10 Best Dog Food for Dachshunds

Dachshund is a small dog breed that is characterized by a long body and short legs. The dog breed has floppy ears and a friendly personality that make it a great pet. A Dachshund is an intelligent dog that has a short coat that has moderate shedding and is easy to groom and maintain.  Dachshunds have a tendency to bark and dig but the behavior can be corrected though training.

Due to their physique, Dachshunds do not require so much exercise. The dog breed comes in two different sizes: miniature and standard. Miniature Dachshund is 5 to 6 inches tall and weighs up to 11 pounds while the standard Dachshund is 8 to 9 inches tall and weighs 16 to 32 pounds as an adult. No matter the size of your Dachshund, it is important for you to feed him with quality and healthy food to ensure he lives a long and healthy life.

Important Factors to Consider when Buying Food for Dachshunds

There are several factors that you need to consider when shopping for the best food for Dachshunds. The age and weight of your pet can determine the kind of food to feed him. However; it is important for you to consider the health of your dog.

Dachshunds have several health problems that they are susceptible to get.  Here are some of the common health problems that Dachshunds are prone to and some of the considerations you need to make when choosing food for a dog with any of the health conditions.

Obesity

Dachshunds are prone to obesity due to their structure. They can easily gain weight even without giving them extra calories. It is important for you to ensure that that you feed your Dachshund with a low calorie diet especially if he is already overweight. It is important for you to avoid overfeeding you dog and ensure that you give him a healthy snack or treat that has low calorie levels.

Bone and Joint Problems

Dachshunds suffer chondrodysplasia which makes their joints prone to a variety of problems. The bone and joint problem mainly happens within the dog’s vertebrae, which are interconnected rather poorly. Dachshund owners should look for dog foods that provide the dog with all the nutrients he needs for joints, bones and back support. Look for dog food that contains ingredients such as glucosamine and chrondotin to help in joint health.

Coat and Skin Issues

It is common for Dachshunds to suffer from different skin and coat problems. Most skin and coat problems are genetic. It is impossible for you to correct the genetic problem but you can promote a healthy skin and coat through healthy diet. Ingredients such as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and fish oil are great sources of nutrients that your dog need to have a healthy skin and coat.

Urinary Problems and Stones

Urinary issues and stones is another common health problem affecting Dachshunds. If your dog is suffering from any form of urinary problems, it is advisable for you to consult with your veterinarian. The veterinarian can recommend a special prescription diet that suits your dog’s health condition.

Anal Gland Problems

It is common for dogs to suffer experiences constipation or diarrhea especially after a change in diet. However; it is even more common for Dachshunds to suffer from constipation or diarrhea. If your dog is unable to digest food, it might become difficult for him to properly empty.

Foods with high levels of fiber can especially be difficult for your Dachshund to digest. The best food for Dachshunds with digestion problems is one with easily digested proteins and fiber. The dog food should also have probiotics to ensure a healthy digestive system.

We highly recommend you first consult with your veterinarian first before introducing any new food to your dog if he suffers from any of the health conditions we have discussed above. With proper treatment and a healthy diet that suits your dog’s health condition, your Dachshund can have a long and healthy and happy life.

Top 5 Best Dog Foods for Dachshunds

There are so many dog food brands in the market, making it challenging for new Dachshund owners to select the dog food that suits your dog’s nutritional needs. We have tested and done a thorough research of the dog food brands available in the market today. Here are reviews for some of the best dog foods for Dachshunds that provide your dog with all the nutrients he needs.

#1) Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food

The Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food is a great choice for small dog breeds. It is a high-quality dog food brand that has quality ingredients. The dog food is grain-free and does not contain any wheat or corn. It contains deboned turkey as the first listed ingredient to ensure your dachshund gets the protein he needs.

The dog food also contains turkey meal and chicken meal to provide your adult dog with the wholesome nutrition he needs. It is formulated with Glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain bone and joint health and support your dog’s mobility. Wellness CORE Natural dog food contains Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed and salmon oil to support your canine’s skin and coat health.

The dog food comes in form of kibbles that are coated with probiotics to support the dog’s digestive health. The dry dog food has broccoli, kale and spinach which are rich sources of nutrients, minerals and fiber.

Pros

• The dog food is made in the USA under stern quality controls
• It does not contain meat by-products, wheat, corn, soy, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
• The food formula has deboned turkey as the first listed ingredient to provide the protein your dog needs.
• It includes Glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy bones and joints and to support the mobility of your canine.
• The dry dog food contains Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed and salmon oil to support the skin and coat of your Dachshund.
• The kibbles are coated with probiotics to support the digestive tract.

Cons

• It is an expensive dog food.

#2) Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Dog Food is a protein rich dog food that is fortified with vitamins, minerals, probiotics and other supplements for optimal nutritional value for your Dachshund. It is made in the USA for maximum safety and quality. The dog food comes in form of small kibbles that are suitable for small jaws.

The small breed dog food contains high-quality protein for muscle development and healthy carbs to provide your dog with enough energy for an active life. It is supplemented with Glucosamine for joint health and mobility. The dog food contains Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to ensure a healthy skin and coat in your Dachshund. It has vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants for immune system health. The dog food does not contain corn, wheat, soy or chicken by-product meals.

Pros

• The dog food is in form of small kibbles that are easy for small dog breeds to chew.
• It is a protein rich food that provides your dog with high-quality protein for muscle development.
• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Dog Food is formulated with Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
• The food formula has Glucosamine for joint health and improved mobility.
• It does not have any corn, soy, color, by-products or preservatives.
• The dog food is made in the USA for safety and quality.

#3) NUTRO Adult Small Breed Dog Food

The NUTRO Adult Small Breed Dog Food is a quality dog food that is suitable for small breeds. It contains whole grains to avoid the empty calories refined grains offer. The dog food is made to promote healthy skin, soft and shiny coat with omega-6 fatty acid (linoleic acid) and zinc. It has real chicken as the first ingredient to provide your dog with proteins for muscle development.

The dog food has whole brown rice and whole grain oatmeal which are great carbohydrate sources. It contains a blend of antioxidants to boost your dog’s immune system. The food formula is made in the USA under strict safety and quality guidelines. It does not contain no by-products, corn, wheat, soy protein, or artificial flavors. The dog food contains natural fiber for healthy digestion and essential antioxidants to boost the immunity.

Pros

• The dog food is in form of small kibbles that are suitable for small breeds and are ideal to naturally reduce plaque and tartar buildup in the dog’s teeth.
• It has optimal levels of omega-6 fatty acid (linoleic acid) and zinc to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat in your Dachshund.
• NUTRO Adult Small Breed Dog Food has real chicken as the first ingredient for muscle growth and development.
• It includes whole brown rice and whole grain oatmeal which are great carbohydrate sources to provide energy and healthy fiber.
• The Dachshund food is made in the USA under strict safety and quality guidelines.
• It does not have any by-products, corn, wheat, soy protein, or artificial flavors.

Cons

• It does not contain probiotics, which may be helpful for supporting your dachshund’s digestive system.

#4) Taste of the Wild Appalachian Flavor Small Breed Dog Food

Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Premium Dry Dog Food is a grain free dog food recipe that is made using real venison as the first ingredient. It also has other real protein-rich ingredients such as lamb, egg, duck and ocean fish proteins for lean nutrition and to aid muscle growth and support strong muscles.

The dry dog food has added vitamins and antioxidants from real fruits and vegetables to support the overall health of your Dachshund. It contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat in dog. The dog food is made using ingredients from trusted and sustainable sources and does not have grain, corn, wheat, filler, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. It includes proprietary K9 strain probiotic blend to support your dog’s digestive health.

Pros

• It is made in the USA by a family owned and run Company that uses advanced food safety protocols to ensure the food is healthy and safe for your dog.
• The dry dog food has omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to ensure a healthy, shiny and smooth coat and skin.
• All the ingredients used to make the dog food are from trusted sources.
• It does not contain any corn, wheat, filler, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The food formula is made using real venison, lamb, egg, duck and ocean fish proteins to aid muscle growth and development.
• Taste of the Wild Appalachian Dog Food has proprietary K9 strain probiotic to improve food digestion and absorption.

Cons

• It is an expensive dog food formula.

#5) Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dog Food

Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Dog Food that is made using wholesome, nutritious ingredients to ensure a healthy lifestyle. It contains deboned turkey, chicken, and salmon which provide quality protein to help in muscle growth and development. The dog food does not have corn, wheat or soy.

The food formula is designed for small dog breeds. It provides your dog with the calories and energy he needs to remain active and healthy.  The food is in small kibbles that are easy for small dogs to chew. It is made in the USA with safety precaution and premium quality ingredients. The food contains Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin. It is formulated with vitamins A and C to boost the immune system of your dog.

Pros

• It contains Chondroitin Sulfate to maintain healthy joints and bones in dogs.
• The dog food has deboned turkey, chicken, and salmon as the first ingredients to provide your dog with protein for muscle growth.
• It is formulated with Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to ensure that your Dachshund has a healthy and shiny coat.
• The Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Dog Food has vitamins A and C to boost the immune system of your pet.
• It is a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs since it does not does not contain corn, wheat or soy.

#6) Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food is a quality dog food formula that is designed to provide your dog with the exact nutrition he needs for a healthy lifestyle. It provides your dog with wholesome ingredients like savory chicken meal to provide your dog with enough protein for muscle development.

The dry dog food is made in the USA with quality ingredients and strict requirements for purity and nutrient content. It does not contain any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. The dog food is ideal for dogs with food allergies and stomach sensitivities. It has Omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your Dachshund’s skin and coat. The food includes vitamin E and C blend that helps support a healthy immune system in your dog.

Pros

• It is a safe and healthy dog food that is gentle on your dog’s stomach.
• The dog food is made in the USA using quality ingredients and strict safety protocols.
• The Hill’s Science Diet Adult dog food contains Omega-6 fatty acids that support the skin and coat of your dog.
• It is supplemented with antioxidant and vitamin E and C to help support a healthy immune system in your Dachshund.
• It does not contain preservatives, artificial colors and flavors.
• The manufactures offers a 100% refund policy if your puppy doesn’t like the kibble.

#7) Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food

Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food is a reliable adult dog food formula that contains quality protein sources, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy oils for a healthy lifestyle. It has Sunflower Oil which is rich in Linoleic Acid for a healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs.

The dry dog food is fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, taurine, natural antioxidant to boost the immunity of your dog and for a healthy eyesight and hearing. It does not have any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. The Nutro Ultra Adult Dry Dog Food is made in the manufacturer’s own facilities to ensure safety and quality. It is made using only natural ingredients that are quality and healthy for your dog.

Pros

• It has a combined protein sources from high-quality sources for improved muscle growth and development.
• The dog food contains antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system, a healthy heart and sharp mind.
• It does not have any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
• The food formula has a very reasonable price tag.
• It contains Sunflower Oil for a healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs.

#8) Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient

Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient is a reliable dog food formula made for dogs with food sensitivities. It contains easily digestible carbohydrates that do not have extra fillers or additives. The dog food does not contain wheat, corn, soy, gluten or artificial preservatives, colors or flavors. The formula has high-quality salmon as the first ingredient to provide your Dachshund with enough proteins for muscle growth.

The dog food contains probiotics and prebiotics to aid in food digestion and absorption. It contains flaxseed that is rich in omega 3 fatty acids to help nourish the skin and coat of your dog. The food is in form of kibbles that are very easy to chew and digest. It has limited ingredients making it ideal for dogs who suffer from allergies and intolerances.

Pros

• It is formulated flaxseed that is rich in omega 3 fatty acids for healthy coat and skin.
• The dog food contains easily digestible carbohydrates to keep your dog full and provide him with enough energy.
• It does not contain wheat, corn, soy, gluten or artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
• The Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient includes high-quality salmon to provide your pet with enough protein for muscle growth.
• It has probiotics and prebiotics to ensure easy digestion of food and absorption of nutrients.
• The dog food has limited ingredients making it suitable for dogs with food sensitivities.

#9) Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food

The Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe is a healthy dog food formula for small dog breeds that is designed to provide your dog with energy and all the nutrients your Dachshund needs to have a healthy lifestyle. It contains wholesome balance of protein, whole grains and fruits and vegetables. The dry dog food is made with real, deboned chicken with peas, carrots, apples and nutrient-rich ancient grains like quinoa.

Deboned chicken provides your dog with enough proteins to provide your dog with energy and for improved muscle growth. It is formulated with vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition to boost the immunity of your dog. The dog food has high levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for increased mobility and joint health. It has Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Pros

• The dog food is made in Merrick’s Texas facility using the best locally-sourced ingredients.
• It includes glucosamine and chondroitin help maintain healthy hip and joint function in your Dachshund.
• The food formula provides your dog with a lower glycemic option to support his health.
• It has peas, carrots and apples to provide vitamins and minerals to boost the immunity of your Dachshund.
• Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe contains Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs.
• It is from a reputable brand that uses quality ingredients and strict protocols.

#10) Eukanuba Senior

Eukanuba Senior dog food is a healthy and nutritious food formula that is specifically made for senior dogs. It contains real chicken and zero fillers to provide your dog with proteins for muscle development. The dog food provides your senior dog with energy for a healthy lifestyle. It contains DHA to help maintain healthy brain function and vision in dogs.

The senior dog food includes 3D DentaDefense to clean the dog’s teeth, freshen breathe and maintain healthy gums for good oral health in your Dachshund. The food formula is has natural fiber that is easy to digest as well as probiotic blend for improved digestion. It is a great choice for senior dogs that have stomach sensitivities. The Eukanuba Senior dog food is supplemented with glucosamine, chondroitin and calcium to maintain strong joints and bones.

Pros

• It has 3D DentaDefense to keep the dog’s teeth clean, freshen breathe and maintain healthy gums.
• The dog food contains natural fiber that is easy to digest.
• It is supplemented with probiotic blend for improved digestion and food absorption.
• The senior dog food has glucosamine, chondroitin and calcium for strong bones and healthy joints.
• The food formula includes DHA to help maintain healthy brain function and vision in senior Dachshunds.
• It does not contain fillers, color, flavors or preservatives.

Conclusion

The best food for Dachshunds should have all the nutrients your pet needs for a healthy and long life. Look for dog food that use natural and quality ingredients. If your Dachshund has an underlying health condition, ensure that the dog food you select meets all his nutritional needs and does not have ingredients that aggravate the health condition.

The dog foods we have reviewed are some of the best foods for Dachshunds available in the marker. Any of the dog food brands we have reviewed would make a great choice for Dachshund owners. We hope that you will find the best food for Dachshund from our list of top 5 best dog foods for Dachshunds.

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