog Food Topper, 8 oz. Bag
Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Stella's Super Beef Meal Mixers Dog Food Topper, 8 oz. Bag
  • Tasty and delicious beef bites with freeze-dried raw ingredients
  • Only uses grass-fed beef and organic fruits and vegegtables
  • Has no added hormones and antibiotics
9.6
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Best for Healthy Weight
ORIJEN Fit & Trim Dog Food, Healthy Weight Recipe, Grain Free, Fresh & Raw Animal Ingredients, 13lb
ORIJEN Fit & Trim Dog Food, Healthy Weight Recipe, Grain Free, Fresh & Raw Animal Ingredients, 13lb
  • Recipe contains nutritious, cage-free eggs
  • Made with 85% quality animal ingredients
  • Protein sources include poultry and fish for complete nutrition
9.5
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Note: The prices quoted in this article are as of 9th February 2022

Best Overall
1. Royal Canin Dry Dog Food 

Mars Pet Food Company is no stranger to the best dog food, and this particular formula is no exception.

Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, 14 lb bag
10/10Our Score
  • Made specifically for small dog breeds from 10 months and older
  • Fatty acids such has EPA and DHA help support healthy skin and coat
  • Contains L-carnitine to help maintain healthy weight

It is crafted specifically for small, extra small, and toy dogs with a production date of February 2nd, 2012.  The main ingredients are Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Brown Rice, and Corn Gluten Meal. The caloric content of 359 Kcal/cup ensures your Dachshund stays active and maintains a healthy weight.

The protein and fat values are 25% and 14% for strong muscles and proper energy. Fiber and moisture values are 3.4% and 10% respectively. This meal contains EPA and DHA for neural wellness, proper vision, and mobility. Consuming this meal promotes heart wellness with methionine and L-carnitine. Antioxidants work together with vitamin C and E to boost immunity, while the small kibble size is perfect for miniature dogs like Dachshunds. 

This meal is highly palatable so you should control your dog’s portions to avoid overfeeding. Dogs weighing 2.2 lbs need ¼ cups for low and medium activity and ⅜ cups for high activity. In comparison, those weighing 4.4 lbs need ⅜ cups for low activity and ½ cups for medium activity and high activity. It is suitable for dogs who can tolerate grains

Best Value
2. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Dog Food

As the name suggests, this meal from Nutro provides wholesome nutrition essential for your dog’s overall health.

Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dry Dog Food
9.9/10Our Score
  • Made only from high-quality protein sourced from real chicken
  • Kibble shape and texture helps clean teeth
  • Does not contain corn, wheat or soy protein

The production date is February 2nd, 2015, and it targets all dog breeds and sizes. Chicken is the number one ingredient for premium protein to boost muscle power. Other key ingredients are Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, and Whole Grain Barley.

It helps Dachshunds maintain a healthy weight while providing sufficient energy with a caloric value of 343 Kcal/cup and a fat value of 14%. The protein, fiber, and moisture values are 22%, 3.5%, and 10%, respectively. This meal supports digestive health as it is jam-packed with natural fiber. It is also crafted with essential antioxidants for proper immunity.  Omega fatty acids give your Dachshund a soft skin and a shiny coat.

Dogs weighing 15 lbs need 1 to 1 ¼ cups per day, while those weighing 25 lbs need 1 ⅔ to 2 cups. Dogs With weights ranging from 35-65 lbs need 2 to 3 ¾ cups. Each dog is unique, and its nutritional needs may differ. You should, therefore, adjust the portions to suit your dog’s needs. This formula is suitable for dogs with sensitive tummies. 

Best Natural Food Option
3. Wellness Natural Pet Food Complete Health Dry Dog Food

This formula by Wellness is crafted to provide complete nutrition for your dog.

Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey & Oatmeal
9.7/10Our Score
  • Chicory root extract and oatmeal helps aid in gentle digestion
  • High-quality proteins and vitamins A and E support immune system
  • Flaxseed oil provides essential omega fatty acids for healthy skin

It uses wholesome and premium ingredients for all-rounded wellness. The first production date is October 2nd, 2001. Deboned Turkey and Chicken Meal are the first two ingredients for top-notch proteins to boost muscle power. Other key ingredients are Oatmeal, Ground Barley, and Peas for high-quality fiber to support bowel and gut health.

The protein value is 24% while the fat value is 12%. The fiber and moisture values are 4% and 10% respectively. It has a caloric value of 434 Kcal/cup for physical activity. This diet supports bone, joint, and muscle health with calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine. It is also good for the eyes as it contains beta-carotene. Serving this meal to your dog boosts the skin and coat appearance with omega fatty acids and vitamin A. 

In addition, this meal reduces fecal odor with yucca schidigera. Dogs weighing 7-17 lbs require 3 to 7 ½ cups per day. For mixed feeding, you should reduce the dry food by ⅓ cups for every 6-oz of wet food. This recipe is suitable for dogs with sensitive tummies as it is free from soy, corn, wheat, and gluten

Best Raw Food
4. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food Lil’ Bites

This meal by Stella & Chewy’s LLC is rich in flavor and provides wholesome benefits for your tiny dog.

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Stella's Super Beef Meal Mixers Dog Food Topper, 8 oz. Bag
9.6/10Our Score
  • Tasty and delicious beef bites with freeze-dried raw ingredients
  • Only uses grass-fed beef and organic fruits and vegegtables
  • Has no added hormones and antibiotics

The first production date is February 10th, 2019, and it is gaining popularity among pet parents. It’s crafted for small, extra small, and toy breeds. It is an excellent choice for your Dachshund as it is free from wheat, corn, soy, and artificial preservatives for sensitive stomachs.

The primary ingredients are Beef, Beef Kidney, Beef Liver, Beef Heart, and Beef Tripe for a high protein value of 37% for strong muscles. The caloric value is 235 Kcal/cup, and a fat value of 37% is essential for energy production. Both the fiber and moisture values are 5%. 

The use of raw ingredients combined with Freeze-Drying contributes to a richly-flavored diet to appeal to all dogs, including picky eaters. It also supports dental health and smooth digestion. Minimal processing ensures all essential nutrients are retained while taurine lowers the risks of heart problems.

The feeding instructions depend on your dog’s weight, with dogs weighing up to 5 lbs requiring ½ cup while those weighing 6-10 lbs need one cup. Dogs with weights ranging from 11-30 lbs need 1 ¼ to 2 cups. This diet suits dogs with grain allergies

Best for Healthy Weight
5. Orijen Fit & Trim Adult Dry Dog Food

This premium dog food from Champion Pet Foods will keep your dog fit and trim for an active and healthy life.

ORIJEN Fit & Trim Dog Food, Healthy Weight Recipe, Grain Free, Fresh & Raw Animal Ingredients, 13lb
9.5/10Our Score
  • Recipe contains nutritious, cage-free eggs
  • Made with 85% quality animal ingredients
  • Protein sources include poultry and fish for complete nutrition

 It is packed with essential proteins, fats, and nutrients that work together to give your dog a longer life span. The first production date is March 15th, 2019, targeting all dog breeds. It has a high protein content of 42% resulting from the first five ingredients, including Chicken, Chicken Liver, Turkey GibletsTurkey and Cod.

The high-quality protein supports muscle health, while the caloric content of 401 Kcal/cup combined with 13% fat value provides sufficient energy for your Dachshund. Consuming this formula lowers the risks of hip dysplasia, joint problems, and weak bones as it contains glucosamine, calcium, and phosphorus. It further ensures your dog’s skin and coat are bright with omega fatty acids. 

In addition, this meal is crafted with DHA for brain and vision health and is rich in fiber for smooth digestion. The daily consumption varies depending on your dog’s weight. Dogs weighing 5-15 lbs need ⅓ to ¾ cups for weight maintenance and ⅓ to ⅔ for weight loss. This meal is better for Dachshunds as it provides energy and strengthens the muscles. It is suitable for weight management

6. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

Hill’s Science is known for high-quality meals for premium nutrition, and this meal for small, extra small, and toy breeds follows suit.

 The production date is September 30th, 2004, with no history of recalls. The primary ingredients are Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Soybean Meal, and Whole Grain Sorghum. 

It has 371 calories per cup hence better for Dachshunds as it boosts energy levels and lowers the risks of obesity. The 20% protein value supports muscle health, while the fat value of 12.5% ensures your dog stays active and maintains a healthy weight. Calcium provides better bone health, while beta-carotene boosts vision health. This meal is good for heart health with taurine and L-carnitine. It also gives your pooch a visibly shiny coat and lustrous skin with omega fatty acids. 

Antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin E blend properly against infections. This meal is better for Dachshunds as it is naturally preserved with mixed tocopherols to lower the risk of sensitive stomachs. The daily consumption varies depending on your dog’s weight, with dogs weighing 2 lbs needing ¼ cups while those weighing 5 lbs need ⅝ cups. This diet suits dogs who can tolerate grains.

7. Farmina N&D Small Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food

This meal from Farmina Pet Foods is crafted from natural ingredients for a delicious and irresistible flavor that tempts picky eaters.

Farmina N&D Mini Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food
9.2/10Our Score

The first production date is April 2nd, 2014, and it targets small and medium breeds. This diet is better for Dachshunds as it is rich in proteins and fiber and has limited carbohydrates. 

Deboned Chicken and Dehydrated Chicken are the first two ingredients contributing to a high protein value of 35% for a lean muscle mass. Other primary ingredients are Potato, Chicken Fat, and Dehydrated Egg Product. The caloric value of 492 Kcal/cup and a fat value of 22% ensure your dog stays active throughout the day. The fiber and moisture values are 2.3% and 10%.

This formula lowers the risks of joint and bone problems with calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine, and chondroitin. It also supports cardiac health with methionine, taurine, and L-carnitine. In addition, consuming this meal promotes your puppy’s brain development and good eyesight with DHA and beta-carotene.

The daily consumption varies depending on your dog’s weight and activity levels. A transition period of ten days prepares your dog’s digestive system for the new meal. This recipe is suitable for dogs with grain allergies.

8. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Puppy Recipe Dry Dog Food

This formula from Wellness provides core benefits for the overall wellness of your puppy.

 The first production date is April 10th, 2018, with no history of recalls. The first five ingredients are Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, and Chicken Fat, with a caloric value of 504 Kcal/cup for energy production. The high protein value of 38% promotes muscle health while the fat and fiber values of 18% and 4.5% fat and fiber values provide energy and promote digestive health.

Calcium and phosphorus promote bone health, while omega fatty acids give your dog a visibly shiny coat and smooth skin. Your puppy’s brain is still developing, and this meal is an excellent choice as it contains DHA. It is also crafted with yucca schidigera and taurine to reduce stool odor and support heart health.

Consuming this meal protects your dog from infections with the combination of antioxidants, Vitamin C, and vitamin E. Probiotics boost digestive health and the small kibble size is perfect for your petite puppy. Dogs weighing 3 pounds need ⅓ to ⅔  cups, while those with weights ranging from 7-18 pounds need 1 to 1 ¾ cups per day. Dogs with sensitive tummies and grain allergies are well-suited for this meal.

9. Nulo Small Breed Duck & Chickpea Wet Canned Food

Serve your puppy this savory meal from Nulo Pet Foods for premium nutrition and healthy growth and development.

The production date is August 7th, 2020, with no history of recalls. It targets small, extra small, and toy breeds. It comes in a small kibble size for your puppy’s small mouth to ease chewing and digestion.

The first three ingredients are Duck, Duck Broth, and Turkey Liver for high-quality protein for thick muscles. The other two key ingredients are Dicalcium Phosphate and  Ground Lentils. The caloric value of 223 Kcal/can and a fat value of 8% boost your dog’s energy levels, while L-carnitine breaks down excess fats for ideal body weight.

Amino acids promote heart health and lean muscle mass, while natural fiber and inulin are essential for smooth digestion. It also supports skin and coat health with omega fatty acids. You can serve it as a topper or a standalone meal. The feeding guidelines depend on your dog’s breed size, with toy breeds needing ½ to 1 can daily while small dogs need 1 to 1 ¾ cans. Medium and large dogs need 1 ¾ to 2 ¾ cans and 2 ¾ to 3 ½ cans, respectively. This diet is suitable for dogs with sensitive tummies.

10. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Senior Wet Dog Food

If your Dachshund is approaching their golden years, then this nutritious meal from Blue Buffalo is an excellent choice.

 The first production date is June 25th, 2014, and it is crafted for all dog breeds. This meal is a high-protein diet to boost muscle strength. This results from the primary ingredients: Turkey, Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chicken Liver, and Potatoes. 

It has 437 calories per can with a fat value of 6% to keep your dog active. The protein, fiber, and moisture values are 8%, 1.5%, and 78%, respectively. This diet ensures maximum absorption of essential minerals with chelated minerals and lowers the risk of dehydration with the high moisture content. It is jam-packed with real fruits and vegetables for antioxidants to lower your visits to the vet, thus saving you money.

You can serve it as a treat, a topper, or a standalone meal. For every 10 pounds of body weight, you should give ¾ to 1 can per day. A transition period of 14 days is beneficial for your dog as it prepares the digestive system. Start with 25% of Blue Buffalo and gradually increase the amounts. This formula is suitable for senior dogs with sensitive tummies.

11. Wellness CORE Small Breed Adult Recipe Dry Dog Food

This formula by Wellness is suitable for Dachshunds as it has chondroitin, glucosamine, calcium, and phosphorus to lower the risk of joint problems and hip dysplasia.

It is also crafted with taurine, antioxidants, and probiotics for the heart, immune, and digestive health. It comes in small kibbles for easy chewing.

12. Nutro Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food

This recipe from Nutro has no wheat, soy, or corn, thus perfect for your sensitive Dachshund.

 Chicken is the number one ingredient for high-quality proteins for strong muscles. It has a caloric content of 352 Kcal/cup and a fat value of 16% to provide enough energy for physical activity.

13. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for Small Breeds

This delicacy from Blue Buffalo is crafted with real meat and fresh vegetables to mimic wild dog food that appeals to your dog’s instincts.

 It targets small, extra small, and toy dog breeds. Deboned Chicken and  Chicken Meal are the first two ingredients for premium proteins to boost muscle health.

14. Holistic Select Small & Mini Breed Adult Anchovy, Sardine & Chicken Meal Recipe

This tangy formula from Wellness LLC targets small, extra small, and toy breeds like your Dachshund.

It is crafted with the needs of your petite fur baby in mind for optimal nutrition. It has glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine for joint, gut, and heart health. It is further fortified with omega fatty acids for skin health.

15. Now Fresh Dog Food

NomNom Pet Foods produces highly nutritious and fresh recipes using real and natural ingredients.

Now Fresh Dog Food
8.8/10Our Score

The formulas are customized according to your dog’s needs. And it doesn’t stop there; the fresh meals are delivered right to your doorstep, thus saving you time. Consuming these meals will leave your dog excited and healthy.

16. Instinct Raw Boost Small-Breed Recipe With Real Chicken

This mouth-watering diet from Nature’s Variety is freeze-Dried for a burst of raw flavors to tempt even the fussy feeders.

 Chicken is the number one ingredient for strong muscles. This diet supports joint and hip health with glucosamine and chondroitin. The caloric content of 469 Kcal/cup keeps your dog active.

17. Cesar Wet Dog Food in Beef

This formula by Cesar is an excellent choice for Dachshunds as Beef is the number one ingredient for high-quality proteins for lean muscles.

 It comes in easy-to-serve trays to save you time. Your picky eater will enjoy the rich culinary experience from this formula and will come for more and more.

18. Power Dog Organic Dry Dog Food

This low glycemic grain-free formula supports brain and vision health with DHA.

Only Natural Pet Power Dog Organic Dry Dog Food
8.6/10Our Score

 It also contains calcium and phosphorus for better bone health and is packed with antioxidants to protect your dog from free radicals that cause inflammatory diseases like cancer. In addition, it has omega fatty acids for skin and coat health.

What facts should you know about the best dog foods for Dachshunds?

Here are the facts that you should know about the best dog foods for Dachshunds:

  • Dachshunds are prone to joint problems and hip dysplasia; hence their best foods should include supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, and phosphorus that promote bone and joint health
  • The best dog foods for Dachshunds should have above-average fat content for energy production. Dachshunds are susceptible to obesity, and high-fat contents can aggravate this, thus leading to heart problems. The fat should come from healthy sources like flaxseed.
  • The best dog foods for Dachshund should have a high protein content. The proteins should come from high-quality, specific, and recognizable sources.
  • Dachshunds are predisposed to sensitive tummies; hence their best foods should be free from artificial additives, preservatives, and common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.
  • Dachshunds are high-energy dogs hence need moderate to high calories and carbs for their energy needs. The carbs should come from wholesome sources like sweet potatoes and oatmeal.
  • The best dog foods for Dachshunds should not contain unidentified meat meals or by-products. They should be specified like chicken meal or salmon meal.
  • The best dog food for Dachshunds should keep your dog’s coat and skin smooth and shiny. The foods should, therefore, have omega fatty acids or vitamin A.

What are the Best Dog Foods for Dachshunds according to Sizes?

Best Dog Foods for small-sized Dachshunds

The best dog foods for medium-sized Dachshunds

  • Royal Canin Medium Puppy Formula. It is crafted to meet the energy needs of your Dachshund. It is packed with antioxidants for immunity. It is also crafted with digestible proteins and prebiotics for digestive health.
  • Fromm gold Dog Food Weight Management. It helps your medium Dachshund maintain a healthy weight. It is crafted with Turkey Liver, Duck, Chicken, Lamb, and Whole Eggs for high-quality proteins.

The best dog foods for large Dachshunds

What are the best dog foods for Dachshunds with different health conditions?

The best dog foods for Dachshunds with itchy skin

The best dog foods for picky eater Dachshund

The best dog foods for Dachshunds with pancreatitis. 

The best dog foods for Dachshunds with a sensitive stomach

The best dog foods for Dachshunds with allergies

What are the best dogs with different ingredients for Dachshunds? 

The best dog foods with pumpkin for Dachshunds

  • Wild Earth Clean Protein Formula. The primary ingredients are Dried Yeast, Chickpeas, Oats, Peas, and Pea Protein. Pumpkin is on the ingredient list. All these ingredients are proper as they contribute to your dog’s overall well-being.
  • Earthborn Holistic Venture Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food. It is crafted with butternut Squash and  Pumpkin for high-quality fiber to boost digestive health. Other main ingredients are Wild Boar, Pork Meal, and Tapioca which are proper ingredients. 

The best chicken-free dog food for Dachshunds

What Can Different Dog Breeds Eat Dachshunds Food?

Best Dachshunds Dog Foods for Beagles

These two dog breeds are highly active. However, beagles are more shedders than Dachshunds. Here are two foods common to both breeds:

Best Dachshunds Dog Foods for Chiweenies

Both breeds are small-sized, but Dachshunds have a high impulse to chase while impulsive chasing is low in Chiweenies. Below are the best foods common to both breeds:

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Sarah Brady

Sarah Brady is an animal lover and the proud dog-mom of a Golden Retriever named Brody and an Italian Greyhound named Jessup. Unfortunately, Jessup developed serious allergies to many different types of dog foods and ingredients when she was just a puppy. Meanwhile, Brody could eat seemingly anything and carry on as healthy as could be. Sarah spent hours of time researching and testing different foods and brands before finding something that worked for little Jessup. She wants Dog Food Care to simplify this experience for future dog-parents who face food allergy or tolerance issues of their own.