Last Updated: February 19, 2024 by Lisa Melillo

Imagine this: a sprightly Havanese bouncing around, its eyes alight with that special blend of joy and mischief unique to the breed. Now, picture us on an epic quest, a culinary adventure to discover the best dog foods for Havanese. This isn’t just about filling their bowls; it’s about fueling their zest for life. In my journey through the world of tail wags and puppy kisses, I’ve gleaned insights into how the right nutrition can elevate these little fluff balls from mere pets to vibrant companions.

These adorable fluffs aren’t just animals; they’re part of the family. And for family, we always want the best, especially when it comes to their meals. I’ve observed, learned, and seen the transformative power of diet in the lives of these dogs. So, come along, fellow dog lovers. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes a meal not just good, but great for our beloved Havanese.

Top Choice — Orijen Small Breed Dry Dog Food 

Stumbling across Orijen Small Breed Dry Dog Food felt like hitting the jackpot for those of us dedicated to our petite pals. This premium blend, rich with free-run chicken, wild-caught fish, and eggs, is more than just food; it’s a tailored feast for the discerning tastes of a Havanese. Serving this, I’m always struck by the thoughtfulness packed into each bite, elevating everyday feeding into a moment of luxury. It’s moments like these that remind me why we go the extra mile for our furry family members.

Best Dog Foods for Havanese 

1. Orijen Small Breed Dry Dog Food

First Ingredient

• Turkey

Key Features

• Made using 85% animal ingredients
• Includes free-run poultry, wild-caught fish, and nest-laid eggs
• Grain-free formula
• Infused with freeze-dried liver for enhanced flavor
• Rich in omega fatty acids

Navigating the nutritional needs of small breeds, Orijen Small Breed Dry Dog Food stands out, especially for those delightful Havanese that hold a special place in our hearts. The blend of premium proteins from turkey, chicken, and wild-caught fish is designed to meet the energetic demands of these vivacious little dogs. It’s not just a meal; it’s a commitment to their well-being, ensuring each bite contributes to their sprightly nature and overall health.

In the world of Havanese, with their luxurious coats and spirited personalities, the right diet can make all the difference. This food, with its rich inclusion of Omega Fatty Acids, supports the lush, silky hair that Havanese are known for, while also catering to their boundless energy. Witnessing the transformation in Havanese fed with this diet, from their gleaming coats to their lively steps, reinforces the value of choosing a diet as vibrant as they are.

Advantages

• Specially formulated to meet the metabolic needs of small breeds
• High-quality animal ingredients promote lean muscle mass
• Omega fatty acids contribute to a healthy coat and skin
• Offers a varied and biologically appropriate diet
• Supports healthy weight management
• Utilizes regionally sourced ingredients for peak freshness

Disadvantages

• Premium pricing may be a barrier for some pet owners
• May need gradual introduction to prevent digestive issues

2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula with LifeSource Bits, Small Breed Adult, Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe

First Ingredient

• Deboned chicken

Key Features

• LifeSource Bits provide a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
• Small kibble size perfect for smaller jaws
• No poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy
• Enhanced with omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
• Contains healthy complex carbohydrates

For those of us passionate about providing top-notch nutrition to our small breed dogs, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is a standout choice. This formula kicks off with real deboned chicken, ensuring that our dogs get their protein from the best source possible. It’s not just about the protein, though; the LifeSource Bits are a game-changer, offering a scientifically formulated blend of nutrients tailored for optimal health.

Having had the opportunity to see the benefits of this food on small breeds, including the beloved Havanese, the differences are clear. Their energy levels seem to align perfectly with the nutritional balance provided by this food, supporting not just their physical health but their vibrant personalities as well. The small kibble size is just right for their petite mouths, making mealtime both enjoyable and beneficial.

Advantages

• Real chicken supports lean muscle development
• Tailored antioxidant blend for immune system health
• Promotes healthy digestion with high-quality whole grains
• Designed to meet the energy needs of small breeds
• Encourages optimal health with a balance of proteins, carbs, and fats

Disadvantages

• Some dogs may prefer a grain-free option
• May require a dietary transition to avoid digestive upset

3. Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

First Ingredient

• Corn

Key Features

• Higher caloric content to support active small dogs
• L-carnitine included for healthy fat metabolism
• Small kibble size designed for smaller jaws
• Enhanced with fatty acids

Royal Canin Small Adult Dog Food is a standout option crafted meticulously for the unique dietary needs of small breeds, including the delightful Havanese. Its formulation begins with corn, a choice made for its energy-rich and easily digestible properties, ensuring our petite companions get the most from each meal. The addition of chicken by-product meal as a primary protein source enriches the diet with essential nutrients, making every bite as nutritious as it is delicious.

Observing the impact of this specialized diet on small breeds has been enlightening. The precise balance of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates caters excellently to their high energy requirements, supporting a lifestyle full of play and exploration. The thoughtful inclusion of L-carnitine aids in maintaining an ideal weight, a crucial aspect of small breed health. The small kibble size also addresses the practical aspect of feeding, making mealtime an effortless pleasure for our furry friends.

Advantages

• Specifically formulated for adult small breeds
• Contains L-carnitine to aid in weight management
• Designed to tempt even the pickiest eaters
• Supports overall health with a balanced nutrient profile
• Manufactured in Royal Canin-owned facilities ensuring quality and safety

Disadvantages

• Contains chicken by-product meal, which might be controversial
• Grain content could be unsuitable for dogs with specific sensitivities

4. Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Puppy, Deboned Turkey, Oatmeal, and Salmon Meal Recipe

First Ingredient

• Deboned turkey

Key Features

• Specially formulated for small breed puppies
• Includes oatmeal and salmon meal for balanced nutrition
• Contains nutrient-rich whole foods
• No meat by-products, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Puppy Deboned Turkey, Oatmeal, and Salmon Meal Recipe offers a nourishing start for our littlest companions, tailored to meet the needs of small breed puppies like the Havanese. The choice of deboned turkey as the primary ingredient ensures a high-quality protein source that’s essential for building strong muscles and bones. Combined with oatmeal and salmon meal, this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also supports brain and eye development.

What impresses me most is the thoughtfulness behind this blend. It’s not just about meeting basic nutritional requirements; it’s about enhancing the well-being of puppies during their formative months. The inclusion of flaxseed and chicken fat, rich in omega fatty acids, promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin, which is particularly beneficial for breeds with luxurious coats like the Havanese. This formula strikes a balance between nourishing ingredients and digestibility, ensuring that even the smallest of pups can enjoy and benefit from every bite.

Advantages

• High-quality protein supports growth and development
• Balanced omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
• Easy-to-digest ingredients for sensitive puppy stomachs
• Supports brain and eye development with DHA
• Promotes healthy digestion with quality fiber sources

Disadvantages

• Has a strong smell that can turn off some dogs
• Can make stools lose

5. Merrick Healthy Grains Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food

First Ingredient

• Deboned Chicken

Key Features

• Formulated specifically for senior dogs
• Deboned chicken and chicken meal as primary protein sources
• Includes wholesome grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and barley
• Enhanced with quinoa and flaxseed for additional nutritional benefits
• Fortified with salmon oil for omega fatty acids

Merrick Healthy Grains Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food is crafted with the aging canine in mind, offering a blend that’s as thoughtful as it is nutritious. Leading with deboned chicken, it provides the high-quality protein that senior dogs, including those lovely Havanese, need to maintain their muscle mass and overall vitality. The inclusion of wholesome grains such as brown rice and oatmeal ensures a steady release of energy, which is crucial for keeping our senior companions active and engaged.

The thoughtful addition of ingredients like quinoa and flaxseed not only adds to the nutritional profile by providing essential fatty acids but also supports a healthy digestive system. What stands out is the careful balance of nutrients tailored to meet the changing needs of older dogs. This recipe acknowledges that our senior pals require a diet that supports their heart health, joint mobility, and cognitive function, making it an ideal choice for those looking to provide their furry family members with a diet that caters to their specific life stage needs.

Advantages

• Wholesome grains provide sustained energy
• Antioxidants support a healthy immune system
• Formulated to support joint health and mobility
• Contains probiotics for digestive health
• Small kibble size suitable for senior dogs of all breeds

Disadvantages

• Some dogs may be sensitive to grain-inclusive diets
• The transition to a new food should be gradual to avoid digestive upset

6. Diamond Naturals Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Rice Formula

First Ingredient

• Chicken

Key Features

• Premium protein from cage-free chicken to support lean muscles
• Small kibble size tailored for small breed dogs
• A balanced blend of nutrients for overall health
• Enriched with superfoods like kale, chia seed, and blueberries
• Fortified with probiotics for digestive health

Diamond Naturals Small Breed Adult Dog Chicken & Rice Formula is a carefully crafted diet that caters specifically to the needs of small-breed dogs. With cage-free chicken leading the ingredient list, this formula offers a premium protein source that’s essential for maintaining lean muscle mass. The small kibble size is just perfect for little jaws, making mealtime both enjoyable and beneficial for our small canine friends.

What truly sets this formula apart is its incorporation of superfoods, including kale, chia seeds, pumpkin, and blueberries, providing a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These ingredients work in harmony to support a robust immune system, vibrant skin, and a glossy coat. The addition of proprietary K9 Strain Probiotics, specifically developed for dogs and processed under strict quality standards, ensures a healthy digestive and immune system, keeping your pet active and happy.

Advantages

• Superfoods for antioxidant support
• Omega fatty acids for skin and coat he