Last Updated on 01/23/2021 by Veronica Jones
The Havanese is the national pride of Cuba and it is the only native dog existing in the Country after the extinction of the Blanquito de la Habana.
This dog a toy breed that grows between 8 to 11 inches tall and weighs between 7 to 13 pounds.
Although they are small, the Havanese dog breed has big personalities. They are also affectionate, sweet, playful, and energetic.
Their friendly disposition, intelligent minds, and their shiny silky coat are their biggest edges among other dog breeds.
However, considering its size, the Havanese dog breed has certain nutritional requirements and should not overeat.
This is because their stomach is more sensitive than other larger breeds.
For this reason, it may be hard for fur-parents to find the best and healthiest dog food for their Havanese. Read this article if you are a pet parent looking for the best dog food for Havenese.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Dog Food for Havanese
With numerous dog food options to choose from, making the right buying decision can seem daunting. Here is a buyer’s guide to help you.
1. Havanese Nutritional Requirements
Before you go out shopping for your dog’s food, it is important to first understand their nutritional requirements.
Your Havanese friend needs the right balance of fat, protein, and carbohydrate.
These nutritional requirements will vary with whether your dog is a puppy, adult, or senior dog.
There’s plenty of Havanese nutritional information online that you can take advantage of. You may also want to consult with your vet.
2. Read the packaging
In every dog food, there’s a label indicated in the packaging. This label will let you know the nutritional content and the ingredients included in the dog food.
When making your selection, make sure that ensure that the dog food such as fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber as well as vitamins and minerals.
Choose the ones that have 1 to 2 meats as primary ingredients. However, avoid products that have ingredients like excessive sugars, raw foods, raw foods, and other additives. Also, look at the label to ensure that the product meets the AAFCO guidelines.
3. Try Several Dog Food Options Before
A lot of dog food shops and companies offer money-back guarantees. You can avail of such an offer so you can have your Havanese try some dog food options to help you choose the most suitable for him.
When you have already decided on the food and the brand, gradually adjust your diet. Include a little amount of the new food to help your dog transition from the old food.
4. Seek Recommendations
Besides researching the various options, you can also ask other pet parents for dog food recommendations. Your vet can be a good start.
You can also ask for recommendations from dog breeders, groomers, and trainers.
Reviews of the Best Dog Food for Havanese
Now that you know the important things to consider when choosing the best dog food for your Havanese, let’s get started on our top picks.
1. Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe
The Merrick Classic Healthy Grains dry dog food is rich in vitamins and supplements to ensure balanced and controlled nutrition for your pooch.
It contains real deboned chicken, carrots, peas, apples, and quinoa, with no added preservatives and fillers. The existence of chondroitin, glucosamine, and omega-6 and 3 in the ingredients is also commendable.
These healthy nutrients ensure increased mobility and a healthy immune system for small dog breeds. All these ingredients are good for your pet’s digestive system, bones, coat, and teeth.
2. Cesar Puppy Chicken and Beef Recipe
This dog food is best for newly born puppies. Newborn Havanese are fragile and delicate and they need extra care from their pet owner when it comes to food choices.
Cesar Puppy Chicken and Beef recipe is tasty and healthy enough for the pickiest puppy. This puppy food contains every nutrients and mineral that your little pup would need.
All ingredients used in this puppy food are from the US, thus, you can be assured that they are high-quality. Additionally, the formula contains minerals and vitamins to ensure a healthy diet.
Moreover, another good reason why your pup would love this is the fact that it is wet food. There is no denying that both young and adult dogs enjoy eating wet food.
3. Purina Pro Plan Focus Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
If your pup is prone to allergies, the Purina Pro Plan Focus would be excellent dog food for them. This dog food is meant for pups having sensitive tummy and skin problems.
This is because it contains limited and high-quality ingredients such as salmon, pea protein, sunflower oil, animal fat, and brewer rice. Plus, it doesn’t contain filler, artificial flavors, color, and preservatives.
This dog food is recommended for pups weighing not more than 20lbs. Some of the health benefits your Havenese is likely to get from eating this dog food includes fast metabolism, active mobility, and strong teeth, bones, and joints.
4. Castor & Pollux Natural Petworks Organix
Castor & Pollux contains organic and nutritious ingredients. It has everything your pup would need including superfoods, prebiotic fiber, and probiotics.
Organic chicken alongside organic peas and sweet potatoes are the top-rated ingredients of this dog food.
Additionally, other ingredients such as coconut oil, blueberries, and flaxseed are included for a stronger immune system.
Moreover, its small kibbles are good for your pup’s teeth and tummy. It helps them digest faster and easier. It is not heavy on the stomach thus great for puppies who are prone to stomach problems.
5. Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Chicken and Rice Formula
Another great dog food of most fur-parents is the Diamond Naturals. This dog food focuses on natural based-products and contains the right amount of protein.
Ingredients in this formula include cafe-free chicken, blueberries, peas, pumpkin, and oranges.
This dog food is rich in fiber, protein, minerals, and vitamins. It also contains DHA and probiotics for the improved brain, vision, and healthier gut.
Furthermore, the presence of Omega 6 and 3 ensures that your canine friend has the healthiest skin and shiniest coat.
6. Taste of the Wild High Praire
Taste of the Wild has many flavors, nonetheless, this one is perfect for a smaller breed that needs a balanced diet.
This grain-free food is extremely nutritious and brimming with organic and protein ingredients.
This formula includes animal-based protein from bison and buffalo, with the perfect amount of peas and sweet potatoes good for your Havanese’s nutritional requirement.
For healthy digestion and a strong immune system, this dog food contains the right blend of real vegetables and fruits.
There are no fillers or added preservatives, making it ideal for Havanese with a sensitive tummy.
7. Now Fresh Grain Dry Dog Food
Now Fresh is well-loved among pet owners because the formula contains 100% fresh salmon, turkey, duck, canola, coconuts, and omega 6 and 3 fatty acids. These ingredients are the best for your pup’s overall health.
Moreover, the formula is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and supplements. Whole cranberries, peas, spinach, peas, and carrots are just a few real fruit and vegetables included in this recipe.
Better yet, it is free from wheat, beef, corn, meat, and other by-products. Therefore, no need to worry about any allergens and other diseases that may arise because of this dog food.
8. Whole Earth Farms Small Breed Recipe
Looking for affordable but highly nutritious dog food? Look no further than Whole Earth Farms.
Manufactured for small breeds, this dog food is rich in wholesome natural products like whole whitefish and salmon, which are excellent sources of high fat and protein.
This recipe is also grain-free to aid in healthy digestion. It is also rich in fresh vegetables and fruits to boost your dog’s energy and overall health.
9. American Journey Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe
American Journey is a nutritious dog food perfect for your dog’s daily adventure. The whole formula features real deboned lamb and protein to keep his growing muscles strong and lean.
Tasty sweet potatoes, carrots, and peas are also included to keep him energetic throughout the day.
Impressively, omega fatty acids and DHA are also plentiful to support your dog’s cerebral health and eyes.
The omega acids are sourced from delicious flaxseed and salmon oil. This dog food is a great choice for puppies with food sensitivities.
10. The Honest Chicken Recipe
Treat your dog with the most delicious and nutritious food like The Honest Chicken Recipe. This formula is grain-free and does not contain preservatives, soy, or corn, making it ideal for dogs with sensitivity issues.
Its main ingredient of course is chicken with sweet potatoes and flaxseed, which is a good immune system booster.
The formula is balanced and complete thanks to essential vitamins, fortification, and chilled minerals. It also contains an optimal amount of healthy fats and proteins for the bones and oral health.
Overall, this recipe is highly digestible and nutritious and will keep your four-legged friend happy.
11. Caru Daily Dish Beef With Chicken Stew
Caru daily dish highlights major ingredients such as Beef and Chicken Stew. It is grain-free and combined with human-grade ingredients.
It is formulated for dogs with allergen problems since It doesn’t contain GMOs, gluten, artificial preservatives, enhancers, or xanthan.
Interestingly, the beef and chicken ingredients in this recipe are USDA-inspected. The whole formula is made of tiny chunks which make it easier for puppies to chew and swallow.
With safe and high-quality ingredients, most Havanese will enjoy and devour this recipe as soon as it is served on their bowl.
12. American Journey Active Life Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
For a balanced nutritional diet, this dog food would truly meet the nutritional demands of your Havanese. This dog food contains real brown rice and deboned chicken to improve muscles and bones.
It also includes antioxidants to boost the immune system, omega fatty acids for healthier skin and coat. and ARA and DHA for vision and brain development.
American Journey pet food is committed to providing high quality and wholesome nutrition. Another best thing about this food is digestible brown rice as a source of carbohydrates.
Consequently, other ingredients such as probiotics and minerals are beneficial ingredients, especially for younger puppies’ overall health.
13. Nutro Ultra Senior Dog
Nutro Ultra Senior Dog is designed to meet the nutritional needs of your senior Havanese. This formula is everything you need to maintain your dog’s health and active lifestyle.
It has chondroitin and glucosamine to keep your dog’s oral and bone in healthy condition. For pet owners looking for a recipe without peas and sweet potatoes, this might be your best bet.
Although Nutro Ultra Formula is dry food, it can be mixed with water and wet food for easier swallowing.
This is a great advantage for your senior dog’s oral health. However, this pet food needs to be served in the right amount as it is rich in crude fats which can cause obesity in senior dogs.
14. Rachel Ray Nutrish
Rachel Ray Nutrish is made of small chunks which is beneficial for smaller breeds like Havanese. This dog food is manufactured with natural ingredients such as farm-raised Chicken in the US.
Moreover, other ingredients such as carrots, peas, and brown rice are included to improve your dog’s digestion and immune system.
This formula does not include fillers, artificial preservatives, or flavors. It contains a brown rice recipe that is rich in fiber and carbohydrates for oral health.
The small kibbles, however, is best for puppies with smaller teeth as it keeps the gums healthy and clean. Every bite of this formula will surely satisfy your little pup.
15. Halo Holistic Chicken Liver
Also, on our list is this delicious dog food from Halo Holistic that is made from real Chicken and Chicken liver.
Other primary ingredients of this formula are organic products such as carrots, peas, and eggs. This is a grain-free dry food specially made for smaller dogs weighing at least 25 pounds.
Halo Holistic recipe also includes cranberries and blueberries as primary sources of antioxidants.
Furthermore, pear barley and oatmeal are included to meet your dog’s other nutritional needs.
This dog food is made from tiny kibbles for easy swallowing and digestion. Such is good for senior puppies with fragile teeth.
Your Havanese will love this tasty dry food without getting their tummies upset.
The Bottom Line
With the right dog food, your Havanese will be healthy and less likely to develop any kind of medical condition. However, the Havanese nutritional needs vary according to their age, size, and health condition.
Hence, it is important to make time and learn the nutritional needs of your furry friend and select foods that will cater to those needs.
If you are looking for high-quality dog food for your Havanese, be sure to try one of our top 15 products reviewed above.
These pet foods all come from wholesome and natural ingredients and include animal proteins, digestible carbohydrates, animal-based fats, and beneficial vitamins for optimum nutritional balance.
So, make sure to try out a few products on our lists. Happy dog food shopping!
