Dachshunds are notoriously picky and greedy eaters, who require the right amount of nutrients to tend to their bodies whilst satisfying their taste buds.
Due to their size and shape, and how much dog food they would ideally like to eat, they are prone to obesity and often back problems if they are not fed properly.
So what exactly is the best dog foods for Dachshunds?
Before I share my top choices here's why you can trust this recommendation...
I spent over 20hrs researching what dog food brands Expert Veterinarians recommend Dachshunds eat, narrowed that down to 5 manufacturers and studied their ingredients and processes, then analyzed over 1,000 user opinions on each of these brands.
Based on that my conclusion is that these are the best dog food brands for Dachshunds...
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You can read my full disclosure here.
In a rush to get the best dog food for your Dachshund?
OUR TOP PICK
The Hill’s Science dry dog food is designed to satisfy your dog’s hunger as well as maintain the health of their teeth, gums, skin, and coat.
The recipe features omega-6 fatty acids to prevent dry and unhealthy coats and skin - a staple nutrient in dog food.
The kibble itself is designed to clean dog teeth the same way a toothbrush would, with its interlocking fiber technology that improves the strength of teeth and gums whilst preventing food from sticking in between teeth.
This subsequently freshens the dog’s breath, which is heavenly for dog owners who are so used to holding their nose when their dog opens their mouth.
This dog food is made from all natural ingredients in the USA, and it vet approved.
Pros
- Works to support oral hygiene as well as a healthy coat and skin
- Kibble works to prevent bad breath
- All natural, made in the USA, and vet approved
Cons
- Kibble can come in a variety of different sizes, be aware for smaller dogs
EDITORS CHOICE
For Dachshunds who prefer wet food, this is the food for them. This Royal Canin wet food is designed specifically for adult Doxies, as the list of ingredients includes glucosamine and chondroitin which work to promote and support bone and muscle health.
As Dachshunds can suffer from back issues, it is really important to find a food that will help their spine and joints.
This dog food is a lovely loaf in gravy sauce, very appetising for a greedy dog, which is full of protein to support and grow muscle mass.
Wet food also supports healthy hydration, which could be why some dogs prefer this to dry food.
This can also be mixed with dry kibble if you want the benefits of both.
As this is a good quality food and it is important to allow Dachshunds to have dry food to help their oral hygiene, this wet food can be used as a yummy treat as they will not stop licking the food bowl until the gravy has gone.
Pros
- Wet food promotes hydration and is tasty
- Full of protein for muscle and ingredients to improve joints and bones.
- Trusted brand
Cons
- Wet food isn’t the best food for a constant diet, as dogs need a variety of wet and dry food
- Designed for adult Dachshunds, not suitable for puppies or seniors
BEST VALUE
This is the dry food version of the previous wet food recommendation on our list.
Designed specifically for adult Dachshunds, this kibble is designed to help the dogs chew their food without choking or damaging their teeth or gums.
The kibble shapes are all different to target each area of the dog’s jaw, teeth, gums, and facial muscles.
Filled with protein and calcium, this dry food is made to promote and improve the wellbeing of your dog’s muscles, bones, joints, and weight.
This is ideal for their little legs and long back, which can so easily be damaged overtime.
As the protein and fiber is digestible and at the ideal content, this food is great for improving the quality of healthy stool, including the size, smell, and consistency.
Pros
- Different shaped kibble to promote oral hygiene
- Filled with necessary protein and calcium for bone, joint, and muscle improvement,
- Fiber helps the quality of stool.
Cons
- Designed for Doxie adults, not puppies or seniors
- Consult with a professional if you have a mixed breed dog, as it may not fit the other breed appropriately
RUNNER UP
The Eukanuba dry dog food is ideal for Dachshunds who need to watch their weight. As their food is stored in their long bodies, held by their tiny legs, obesity can be an issue for Doxies.
This dry food works to prevent and control weight loss and weight gain whilst satisfying their hunger.
With 40% less fat and a mixture of the appropriate carbohydrates and protein, this food promotes a lean body that also gives dogs enough energy to burn off calories themselves.
This formula also includes glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to promote strengthening bones, joints and muscles without gaining weight.
The kibble is small enough to suit a Dachshunds mouth without causing discomfort or choking.
Pros
- Great for weight loss
- Increases energy.
- Filled with necessary nutrients for improving the quality of bones, joints and muscles
Cons
- Not entirely necessary for healthy Dachshunds who do not need to lose weight, but it will prevent weight gain
RUNNER UP
The Purina Pro Plan dry dog food is made specifically for dogs with sensitive stomach and skin issues. These issues are unfortunately common in a lot of dogs, especially when transitioning to a new food.
This salmon and rice formula works to improve the condition of a weakened stomach by strengthening it, and subsequently improving the condition of their stool.
The salmon is also high protein, giving the dogs a suitable amount of energy to maintain the quality of their muscles and weight management.
This formula also includes probiotics to improve digestion and immunity, as it includes oat, as well as sunflower oil for a healthy skin and coat.
Whilst it does not contain corn, wheat or soy, it is not grain-free as it includes oat and barley.
If you find your dog has sensitive skin and nothing is helping, this food might be worth considering.
Pros
- Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs and sensitive skin
- Filled with necessary nutrients and high protein
- Improves quality of stool, skin, coat, and stomach
Cons
- Recommended for adults, not puppies or seniors
Best Dog Food for Dachshunds Buying Guide
What to Look for in Dog Food
Dachshunds will eat just about anything, so it’s important to make sure they are eating the right food for their bodies.
It is also important to remember that each dog will have individual requirements and needs, so not every food will work flawlessly for your dog, and that’s okay!
Popular dog food brands are generally the most trustworthy, but this does not mean they are certified to work.
We recommend looking for dog food with all natural ingredients, made in the USA or locally, and veterinarian approved.
We also recommend consulting with a professional throughout your time with your dog, because their needs will change overtime.
The food they need as a puppy will not benefit them as an adult or senior. Likewise, if you notice any changes, consult with a vet.
Whilst this all seems a lot to remember, fortunately the dog foods we have recommended include all of the above.
These are all vital for oral hygiene, coat and skin health, weight management, and the improvement of muscles, bones, and joints.
Dry Food
Dry food is generally the most popular type of dog food. Kibble designed specifically for small breeds, Dachshunds in particular, are deliberately a small enough size to tend to their teeth whilst preventing choking.
Kibble encourages the strengthening of gums, jaws, and facial features, so they are not just eating food without oral hygiene benefits.
This kibble also works to strengthen the quality of teeth, brush food out from between teeth, and can improve the quality of bad breath.
This is all very important for avoiding gum disease or potential tooth loss, and will be more cost effective in the long run as it will prevent multiple vet trips and surgeries.
Dry food also tends to keep for longer than wet food, and so it can be bought in bulk - just be sure to know when food has gone off, as this can be unhealthy for your dog.
Wet Food
Wet food is often the preferred food for fussy Doxies.
The gravy and meaty substance is like a roast dinner to a dog, so they are more likely to enjoy it and wolf it down.
Although wet food does mostly include the same nutrients as dry food, they should be kept as a special treat, as they will not benefit oral hygiene enough.
The whole point of dry food is to give the dog’s mouth a workout, so whilst wet food works to hydrate the dog and satisfy their appetite, it will not strengthen their teeth and gums the same way kibble does.
Wet food is often higher in calories and protein, which is ideal for dogs who need to gain weight and energy, but don’t let this become a habit as it could lead to obesity and fussiness.
Tips and Tricks
It is always best to consult with a professional when you are thinking of changing your dog food. The transition period cannot be abrupt, and it is recommended to last a period of 7 days.
The first few days should be around 25% new food and 75% old food, gradually increasing to 50% each way, and eventually 100% of the new food.
If they are struggling still, you can keep some of the old food in until they have adjusted.
We recommend mixing in a spoonful of wet food for extra flavor if they are struggling to adjust, as this will make them excited to eat their breakfast and dinner.
As Doxies are notoriously low to the ground, we recommend buying food and water bowls that are low enough for them to comfortably rest their necks.
With a higher bowl, they may struggle to eat properly and it can cause pressure on their esophagus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is better between dry and wet food?
This depends on a lot of factors. Wet food is great for protein, calories, taste, and hydration.
Dry food is great for oral hygiene, sensitive skin and stomachs, and improving the quality of bones, joints, and muscles.
Picky Doxies will most likely prefer wet to dry food, but this could result in weight gain overtime and will prohibit the quality of their oral hygiene (unless you regularly brush their teeth).
We recommend talking to a professional to find your dog’s individual needs, as it is quite a trial and error situation.
We also recommend keeping some wet food for dogs who struggle with dry food, to improve the taste and therefore their excitement about eating the food.
How much food should a Dachshund eat?
This depends on the age, weight, and body type of the Dachshund.
A senior Dachshund that does not like activity and sits around on the sofa will have different needs to an adolescent pup, who requires a suitable amount of energy to maintain their active lifestyle.
Remember, Dachshunds are small dogs with huge appetites, so a small portion to you might be a suitable portion for them.
It is best to feed them at breakfast and dinner times, around 6 or 7am and 4 or 5pm respectively.
It is important to keep these times consistent to not confuse your dog, as routine will help them understand when to eat and prevent their weight from fluctuating.
Why does my dog always seem hungry?
To put it simply - your dog might be really greedy. Dachshunds love food and, despite their small stomachs, don’t usually have a limit to what they can eat.
Whilst this is quite a loveable trait, it can actually result in obesity if you do not restrict your dog’s diet sufficiently.
On the other hand, if they are not eating their food but still seem hungry, you may want to consider any food changes that could affect their mood and appetite.
Transitioning dog food should take one to two weeks rather than immediately, because dogs rely on a routine and consistency.
They could be going through a period of anxiety or this could be a sign of not enough exercise, as they have no need to burn the food and energy they consume (or don’t consume).
What human food can and can’t Dachshunds eat?
There is a list of human foods that most dogs can and cannot eat.
Some human foods are great for dogs as a treat, but it is important to not rely on these daily as they could gain weight or a fussy nature that will prevent them from eating their own food.
They can eat:
- Vegetables such as carrots
- Fruit such as watermelon for hydration
- Small amounts of cheese as a treat
The foods to avoid include:
- Food with bones
- Large amount of dairy
- Chocolate
- Raisins and grapes
- Onions and garlic
- Carbs like potatoes
- Any raw meat or eggs
Of course, small amounts of human food as a treat are fine for a Dachshund, just be cautious to not make it a habit. They have their own doggy treats for that.
For those who take tablets for an illness or fleas, we recommend putting the tablet in a small chunk of cheese to disguise the medication.
What treats can they have?
There’s a whole array of dog treats that have multiple benefits.
Canine dental sticks are great for improving oral hygiene, natural and healthy treats offer a special new taste for the dog, and toys such as kongs allow for a fun game with the bonus of tasty food inside.
Dog treats are great for training purposes as well as rewarding them for being a good dog.
Last update on 2023-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API