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The 5 Best Dog Foods For Shelties

Shetland Sheepdogs, commonly known as "Shelties," are well-known for their intelligence, athleticism, and kindness, making them a favorite among dog enthusiasts worldwide.

Shelties, like many tiny breeds, enjoy a lengthy lifetime. Nonetheless, the breed has been linked to a number of health problems, including dermatomyositis (a skin ailment) and joint problems such as hip dysplasia.

Appropriate nutrition is critical to keeping your Sheltie as happy and healthy as possible, so BestForPets (bestforpets.org) has selected some of the best dog foods for shelties that we believe are worth investigating. Let's get this party started!

Reviews

Formula Blue Buffalo Life Protection

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food

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Due to its nutrient-dense constituents, including genuine deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, and oatmeal, Blue Buffalo's Life Protection Formula is a highly recommended dog food for Shelties.

This dog food is available in a variety of flavors, including Chicken & Brown Rice, Beef & Brown Rice, Lamb & Brown Rice, Fish & Brown Rice, and Small Bite Chicken & Brown Rice, to accommodate a variety of tastes.

This dog food is an excellent choice for canines with food sensitivities or allergies because it contains no wheat, corn, or soy.

LifeSource Bits are a precise composition of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support the immune system, life stage requirements, and a healthy oxidative balance.

In addition to providing mature canines with essential proteins and carbohydrates, Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and a glossy coat.

Positive user reviews have been received for this dog food, with some noting its suitability for canines with sensitive stomachs and even finicky eaters.

Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula is an all-natural dog food that does not contain any chicken or poultry by-product ingredients, maize, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.

It is available in various quantities, including a 30-pound bag, to accommodate the requirements of varying dog owners.


Sensitive Skin & Stomach Purina Pro Plan

 Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula

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Shelties are prone to skin issues, so if you’re searching for a dog food that accommodates to their sensitive skin, you should consider Purina Pro Plan's Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula .

The first ingredient in this dog food is genuine salmon, a high-quality source of protein that helps maintain muscle mass and promotes a healthy immune system.

It also contains oatmeal, which is mild on your dog’s digestive system and readily digestible. Wheat, soy, and corn are absent from the formula, making it an excellent option for canines with food sensitivities.

This dog food is fortified with guaranteed active probiotics to promote digestive and immune health. In addition, the composition contains Omega-6 fatty acids that support the health of your dog’s epidermis and coat.

Numerous consumers, particularly those who were prescribed this food by a veterinarian, have reported positive changes in their dog’s skin and coat quality after using this food.

Some consumers, however, were dissatisfied with the product and claimed that it did not benefit dog’s canines. A few have also commented on the food’s granular texture.

Available in various quantities, including a 30-pound bag, Purina Pro Plan’s Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula is suitable for adult canines and those older than seven years.

This high-protein dog food contains essential vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent option for Shelties and other canines with sensitive skin.


Puppy Chicken & Rice Formula Purina Pro Plan

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula

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The Purina Pro Plan Chicken and Rice Puppy Formula  is a highly recommended option for pet owners who wish to provide their beloved companions with a diet that promotes healthy growth and development.

This powdered food contains high-quality chicken protein, which promotes lean muscle development and healthful growth.

In addition to DHA from omega-rich fish oil, which supports brain and vision development in puppies, the formula also contains live microorganisms for simple digestion and antioxidants to support a puppy’s developing immune system.

Positive reviews from pet owners emphasize how well this food is tolerated by canines with sensitive stomachs and how their dogs appear content and active on this diet.

It is essential to note that some reviewers have expressed concerns about the meal’s condition upon arrival or apparent product modifications.

Nonetheless, Purina Pro Plan Chicken and Rice Puppy Formula is an excellent option for pet proprietors who wish to ensure optimal nutrient delivery to their beloved companions. This formula is available in different quantities to accommodate your requirements.

Pros

  • Contributes to overall development
  • Digestive probiotics that are alive
  • Dogs with sensitive stomachs may benefit.
  • Made with genuine chicken.
  • There have been several positive reviews.

Cons

  • It may not be appropriate for every puppy.
  • Adult dogs are not permitted.

Small Breed Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Recipe

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  • Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, and barley are the main components.
  • Protein content: 27% minimum
  • Minimum fat content: 16%
  • Calorie content: 3711 kcal/kg, 404 kcal/cup

Shelties are a little breed, so you may wish to explore a diet designed specifically for small dogs. Merrick’s small breed formula offers 54% protein and 46% whole grains, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

It also includes omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as glucosamine, which promote joint health.

According to reports, giving this formula to many dogs has been beneficial, with improvements in joint health and fewer skin concerns mentioned.

The few negative reviews refer to concerns such as the kibble size lately increasing and the product not being offered in a larger-sized bag.

Pros

  • It contains high-quality proteins.
  • Vitamin and mineral dense
  • Has aided some dogs with medical difficulties
  • Designed for tiny breeds
  • Mostly good feedback

Cons

  • Only available in 12 pound packages.
  • Some people may find the kibble size to be excessively big.

High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food by Taste of the Wild

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  • Water buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, and sweet potatoes are the main components.
  • Protein content: 32% minimum
  • Minimum fat content: 18%
  • Calorie content: 3,719 kcal/kg, 422 kcal/cup

Disclaimer: If you are considering giving a grain-free diet to your dog, please consult with your veterinarian first to ensure that it is a good idea. Grain-free diets are also being investigated for their potential relation to canine heart disease—just something to consider.

Taste of the Outdoors is a dog food company that is well-known for developing recipes based on what dogs would eat in the wild. As a result, they tend to employ more unusual protein sources rather than the typical chicken, lamb, and cattle.

This grain-free roasted bison and venison dish has at least 32% protein. It contains exclusive prebiotics from the K9 strain as well as a range of fruits and vegetables.

It’s hardly surprising that this recipe has a lot of positive feedback given that it’s a very popular dog food and a bestseller on internet merchants like Chewy.

Users have appreciated its value for money and the health benefits it has provided for their dogs. Unhappy consumers said that it simply did not sit well with their dogs, and that some dogs did not love it.

Pros

  • High protein content
  • Uses unusual protein types
  • Nutrient-rich
  • Prebiotic fiber promotes digestion.
  • A well-known recipe

Cons

  • Grain-free recipe is not suitable for all canines.

Buying Guide

1. Financial Situation:

While you want to provide the finest possible sustenance for your Sheltie, you must also consider your budget. Look for dog food options that meet the nutritional requirements of your Sheltie without exceeding your budget.

2. Your Sheltie’s Age:

The age of your Sheltie is an essential consideration when choosing dog food. Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, and senior dogs have different nutritional demands than puppies.

Choose a dog food that is age-appropriate for your Sheltie to ensure that it receives the nutrients it needs at its current stage of life.

3. The Dimensions of Your Sheltie:

Some dog foods are specifically formulated for certain breeds or sizes of canines. Taking your Sheltie’s size into account can help you choose a dog food that meets their nutritional requirements.

Look for dog food that is proportionate to your Sheltie’s size to ensure that they receive the proper proportion of nutrients.

4. Level of Effort:

The activity level of your Sheltie is another important consideration when choosing dog food. If your Sheltie is extremely active, he or she may require a higher-calorie diet than a less active dog.

Look for dog food that is appropriate for your Sheltie’s level of activity to ensure that they receive adequate nutrition to sustain their activities.

5. Allergies:

If your Sheltie has food allergies, it is essential to choose dog food that does not contain the offending ingredients. Consider purchasing dog food that is hypoallergenic or free of common allergens such as wheat, maize, and soy.

6. Preferred Meat:

Consider the preferences of your Sheltie when selecting dog food. Look for dog food that contains the flesh your dog prefers as the primary ingredient. This will ensure your dog appreciates its food and increase its likelihood of eating it.

In conclusion, by considering your Sheltie’s age, size, level of activity, medical conditions, allergies, meat preferences, and budget, you can select the best dog food to meet their specific dietary requirements.

FAQs

1. What are the most nutritious dog diets for Shelties?

High-quality dog foods containing named animal protein sources, such as poultry, lamb, or fish, in addition to carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, are optimal for Shelties.

2. Should I choose a dog food without grains for my Sheltie?

While some Shelties may do well on grain-free diets, recent research suggests a link between grain-free dog foods and canine cardiac disease. Before making significant adjustments to your Sheltie’s diet, you should consult your veterinarian.

3. How do I alter the brand of dog food that my Sheltie eats?

You can alter your Sheltie’s dog food brand, but you should do so gradually over a few weeks to avoid digestive distress. Start by incorporating a modest quantity of the new food into their current diet and increase the amount progressively over time.

4. Exist any supplements that can enhance the health of my Sheltie?

Supplements such as fish oil, probiotics, and joint supplements can be beneficial for Shelties, but it’s imperative to consult your veterinarian before adding any to your dog’s diet.

5. How can I determine whether or not my Sheltie is overweight, and what should I do about it?

You can determine if your Sheltie is overweight by feeling their ribcage and spine; if they are difficult to feel, your dog may be overweight. Consult your veterinarian regarding a diet and exercise regimen to help your Sheltie achieve a healthy weight.

6. Is it acceptable to give my Sheltie treats, and if so, which are the best?

It is important to choose delicacies that are low in calories and made with high-quality ingredients if you wish to reward your Sheltie with treats. Look for delights designed specifically for Shelties, or opt for healthful options such as fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion

To summarize our reviews, Ollie’s fresh meal delivery service is our top overall dog food pick for Shelties. We like how the approach is “tailor-made” and how you get advice based on your dog’s individual requirements. ”Blue  is our best bargain pick, and the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach formula is our premium pick.

Purina Pro Plan Puppy Chicken & Rice Formula is recommended for pups, and Merrick’s Classic Healthy Grains Small Breed Recipe is recommended by our veterinarian. BestForPets (bestforpets.org) chose these best dog foods for shelties based on their popularity and largely positive customer feedback.

Author Image

Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher

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