Caring for a small dog with dietary sensitivities requires a specialized approach to nutrition. Royal Canin’s Hypoallergenic Small Dog dry food is a veterinary-exclusive formula designed to address ingredient and nutrient intolerances in adult dogs under 10kg. This diet focuses on minimizing the risk of allergic reactions while providing complete and balanced nutrition for optimal health.
Understanding Dietary Intolerances in Small Dogs
Small breed dogs can be just as prone to food allergies and intolerances as their larger counterparts. These sensitivities can manifest in various ways, including digestive upset, skin irritation, and chronic ear infections. Identifying the specific ingredients causing these reactions is crucial for effective management. Royal Canin’s Hypoallergenic Small Dog formula utilizes carefully selected protein and carbohydrate sources to reduce the likelihood of triggering an adverse response.
Key Benefits of Royal Canin Hypoallergenic Small Dog
This specialized diet offers several key benefits tailored to the needs of small dogs with sensitivities:
- Hydrolysed Protein: The formula features hydrolysed protein with a low molecular weight. This process breaks down proteins into smaller, less allergenic components, making them easier for the dog’s system to tolerate. This is a cornerstone of managing food allergies.
- Skin Barrier Support: Formulated with a complex of nutrients, including specific fatty acids, this food helps to support the skin’s natural protective barrier. This is vital for dogs experiencing skin issues related to allergies, helping to maintain skin health and reduce irritation.
- Digestive Health: The inclusion of prebiotics like fructo-oligo-saccharides (FOS) promotes a healthy balance of gut bacteria, supporting optimal digestion. Additionally, the use of highly digestible ingredients ensures that nutrients are efficiently absorbed.
- Dental Health: Small breeds are also susceptible to dental issues. This diet includes specific nutrients designed to help maintain good oral hygiene, contributing to overall health.
- Low RSS (Relative Saturation): This formulation helps to create an environment in the urine that is less conducive to the formation of urinary crystals, supporting urinary tract health.
Nutritional Information and Recommendations
Royal Canin Hypoallergenic Small Dog is a complete and balanced diet. The primary protein source is hydrolysed soya protein isolate, and the carbohydrate source is rice. Animal fats and hydrolysed poultry liver are also included to enhance palatability and provide essential fatty acids.
Composition: Rice, hydrolysed soya protein isolate, animal fats, minerals, hydrolysed poultry liver, soya oil, beet pulp, fish oil, fructo-oligo-saccharides, borage oil, marigold extract (source of lutein).
Nutritional Additives (per kg): Vitamin A: 27000 IU, Vitamin D3: 800 IU, E1 (Iron): 41 mg, E2 (Iodine): 3.7 mg, E4 (Copper): 15 mg, E5 (Manganese): 54 mg, E6 (Zinc): 153 mg, E8 (Selenium): 0.26 mg. Technological additives include Clinoptilolite of sedimentary origin (10 g).
Analytical Constituents: Protein: 24.0%, Fat content: 16.0%, Crude ash: 8.4%, Crude fibres: 0.7%. Essential fatty acid (Linoleic acid): 37.3 g/kg.
It is recommended to seek veterinary advice before using this diet. Feeding should initially last for 3 to 8 weeks. If the signs of intolerance disappear, this diet can be used indefinitely.
Feeding Guide for Small Dogs
The feeding recommendations are based on the dog’s target body weight. It’s important to adjust the amount based on your dog’s individual needs, activity level, and body condition.
| Dog weight (kg) | Grams (Thin) | Cups (Thin) | Grams (Normal) | Cups (Normal) | Grams (Overweight) | Cups (Overweight) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 54 | 5/8 | 48 | 1/2 | 41 | 3/8 |
| 2.5 | 64 | 5/8 | 56 | 5/8 | 49 | 4/8 |
| 3 | 73 | 6/8 | 64 | 5/8 | 56 | 5/8 |
| 3.5 | 82 | 7/8 | 72 | 6/8 | 62 | 5/8 |
| 4 | 91 | 1 | 80 | 7/8 | 69 | 6/8 |
| 5 | 107 | 1+1/8 | 94 | 1 | 82 | 7/8 |
| 6 | 123 | 1+2/8 | 108 | 1+1/8 | 94 | 1 |
| 7 | 138 | 1+4/8 | 122 | 1+2/8 | 105 | 1+1/8 |
| 8 | 153 | 1+5/8 | 134 | 1+3/8 | 116 | 1+2/8 |
| 9 | 167 | 1+6/8 | 147 | 1+4/8 | 127 | 1+3/8 |
| 10 | 181 | 1+7/8 | 159 | 1+5/8 | 137 | 1+3/8 |
Always ensure fresh, clean water is available for your dog. For precise feeding recommendations, it’s best to consult your veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s specific health needs and recommend the most appropriate diet and portion size.
This specialized dietary solution from Royal Canin can be a valuable tool in managing your small dog’s health and well-being when faced with food sensitivities.