Table of Contents
Top 6 Best Dog Foods for Pugs
Pugs with their wrinkly faces and stocky bodies have an almost enviable history that dates back to 700 BC China. These ugly but adorable dogs were a favorite with emperors and royalty and even today, have admirers across the globe. They are so friendly, lovable and intelligent that they make great companions. Pugs love to be the center of attraction and their large, endearing, gorgeous eyes have a soulful look and an irresistible appeal. This small breed dog is a huge eater with a more than healthy appetite- in fact, they just don’t know when to stop. That’s why their diets need to be controlled externally. In spite of their size, pugs are powerful animals and need protein, fats, and carbohydrates in the right proportion. There are many dog foods doing rounds, but the best dog food for pugs will ensure that the little bodies get just what they need in order to remain healthy.
1. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Pug Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin, founded in 1968 has been developing nutritious food for a large number of dog breeds, tailoring it to suit puppies and adult dogs. Its products have been scientifically formulated and vetted by experienced veterinaries. As pugs have a short square muzzle, it makes it very difficult for them to pick up food. Royal Canin kibbles are shaped to make this task easy for them and also encourages chewing.
The benefits are visible- The Pug Adult dog food provides a balanced diet. It helps promote skin and coat health and also prevents Pugs from gaining weight rapidly. The protein content is adequate to help Pugs maintain muscle tone.
Pugs are prone to allergies from food. An Amazon customer, whose pug had severe allergies found relief for the pet by changing over to Pug Dog food from Royal Canin. The changeover has been good for the Pug as it has had no further allergies or digestive problems.
Another Amazon customer felt that though the product was fine, it was over-priced.
Pros
- specially tailored to suit individual breed needs
- kibbles are ideally shaped
- promotes skin and coat health
- protein content adequate
- Prevents rapid weight gain
- Trusted brand
- no digestive issues
Cons
- Not grain or corn free
- May contain allergens
- Slightly expensive
2. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Dog Food Small Breed
This product made up of premium, natural ingredients, fruits, and vegetables, give Pugs and small breed puppies all the nutrition they need. It contains no artificial colors or preservatives that could harm the dogs and is also free of grain, corn and meat by-products.
Benefits- This product is synonymous with wellness and discerning palates are satisfied. The addition of Omega-3 and Omega-6 ensure a healthy skin while super-nutrients present provide excellent nutritional support.
An Amazon customer found that her pet was still hungry after being fed twice with Wellness Small Breed Complete Health. So mealtimes were increased to thrice a day with the dog waiting for mealtime to arrive. No digestive or bathroom problems were found. On the other hand, another customer whose pet was on Wellness Foods had to battle with red stains and watering of eyes. It recovered once the brand was changed to something else.
Pros
- Perfect balance of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fats
- No soy, corn or wheat
- High-quality protein used
- Addition of probiotics helps in digestion
- Recipes are scientifically formulated
- Food fortified with vitamins to ensure a healthy immune system
- Easy to digest
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
3. Eagle Pack Natural Dry Dog Food Lamb & Rice
This product contains a balance of all essential ingredients. The absence of wheat, corn and other meat by-products make it more digestible and nutritious for the pet. Packed with antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and glucosamine hydrochloride, it focuses on promoting good health.
Benefits-The dogs fed on this product were energized, active and didn’t suffer from any digestive problems. Their coats were shining with good health and their eyes were bright and alert.
An Amazon customer rates the Eagle pack highly and certifies that it’s the best dog food that she has come across. Her arthritic Basset Hound recovered well enough and was hopping about in no time after being started on Eagle Pack. Even the vets were impressed with the good health of the pets.
Another Amazon customer complained that the Eagle Pack was not good for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. The dog came out with a rash and suffered from diarrhea after consuming the product
Pros
- Tested and vetted formula of nutrition guaranteed to fuel pets
- Right balance of vital ingredients necessary for a balanced diet
- Includes highly digestible protein
- Food fortified with vitamins and minerals and blended with antioxidants for a healthy immune system
Cons
- Might cause skin problems
- Not good for those dogs that can’t tolerate grain or gluten
4. Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food Lamb
The natural recipes adopt a holistic approach to the health and nutrition of dogs. It uses only the best natural ingredients, incorporates healthy proteins in the dog food and peps it up with probiotics, digestive botanicals to ensure healthy digestion. All ingredients are of premium quality that supports the concept of good meals. The digestive enzymes help to break down the food while natural fiber helps good bowel movements.
Benefits- focus is on overall health and good digestion, both of which ensure holistic wellbeing.
Holistic Select’s formulations have been designed keeping in mind the importance of a healthy digestive system. In fact, it’s no understatement to state that total health is its top priority.
An Amazon customer’s pet with digestive problems was put on Holistic Select’s Natural recipe. The dog’s finicky system righted itself and stools became normal. The increased price, however, makes it prohibitive.
Pros
- No fillers or artificial preservatives used
- Absence of wheat or wheat gluten
- Meat by-products eschewed
- Proteins, cellulose, and starch are broken down and digestion made easy
- Emphasis on strict standards of food safety
- Dogs more than a year old can safely consume this product
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Kibble pieces slightly big
5. Purina Beneful IncrediBites for Small Dogs Adult Dry Dog Food
A nutrient-rich blend of essential minerals and vitamins. It is specially formulated to keep pace with the high metabolic activity of the small breed of dogs. The presence of crunch mini bites kibble is very attractive to the small Pug.
The small size of the kibbles makes it easy for this small breed to chew and eat. This product is packed with nutrients and minerals and is regarded as a complete food.
An Amazon customer was satisfied with the smaller bites that were more comfortable for the small dogs. The ability to change flavors and give the pets an interesting meal was a plus point. The product was fresh and sealed well and didn’t contain any bugs.
However, another Amazon customer noted that the dogs became ill after consuming the food and suggests that something was wrong with it. Once a changeover was made, things became okay.
Pros
- The dry dog food comes in two formulas and many flavors
- Ideal for highly active small breed dogs
- Easy to bite and chew kibbles for every hungry pet
- Enough protein to keep those muscles toned
- Delicious treats and snacks are also available
- Safety checks in place for quality of food
Cons
- Pricier Side
6. Best Dog Food For Pug Puppies: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food
The healthy development of puppies is of paramount importance- that’s why puppy dog food should contain ingredients that augur such growth. The Blue Life Protection formula aims at providing super nutrition and protection with premium-quality pet foods. The product features real meat as a first ingredient has high-quality protein and contains important fatty acids such as DHA and ARA. Contains vegetables, fruits, and wholesome grains.
Benefits- The product ensures the development of strong muscles and also supports the retinal function and the puppy’s cognitive learning process. The blend of anti-oxidants, minerals, and vitamins strengthen the immune system.
Pros
- Made from natural ingredients that are fortified with minerals and vitamins
- No chicken or poultry by-products, no corn, wheat or soy
- Artificial flavors and preservatives absent
- Tasty and delectable food available in many flavors
Cons
- Doesn’t contain enough fat
- Many Amazon customers complained that their puppies suffered from diarrhea and vomiting after being put on Blue Buffalo.
Why Give Your Pug The Best?
There’s no doubt that you want your pug to enjoy life, be happy and healthy- then give it food that’s good for them. It’s a no-brainer that like human beings, pugs too should get a balanced diet that contains carbohydrates.
Why you should use Special Formulated For The Pug Breed
The benefits of using dog food are many. Dog food for pugs has been specially formulated to energize them and develop a healthy immune system. Most dog foods contain carbohydrates that are a source of energy. It caters to the needs of Pugs with sensitive digestive systems and contains the necessary proteins that are vital for building muscle and cell formation. Pugs or dogs, in general, like veggies and fruits (we recommend Papaya for dogs), and dog food is high in fiber content and vegetables. Dog food also contains antioxidants that protect cells against free radicals and valuable fish oils with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids that are important for the skin, heart, and brain. Keep your floor’s durability, by using a dog feeding mat to keep your water and food bowls on top to keep it clean. You don’t want to have your pug spill his food and water causing water stains or worst, mold on your floors.
So what do you look for
- Look for products that have a lower carbohydrate count and remember that some carbohydrates are better than others. Carbohydrates should preferably be from fruit and vegetable sources. Vitamins and minerals present boost the immune system
- Good dog foods should have whole meats or meat meals as the primary ingredient that is listed. The former contains quality protein and also lots of water while the latter is full of concentrated protein. A good pet water fountain can help keep the water fresh and clean
- Fat is important as it provides Pugs the nutrients required to keep their skin and coat healthy, insulates cells and also makes food tastier
- Avoid dog foods that contain grains and corn as they tend to cause joint problems. Corn syrup, though tasty, leads to weight gain and hyperactivity. Do go low on that one–pugs are connoisseurs of food and enjoy good things, so beware!
Best Things About The Pug Breed
It is believed that the Pug breed, which figures among the largest Toy breeds, made its way into Europe from China in the sixteenth century. This little dog, with just a ring of a tail, weighs about 14-18 pounds when fully grown. They can be alert and lively but is equally happy and content to laze about and lead a sedentary life. Pugs come in three colors – all black, apricot-fawn and silver. Their large head, wrinkled face, and huge expressive eyes are well loved by all pet owners. Its ability to express human-like emotions and its charming disposition makes it all the more endearing. It abhors exercise but is always game for an outing. Its black mask of a face is welcome wherever it goes and it loves to be a part of the family. Be it dogs, cats or little children, it’s easy-going temperament makes it well disposed to them all. Pugs are a very compact dog full of muscle, gets excited easily and can be rough if it’s not controlled. Pugs do not require much grooming but it’s not much of an outdoor dog so low temperatures can be dangerous. Playful and charming, it can beguile you with its begging skills! No wonder it puts on weight so fast. You can used an auto dog feeder to feed your pug when you are away.
Conclusion on The Best Dog Food For Pugs
In conclusion, Royal Canin Pug Dog Food appears to have cemented its place at the top and customers are very happy with the product. Although there are other pet foods that are equally good or slightly better, Royal Canin stands apart for its dedication to pet health. As a pet food, it is rated highly and it has stood the rigorous tests for quality and safety. Its foods cater to different breeds and its focus has been on formulating foods by taking the lifestyle, age, and size of the pet into consideration. It’s a well-known brand, ingredients are reliable and it has become a favorite with pet owners. Its formulas are scientifically designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of specific breeds with specific needs. Moreover, its foods meet the required standards for nutrition and a balanced diet and all ingredients used are “safe and nutritionally sound.”