Choosing the best dry dog food for maltese ensures your pet stays healthy and happy. Maltese dogs need special nutrition for their small size and active nature.
Maltese dogs have unique dietary needs. Their small bodies require food rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Good dry dog food supports strong teeth and shiny fur. It also helps maintain their energy throughout the day. Some foods suit maltese better because of their sensitive stomachs.
Avoid fillers and artificial additives that may cause allergies. This guide shares top dry dog food options that keep maltese fit and lively. You will learn what ingredients to look for and what to avoid. Feeding the right food helps your maltese live a long, joyful life.
Our Picks
10 Best Dry Dog Foods For Maltese In 2025
1. Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food, 2.5 lb bag
- Brand: Royal Canin
- Manufacturer: Royal Canin
- Dimensions: Height: 4.0 inches Width: 7.5 inches Length: 12.0 inches Weight: 2.5 pounds `
Perfectly crafted for your Maltese, Royal Canin’s dry dog food supports healthy skin and a shiny coat. This special formula meets the unique needs of adult Maltese dogs. Small kibble size makes it easy for your pet to chew and enjoy. It helps reduce tartar buildup, promoting better dental health. Enhanced with flavors, it satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Advantages
- Supports healthy skin and shiny coat for Maltese dogs.
- Provides balanced nutrition tailored to small adult dogs.
- Helps maintain ideal weight with controlled calories.
- Easy-to-digest ingredients promote good digestion and comfort.
- Small kibble size suits Maltese mouth and chewing habits.
Our Recommendations
My Maltese loves this dry food. It keeps her coat shiny and soft. Easy to digest and small pieces fit her mouth well. I see more energy and happiness in her every day. The 2.5 lb bag lasts long and stays fresh. A good choice for small dogs like mine.
2. Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini, Adult 1-6, Small & Mini Breeds Premium Nutrition, Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 4.5 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Color: White
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25 inches Width: 5.5 Inches Length: 7.25 inches Weight: 4.5 pounds `
Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini Adult dog food supports healthy digestion and strong muscles. Made with real chicken and brown rice, it offers balanced nutrition for small breeds. Perfectly sized kibble makes eating easy and enjoyable for tiny mouths. This dry food helps keep your dog’s coat shiny and skin healthy. Trusted by vets, it provides quality ingredients for everyday health.
Advantages
- Supports healthy digestion with natural fibers and prebiotics.
- Provides balanced nutrition tailored for small and mini dog breeds.
- Contains real chicken and brown rice for tasty, quality protein.
- Helps maintain a healthy weight with controlled fat levels.
- Promotes strong muscles and a shiny coat with essential nutrients.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves this Hill’s Science Diet dry food. The chicken and brown rice smell fresh and tasty. After a few weeks, I noticed better energy and shinier fur. It feels good feeding him quality food. The bag size is perfect for small breeds like mine. Easy to store and lasts just right. Ingredients seem healthy and natural. No worries about fillers or bad stuff. Feeding time is quick and mess-free. My dog eats happily every day. Overall, this food fits well with my dog’s needs and keeps him healthy.
3. Cesar Small Breed Dry Dog Food Filet Mignon Flavor and Spring Vegetables Garnish, 5 lb. Bag
- Brand: Cesar
- Manufacturer: Mars Petcare US
- Dimensions: Height: 15.0 Inches Width: 8.0 Inches Length: 4.25 Inches Weight: 5.0 Pounds `
Cesar Small Breed Dry Dog Food offers a tasty filet mignon flavor with spring vegetables. Perfect for small dogs, it supports healthy digestion and strong muscles. Each bite is crunchy and full of nutrients to keep your pet happy. Comes in a convenient 5 lb. bag for easy feeding and storage. Your dog will enjoy every meal with this balanced, delicious food.
Advantages
- Perfect size for small dogs’ mouths and teeth.
- Real filet mignon flavor keeps dogs excited to eat.
- Includes spring vegetables for added vitamins and fiber.
- Supports healthy digestion with balanced ingredients.
- Easy to store in the 5-pound resealable bag.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves the Cesar Small Breed Dry Dog Food. The filet mignon flavor smells fresh and tasty. Every meal is quick to finish with happy tail wags. The spring vegetables add a nice touch and seem healthy. Bags last a good time and keep food fresh. Easy to store and perfect for small dogs. I feel good feeding this to my pet daily. Quality and taste meet my expectations well. No issues with digestion or allergies so far. Definitely a good choice for small breed dogs.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food 4.5 lbs.
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Color: White
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25 Inches Width: 5.5 Inches Length: 7.25 inches Weight: 4.5 Pounds `
Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Recipe offers balanced nutrition for small dogs. Made with real chicken, it supports healthy muscles and strong bones. Brown rice provides easy-to-digest energy for active pets. Each bite is crafted to fit tiny mouths and promote good digestion. Ideal for small breeds needing a complete and tasty meal every day.
Advantages
- Perfectly sized for small and mini dogs’ mouths. Easy eating.
- Chicken meal provides essential protein. Supports muscle health.
- Brown rice offers carbohydrates. Boosts energy levels.
- Balanced nutrition promotes overall well-being. Keeps dogs healthy.
- Trusted by veterinarians for quality and safety. Peace of mind.
Our Recommendations
Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Recipe keeps my dog happy and healthy. The small kibble size is perfect for tiny mouths. Noticeable improvement in my dog’s coat and energy after a few weeks. Ingredients seem high quality and gentle on my pet’s stomach. Easy to measure and store, making feeding time simple. My dog loves the taste and finishes every meal. A reliable choice for small breed dogs needing balanced nutrition.
5. Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed, Natural Dry Dog Food with Freeze Dried Pieces, High Protein, Grain Free Recipe – Real Chicken, 3.5 lb. Bag
- Brand: Instinct
- Manufacturer: Instinct
- Dimensions: Height: 14.0 inches Width: 8.0 inches Length: 4.0 inches Weight: 3.5 pounds `
Packed with real chicken, this dry dog food offers high protein for small breed dogs. Freeze-dried pieces add extra taste and nutrition. Grain free recipe helps dogs with sensitive stomachs. Perfect portion size in a 3.5 lb bag keeps food fresh longer. Supports healthy energy and muscle growth every day.
Advantages
- Supports strong muscles with high protein from real chicken.
- Grain-free formula helps dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Freeze-dried pieces add fresh flavor and extra nutrition.
- Small kibble size fits perfectly for small breed dogs.
- Made with natural ingredients for a healthy, balanced diet.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves Instinct Raw Boost. The real chicken pieces smell fresh and tasty. Noticeably more energy and healthier coat after just a few weeks. No grain ingredients, which is great for sensitive stomachs. Easy to serve with freeze-dried pieces that keep the food interesting. The bag size is perfect for small breeds. Trusted quality and natural ingredients make me feel good about feeding this daily. Definitely a product I will buy again.
6. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Dry Dog Food, 14 lb bag
- Brand: Royal Canin
- Manufacturer: Royal Canin
- Dimensions: Height: 23.5 inches Width: 14.0 inches Length: 3.5 inches Weight: 14.0 pounds `
Perfectly crafted for small adult dogs, this dry food supports healthy digestion and strong immunity. Each bite contains balanced nutrients to keep your dog active and happy. Specially designed kibble size makes eating easy and enjoyable for smaller mouths. High-quality ingredients help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin. Feeding this food daily promotes overall well-being and vitality in your pet.
Advantages
- Supports healthy digestion with balanced fiber and nutrients.
- Small kibble size fits perfectly for small dog mouths.
- Promotes strong bones and joints with essential minerals.
- Helps maintain ideal weight with controlled calorie content.
- Enhances skin and coat health with omega fatty acids.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves this dry food. It has a nice smell and crunchy pieces. Feeding time is easier now. The bag is big and lasts a long time. Noticed better energy and shinier fur after a few weeks. Easy to store and measure portions. Perfect for small adult dogs. Quality ingredients make me feel good about what my dog eats.
7. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Adult 1-6, Small & Mini Breeds Stomach & Skin Sensitivity Support, Dry Dog Food, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
- Color: White
- Dimensions: Height: 11.25 inches Width: 5.5 inches Length: 7.25 inches Weight: 4.0 pounds `
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food helps support gentle digestion and healthy skin. Made with real chicken, it offers a tasty meal for small and mini adult dogs. This formula includes ingredients that are easy on the stomach and promote a shiny coat. Perfect for dogs aged 1 to 6 years with food sensitivities. Feeding this food can lead to less stomach upset and better nutrient absorption. Your dog will enjoy a balanced diet made just for their needs.
Advantages
- Supports digestion gently for sensitive small and mini dogs.
- Helps maintain healthy skin with balanced nutrients.
- Chicken recipe offers tasty, easy-to-eat dry food.
- Promotes overall well-being in adult dogs aged 1 to 6.
- Made with quality ingredients for daily nutrition needs.
Our Recommendations
My small dog’s stomach feels better after eating this food. No more upset or itching. The chicken taste is mild but she enjoys it. Her coat looks shinier and softer now. Easy to digest and good for sensitive dogs. I buy this food again and again. Helps keep my dog happy and healthy.
8. Nutrish Little Bites Small Breed Premium Natural Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe, 6 Pounds (Packaging May Vary), (Rachael Ray Nutrish)
- Brand: Nutrish
- Manufacturer: Post Consumer Brands
- Color: SMALL DOGS Chicken
- Dimensions: Height: 12.75 inches Width: 9.0 inches Length: 4.5 inches Weight: 6.0 pounds `
Nutrish Little Bites Small Breed Dry Dog Food features real chicken and fresh veggies. Perfectly sized for small dogs, it supports healthy digestion and strong muscles. Natural ingredients provide balanced nutrition without fillers or artificial flavors. Your pet will enjoy every bite of this tasty, wholesome recipe. Trusted by dog owners who want quality food for their little companions.
Advantages
- Contains real chicken and vegetables for natural nutrition.
- Small kibble size fits perfectly in tiny dog mouths.
- Supports healthy digestion with natural ingredients and fiber.
- Made without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Provides balanced vitamins and minerals for daily energy.
Our Recommendations
Rachael Ray Nutrish Little Bites is perfect for small dogs. My little buddy loves the real chicken flavor. Each bite is packed with veggies, offering a nutritious meal. His energy levels have noticeably improved. The small kibble size is ideal for tiny mouths. It’s easy for him to chew and digest. No artificial flavors or preservatives here. I feel good knowing he’s eating quality ingredients. Affordable price for great quality. It’s a win-win for both my dog and my wallet. Packaging varies, but quality remains consistent. Highly recommend for small breed dog owners.
9. IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb & Rice, 30 lb. Bag
- Brand: IAMS
- Manufacturer: Mars Petcare US
- Color: Lamb & Rice
- Dimensions: Height: 23.0 inches Width: 18.13 inches Length: 4.7 inches Weight: 30.0 pounds `
This dry dog food supports your pet’s health with real lamb and rice. Small, crunchy pieces help keep adult dogs happy and strong. Rich in protein, it helps maintain muscles and energy. Gentle ingredients make it easy to digest every day. A 30 lb. bag offers great value for long-lasting feeding.
Advantages
- Supports strong muscles with real lamb as the main ingredient.
- Promotes healthy digestion using wholesome rice and fiber.
- Helps maintain shiny coat and healthy skin naturally.
- Mini chunks are easy to chew for adult dogs.
- Provides balanced nutrition for energy and overall health.
Our Recommendations
My dog enjoys the taste of IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks with Lamb & Rice. His coat looks shinier and softer after a few weeks. Easy to chew small chunks suit adult dogs well. The 30 lb bag lasts a long time, saving trips to the store. I noticed better digestion and less stomach upset. Feeding time is faster because he eats eagerly. This dry dog food keeps him active and healthy every day. Great value for good nutrition and quality ingredients.
10. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition X-Small Adult Dry Dog Food, 2.5 lb bag
- Brand: Royal Canin
- Manufacturer: Royal Canin
- Dimensions: Height: 4.0 inches Width: 7.5 inches Length: 12.0 inches Weight: 2.5 Pounds `
Perfect for tiny dogs, this dry food supports their unique energy needs. Small kibble size makes eating easy and enjoyable. Rich in nutrients, it helps keep your pet healthy and active. Carefully balanced ingredients promote strong digestion and a shiny coat. Daily meals become simple with this trusted, quality nutrition.
Advantages
- Perfect for tiny dogs, supports healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Designed kibble size fits small mouths, making eating easier and safer.
- Maintains healthy skin and coat with balanced vitamins and fatty acids.
- Provides balanced energy to keep small dogs active throughout the day.
- Supports dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup effectively.
Our Recommendations
My small dog loves Royal Canin X-Small Adult Dry Food. He eats it happily every day. His coat looks shinier and softer since we started this food. Digestive problems have reduced a lot. The small kibble size fits perfectly in his tiny mouth. Feeding is easy and mess-free. This 2.5 lb bag lasts a good time for my dog’s size. Quality ingredients give me peace of mind. I will buy this again for sure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Are Best In Dry Dog Food For Maltese?
High-quality protein, healthy fats, and limited fillers suit Maltese well. Look for chicken, fish, or lamb.
How Much Dry Food Should A Maltese Eat Daily?
A Maltese typically needs ½ to 1 cup of dry food per day, split into two meals.
Can Maltese Dogs Eat Grain-free Dry Food?
Yes, grain-free dry food can help if your Maltese has allergies or sensitive digestion.
How To Choose Dry Dog Food For A Maltese Puppy?
Pick food with balanced nutrients and DHA for brain and eye development in Maltese puppies.
Buying Guide On Best Dry Dog Foods For Maltese
1. Check Ingredients for Quality Nutrition
Choose dry dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with fillers like corn or soy. Look for added vitamins and minerals. These support your Maltese’s health and energy.
2. Consider Size and Shape of Kibble
Small, bite-sized kibble suits Maltese dogs best. It helps with easy chewing and digestion. Large pieces may be hard for them to eat. Pick a size that fits their small mouths.
3. Look for Food Made for Small Breeds
Small breed formulas have nutrients tailored to tiny dogs. They usually have higher calories and protein. This meets the Maltese’s energy needs better. Avoid adult or large breed dog foods.
4. Check for Allergens and Sensitivities
Maltese dogs can have food allergies. Avoid common allergens like wheat, soy, or artificial additives. Choose hypoallergenic or limited ingredient foods if needed. Always watch for signs of allergy.
5. Review Brand Reputation and Recalls
Pick brands with good reviews and no recent recalls. Trusted brands follow strict safety rules. This ensures your dog’s food is safe to eat. Check online for customer feedback.
6. Consider Your Dog’s Age and Health
Puppies, adults, and senior Maltese have different needs. Choose food made for their life stage. Special formulas help with joint health or weight control. Talk to your vet if unsure.
7. Compare Price and Serving Size
Balance quality and cost for your budget. More expensive food is not always better. Look at how much food fits in one serving. This helps avoid waste and saves money.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dry dog food for your Maltese helps keep them healthy and happy. Quality ingredients support their small size and sensitive digestion. Protein, vitamins, and fats matter most for energy and coat health. Avoid foods with fillers or artificial additives that can cause allergies.
Feeding the right food also supports their dental health. Remember to watch portion sizes to prevent weight gain. Each Maltese is unique, so observe how your dog reacts to new food. Talk to your vet if you have questions about diet changes.
Good nutrition leads to a longer, active life for your furry friend. Healthy meals make playtime and cuddles even better. Small choices every day make a big difference in your dog’s well-being. Keep your Maltese’s needs in mind, and enjoy many happy moments together.