This is our review of the best dog food for Pomeranians in 2024.
Dogs don’t come much cuter than a tiny, fluffy pomeranian.
These lovable toy dogs need nutrient-dense dog foods that are high in protein. Poms can’t eat large servings because of their size. But they need enough energy to support their metabolisms.
I am a former veterinary technician who researched the best dog foods for Pomeranians to help you find the best diet for your dog.
And I discovered that Nutro Ultra Toy Breed Dog Food is the best overall dog food for Pomeranians.
But every fluffy friend is different. So, I’ve also reviewed some of the best brands for Pomeranians with any need.
Let’s get started.
Our Best Dog Food for Pomeranians
- Nutro Ultra Toy Breed Dog Food (Best for Adult Pomeranians)
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Puppy Food (Best for Pomeranian Puppies)
- Eukanuba Small Breed Senior Dog Food (Best for Senior Pomeranians)
- Purina Pro Plan Adult Toy Breed Food (Best Budget Food for Pomeranians)
- Wellness Toy Breed Complete Health Dog Food (Best Premium Food for Pomeranians)
- Solid Gold Mighty Mini Wet Dog Food (Best Wet Food for Pomeranians)
- Natural Balance L.I.D Small Breed Bites Dog Food (Best for Pomeranians with Allergies)
- Royal Canin Pomeranian Adult Dog Food (Best Breed-Specific Pomeranian Food)
- Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Mobility Small Bites Dog Food (Best for Joint Health)
- Authority Skin, Coat & Digestive Health Small Breed Dog Food (Best for Coat Health)
10 Best Dog Foods for Pomeranians Reviewed
All dog foods included on this list meet the standard AAFCO nutrient profile guidelines for dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet.
Nutro Ultra Toy Breed Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Lamb Meal
- Key feature: Holistic toy breed formula made with superfoods
- Guaranteed Analysis: 27% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 371 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea-Free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Overall
This toy breed formula features three sources of premium animal protein. Chicken, lamb, and salmon provide 27% crude protein and 16% fat.
The high protein content of this dog food is critical for your Pomeranian’s fast metabolism.
Nutrient-dense ‘superfoods’ offer a high concentration of vitamins in a serving size suitable for toy breeds. These ingredients include spinach, coconut, and pumpkin. Added taurine acts as a natural antioxidant to support eyesight and heart health.
Sunflower oil provides a source of linoleic acid. This healthy fat encourages natural oil production to keep your fluffy friend’s beautiful coat shiny and healthy.
A high caloric content of 371 kcal/cup provides adequate energy for active Poms.
Brown rice and other whole grains provide quality digestible carbohydrates. Toy breeds who do not eat enough carbohydrates can suffer from hypoglycemia.
Pomeranian owners with picky dogs recommend this food for fussy eaters. The kibble is perfectly sized for small mouths. And the protein to fat ratio is explicitly formulated for toy breeds.
Real chicken is the first ingredient
Contains a blend of 15 superfoods
Made with non-GMO ingredients
Small kibble size
Not ideal for dogs with food sensitivities
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Puppy Food
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Barley, Menhaden Fish Meal
- Key feature: High-protein formula supports healthy brain development with DHA
- Guaranteed Analysis: 29% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 415 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
- Life Stage: Growth
- Best for: Pomeranian Puppies
Pomeranian puppies are incredibly tiny. Because of their small size, they can’t store carbohydrates efficiently. They are even more susceptible to hypoglycemia than adults and need constant access to high-energy food.
Deboned chicken is the first ingredient in this small breed puppy formula. A 29% crude protein content provides growing puppies with the building blocks they need for muscle development.
This high-energy food features a 415 kcal/cup caloric content and 17% fat content. The formula also includes essential omega-3 fatty acids like DHA from fish oil.
Healthy fats are critical for brain health in growing puppies.
These kibble pieces are small enough for tiny puppy mouths to eat comfortably. And Pom puppies only need to eat a small serving to get the recommended amounts of essential vitamins and minerals.
A balanced ratio of calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins help promote healthy bone development.
Although most puppies happily eat this formula, some dogs spit out the “LifeSource Bits” of kibble. These pieces contain concentrated vitamins and minerals in Life Protection formulas.
Small kibble promotes tartar removal
DHA and ARA for healthy brain
Contains a blend of antioxidants
Supports healthy muscle growth
Not ideal for picky eaters
Eukanuba Small Breed Senior Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Wheat, Chicken Fat, Corn
- Key feature: Senior dog food designed for small breeds
- Guaranteed Analysis: 29% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3.7% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 487 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: High-Protein
- Life Stage: Senior
- Best for: Pomeranian Seniors
Toy breeds can live for a long time. So giving senior Pomeranians the right support in their old age is critical.
Elderly large breeds often need less protein. But it is essential to continue feeding older toy dogs a high protein diet. This dog food features a 29% protein content and real chicken as the first ingredient.
Small dogs have fragile joints that can become uncomfortable as they age. Concentrated amounts of glucosamine in this formula help protect joint cartilage.
This dog food also provides high levels of DHA and other omega fatty acids. These healthy fats help protect older brains and hearts. The 17% fat content in this food helps provide energy to keep senior dogs active.
Antioxidants like vitamin E also help promote overall health in older dogs by limiting oxidative stress.
Pomeranian owners noticed an increase in energy levels when feeding this diet. But this formula does not offer significant digestive support for seniors with sensitive stomachs.
DHA and antioxidants support brain functions
Glucosamine maintains healthy joints
Optimal levels of fats and carbohydrates for senior dogs
Some dogs don’t like the taste
Can give bad breath to dogs
Purina Pro Plan Adult Toy Breed Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Poultry By-Product Meal
- Key feature: Affordable high-calorie dog food for toy breeds
- Guaranteed Analysis: 30% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3.7% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 488 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: High-Protein
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Budget Pomeranian Food
This affordable dog food is optimized to provide toy dogs with many calories in a small serving size.
A 488 kcal/cup calorie content comes from the inclusion of nutrient-dense foods and digestible carbohydrates.
Corn is high in carbohydrates and calories. But it can also cause food sensitivities in some dogs.
Unlike other budget formulas, this dog food uses real chicken as the first ingredient. A 30% crude protein and 17% fat content provides the ideal ratio for optimal energy.
Prebiotic fiber from wheat bran helps regulate sensitive digestive systems. And natural sources of glucosamine provide additional joint support for fragile legs.
Owners appreciate the bite-sized kibble designs for toy dogs under 10 pounds. But this food may not be ideal for picky Poms.
Real chicken is the first ingredient
High in protein
Natural prebiotic fiber helps digestion
Budget-friendly formula
Contains corn
Some dogs might find the kibble too small
Not ideal for picky eaters
Wellness Toy Breed Complete Health Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Ground Rice
- Key feature: Comprehensive nutritional support for toy breeds
- Guaranteed Analysis: 30% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 502 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Premium Pomeranian Food
This premium formula offers comprehensive support for the unique needs of toy breeds.
Small kibble pieces provide an impressive 502kcal/cup in a tiny serving size. This allows Pomeranians to get enough energy from their diet without overeating.
The 30% protein and 17% fat content offers an ideal energy ratio for toy breeds. Quality protein comes from real chicken, the first ingredient of this recipe.
Sweet potatoes and flaxseed provide healthy sources of fiber to boost digestibility and nutrient absorption in small dogs.
Whole grains like oats serve as excellent sources of digestible carbohydrates. This macronutrient is critical for toy breeds that cannot store enough glycogen.
This dog food is also an excellent choice for dog owners seeking a low sodium option for Pomeranians who suffer from heart problems.
Smaller kibble size for easy eating
Contains wholesome grains
Low sodium levels
Made in the USA
Not ideal for picky eaters
Some customers reported upset stomachs
Price
Solid Gold Mighty Mini Wet Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Chickpeas, Lentils, Peas
- Key feature: Salmon-based grain-free wet food for picky Poms
- Guaranteed Analysis: (wet matter basis) 7.5% Crude Protein, 3% Crude Fat, 1% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 88 kcal/bowl
- Type of Product: Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Wet Food For Pomeranians
Salmon is the first ingredient in this wet food designed for mini breeds. Salmon provides a quality source of lean animal protein to meet the high protein requirements of Pomeranians.
The low crude protein percentage only reflects the high moisture content of wet food.
Fish is also high in omega-3 fatty acids. These fats help keep your Pom’s fluffy coat healthy and luxurious. And the high-fat content in this formula provides an additional source of energy.
The recipe depends on peas and carrots as a source of carbohydrates. So this grain-free diet is still suitable for toy breeds at risk for hypoglycemia.
Many dog owners have successfully fed this formula to picky Pomeranians who refused to eat other dog food. Wet food is generally more palatable than kibble.
Highly palatable formula
Single-serve cups help giving the right portion
Grain and gluten-free recipe
Contains chicken fat
Natural Balance L.I.D Small Breed Bites
- First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Cassava Flour, Potatoes
- Key feature: Limited ingredient diet for small sensitive breeds
- Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 380 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Limited Ingredient Diet, Sensitive Digestion, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Grain-Free, Pea-Free, Chicken-Free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Pomeranians with Allergies
Pomeranians are sensitive dogs that frequently suffer from allergies. While you can’t cure allergies, limited-ingredient diets can help manage them.
These formulas meet your dog’s nutritional needs with simple recipes that avoid common allergens.
Authentic limited-ingredient dog foods use a single source of protein. Salmon is the only animal meat in this 24% protein food. Allergens are proteins, so limited protein sources help prevent the development of new allergies.
This grain-free food provides digestible carbohydrates from sweet potatoes. So it is still suitable for toy breeds. But the low 10% fat content is not ideal for Poms who need extra coat support.
Reviews recommend the unique kibble size designed for small mouths. But owners also mention that this food may have an unappealing fishy smell.
Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs
Single animal protein source from fish
Crunchy kibble texture promotes clean teeth and healthy gums
Several customers reported bones fragments in the kibble
Pet parents noticed bigger kibble size after changing the formula
Royal Canin Pomeranian Adult Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Brewers Rice, Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Chicken Fat, Oat Groats
- Key feature: Specifically formulated for purebred Pomeranians
- Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 3.6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 352 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Breed-Specific
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Breed-Specific Nutrition for Pomeranians
This formula features ingredients specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of your Pomeranian.
The recipe offers a protein content of 24%. This is slightly lower than other foods on the list but still sufficient for Pomeranians.
Added EPA and DHA provide healthy fatty acids that promote skin and coat health. These fats also help fight inflammation and support the delicate joints of small dogs.
Increased starchy carbohydrates provide fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion.
Pomeranian owners like the unique kibble shape of this food. The superior design allows Poms to chew and eat this food comfortably.
But some reviews do not appreciate that the first ingredient is rice and not meat.
Breed-specific formulated dog food
EPA and DHA for skin and coat health
Support joints, knees and bone health
Pet owners reported too small kibble size for some dogs
Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Mobility Small Bites Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat
- Key feature: Anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective ingredients ease joint discomfort
- Guaranteed Analysis: 17% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 3.0% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 359 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Specialty Diet
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Pomeranians with Joint Issues
It can be challenging to find a mobility diet for small dogs. Most joint problems are associated with large breeds. But some Pomeranians also need support for ongoing joint discomfort.
Your Pom’s small limbs are fragile. This specialty formula can help ease joint pain with chondroprotective ingredients. All while meeting the unique requirements of toy dogs.
Chicken meal provides a slightly lower protein content of 17%. The formula still provides enough energy for small dogs.
But most of the 359 kcal/cup caloric content comes from carbohydrates and whole-grain ingredients.
Fish oil provides high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which help ease joint inflammation. And additional vitamin E acts as an antioxidant to protect joint tissues from damage.
High levels of glucosamine and chondroitin help provide building blocks for healthy joint cartilage.
Most Pomeranian owners noticed that their stiff pup’s mobility improved within 30 days of starting this diet.
Supports hip and joint health
Promotes strong bones
EPA from fish oil and EPA promotes mobility
Made in the USA
Food sometimes smells bad
Not ideal for dogs with sensitivities
Authority Skin, Coat & Digestive Health Small Breed Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned Whitefish, Fish Meal, Dried Potatoes, Dried Sweet Potatoes, Dried Egg Product
- Key feature: Small breed formula designed to soothe your dog’s skin and coat
- Guaranteed Analysis: 28% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 4.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Caloric Content: 373 kcal/cup
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Sensitive Digestion, Pea-Free
- Life Stage: Adult
- Best for: Pomeranians with Coat Health Concerns
This formula uses real fish as the first ingredient to provide a high 28% protein content.
Fish also makes this food high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids and a high 16% fat content promote natural oils that keep your Pom’s skin healthy.
A concentrated blend of antioxidants boosts your dog’s immune system. A healthy immune system is critical for fighting off skin disorders and infections.
Fiber from beet pulp acts as a prebiotic, making this blend suitable for Pomeranians with sensitive digestive systems.
Reviews share that this dog food’s unique texture helped improve dental hygiene by scraping away plaque during dinnertime.
High-quality protein
Supports a healthy immune system
EPA from fish oil and EPA promotes mobility
Crunchy kibble texture helps reduce plaque
Some customers reported receivng spoiled food
Guide to Buying Dog Food for Pomeranians
Pomeranians need to eat a balanced diet with the proper ratios of protein, fats, and carbohydrates.
But there are many other factors to consider when selecting a dog food for this tiny breed.
Nutritional Requirements
Toy breeds like Pomeranians have significant nutritional needs. They cannot eat a large volume of food. So their diet must contain concentrated amounts of macronutrients.
High Protein
Pomeranians need to eat a diet rich in high-quality protein. Protein is essential for repairing cells and building muscle tissues. Dogs evolved to thrive on a protein-based diet. And toy dogs need high concentrations of the nutrient to compensate for smaller portion sizes.
Look for a dog food with over 24% crude protein and real meat as a primary ingredient. Animal protein contains more essential amino acids than plant-based protein.
Moderate to High Fats
Fats are a primary source of energy for dogs. Pomeranians are active dogs that need quality sources of energy. They do best on a diet with over 14% crude fat content.
Healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids are also vital for coat health. These nutrients promote the production of natural oils by the skin. Pomeranians have long coats that need extra support to stay healthy and soft.
Digestible Carbohydrates
Like other toy breeds, Pomeranians need adequate amounts of carbohydrates to maintain their blood sugar levels.
Dogs with small body mass cannot store enough glycogen in their muscles. If they do not continually eat carbohydrates, they can suffer from low blood pressure.
Whole grains are excellent sources of digestible carbohydrates. Grain-free formulas can also provide carbohydrates from vegetables like sweet potatoes.
Vitamins and Minerals
Any food you consider for your Pomeranian should meet AAFCO’s nutrient profile guidelines. All dogs need appropriate amounts of essential vitamins and minerals to support their overall health.
Deficiencies can cause serious developmental issues. A balanced ratio of vitamins and minerals is especially critical for growing puppies.
For example, calcium and phosphorus play an essential role in bone formation. Pomeranian puppies who are deficient in these minerals can suffer from chronic skeletal disorders.
Specific vitamins also act as antioxidants. Examples include vitamin C, which is abundant in fruit. Antioxidants can help enhance your dog’s immune system.
How to Choose Dog Food for Pomeranians
Pomeranians can have unique nutritional needs beyond a balanced diet. These needs can vary depending on their age and activity level.
Kibble Size
Tiny Poms have small mouths that can’t chew large kibble pieces correctly. Their delicate teeth do best with small kibble.
This breed is also prone to dental problems. And small kibble pieces can help scrape plaque off of their teeth. Choose a dog food that has kibble pieces designed for toy breeds.
Caloric Requirements
Pomeranians generally need to eat calorie-dense food that provides enough energy for their fast metabolisms.
Large breeds have slower metabolisms and require around 30 calories per pound of body weight every day.
In contrast, adult Poms need 40 calories per pound of bodyweight daily.
Life Stage
Your Pom’s requirements will change as he ages.
Life Stage | Daily Calories |
---|---|
Puppy | 55 kcal/lb |
Adult | 40 kcal/lb |
Senior | 30 – 40 kcal/lb |
Puppies have higher calorie needs to support their growth. In comparison, seniors should eat a lower calorie diet that limits their risk of weight gain.
How Much Should You Feed a Pomeranian?
How much food your Pomeranian needs depends on his age, weight, and activity level. Poms can weigh anywhere from 3 to 7 pounds when mature. Bigger dogs will need more calories.
Active Pomeranians will also need more food than couch potatoes. They need more energy from their diet.
You could expect to feed a one-pound puppy half a cup of kibble a day. But a seven-pound adult Pomeranian would need two cups per day.
Use the table above to calculate how much food your Pom may need based on his weight. If he is active, feed slightly more.
How Often Should You Feed a Pomeranian?
Toy breeds benefit from eating multiple small meals throughout the day. Their tiny stomachs cannot handle a lot of food. And eating more often can help stabilize blood sugar.
Puppies need more frequent meals due to their higher energy requirements. Feeding 3-4 meals a day is ideal while your pup is growing. At six months, you can decrease meals to 3-1 times a day.
When your Pom has transitioned to adult food at 12 months, he can eat two meals a day.
Dry vs. Wet Food
Toy breeds sometimes act like picky princesses at dinner time. When I worked as a veterinary technician, I often struggled to get Poms staying in the kennel to eat anything.
I found that wet food is the most appealing option for fussy eaters due to the enhanced aroma and texture.
But dry food helps address common dental problems in Pomeranians. The rough texture of kibble scrapes against teeth to remove plaque. If your furry friend isn’t a picky eater, dry food can be more convenient and beneficial.
Health Issues and Diet
Poms are pretty healthy little dogs. But they still face their fair share of health concerns. Thankfully, diet can help manage some of these issues.
Dental Problems
Pomeranians are more likely to suffer from dental problems than other breeds. Tartar quickly builds up on little teeth and causes disorders associated with poor dental hygiene.
Textured dry kibble can help keep teeth clean at mealtime. But remember to brush your dog’s teeth still and have your vet regularly check your pup’s smile.
Joint and Bone Issues
Large breeds suffer most from joint and bone disorders. But joint issues also occur in Pomeranians.
Patellar luxation is the most common disorder in this breed. This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap, which can cause arthritis.
Growing dogs need to get enough calcium from their diets to prevent these conditions. Dogs with pre-existing joint issues can benefit from formulas that include glucosamine. Glucosamine helps protect joint cartilage and ease discomfort.
Skin Issues and Food Allergies
Pomeranians often develop dermatitis. This skin condition causes your pup’s skin to become dry and itchy. Eventually, skin issues can lead to hair loss.
To prevent your Pom from losing his beautiful coat, ensure his food includes healthy fats and antioxidants. Healthy fatty acids promote natural oil production. And antioxidants boost your dog’s immune system.
Food allergies are another common cause of dermatitis. Limited-ingredient diets can help manage allergic reactions by eliminating common allergens from your pup’s diet.
Eye Problems
I met a lot of Poms with eye problems when I worked in a veterinary clinic. Older Pomeranians frequently came in with the cloudy eyes typical of cataracts.
Vitamin A can help protect eyesight and promote eye health. Look for foods with organ meat ingredients that are rich in this vitamin.
Hypoglycemia
Toy breeds have tiny bodies and limited muscle mass. Their size makes it difficult to store carbohydrates as glycogen in their muscles and fat.
Pomeranians who do not consistently get enough carbohydrates from their diet can have low blood sugar.
Low blood sugar causes hypoglycemia. This condition can make your Pom lethargic and disoriented. I’ve also witnessed hypoglycemic dogs suffer from seizures.
Make sure your Pomeranian’s food provides enough energy from carbohydrates to prevent this issue.
Final Verdict
It’s hard not to fall in love with a tiny fluffy Pomeranian with big almond eyes.
The best dog foods for this adorable breed provide high protein and fat concentrations in a small serving size.
Nutro Ultra Toy Breed Dog Food features quality ingredients that offer enough energy for your Pom’s fast metabolism.
Understanding your fluffy little friends’ unique needs will help him live a long, healthy life by your side.
Talk to your veterinarian today to determine the best dog food for your Pomeranian together.