Small dogs are cute and cuddly, but sometimes they can be challenging. There are many health problems that small dog breeds tend to develop, such as tooth loss or arthritis.
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As your small dog grows older, it becomes even more important for you to make sure their diet is on point and they have healthy teeth. A good way to ensure this is making sure they eat the right food.
But what do you need to look out for in food if your dog has few or no teeth, and what can you feed them?
I know how stressful it can be to find the right food, so that is why I put together this list of best dog food for older small dogs with few teeth to help you.
- Best Dog Food For Older Small Dogs With Few Teeth: Top 3 Picks!
- What To Look For In A Dog Food For Dogs With Few Or No Teeth
- 7 Best Dog Foods For Dogs With Few Teeth (Or No Teeth)
- Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior 7+ Formula Dog Food
- Blue Buffalo-Blue Bits Savory Salmon Recipe Soft
- PEDIGREE CHOICE CUTS IN GRAVY Adult Canned Wet Dog Food
- Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Small Breed Wet Dog Food
- Hill’s Science Diet Senior Wet Dog Food
- NUTRO Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food
- IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Puppy & Senior Wet Dog Food
- People Also Ask
- Final Words
Best Dog Food For Older Small Dogs With Few Teeth: Top 3 Picks!
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What To Look For In A Dog Food For Dogs With Few Or No Teeth
Wet Food
Wet food is easier for older dogs to chew. It’s also safer as they are less likely to choke on it. This can be especially important if your dog has lost their teeth and struggles with swallowing dry kibble. Elevated dog bowls for older dogs are also great to help feeding process easier.
Dry Kibble
While wet food is best, some older dogs can’t handle it as well as they used to. If your dog has few teeth but still requires a kibble diet, try finding a suitable dry kibble that will be easier for them to eat.
Look for kibble with the right size, shape, and texture.
Soft Texture
Look for food that has a soft texture. For example, look for shredded kibble or kibble with a ground texture.
Your dog may also appreciate minced meat mixed in with their food rather than larger chunks of meat.
Good Taste
Some dogs are naturally a little stubborn, so if they don’t like their food, you may have difficulty persuading them to eat it. Try finding dog food with a good strong smell and good flavor.
If your dog still doesn’t eat it, try mixing it with other foods with a soft texture until they get used to it.
High-quality Nutrients
Ensure the food has the right high-quality nutrients if your dog has little or no teeth.
Look for food with lots of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. These will help to strengthen your dog’s teeth and bones.
Dehydrated Or Air-freeze Food
If you have a small dog with few teeth that struggles to eat, look for dehydrated or freeze-dried food.
These types of foods will rehydrate in your dog’s stomach and make it easier for them to absorb nutrients from the food.
Consider Senior-specific Formula
If you have an older dog, there are specialized formulas that can help with their specific needs.
These formulas are made primarily from high-quality ingredients such as fish oil and glucosamine and are easy to eat and digest.
They will be great for joint pain and arthritis, which can commonly affect small dogs in old age.
Related Article: Best Chihuahua Dog Food. Here, we will give you pointers on what to look for in dog food for your chihuahua.
7 Best Dog Foods For Dogs With Few Teeth (Or No Teeth)
Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior 7+ Formula Dog Food
When it comes to caring for your pup’s advanced age, Purina ONE has you covered.
Their high protein blend contains natural sources of glucosamine that support joint health, while their senior diet promotes mental sharpness and fuels your dog with healthy energy.
Recommended by veterinarians, Purina ONE SmartBlend is a great choice for older dogs that require a special diet.
This formula contains high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle mass, healthy skin, and immune function.
Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior 7+ Formula Dog Food – Best Features
- Recommended by vets – Purina ONE SmartBlend is a veterinarian-recommended food ensuring high quality.
- Fuels dog’s energy – With natural sources of glucosamine, this senior dry dog food helps promote healthy joints for 7+ years old dogs.
- Real chicken is #1 ingredient – High protein formula with real chicken as the #1 ingredient provides the energy your dog needs to stay active
- Promotes mental sharpness – This senior dry dog food promotes mental sharpness in older dogs by providing high-quality nutrition.
- Purina dog food for senior dogs with MCT-rich vegetable oil to nourish and promote mental sharpness and shows an increased...
- Dry high protein dog food starts with real chicken as the number 1 ingredient and supports strong muscles, including a...
- Features omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to support his shiny coat and healthy skin, plus natural sources of...
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior 7+ Formula Dog Food – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides your dog with essential nutrients
- Keeps your dog healthy and active
- Promotes healthy joints
- The food is veterinarian-approved, ensuring high quality
- Older dogs with little or no teeth won’t have any problems eating it
Cons
- Contains chicken that can act as an allergen to some dogs
Blue Buffalo-Blue Bits Savory Salmon Recipe Soft
Treat your pup to Blue Buffalo-Blue Bits Savory Salmon Recipe Soft dog food. With a soft chewy consistency, these treats are full of all your pet’s favorite nutrients that will keep them healthy and happy.
This food consist of fresh salmon (as #1 ingredient), then add DHA for brain enhancement, omega 3 fatty acids for good skin and coat health, the finest non-GMO grains, antioxidants for immune system support, and more!
The first 5 ingredients in dog food are deboned chicken (excellent source of protein and fat), chicken meal, peas, pea protein, and pea starch.
Blue Buffalo-Blue Bits Savory Salmon Recipe Soft – Best Features
- Real salmon – real salmon is the first ingredient in these soft, savory training treats.
- Meaty training treats – these soft treats are packed with meat, so your dog will love them and are perfect for training your little pup.
- Healthy treats – contains wholesome brown rice, oatmeal, and flaxseed to support healthy digestion.
- Made with only real ingredients – no meat by-products.
- No artificial flavors or preservatives.
- REAL MEAT FIRST: BLUE Bits treats for dogs are made with real salmon first; perfect for dogs that love a tender, meaty snack
- GREAT FOR TRAINING: These soft dog training treats are bite-sized, tender, and tasty, making them great for training session
- ENHANCED WITH DHA: Bite-size morsels enhanced with DHA to support cognitive development
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Blue Buffalo-Blue Bits Savory Salmon Recipe Soft – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Perfect training treats for your pup
- Made with only real ingredients so they’re healthy and wholesome
- Natural ingredients for healthy digestion
- Soft and savory treats that are perfect for dogs with few or no teeth
- They’re healthy, containing wholesome brown rice, oatmeal, and flaxseed
Cons
- Some dog owners complaint about the taste
PEDIGREE CHOICE CUTS IN GRAVY Adult Canned Wet Dog Food
Pedigree Choice Cuts in Gravy Adult Wet Dog Food is formulated to provide complete nutrition for adult dogs. The kibble-like texture makes it easy to eat, and the soft texture adds flavor and variety to your dog’s diet.
The tasty chicken, beef, and liver recipe provides optimal levels of oil and minerals that nourish the skin and coat for a luxurious shine.
This wet dog food is made with real meat as the first ingredient, contains no artificial flavors or colors, no corn or wheat gluten, no added growth, and is made in the USA!
PEDIGREE CHOICE CUTS IN GRAVY Adult Canned Wet Dog Food – Key Features
- Balanced Diet – formulated to provide complete nutrition for adult dogs.
- Healthy – made with real meat as the first ingredient
- Tasty – tasty chicken, beef, and liver recipe that provides optimal levels of oil and minerals responsible for shiny skin and coat
- Soft Texture – edible kibble-like texture and flavorus soft texture that add variety to your dog’s diet
- Made in the USA
- CONTAINS TWELVE (12) 13.2 OZ. CANS of PEDIGREE CHOICE CUTS IN GRAVY Adult Canned Soft Wet Dog Food, Steak & Vegetable Flavor
- MADE WITH REAL BEEF for a taste your dog will love without any added sugar, high fructose corn syrup, or artificial flavors
- BALANCED RECIPE FOR ADULT DOGS that offers a nutritious, soft wet dog food for dogs of all sizes!
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
PEDIGREE CHOICE CUTS IN GRAVY Adult Canned Wet Dog Food – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides complete nutrition for adult dogs
- Made with real meat as the first ingredient
- The soft texture makes it easy to eat for your pup with little or no teeth
- Optimal levels of oil and minerals that nourish the skin and coat for a luxurious shine
Cons
- Contains meat by-products which are not nutritious
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Small Breed Wet Dog Food
These single-serve trays contain meaty pieces of deboned chicken, turkey, and beef as the first ingredient.
Merrick Lil’Plates dog food is specifically formulated for small breeds. It contains only natural ingredients and no gluten.
This food is made in Hereford, Texas, and prepared in the USA, and can be a great choice for dogs with very few or no teeth.
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Small Breed Wet Dog Food – Best Features
- #1 Ingredient – real deboned beef, chicken or turkey as 1st ingredient
- Variety pack – 12 easy-to-open 3.5-ounce single serve trays
- Tasty & easy to eat – selection of delicious treats to choose from
- Made in the USA (Texas)
- Grain-free – no gluten ingredients
- Twelve (12) 3.5 oz Tubs - Merrick Lil' Plates Mini Medley Wet Dog Food Variety Pack, Small Breed Dog Food Recipes
- Merrick Lil' Plates Mini Medley Wet Dog Food Variety Pack, Small Breed Dog Food Recipes
- This small breed dog food wet variety pack includes 12 easy-to-open, single-serve trays in three popular varieties: Petite...
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Small Breed Wet Dog Food – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Made with real meat as the first ingredient
- Small breeds will love this food, which is specially formulated for them
- No grains or gluten means no stomach aches or upset tummies
- Includes chicken, beef, or turkey flavors
- Made in the Texas, USA
Cons
- Chicken can sometimes cause allergic reactions in dogs
Hill’s Science Diet Senior Wet Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Senior Dog Food is specifically designed to meet the needs of your senior dog. This food is made with high-quality protein and balanced minerals, which helps your 7+ dog maintain lean muscle mass.
The natural ingredients help support teeth, heart, and kidney health, and the best thing is, your pet will love the taste!
It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints, plus antioxidants to support a strong immune system.
Hill’s Science Diet Senior Wet Dog Food – Key Features
- Made with high-quality protein – for strong muscles and lean body mass
- Easily digestible – helps with digestion, so your dog can focus on enjoying the food
- Balanced diet – a healthy meal for dogs 7+ years old
- Supports heart, kidney, and joint health
- Contains antioxidants to support a strong immune system
- No corn, wheat, or soy ingredients
- Natural ingredients – Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints
- Made in the USA
- Recommended by vets
- Made with easy to digest ingredients that help support energy levels, and keep a healthy immune system
- Balanced minerals for heart & kidney health
- Omega-6s and vitamin E for beautiful skin & coat
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Hill’s Science Diet Senior Wet Dog Food – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps your dog maintain a healthy weight
- Provides balanced nutrition for their whole body
- Supports heart, kidney, and joint health
- Keeps your pet’s immune system strong
- A rich protein diet for your dog’s muscles and lean body mass
Cons
- Sometimes can be a little dry lacking in gravy texture
NUTRO Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food
NUTRO NATURAL SENIOR dog food contains real lamb and brown rice and is delicious and healthy for senior dogs.
Give your senior dog the best nutrition possible by providing essential antioxidants, natural fiber, and calcium to aid in digestion.
NUTRO dog food also includes chondroitin and glucosamine to support your dog’s joints over time.
NUTRO Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food – Best Features
- Specially formulated for senior dogs
- Prepared with non-GMO ingredients – no meat by-product meal
- Made with high-quality protein
- Contains antioxidants and natural fiber to help support your dog’s aging immune system
- Grain-free – easy to digest for your furry friend
- Contains calcium to support strong bones and joints
- Cooked in the USA
- Made With Real Lamb: This senior dry dog food recipe is made with real lamb as the #1 ingredient in this protein-rich recipe.
- Quality Recipe: This senior dry dog food is crafted with no chicken by-product meal, no artificial flavors or colors, no...
- Supports Vitality: Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food promotes healthy vitality by supporting strong bones, healthy...
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
NUTRO Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Healthy and nutritious meal your dog will love
- Supports their immune system as they age
- Made with high-quality protein to help maintain muscle mass
- Easy to feed your pet the right amount of food
Cons
- Some dogs don’t like the taste, so they turn their noses up at it
IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Puppy & Senior Wet Dog Food
This savory pate is made with real chicken and natural ingredients, slow-cooked in broth. It will be a delight for your senior companion!
For a balanced and complete diet, this product contains vitamins and minerals that support a healthy immune system.
Contains omega fatty acids to help support skin and coat health.
Features high-quality animal proteins to fuel your pet’s active lifestyle and keep their energy levels boosted.
IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Puppy & Senior Wet Dog Food – Key Features
- Contains a variety of proteins and vitamins for a complete diet
- Crafted with hearty natural ingredients for a taste that dogs can’t resist
- Includes slow-cooked chicken and rice for a nutrient-packed meal
- Has 12 cans per pack, making it easy to give your dog the attention they deserve
- Promotes healthy aging in dogs with omega fatty acids to maintain the skin and coat
- Complete and Balanced for Senior Dogs: This product is a complete and balanced meal for senior dogs that is made with real...
- Bone and Joint Health: Includes essential minerals like calcium, and natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for bone...
- Mental and Visual Sharpness: Made with DHA Gold for mental and visual sharpness in aging dogs
Last update on 2024-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Puppy & Senior Wet Dog Food – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Nutritious and delicious meal for your dog
- Supports a healthy aging process in dogs with omega fatty acids
- Keeps your pup happy, healthy, and full of life!
- Provides a complete diet for your dog
- Easy to eat for dogs with little or no teeth
Cons
- Contains higher levels of salt than other brands
People Also Ask
What Can I Feed My Old Dog With Bad Teeth?
If your dog has trouble eating, there are some food options that can be softened for them that don’t require chewing.
Some of these foods include canned pureed pumpkin, oatmeal, scrambled egg, or white bread. You can also get your pet a chicken and beef broth to help keep him hydrated while keeping his diet nutrient-dense.
What Is The Best Dog Food For Senior Dogs With No Teeth?
If your dog doesn’t have many teeth, you may want to consider a soft kibble in order for them to be able to eat. These types of food consist of enough liquid in order for the bits and pieces to soften before being eaten.
Here is our list of 7 best dog foods for older small dogs with no teeth:
1. Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior 7+ Formula Dog Food
2. Blue Buffalo-Blue Bits Savory Salmon Recipe Soft
3. PEDIGREE CHOICE CUTS IN GRAVY Adult Canned Wet Dog Food
4. Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Small Breed Wet Dog Food
5. Hill’s Science Diet Senior Wet Dog Food
6. NUTRO Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food
7. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Puppy & Senior Wet Dog Food
What Can I Feed My Dog With Sensitive Teeth?
If your dog has sensitive teeth, you may want to consider canned food. This is especially true for senior dogs.
Not only does canned food contain more moisture, but it also is soft and will not hurt their teeth too much when they try to chew it up.
Can Dogs Without Teeth Eat Dry Dog Food?
Yes, dogs without teeth can still eat dry food. This will require you to take time and soak the kibble in water or broth for your dog to be able to eat it at ease.
Look for suitable canned food that can be supplemented with dry kibble to give your dog variety.
What Does It Mean If My Dog’s Losing Teeth?
A can lose their teeth for a few reasons. It can be genetic, as some dogs are born without many teeth or with crooked ones.
Other reasons may include dental disease, dog malnutrition, or simply old age. You should see your vet to determine what the cause is and if they’re starting to lose weight, as this could be a sign of illness.
Final Words
Finding food for your dog with little or no teeth can be tough. Some need softer food while others may prefer dry kibble.
Watching your older pup eating something they don’t like can be heartbreaking. In the end, you need to look at their dietary needs and what they can or cannot eat.
Talk to your vet about your best options, and if you can supplement with canned/softened food to ensure they get the nutrients they need in their diet.
So what kind of food are you feeding your older dog?
I have tried so many different ones for my loveable beast, but these are my 3 best foods for older dogs:
1. Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior 7+ Formula Dog Food
2. Blue Buffalo-Blue Bits Savory Salmon Recipe Soft
3. PEDIGREE CHOICE CUTS IN GRAVY Adult Canned Wet Dog Food
Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed this article.
Please feel free to share your own tips or recommendations for older small dogs with few teeth in the comments below.
Read More: Can Dogs Eat Spicy Food. Wondering if spicy food is good for dogs? Let us answer that.
I have a 14yr old yorkie with only a few teeth left I started feeding him pet fresh and cutting it up into tiny pieces with his allergies it was hard to find something but somedays he will eat and some he won’t does this mean he is dying. I worry he’s not getting enough nutrition is this ok if he misses a day not eating and sleeps all day.Please help.
I am having the same problem with my small 12 year old yourkie