Dog owners frequently ask…
What’s the best dog food for a dachshund?
The right answer to that important question depends on the AGE of YOUR particular dog.
That’s because…
Dachshund puppies, adults and seniors… EACH have different nutritional needs.
Which means some foods would not be a good nutritional match.
For example…
A dog food designed for an adult may contain too little calcium for a growing dachshund puppy… or too little protein and too many calories for a less active senior.1 2
And there are other nutritional differences, too.
For example…
A growing dachshund puppy needs 0.71% isoleucine (one of 12 essential amino acids)… while an adult requires just 0.38% of the same nutrient.3
What’s more…
The health of a senior dachshund can be enhanced by a dog food that contains 50% more protein than a younger animal.4
Here’s the Point…
Since there are no official nutrient standards established for ANY specific breed (including dachshunds)… AND for optimal long-term health…
It’s important to choose a dog food that’s suitable for the nutrient profile that matches your dachshund’s age.
The 3 Nutritional Life Stages of a Dachshund
The age ranges in the following table were obtained from multiple sources and can be used to help you find the best food for your particular dachshund.
| Life Stage | Age |
|---|---|
| Dachshund puppy | Under 9-12 months5 |
| Dachshund adult | Over 9-12 months6 |
| Dachshund senior | 10+ years7 |
Our Top Picks Based on
Your Dachshund’s Life Stage
On the list below…
You’ll find The Dog Food Advisor’s best dog and puppy foods for dachshunds based on the life stage of your particular pet.
You’ll also learn the answer to each of the 5 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding this ever-popular small breed hound.
Best Dog Food for Dachshunds
May 2023
Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s best dog food brands for Dachshunds for May 2023.
Blue Buffalo Chicken and Brown Rice Small Breed Adult
Chicken and Brown Rice Small Breed is one of 21 dry recipes contained in our review of the Blue Buffalo product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley
- Type: Contains grain (brown rice, oatmeal, barley)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult dachshunds
This Blue Buffalo recipe receives the bulk of its animal protein from deboned chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
With an unusually wide selection of “flavor” options, Life Protection makes an ideal choice for those using diet rotation to feed picky eaters.
A quality, grain-inclusive design for adult dachshunds. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My dogs really went for this food. They were getting picky and wouldn’t eat. I love the fact that the kibbles are smaller in size. Much easier for one of my dogs to chew. Good ingredients also. They come running now as soon as they hear the bag open!”
Open Farm Harvest Chicken
Harvest Chicken is one of 4 fresh recipes included in our review of the Open Farms product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, carrots, kale, butternut squash, apples
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult dachshunds
Open Farm Harvest Chicken acquires the most of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 29% fat and 25% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
As close as you can get to a home-cooked meal… but without all the fuss. The 100% human-grade ingredients are gently prepared at low temperatures with humanely raised ingredients and superfoods.
All 4 recipes are formulated by a team of nutrition and pet food formulation experts. Professionals include an animal nutritionist with a masters degree in animal science in coordination with a PhD food scientist.
A top quality product. Not cheap. Yet still fairly priced. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Love the quality and that ingredients are sourced on their website! I love knowing where my dogs’ food is coming from. Open Farm to me means open information and opening the door to real, high quality foods.”
Dr. Tim’s Kinesis All Life Stages
All Life Stages is one of 8 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Dr. Tim’s product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, brown rice, pearled barley, whole oat groats, chicken fat
- Type: Contains grain (barley, oat groats)
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Dachshund puppies and adults
Dr. Tim’s Kinesis All Life Stages obtains the lions share of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 45% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
It’s important to note this recipe is made with menhaden fish oil. Which means its fully balanced formula is rich in both EPA and DHA fatty acids.
In fact, the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is a super-low and impressive 3.25 to 1… which helps support cognitive (thinking) function and eye development.
Dr. Tim’s products are one of the canine sporting insider’s best kept secrets and favorite brands. Great for “doxies”, too. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Our dog attacks this food! It’s the third variety of Dr. Tim’s food we’ve fed her. She loves them all! Her attitude, digestion & coat are excellent. Thanks Dr. Tim’s for a quality product with grain.”
Wellness Small Breed Adult
Small Breed Adult is one of 13 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Wellness product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, chicken meal, salmon meal, oatmeal, ground brown rice
- Type: Contains grain (oatmeal, brown rice)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult dachshunds
Wellness Small Breed Adult draws much of its animal protein from deboned turkey, chicken meal, and salmon meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 17% fat and 44% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
This fully-balanced Wellness formula delivers an optimal blend of protein, fat and calories to ensure complete nutrition for your dachshund. Perfect kibble size and shape for smaller mouth anatomy.
A classic, grain-inclusive kibble. One of The Advisor’s all-time favorites. Reasonably priced. Great value. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “All 3 of my small breed dogs love this food. I’m glad we finally found one that all 3 agree on, and that has good ingredients that are vet approved.”
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Wet Dog Food
Petite Pot Pie is one of 8 wet recipes covered in our review of the Merrick Lil’ Plates product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken broth, turkey broth, chicken liver, dried egg whites
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult dachshunds
Merrick ‘Lil Plates Petite Pot Pie gets most of its meat protein from deboned chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
This stew-like formula is designed for complete and balanced nutrition. The recipe contains prebiotics, probiotics and chelated minerals for better absorption from the digestive tract.
This grain and gluten-free wet food includes high levels of omega-3 fatty acids to support a healthier skin and a shiny coat. A tasty option with multiple flavors, ideal for picky eaters. Reasonably priced (when purchased in a case of 12). Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I am a fan of Merrick food and my dog is an even greater one. Lil’ Plates is a great single-serve amount for your small dog and is sure to be gobbled right up. Nutritionally excellent and tasty, this is an easy way to please and nurture your pup.”
Castor and Pollux Organix Organic Small Breed Healthy Grains
Small Breed Healthy Grains is one of 3 dry recipes rated in our review of the Castor and Pollux product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic sweet potatoes, organic potatoes, organic peas
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult dachshunds
This Castor and Pollux formula receives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
Each Organix recipe is fully USDA certified organic… a fact which not only applies to every ingredient but also the line’s entire manufacturing process.
Castor and Pollux Organix is one of The Dog Food Advisor’s all-time favorite organic brands. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “She has no allergies eating this food which is excellent. I’ve been feeding her this food for over three years now and no flareups. I highly recommend if those dogs with sensitive skin and sensitive to allergies”
Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Recipes
Chicken and Turkey is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, potatoes, canola meal, peas, chicken fat
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Dachshund puppies and adults
Whole Earth Farms Grain Free with Chicken and Turkey obtains better part of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A premium “natural” kibble containing no corn, wheat, or soy… and no artificial colors, flavors or high-risk chemical preservatives.
Contains copper amino acid complex and 3 other costly chelated minerals for better nutrition.
A budget-friendly, protein-rich formulation… notable for its exceptional value. Made by Merrick and recommended with confidence.
Sample buyer review… “My dog has been eating whole earth farms since I got her as a puppy 2 years ago. She started out on their grain free puppy formula and within the last year I switched to this formula. We have never had any problems with this food. She is in great health and I always get compliments on her beautiful shiny coat!”
Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Senior
Small Breed Senior Chicken is one of 19 dry recipes covered in our review of the Nutro product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain barley, split peas, brewers rice
- Type: Contains grain (barley, brewers rice)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult dachshunds
This Nutro recipe gets much of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. It’s also worth noting the recipe is 100% free of genetically modified (GMO) ingredients, a rare feature in any U.S. produced pet food.
A nutritious, fully balanced design. A quality dog food at a reasonable price and featuring a kibble size that’s perfect for adult dachshunds. Highly recommended.
For More Senior Options: See our Best Dog Food for Seniors page
Sample buyer review… “My vet said that my dog was eating too much meat/protein to feed her a food with a healthy grain and good vegetables. My dog loves this food and it is healthier for her in terms of fat content and healthier ingredients.”
Nature’s Logic Canine Beef Meal Feast
Canine Beef Meal Feast is one of 11 dry recipes rated in our review of the Nature’s Logic product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture
- Type: Contains grain (millet)
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Dachshund puppies and adults
Nature’s Logic Canine Beef Meal Feast receives the bulk of its animal protein from beef meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 16% fat and 38% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
Contains probiotics and enzymes for healthy digestion. And multiple protein options, perfect for rotational feeding.
Nature’s Logic is one of only a handful of brands that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines using actual feeding trials.
Not only is this classic product made with grain, it’s also 100% free of plant-based protein concentrates.
A quality feed for smaller breeds. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My dog has been on Nature’s Logic for almost 8 years, and still acts like a puppy. At her last physical exam, the vet said she was perfect! This brand of kibble has no artificial ingredients at all. Even their vitamins and minerals are food sourced.”
The Best Puppy Food for Dachshunds
Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s best foods for a dachshund puppy for May 2023.
Orijen Puppy
Orijen Puppy is one of 9 dry recipes contained in our review of the Orijen product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, turkey, turkey giblets (liver, heart, gizzard), flounder, whole mackerel
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Dachshund puppies and adults
Orijen Puppy derives the lions share of its animal protein from fresh chicken, fresh turkey, flounder, and whole mackerel. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 23% fat and 26% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
Ever since its beginnings, Champion Petfoods, the fabled maker of Orijen, has always advocated for a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” diet. This is a time-proven, fully-balanced design which makes this particular recipe a top choice for growing dachshund puppies. Recommended with confidence.
Sample buyer review… “This food really helps build your puppy up. My puppy was struggling to gain weight and adjust to food. In just one week, I could see a huge difference. And he really loves the flavor and has no problem eating all the food at each feeding. If you need your puppy to eat and get healthy, I would highly recommend this food.”
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy
Small Breed Puppy is one of 13 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley
- Type: Contains grain (white rice, barley)
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Dachshund puppies and adults
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy receives much of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 24% fat and 32% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 69%.
This classic “with grain dog food” delivers an optimal combination of protein, fat and calories to ensure a balanced nutrition for your dachshund and other small breed dogs. Highly recommended.
This particular recipe offers exceptional value. In fact, Diamond Naturals was recently selected as one of our most affordable brands.
Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I began slowly transitioning Diamond Naturals to my puppy when he was 5.5 months old, it’s been a month now and he’s had no digestive issues with this food! I usually mix his dry food with some homemade wet food, but he will eat this by itself. No fishy smell either. He’s healthy, happy, and growing well!”
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy
High Prairie Puppy is one of 9 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Water buffalo, lamb meal, sweet potatoes, egg product, pea protein
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Dachshund puppies and adults
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy gets much of its animal protein from water buffalo and lamb meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 19% fat and 42% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 61%.
This product is one of the pet food industry’s most popular brands. It’s specifically designed to support the higher metabolism and energy levels of growing puppies.
A nutritionally complete and fully balanced, grain-free recipe containing no artificial colors, flavors or toxic chemical preservatives. Ideal for dachshund puppies.
Above-average value. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “We tried this because we thought our dog had an allergy to chicken. We were right! This food has really helped our girls belly. We are very happy with it.”
More Top Picks
To view more top recipes for your dachshund puppy or adult… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
- Best Dog Foods
- Best Puppy Foods
- Best Dry Puppy Food
- Best Wet Puppy Food
- Best Small Breed Puppy Food
- Best Dry Dog Food
- Best Wet Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Allergies
- Best Dog Food for Small Dogs
- Best Grain Free Dog Food
- Best Dog Food with Grain
- Best Fresh Food for Dogs
- Best Raw Dog Food
- Best Organic Dog Food
- Best Senior Dog Food
- Best High Protein Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Weight Loss
- Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
- Best Low Fat Dog Food
How can I switch to a new food… without making my dachshund sick?
In this short video…
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help reduce your dachshund’s risk of developing digestive upset when you switch to a new food.
Do dachshunds need to eat special dog food?
Not really. That’s because the pet food industry has not established any “official” nutrient guidelines specifically designed for dachshunds. However, because “doxie” puppies, adults and seniors EACH have different nutritional requirements, it’s important to feed a dog food that’s made to match the life stage of YOUR particular pet.
What’s the best food for a dachshund puppy?
Since they’re considered small breed dogs, Dachshund puppies benefit from eating foods contain the right balance of calcium and other nutrients specifically designed for puppies.
So, until your puppy reaches 9 to 12 months, your younger dachshund should be offered a diet that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines… and is clearly marked on the package “for Growth” or “for All life stages”.
In addition to the 6 puppy and all life stages found in the list above, you’ll discover a more complete list of The Dog Food Advisor’s most recommended small breed puppy foods here.
How much food should you feed a dachshund to maintain your pet at ideal weight and health?
A landmark study found that dogs fed an amount of food that keeps them at ideal body condition lived nearly 2 years longer… than other dogs.8
So, to help your dachshund live a longer life…
Start by following the feeding instructions printed on the package. Then, adjust that amount up or down… to keep your dachshund at ideal body condition.
In this video produced by Hill’s Pet Nutrition…
You’ll learn the same science-based secret used by many vets to determine precisely how much food it takes…
To help your dachshund reach and maintain this healthy weight goal.
What’s the best dog food for a senior dachshund?
According to VCA Hospitals, small dogs tend to live longer than large breeds. In fact, dachshunds aren’t considered “senior” until they reach about 10 years of age. So, if your dachshund is 10 years (or older), you may wish to check out The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Senior Dog Foods page here.
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References
- AAFCO Nutrient Profiles Based on Dry Matter, 2017 Official Publication, Association of American Feed Control Officials, p. 153 ↩
- Williams K, Downing R, Feeding Mature and Senior Dogs, VCA Hospitals ↩
- AAFCO Nutrient Profiles Based on Dry Matter, 2017 Official Publication, Association of American Feed Control Officials, pp. 155-156 ↩
- Coile C, Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs, American Kennel Club ↩
- IAMS: Is Your Puppy Ready for Adult Food? ↩
- IAMS: Is Your Puppy Ready for Adult Food? ibid ↩
- Buzhardt L, VCA Hospitals, How Old Is Old? Comparing Dog Age to Human Age ↩
- https://www.avma.org/News/Journals/Collections/Documents/javma_220_9_1315.pdf ↩
