The 10 Best Dog Foods For Maltese in 2023
- July 25, 2023
- By Dr. Linda Wilson
Maltese dogs make loving, inquisitive, and scared friends. As one of the world's oldest dog breeds, this toy breed is reasonably easy to care for. They're people-pleasers at heart, but they're also spunky little dogs who don't back down from a challenge.
Finding the best dog food for tiny and toy breeds can be tricky. While you want to locate nutritional, high-quality dog food, you also want to discover something that your Maltese would like. It must be readily digestible and delicious. Because these dogs are predisposed to a few health issues, it's critical to choose a dog food that works for them rather than against them.
To assist you, BestForPets created evaluations of the best dog foods for Maltese. Continue reading to discover tasty, nutritional, and cost-effective meals for your little buddy.
Vet Approved
Reviewed & Fact - Checked by
Deborah R. Fletcher (DVM)
VeterinarianThe information provided is current and up-to-date, in line with the latest research conducted in the field of veterinary medicine.
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See our top choices for 2023 in a nutshell.
| Image | Product | View on Amazon |
|---|---|---|
1
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Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food | View on Amazon |
2
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ORIJEN Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs | View on Amazon |
3
|
Blue Buffalo Small Breed Dog Food, Life Protection Formula | View on Amazon |
4
|
Wellness CORE Natural Grain-Free Small Breed Turkey & Chicken Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs | View on Amazon |
5
|
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food With Grains | View on Amazon |
6
|
Merrick Lil Plates Grain Free Small Breed Recipe | View on Amazon |
7
|
Halo Holistic Dog Food, Complete Digestive Health Cage-Free Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe | View on Amazon |
8
|
Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food | View on Amazon |
9
|
Taste of the Wild Grain Free High Protein Real Meat Recipe Appalachian Valley Premium Dry Dog Food | View on Amazon |
10
|
NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food | View on Amazon |
Reviews
1. Small Breed Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food
- Blue Buffalo brand
- Adult life stage
- Deboned chicken, chicken meal, pea protein, peas, and tapioca starch are the first five components.
- Source of primary protein: chicken
- Food Type: Dry food
- High-protein, grain-free diet with no maize, wheat, or soy
Blue Buffalo Wilderness is an excellent choice for Maltese dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. This grain-free formula is reasonably priced and contains a combination of nutritious ingredients, including deboned chicken, peas, sweet potatoes, blueberries, cranberries, and carrots.
This combination provides balanced proportions of protein, fat, and carbs for Maltese dogs. Additionally, this dog food supports immune health and muscle development with its high antioxidant and protein contents.
This dog food is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs, but it may not be suitable for all dogs. If a dog’s digestive issues persist, it may be necessary to transition to a product with fewer ingredients.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food does not contain chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, maize, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
It also features LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals selected by veterinarians and nutrition experts to support immune health, life stage requirements, and a healthy oxidative balance.
This dog food is specially formulated for mature dogs of small breeds, and its kibble size is optimal for dogs with smaller jaws. With more chicken than ever before, this protein-rich dog food helps build and maintain lean muscles.
Its nutritious grains make it an obvious choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs the best possible nutrition.
Grain-free
High-protein
Beneficial for food sensitivities
Budget-friendly
The protein in the formula is obtained from peas.
Not all dogs tolerate it.
2. Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food ORIJEN
- Brand: ORIJEN
- Adult/Senior life stage
- Chicken, turkey, Atlantic flounder, entire Atlantic mackerel, and turkey giblets are the first five components.
- Turkey and chicken are the primary protein sources.
- Food Type: Dry food
- Grain-free, high-protein, weight-control diet; gluten-free, natural, raw; no maize, wheat, or soy.
ORIJEN is an excellent option if you are searching for premium senior dog food for your Maltese. Although it is more expensive than the majority of other dog foods on the market, the high-quality and protein-rich ingredients make it a worthy investment.
This grain-free dog food has been formulated to support the health, joint function, and immune system of your senior Maltese. There are no preservatives or artificial ingredients, and the first five constituents are all proteins.
The remaining constituents are whole fruits and vegetables, providing your dog with a nutritionally balanced diet.
Raw freeze-dried food is one of the distinguishing characteristics of ORIJEN’s senior dog chow. This indicates that all nutrients of intact components are maintained.
This dog food contains chicken as its main source of protein, and there are no alternatives available. If your dog is averse to poultry or turkey, this food may not be appropriate for him.
Even though ORIJEN senior dog food has a distinct fish odor, its airtight packaging keeps the food fresh.
It also includes a variety of nutritious ingredients, such as whole red lentils, whole pinto beans, whole navy beans, whole green lentils, whole chickpeas, whole peas, dried apple pomace, turkey giblets, eggs, dehydrated turkey, natural chicken flavor, dehydrated pumpkin, pollock oil, chicken fat, lentil fiber, chicken heart, vitamin E supplement, whole pumpkin, whole butternut squash, collard greens, whole apples, whole pears, whole cranberries, dried kelp.
Overall, ORIJEN senior dog food is a highly nutritious, Biologically Appropriate, and grain-free diet that nourishes your Maltese in accordance with their natural, biological requirements.
100% natural ingredients
Raw freeze-dried
Proteins are the first five components.
Only available in poultry recipes.
Strong odor
Expensive
3. Formula Blue Buffalo Life Protection Adult Small Breed
- Blue Buffalo brand
- Adult life stage
- Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oats, and barley are the first five components.
- Source of primary protein: chicken
- Food Type: Dry food
- Grain-free diet with no maize, wheat, or soy.
Maltese dogs require a healthy balance of lipids, carbohydrates, and protein to maintain their health. Blue Buffalo's Life Protection Small Breed formula is specially formulated for small dog breeds such as Maltese, making it an excellent option for your beloved companion.
This kibble is high in protein and fortified with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and muscular development.
It is excellent for canines with sensitive digestive systems because it contains only whole ingredients and no by-products or fillers. Additionally, the formula is devoid of wheat, corn, and soy.
Deboned chicken is the primary constituent in this cuisine, followed by chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley, and fish meal. These high-quality protein sources aid in the growth and maintenance of your dog’s musculature.
Additionally, the formula contains flaxseed, an excellent source of Omega-6 fatty acids, and fish meal, a source of Omega-3 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and a glossy coat.
Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Small Breed formula contains LifeSource Bits, an exclusive balance of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists.
These pieces support the immune system and life stage needs of your dog, as well as promote a healthy oxidative balance.
This all-natural dog food contains NO chicken by-product meals, maize, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It is formulated with a precise combination of proteins and carbohydrates to meet the increased energy requirements of smaller canines. This formula contains 3,648 calories per kilogram and 397 per cup.
In conclusion, Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Small Breed formula is a highly nourishing and well-balanced food that meets the biological needs of your Maltese.
With its high-quality protein sources, wholesome ingredients, and LifeSource Bits, this food is an excellent option for maintaining the health and happiness of your furry companion.
Ingredients in their entirety
There are no byproducts.
Simple to understand
It is not grain-free.
4. Grain-Free Wellness CORE Small Breed Dog Food
- The Wellness CORE brand
- Adult life stage
- Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, lentils, and peas are the first five components.
- Turkey and chicken are the primary protein sources.
- Food Type: Dry food
- Grain-free, gluten-free, no maize, wheat, or soy, high-protein diet
Wellness CORE's grain-free dog food is a suitable option for Maltese owners with dietary allergies or a sensitive stomach. This dry dog food contains high-quality ingredients and a comprehensive nutritional profile, making it a nutritious and complete meal alternative for your canine companion.
The premium dog food is masterfully balanced with nutrient-rich nutrients to provide the optimal fat and calorie levels your dog requires for optimal health.
With over 47% high-quality protein, this dog food promotes leaner body mass and muscle tone, following the nutritional tenet that canines thrive on a natural diet consisting primarily of meat.
With guaranteed levels of omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat, glucosamine for joint health, and high fiber and probiotics for digestive health, this grain-free dog food supports digestive health and strong joints.
In addition, taurine is included to support a healthy heart, ensuring the overall health of your companion.
Wellness CORE’s grain-free dog food is free of corn, wheat, and soy and contains only premium, all-natural ingredients with no poultry by-products, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.
This dog food is produced in a facility that also processes grains, ensuring that your pet will receive a nutritious meal.
Wellness CORE’s dog food is made in the United States with non-GMO, wholesome ingredients that have been selected for their nutritional value. This dry dog food is specially formulated for compact breeds such as Maltese, providing them with the essential nutrients they require to live a healthy and joyful existence.
In conclusion, Wellness CORE’s grain-free dog food is a highly nourishing and well-balanced diet that promotes your Maltese’s health and wellbeing.
This dog food is an excellent option for pet owners who want the best for their beloved companions due to its premium protein sources, nutrient-rich nutrients, and digestive health support.
Grain-free for those with sensitive stomachs
High protein content
It tastes nice.
The major protein source is chicken.
5. Adult Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Dog Food
- Brand: Wellness
- Adult life stage
- Deboned turkey, chicken meal, salmon meal, oats, rice, and barley are the first five components.
- Turkey and brown rice are the primary protein sources.
- Food Type: Dry food
- Weight management, no corn, wheat, or soy, with grain
Wellness CORE's grain-free dog food is a suitable option for Maltese owners with dietary allergies or a sensitive stomach. This dry dog food contains high-quality ingredients and a comprehensive nutritional profile, making it a nutritious and complete meal alternative for your canine companion.
The premium dog food is masterfully balanced with nutrient-rich nutrients to provide the optimal fat and calorie levels your dog requires for optimal health.
With over 47% high-quality protein, this dog food promotes leaner body mass and muscle tone, following the nutritional tenet that canines thrive on a natural diet consisting primarily of meat.
With guaranteed levels of omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat, glucosamine for joint health, and high fiber and probiotics for digestive health, this grain-free dog food supports digestive health and strong joints.
In addition, taurine is included to support a healthy heart, ensuring the overall health of your companion.
Wellness CORE’s grain-free dog food is free of corn, wheat, and soy and contains only premium, all-natural ingredients with no poultry by-products, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.
This dog food is produced in a facility that also processes grains, ensuring that your pet will receive a nutritious meal.
Wellness CORE’s dog food is made in the United States with non-GMO, wholesome ingredients that have been selected for their nutritional value. This dry dog food is specially formulated for compact breeds such as Maltese, providing them with the essential nutrients they require to live a healthy and joyful existence.
In conclusion, Wellness CORE’s grain-free dog food is a highly nourishing and well-balanced diet that promotes your Maltese’s health and wellbeing.
This dog food is an excellent option for pet owners who want the best for their beloved companions due to its premium protein sources, nutrient-rich nutrients, and digestive health support.
Encourages weight loss
High in fiber
Kibble in large portions
6. Grain-Free Merrick Lil’ Plates Dry Dog Food
- Brand: Merrick
- Adult life stage
- Deboned meat, lamb meal, salmon meal, sweet potatoes, and potatoes are the first five components.
- Beef and sweet potato are the primary protein sources.
- Food Type: Dry food
- Grain-free diet, no maize, wheat, or soy, gluten-free diet, sensitive digestion
Merrick offers a high-protein and high-fat blend that is optimal for maintaining the health and happiness of small canines. Their Texas beef and sweet potato dish, one of eight varieties, is a nutritious option for Maltese and other small dog breeds.
If your animal companion has a sensitive stomach or requires a novel protein meal, Merrick offers a variety of recipes to meet their specific requirements.
Although Merrick’s kibble may be too large for canines with dental issues, their nutritional formulations are also available in canned form. It is essential to note that Merrick is a more expensive option than other foods for petite breeds.
This grain-free dog food is made with deboned beef from Texas, a high-quality protein source, and is enriched with healthful lipids to promote optimal weight and energy levels.
This natural dog food formulation contains probiotics and prebiotic fiber to promote healthy digestion, while high levels of glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids support joint health and maintain a healthy coat and skin.
Merrick Lil’ Plates dry food contains tiny kibble to clean teeth and reduce plaque, making it a great option for canines with dental issues. This 12-pound container of Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Dog Food is an excellent investment for the health and pleasure of your Maltese.
There are several recipe options.
High protein content
High in fat
Wet food is also offered.
Big kibble
Expensive
7. Small Breed Dry Dog Food Halo Holistic Chicken
- Brand: Halo
- Adult life stage
- The first five components are: Oatmeal, chicken, chicken liver, dry egg product, dried peas
- Chicken and chicken liver are the primary protein sources.
- Food Type: Dry food
- Special Diet: Grain-free, non-GMO
This Halo dog food for small breeds is no exception to the company’s reputation for using high-quality ingredients. The chicken and brown rice recipe is composed of wholesome, natural ingredients, and the tiny granule pieces are nutritionally dense.
This meal contains grains and is enriched with vitamins and minerals to provide your Maltese with complete nutrition.
The smaller kibble is formulated with increased protein for small breeds and an optimal ratio of omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a glossy coat. Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics also provide digestive and immune support for canines.
For optimal nutrition and digestive support, the Halo Holistic Cage-free Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe is prepared in the United States with high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients.
This recipe calls for chicken that is Global Animal Partnership (GAP)-certified, antibiotic-free, and non-GMO.
Although this dog food for small breeds contains no meat by-products, it is not recommended for picky eaters because some canines may not appreciate the flavor. In addition, the meal has a distinct odor, so it is advisable not to leave it out for too long.
The enhanced and more nutritious formula eliminates chicken liver, dried egg product, and soy protein concentrate and replaces them with brown rice, pork, brewer’s dried yeast, and yeast culture to provide your companion with the highest quality nutrition.
Ingredients derived from nature
Kibble in little chunks
Detailed nutritional profile
Has many different types of meat proteins
8. Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin has a special recipe for adult Maltese that is made to meet their unique nutritional needs. The kibble is designed to fit the breed’s tapered snout, making it easier for them to pick up and encouraging them to eat more slowly.
The recipe uses easily digestible proteins, such as chicken by-product meal and pork meal, along with brewer’s rice, corn, and wheat gluten. The addition of fish oil provides important fatty acids that help keep the skin and coat healthy, promoting a smooth, shiny coat.
With 3.3% fiber, this dog food is designed to reduce the amount and smell of a dog’s poop. It also tastes great, making it an excellent choice for picky eaters.
Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food is specifically formulated for purebred Maltese who are 10 months or older.
It helps support the skin and coat with biotin and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which keep the hair silky and long. The easily digestible proteins create good poop, and the shape of the kibbles encourages healthy eating habits.
Overall, this dog food is a bit pricey, but it has the right ingredients to keep your Maltese healthy and happy. If you are looking for the best dog food for Maltese, the Royal Canin recipe is a great pick.
Ideal for adults
Made for the Maltese
Customized kibble
Helps kids who are picky eaters
Digestible proteins
Lessens the smell and amount of stools
Oil from fish for a smooth coat
Pricey
9. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild is a well-known brand that provides natural food for dogs. This formula is specifically designed for small breeds like the Maltese. It is a grain-free recipe that uses venison and lamb as the primary protein sources, along with garbanzo beans, peas, and lentils for fiber and other nutrients.
Duck and ocean fish meal are also included in the recipe, adding both flavor and additional protein. Grain-free food is best for dogs who cannot tolerate grains, although those with other food sensitivities may find it slightly harder to digest due to its high animal protein content.
The recipe does not contain any artificial fillers, colors, flavors, or preservatives, and includes a proprietary K9 strain probiotic blend to support digestive health.
Taste of the Wild's Small Breed Venison Formula also includes egg product, pea protein, and tomato pomace, among other ingredients. Fruits such as blueberries and raspberries, as well as yucca schidigera extract, are also added to the recipe.
The added live microorganisms in the formula provide additional support for the immune system, digestive health, and overall nutrition.
This dog food is designed for adult dogs and provides support for bones, muscles, skin, dental care, joints, and coat.
Taste of the Wild Small Breed Venison Formula is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality grain-free food that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients. Overall, this food is a great pick for small breed dogs like the Maltese.
Made for small dog breeds
Grain-free
Good energy from meat
High in fat and protein
Some healthy vegetables are
No artificial chemicals
K9 probiotic mix to help with stomach
Has many different types of meat proteins
10. Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Nutro Ultra is a high-quality dry dog food made specifically for adult small breeds. This food contains three different types of protein from chicken, lamb, and salmon, providing your pet with a delicious and healthy meal.
However, the salmon ingredient may make the food smell slightly fishy. The recipe also includes brown rice, flaxseed, beet pulp, and whole-grain oatmeal as sources of crude fiber, which is essential for your dog’s digestive health.
Although Nutro Ultra is not a grain-free formula due to its rice content, it is a balanced diet that provides your dog with the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to maintain their health.
The food also contains antioxidants that help preserve your dog’s immune system, and sunflower oil that keeps your dog’s skin healthy and coat shiny. The recipe is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making it a healthy and natural option for your furry friend.
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food contains high-quality ingredients sourced from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers. The kibble is made with a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods, including coconut, chia, kale, blueberries, and more.
This combination of ingredients provides complete and balanced nutrition for small breed adult dogs in every bowl.
This 15 lb. bag of Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is protein-rich and contains no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat. This makes it an excellent option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, natural diet that is free from artificial ingredients.
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is a premium choice for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a delicious and nutritious meal.
Three proteins from animal
Tasty
Lots of fiber
The best source of both protein and carbs
Antioxidants present
Maintains healthy skin and a shiny coat
Odorous
Not a good choice for dogs with food allergies.
Are you in search of the finest nourishment for your four-legged companion? Take a look at our comprehensive guide on the highest-rated canine diets for pups of all varieties and dimensions.
Buyer's Guide: How to Select the Best Maltese Dog Foods
With so many small breed dog meals on the market, selecting one that is safe for your Maltese might be difficult. This list of reviews should have helped you choose one that meets your needs, but if you still can’t decide, here’s a helpful buyer’s guide to addressing frequent issues and concerns about buying Maltese dog food.
1. What Should You Look for in Maltese Dog Food?
Ingredients from Whole Foods
When purchasing dog food, your primary focus should be on nutritious, high-quality ingredients. This indicates that meat should be the first element, followed by healthy fats and carbs, preferably whole grains.
You don’t need to buy grain-free food if your Maltese doesn’t have digestive disorders or dietary allergies. Grains aren’t unhealthy for dogs; they only upset certain dogs’ digestive systems, just like they do in humans.
If your Maltese has digestion problems, food allergies, or skin problems, it’s typically better to provide a limited-ingredient diet.
High-Quality Proteins
Maltese thrive on high-protein diets, but the protein should come from actual animal sources such as chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, or fish. Meal elements, such as chicken meal, are acceptable in dog food, but you should avoid animal by-products whenever possible.
Beneficial Fats
Healthy fats help your dog’s skin and coat. While indoor dogs may not require as much fat as active dogs, all dogs should exercise regularly. Small dogs, in particular, do not consume a lot of food, so it must have as much protein and fat as possible for energy.
2. Avoiding Harmful Ingredients
Several dog food manufacturers provide high-quality ingredients and delicious meals. Unfortunately, several brands do not. It’s easy to buy inexpensive dog food that’s loaded with fillers, artificial additives, and low-quality ingredients. To prevent purchasing the wrong one, you must first understand what you are searching for.
Avoid the following:
- Fillers are formula carbohydrates obtained from wheat, maize, rice, or starchy vegetables.
- Colors, flavors, and preservatives are common artificial ingredients in dog food. They can help food last longer, taste better, and look better, but they are also common causes of bad skin and coat health, digestive problems, and allergic responses.
- Meat byproducts are “leftovers” from meat processing that are not deemed acceptable for human consumption. While they aren’t harmful to your dog, the issue is that you don’t know what you’re getting. There are no rules governing which byproducts can be used in dog food. It is preferable to select goods that specify exactly what is in the dish, such as chicken liver and chicken heart.
If you’re interested in learning more about Maltese dogs and how to care for them, check out our comprehensive guide on Information About Maltese.
FAQs
1. What can a Maltese dog eat?
If you’re wondering what to feed your Maltese, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is an excellent option that includes deboned chicken, chicken meal, pea protein, peas, and tapioca starch. It’s also an affordable choice for Maltese dogs with dietary allergies or sensitivities.
2. What foods can Maltese be allergic to?
Maltese dogs with environmental allergies may also develop a food allergy. In most cases, a protein like chicken or beef causes food intolerance, but some Maltese may also be allergic to eggs, milk, soy, or corn.
3. Can dogs eat rice?
Yes, dogs can eat rice, and it’s often used in commercial dog food. However, rice should only be part of a varied diet that provides all the necessary nutrients.
4. What vegetables are best for dogs?
Carrots, peas, green beans, sweet potatoes, and bananas are rich in essential vitamins and potassium that benefit a dog’s muscles, nerves, and kidneys. These vegetables also provide fiber that promotes regular bowel movements.
5. Are grain-free diets healthier for Maltese dogs?
Not necessarily. While some Maltese dogs may have grain allergies or digestive issues, others may not. The most important factor is choosing a dog food that contains high-quality ingredients, whether or not it contains carbohydrates.
6. Is it important to choose a dog food formulated for small breeds like Maltese?
Yes, small breed dogs have different nutritional needs and require smaller kibble for easier digestion. Choosing a dog food specifically formulated for small breeds can ensure that your Maltese receives the proper nutrients in the right amounts.
7. Which ingredients should I avoid when selecting a diet for my Maltese?
Avoid dog foods that contain additives like wheat, corn, or rice, as well as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Meat by-products are also best avoided as their quality and origin are often unknown. Instead, choose dog foods that include high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains.
Conclusion
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) hopes you’ve figured out which is the best dog foods for Maltese. Ollie is our pick for the finest overall dog food for Maltese. It features a nutritional profile that is well-balanced, fresh, high-quality ingredients that are simple to digest, and loads of vitamins and minerals to keep your dog healthy.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Small Breed Dog Food is also the best value for money. This is a low-cost meal for dogs with sensitive stomachs that does not skimp on quality, nutrition, or taste.
Veterinarian (DVM)
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