When it comes to describing Pugs, the Latin phrase multum in parvo or “much in little” says it best.
Pugs are truly a lot of dog, a lot of love and a lot of cuteness in a tiny package!
Anyone knows that when you bring a Pug into your world, you’re opening yourself up to loving a breed that will easily grow as part of your life.
That’s why every Pug owner should take extra special care when it comes to managing the best nutrition for their little buddy.
Before you start looking for brands with the best cost per ounce or debating whether free-range chicken or vitamin-infused kibble is the better route, you’ll want to sit down and consider your Pug’s nutritional needs.
Pugs are prone to gaining weight and are often sensitive to certain additives. Ideally, Pugs should weigh between 14 to 18 pounds. This is especially important since Pugs are known for having joint or hip problems. As reported by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), a study reported about 75 percent of Pugs as developing hip dysplasia.
What food to avoid
- Artificial color dyes such as Blue #2, Red #40, Yellow #5 and Yellow #6.
- High grain counts such as wheat, oats, and barley. Note that rice is often tolerated well among Pugs and other breeds.
- Animal by-products deemed unfit for human consumption such as brain or lungs. Soy, soybeans and soy meal
What to look out for
- Protein from chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison or beef.
- Additives for joint health such as chondroitin, Omega-3, and Omega-6 for skin and coat health, and probiotics for immune health.
Remember, the best way to determine the right dog food for a Pug is to read the label for ingredients. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with different ingredients can help you make the right decision. However, if you would like a starting point, the following are highly recommended brands:
AvoDerm
AvoDerm is the perfect combination of kibble and nutrition. This company produces a specially made kibble for small breeds under 20 pounds. You won’t have to worry about any doggy Heimlich with this brand! AvoDerm uses a formula that is free of useless grains such as wheat or corn and substitutes for high-quality fats and oils. This means each bite has a balanced Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acid ratio.
Taste of the Wild
Once again, this is another kibble that focuses on a grain-free recipe. Taste of the Wild boasts real buffalo as the first ingredient followed by several other proteins including bison, roasted venison, and other lean meats. This is a perfect key to help with muscle development to keep your Pug hopping on and off the couch for years to come. There is also the added benefit of a K9 probiotic to help keep your pup’s stomach in the best shape. For anyone that has had to hear the sound of a dog’s stomach acting up in the middle of the night or finding the results the next morning, you know how important this is.
Earthborn Holistic
Earthborn Holistic is the ideal brand for those looking to be able to provide their Pug with a variety of different meals. Their meals include both wet and dry kibble as well as several different flavors starring a variety of nature’s finest proteins. Specifically, you’ll want to find the Earthborn Holistic Small Breed for your Pug. Some Pug owners report that this dog food is known to help relieve gas and other stomach troubles. So if you’re living with a walking gas machine, this might be the kibble for you.
How do I decide what the best food for my Pug is?
You’ll find the answer to this question will fall into some capable furry paws. Your Pug will be the best judge to find the best kibble for them. It’s rare to find a picky eater in the Pug breed. But should all else fail, always check with your veterinarian for the best brand to fit your Pug’s needs.
