If you're looking for the best dog foods for beagles to satisfy your little beagle buddy, you've come to the right place. Our meticulously crafted beagle food guide is your map to hidden gems on the popular eCommerce websites, Amazon and Chewy, where every meal is a perfect fit for your Beagle's unique needs.
Whether it's a quest for gentle nourishment for sensitive stomachs or a search for the best all-natural food to fuel their playful escapades, join us as we share the 10 top-rated, best dog food options to keep your beagle explorer thriving for many years to come.
Introduction to the Best Dog Foods For Beagles
It's essential to offer your Beagle a diet that is not only tasty but also packed with the nutrients they need. Nobody wants to feed their pet something unappetizing, right?
Check out these top contenders, each excelling in a specific area of canine nutrition (in no particular order):
- Best for Digestive Health: Nature’s Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe
- Best All-Natural Option: JustFoodForDogs
- Best for Providing Raw Nutrition: Smallbatch Pets Freeze-Dried
- Best Breed-Specific Food: Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Beagle
- Best for Dental Health: Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult
- Best Quality Ingredients: American Journey Active Life Formula Small Breed Salmon, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe
- Best for Skin, Coat, and Brain Health: Zignature Zssential Multi-Protein Formula Small Bites
- Best for Holistic Health: Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Grain-Free
- Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe
- Best for Immune and Gut Health: Diamond Naturals Small Breed Adult
This guide aims to navigate you through the variety of options to ensure your Beagle gets the best.
Let's dive in to the 10 best, top-rated dog foods for beagles available for buy on Amazon and Chewy and have it delivered right to your door..
#1 – Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe – Best for Digestive Health
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- High-quality ingredients provide a nutritious diet for Beagles.
- Specially formulated to boost digestive health in Beagles.
- Balanced calorie content ideal for the energetic lifestyle of Beagles.
- Reasonably priced dog food
Cons:
- Not suitable for Beagles with poultry allergies.
Nature’s Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe is the premier choice for Beagle owners aiming to enhance their pet's digestive health. Featuring chicken as the primary ingredient, this formula is crucial for developing strong muscles in Beagles. Additionally, it includes high-fiber kelp, which aids in improving digestive health and contributes to overall vitality and longevity. Delivering 342 kcal per cup, it ensures a balanced caloric intake suitable for the typical activity level of Beagles.
However, be aware that this product may not be suitable for Beagles with poultry allergies. Overall, this dog food represents a superb mix of quality and value, providing specific benefits that make it an exceptional selection for your Beagle.
Ratings:
- Price: 4.5/5
- Digestive Health: 5/5
- Ingredient Quality: 4/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#2 – JustFoodForDogs – Best All-Natural Option
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Made with human-grade ingredients including chicken breast and white rice.
- Contains no growth hormones and includes nutrient-rich veggies like spinach and carrots.
- Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO for all life stages.
Cons:
- Pricier than some other comparable brands.
- Contains higher carbohydrate levels which may not suit all dogs.
For Beagle owners who prefer human-grade, wholesome ingredients, JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Wet Dog Food, Chicken & White Rice Recipe stands out. This complete meal or food topper includes high-quality protein from chicken, enriched long-grain white rice, and nutrient-packed vegetables such as spinach and carrots. The inclusion of cod liver oil enriches it with omega-3 fatty acids, supporting healthy skin and joints.
JustFoodForDogs also promotes environmental responsibility by avoiding growth hormones and opting for a production process that prioritizes high-quality, safe ingredients. However, it's important to note that this product may be more expensive than other brands, and its high carbohydrate content may not be ideal for all dogs. Planning your purchases in advance could be beneficial, especially given the premium nature of the product.
Ratings:
- Quality of Ingredients: 4.5/5
- Environmental Impact: 5/5
- Shipping: 3.5/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#3 – Smallbatch Pets Freeze-Dried – Best for Providing Raw Nutrition
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Species-appropriate, high-quality ingredients ensure a diet that mimics natural canine eating patterns.
- Supports all life stages, making it versatile for beagles of any age.
- Offers a variety of protein sources, including meats like chicken and lamb, enhancing dietary diversity.
Cons:
- Not suitable for pets requiring low-fat diets due to its rich content in fats essential for most active dogs.
Smallbatch Pets Freeze-Dried Premium Raw Food Diet offers an exceptional choice for dog owners looking to provide a raw, nutritious diet without the complications of traditional raw feeding. This brand commits to high standards by using hormone-free, antibiotic-free meats, and organic produce. For instance, their products often blend multiple protein sources like chicken, lamb, and organ meats, delivering a comprehensive and balanced nutrient profile.
However, it's important to recognize that this diet might not be suitable for dogs that require a low-fat diet due to health issues like pancreatitis. Despite this limitation, Smallbatch maintains a strong reputation for quality and safety in the raw pet food market.
Ratings:
- Quality of Ingredients: 5/5
- Variety of Proteins: 5/5
- Suitability for Special Diets: 3/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#4 – Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Beagle – Best Breed-Specific Food
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Specially formulated for Beagles to meet their unique dietary needs.
- Supports weight management with tailored nutritional content.
- Promotes digestive health through carefully selected fibers.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Beagle formula is a standout option in breed-specific dog food. It supports weight management with its tailored fat content of 12.0% and protein content of 27.0%. The food provides 3463 kilocalories of metabolizable energy per kilogram or 284 kilocalories per cup, aiding in weight control for Beagles.
A blend of pea fiber and dried plain beet pulp contributes to the maximum crude fiber content of 5.1%, benefiting the Beagle’s digestive system. However, if your dog is allergic to poultry, this may not be the best option.
Overall, this high quality dog food is a great choice for those looking for a beagle breed-specific formula that promotes weight management and digestive health, especially for beagle puppies, including your new beagle puppy.
Rating:
- Breed-Specific Formulation: 5/5
- Weight Management: 4.5/5
- Digestive Health: 4/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#5 – Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult – Best for Dental Health
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Promotes dental health
- High-quality ingredients
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies
Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult dog food features bite-size kibble designed for smaller jaws, making it the best choice for your Beagle’s dental health. The crunchy texture of the kibble helps clean teeth by scrubbing away plaque and tartar.
Additional ingredients include:
- peas
- brewers rice
- brown rice (try our brown rice recipe)
- chicken fat
- chicken meal
These ingredients provide essential fatty acids beneficial to small breed dogs like Beagles.
However, the main ingredient is chicken, so be cautious if your Beagle is allergic to poultry. Despite this, the majority of pet owners have observed improvements in their dogs’ breath and dental health following the switch to Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult Dog Food. Plus, with a price tag of $35.28 for a 13-lb bag, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Rating:
- Dental health: 5/5
- Ingredient quality: 4/5
- Price: 4.5/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#6 – American Journey Active Life Formula Small Breed Salmon, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe – Best Quality Ingredients
Source: Chewy
Pros:
- High-quality ingredients
- Promotes overall health
- Variety of essential nutrients
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with fish allergies
American Journey Active Life Formula Small Breed Salmon, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe is the top pick if you’re in search of best dog food with premium quality ingredients. Boasting a 4.5-star rating, this dog food is formulated with:
- deboned salmon as its main ingredient
- no artificial additives
- complex carbohydrates like brown rice
- chelated minerals for enhanced nutrient absorption
This grain-inclusive diet, containing corn gluten meal, provides complete and balanced nutrition, fulfilling the needs of your pet.
However, if your Beagle is allergic to fish, you might want to consider other options. Despite this minor drawback, this dog food receives high praise for its quality, making it a great choice for your Beagle.
Rating:
- Quality of ingredients: 4.5/5
- Nutrient absorption: 4/5
- Dietary preference: 4/5
Check the Latest Price on Chewy
#7 – Zignature Zssential Multi-Protein Formula Small Bites – Best for Skin, Coat, and Brain Health
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Targets skin, coat, and brain health effectively.
- Utilizes high-quality meat sources.
- Rich in essential nutrients.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.
Zignature Zssential Multi-Protein Formula Small Bites is ideal for enhancing your Beagle's skin, coat, and brain health. This formula features a robust blend of high-quality proteins from turkey, turkey meal, salmon, lamb meal, and duck meal. It's packed with vital nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, riboflavin, phosphorus, and vitamins B6, B12, and niacin, all essential for robust health.
However, those with Beagles sensitive to poultry should consider other options. Despite this limitation, the food's comprehensive nutritional profile supports muscle development and overall well-being, making it a top choice for maintaining your Beagle's health in multiple areas.
Ratings:
- Skin, Coat, and Brain Health: 5/5
- Quality of Meat Sources: 4.5/5
- Allergenic Potential: 3/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#8 – Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain Grain-Free – Best for Holistic Health
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Emphasizes a holistic approach to health.
- Contains unique animal proteins and real produce.
- Grain-free formulation suitable for dietary sensitivities.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.
Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain is an excellent choice for a holistic approach to your Beagle’s health, featuring pasture-raised lamb as the main protein source. This grain-free recipe is specifically designed to cater to dogs with specific dietary needs and promotes optimal muscle and organ function.
However, if your Beagle has a poultry allergy, this food might not be suitable. Despite this limitation, its use of unique animal proteins and real produce like sweet potatoes, peas, and berries enriches your Beagle's diet with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, supporting a comprehensive health regimen.
Ratings:
- Holistic Health: 5/5
- Quality of Ingredients: 4.5/5
- Allergenic Potential: 3/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#9 – Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe – Best for Sensitive Stomachs
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Limited ingredient list enhances digestibility.
- Well-balanced protein and carbohydrate content.
- Free from gluten, GMOs, meat by-products, and artificial additives.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with lamb allergies.
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe is tailored for Beagles with sensitive stomachs, featuring deboned turkey and turkey meal as its primary protein sources. This dog food is specifically designed to provide nutritional richness without overloading sensitive systems.
However, it's important to note that if your Beagle is allergic to lamb, you should consider other dietary options. The formula’s commitment to health is reinforced by its exclusion of potentially harmful elements like gluten, GMOs, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a safe choice for sensitive dogs.
Ratings:
- Suitability for Sensitive Stomachs: 5/5
- Quality of Ingredients: 4/5
- Allergenic Potential: 3/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
#10 – Diamond Naturals Small Breed Adult – Best for Immune and Gut Health
Source: Amazon
Pros:
- Packed with natural superfoods to enhance overall health.
- Probiotics included to support both immune and gut health.
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Adult is an excellent choice for small breed dogs like Beagles, aiming to boost their immune and gut health. This formula includes a diverse array of natural superfoods such as chia seeds, kale, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, and papaya, which are all rich in vital nutrients.
If your Beagle is allergic to poultry, you'll need to consider other options. Despite this limitation, the significant amount of probiotics in this food—over 1,000,000 CFU/lb of live, naturally occurring microorganisms—enhances digestive health and strengthens the immune system, making it a superb choice for your Beagle's dietary needs.
Ratings:
- Immune and Gut Health: 5/5
- Quality of Ingredients: 4.5/5
- Allergenic Potential: 3/5
Check the Latest Price on Amazon
Choosing the Best Dog Food for Your Beagle
When selecting the ideal dog food for Beagles, consider multiple crucial factors. Beagles thrive on a diet rich in high-quality proteins from real meats, healthy fats, essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. These nutrients support muscle maintenance, brain function, energy levels, and digestive health.
However, not all dog foods are created equal. Avoid those containing unspecified meat by-products, artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin, meat meal and bone meal, as well as excessive fillers such as corn, wheat, soy, added sugars, or sweeteners.
A balanced diet tailored to a Beagle's energy needs and life stage is essential. Ensuring the right daily calorie intake based on their activity level is crucial to prevent obesity and associated health complications.
Understanding Dog Food Labels
Deciphering dog food labels may initially appear overwhelming, but it gets simpler as you familiarize yourself with the key elements to watch out for. Dog food labels are legal documents regulated by organizations such as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) in the U.S., and the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) within the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authority over dog food production, including health claims on labels.
Important elements on dog food labels include the ingredient statement listed in descending order of weight, which can be affected by the moisture content of ingredients, leading to potential misinformation about ingredient concentrations. The guaranteed analysis on dog food packaging provides vital information about minimums and maximums of nutrients and is best understood when adjusted for dry matter to negate the impact of moisture in dry dog food.
Dietary Considerations for Beagles
Beagles thrive on a high-protein diet, ideally with poultry, fish, or whole meats as the first ingredients for optimal nutrition. Essential fatty acids, especially from sources like fish oil, are crucial for maintaining their shiny coat and high energy levels. A diet rich in these components supports their active lifestyle effectively.
Incorporating vegetables, fruits, and healthy carbohydrates such as brown rice adds beneficial fiber and nutrients to a Beagle's diet. It is important to select dog food that is appropriate for the Beagle’s specific life stage. Gradual transitions between different life stage foods can help avoid digestive issues and should include elements like chondroitin and glucosamine to support joint health.
Consult Your Vet
While this guide offers a solid foundation for selecting the right dog food for your Beagle, personalized advice from your veterinarian is invaluable. Each Beagle is unique, with specific health and nutritional requirements that may not be fully covered by general guidelines. Consulting with a vet can provide tailored dietary advice, ensure proper nutrient balance, and help determine appropriate portion sizes to maintain healthy weight. Therefore, before making your final decision on dog food, be sure to discuss your options with your vet.
Summary
Choosing the right dog food for your Beagle is critical, requiring a deep understanding of their nutritional needs and careful examination of food labels to avoid harmful ingredients. With numerous products available, informed decisions are vital for your Beagle’s health and happiness. Keep in mind that each Beagle is different, and a diet that suits one may not suit another. Always consult with your veterinarian to tailor a diet that ensures a balanced, nutritious lifestyle for your Beagle. Ready to ensure your Beagle thrives? Talk to your vet today and find the best diet for your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you feed a Beagle?
You should feed a fully grown, adult beagle twice a day, with one meal in the morning and one in the evening because they are very food-oriented and it's unrealistic to expect them to wait 24 hours between meals.
Do Beagles eat a lot of food?
Yes, Beagles eat a lot of food because they are opportunistic eaters and will consume as much food as you provide. It's recommended to feed them at set meal times and in carefully measured amounts to avoid overeating.
Are Beagles picky eaters?
Yes, many beagles can be fussy eaters, but you can try rotating different freeze dried meat toppers over their food to help with this.
What foods should be avoided for Beagles?
Avoid hot and spicy foods, as well as chocolate, onions, raisins, macadamia nuts, Xylitol, and grapes, as these can be harmful to Beagles. Also, consider adjusting their diet to lower protein as they age and become less active.
What are the nutritional needs of a Beagle?
Beagles need a diet with real meats, healthy fats, essential vitamins and minerals, and dietary fiber to maintain muscle, brain function, energy levels, and digestive health. This is essential for their overall well-being.
