THE SMALL DOG ESSENTIALs

The SMALL Dog

Essentials

The Big Six: 

Health Foundations for Small Breed Dogs

Small breed dogs have unique needs, and their health depends on a strong foundation. 

From dental care to joint health, the big six focuses on the essentials that keep your little companion thriving.

Heart

Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Pomeranians are susceptible to heart conditions such as mitral valve disease. Support heart health with a balanced diet rich in taurine and routine veterinary check-ups.

Teeth (Dental Care)

Small breed dogs are more prone to dental issues like tartar buildup and periodontal disease. Ensure regular brushing, dental treats, and professional cleanings to maintain healthy teeth and gums.


Joints (Knees)
Luxating patellas (kneecap dislocation) are common in small breeds. Keep their joints healthy with weight management and glucosamine supplements to reduce strain.



Coat & Skin


Sensitive skin or allergies can affect small breeds more frequently. Use omega-3 supplements, hypoallergenic shampoos, and regular grooming to keep their coat shiny and skin irritation-free.



Digestive System
Small breeds have smaller stomachs, which means they benefit from multiple small meals a day. Feeding nutrient-dense, easily digestible food is key to avoiding digestive upsets. Opt for small-sized kibble specifically designed for small breeds to make chewing easier and promote better digestion.
Immune System

Due to their longer lifespans, small breeds need strong immunity to stay healthy in their senior years. Ensure they get timely vaccinations, a balanced diet, and regular vet visits.



Why Small Dogs Need Their Own Food

A guide to Addiction’s small breed dog food

If you’re the proud pet parent of a pint-sized pooch, you’ve likely noticed your small breed dog has unique needs compared to their larger canine counterparts. While they may be small in stature, their nutritional requirements are anything but tiny. 

Playful Ways to Keep Your Small Dog Happy and Active!

Keeping small dogs active is essential for their physical health, mental stimulation, and overall happiness. Regular activities not only help burn off energy but also build confidence and strengthen your bond. From trails to parks, these adventures are tailored for little pups with big personalities.

Exercise Tips for your Small Best Friend

Low-Impact Fun 

Playtime Favorites 

Interactive Activities 

Short walks 

Indoor fetch

Puzzle toys 

Sniff-and-find treats around the house.

Tug-of-war

Hide-and-seek 

Gentle stretching exercises for flexibility.

Chase pet-safe bubbles for visual stimulation.

Training sessions with commands

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Power-Packed Nutrition: 

Fueling Your Small Dog’s Big Adventures

Providing your small-breed dogs with the best nutrition they need to thrive, keeping our little champions ready for every adventure.

Small dogs live for action, from playful zoomies to endless energy. With their high energy and agility, they need tailored nutrition to keep up with their busy lives. That’s why Addiction Pet Foods, crafted with care in New Zealand, offers specially formulated recipes designed to fuel your little adventurer’s active lifestyle while providing the highest-quality nutrition they need to thrive.

High Quality Protein

Lamb, venison, and duck power muscle strength and sustained energy for every leap and sprint.

Healthy Fats
Omega-3 and Omega-6 keep their coat glossy and joints flexible for all their active pursuits.

Joint Support
Glucosamine and chondroitin ensure their joints stay agile for life’s endless playdates.

Gentle Digestibility
Potato, flaxseed, and Manuka honey provide easy-to-digest fuel for every tail-wagging adventure.

Give Your Dog the Best Care

Enhance your dog's well-being with our premium products designed for small breed dogs.

Dog Size

Small Breed

Small Breed

Small Breed

Dog Age

All

All

All

Primary Protein Source

Lamb

Duck

Venison

Key Benefits

Free-range New Zealand lamb, a high-quality protein for energy and muscle development.

Taurine-enriched for heart health.
Non-GMO ingredients.

Gently air-dried.

Enriched with prebiotics from flaxseed for healthy digestion.

Antioxidant-rich cranberries and blueberries enhance immune health.

Anti-inflammatory turmeric supports digestive health.

Premium New Zealand duck, a lean protein ideal for maintaining a healthy weight.

Canine beauty formula designed for small breeds.

Taurine-enriched for heart health.

Non-GMO ingredients.

Gently air-dried.

Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Superfoods like kiwifruit, New Zealand green-lipped mussels, and Manuka honey provide natural immune system support.

New Zealand venison, a novel protein ideal for small dogs with sensitivities to common proteins.

Enriched with coconut oil for healthy skin and coat.

Taurine-enriched for heart health.

Non-GMO ingredients.

Gently air-dried.

Superfoods such as cranberries, apples, blueberries, spinach, and kelp provide essential nutrients and antioxidants.

Kibble Size

Small kibble designed for tiny teeth

Small kibble designed for tiny teeth

Small kibble designed for tiny teeth

Ingredients

Lamb, Lamb Meal, Ocean Fish Meal, Green Peas, Tapioca, Potatoes, Yellow Peas, Chicken Fat, Flaxseed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Natural Flavor, Natural Buffered Vinegar, Sea Salt, Fish Oil, Dried Cranberries, Dried Blueberries, Turmeric, Chamomile, Peppermint, Mixed Tocopherols for added freshness, Rosemary Extract, Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract and Other Essential Nutrients

Duck, Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Tapioca, Potatoes, Chicken Fat, Flaxseed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Natural Flavor, Kiwifruit, Green-lipped Mussels, Manuka Honey, Fish Oil, Mixed Tocopherols (for added freshness), Rosemary Extract, Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract and Other Essential Nutrients.

Venison, Venison Meal, Green Peas, Tapioca, Coconut Oil, Pea Protein, Flaxseed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Beef Hydrolysate, Yellow Peas, Acetic Acid, Sea Salt, Mixed Tocopherols for added freshness, Rosemary Extract, Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract and Other Essential Nutrient.

Your Guide to Caring for Small Breed Dogs

What are the nutritional needs of small breed dogs at different life stages?
Small breed dogs need calorie-dense, nutrient-rich diets due to their high metabolisms.

Puppies:
Require high-calorie food with quality protein and DHA for brain and vision development.

Adults:
Balance energy needs with protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients. Smaller kibble sizes are ideal for easy chewing.

Seniors:
Focus on weight management, joint health (glucosamine and chondroitin), and easier-to-digest formulas.

Tip: Divide their daily food into 3-4 smaller meals to prevent hypoglycemia, a common issue in small breeds.
What exercise routines are ideal for small breed dogs?
Small breed dogs need moderate exercise tailored to their energy levels.

Short Walks:

A 20-30 minute walk twice daily is often enough.

Interactive Play:
Indoor games like fetch or using a flirt pole can burn energy in confined spaces.

Mental Stimulation:
Food puzzles or obedience training provide exercise for the brain.

Example: A game of fetch in your living room with a small squeaky ball works great for breeds like Yorkies.

Tip:  Avoid over-exercising brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Pugs), as they can overheat easily.

How can I create a suitable lifestyle for my small breed dog?
Small breed dogs thrive in a structured yet flexible environment.
Space: 
Ensure they have a cozy bed, safe play area, and easy access to water.

Routine: 
Set consistent feeding, play, and walk schedules to help them feel secure.

Socialization:
Introduce them to various environments, people, and pets from a young age to reduce anxiety.

Tip: Use interactive toys like treat dispensers to keep them entertained when you’re not around.
What are common health problems in small breed dogs, and how can I prevent or manage them?
Dental Disease: 
Small breeds often develop tartar buildup. Brush their teeth daily and provide dental chews.

Patellar Luxation: 
Common in breeds like Pomeranians. Prevent by keeping their weight in check and avoiding high-impact activities.

Hypoglycemia: 
Feed small, frequent meals and keep honey or syrup on hand for emergencies.

Tip: Schedule regular vet checkups to catch early signs of these common issues.
Are there any physical features I need to be aware of for small breed dogs?
Delicate Bones: 
Handle them carefully to avoid fractures. Avoid letting them jump from high surfaces.

Brachycephalic Breeds: 
Dogs like Shih Tzus may have breathing difficulties due to their short snouts.

Sensitive Skin: 
Choose hypoallergenic shampoos and grooming tools suitable for their size.

Example: Use a soft-bristle brush for small breeds like Maltese to avoid skin irritation.
Tip: Always use a harness instead of a collar for breeds prone to tracheal collapse, like Yorkshire Terriers.
How can I help my small breed dog age gracefully?
Nutrition: 
Choose senior diets with added omega-3s, antioxidants, and joint supplements.

Exercise: 
Maintain light, consistent activities to keep joints mobile.
Comfort: Invest in orthopedic beds and minimize environmental stressors.

Tip: Watch for subtle behavioral changes that might indicate pain or discomfort, such as reluctance to jump or play.

Understanding Small Breed Dogs

Get valuable tips and advice to keep your small breed dog happy, healthy, and thriving.

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