Have a Shiba Inus in need of eats? Overwhelmed with all the options on the market, or don’t know where to start?
We’ve got you covered!
From allergies to joint concerns, these cute Japanese canines have health concerns that the right diet can address.
Below, we’ll share the best dog food for Shiba Inus, discuss dietary concerns unique to the breed, and explain how to select the right food for your floof.
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A Multi-Protein, Grain-Free Food
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A Chicken-Based, Grain-Inclusive Food
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How to Choose Food for Your Shiba Inus
Understanding common health problems in your dog’s breed is crucial before shopping for the right food. While relatively healthy, the Shiba Inu is known for some issues that may influence your dog food selection.
Here are some qualities to look for in your Shiba Inu’s food that may help with common breed concerns:
- Limited Ingredients: Shiba Inus are prone to food sensitivities and allergies, leading to sensitive stomachs and skin issues. Look for dog food formulated for sensitive systems, with easily digestible ingredients and limited potential allergens.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Shiba Inus are at risk of hip dysplasia and patellar luxation, which can impact your pup’s mobility. Opt for dog food containing joint-supporting ingredients, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, aiding cartilage regeneration and slowing wear and tear on connective tissues.
- Crunchy Texture: Shiba Inus are susceptible to dental issues like periodontal disease and tooth decay. Choosing a dog food with a larger kibble size or crunchy texture may help reduce plaque buildup and promote healthier teeth – but don’t forget the importance of regular toothbrushing.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Look for dog food that contains omega-3 fatty acids that support a shiny coat and skin health – an area of concern in Shibas, who sometimes suffer from dry, itchy skin. A dog food with ingredients like fish or flaxseed oil can provide these essential fats.
- Calorie-Conscious: Shiba Inus tend to gain weight easily, putting unnecessary stress on your pup’s joints. Selecting a dog food formula for weight management, with controlled calorie content and a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, can help your Shiba Inu maintain a healthy weight if he’s prone to packing on pounds.
Always consult your veterinarian for personalized food recommendations based on your Shiba Inu’s specific needs.
The 9 Best Foods for Shiba Inus
Now that we know what to look for in your Shiba Inu’s food, we can look at the best options on the market. Check out these top-notch contenders for your four-footer’s food bowl.
1. Nom Nom [Best Overall Dog Food for Shiba Inus]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Any Shiba parents looking for fresh, delicious food and willing to pay for premium quality.
About: When it comes to providing high-quality, personalized nutrition for your Shiba, Nom Nom is a brand that stands out from the pack! With a focus on fresh, expert-backed recipes and sustainably sourced ingredients, Nom Nom can satisfy your pup’s taste buds and your eco-friendly aspirations.
First Five Ingredients: Ground Turkey, Brown Rice, Eggs, Carrots, & Spinach
Features:
- Crafted with Care and Expertise: Nom Nom’s recipes are thoughtfully crafted by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, ensuring your Shiba Inu receives optimal nutrition for nose-to-tail health.
- Quality You Can Count On: When sourcing ingredients, Nom Nom goes the extra mile, prioritizing quality and safety by using only ingredients sourced from the United States.
- Preserving Taste: Nom Nom uses gentle cooking methods that heat food to food-safe temperatures without sacrificing flavor.
- A Protein-Rich Foundation: Nom Nom’s recipes start with a whole protein source, providing your Shiba Inu with the essential energy and nutrients he needs to thrive.
- Personalized Just for Your Pup: Nom Nom offers custom-crafted meals that consider any allergies or specific health concerns your dog may have, tailoring his meals to his unique requirements.
Ingredients List
Ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach...,
dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, salt, potassium chloride, fish oil, natural flavor, vinegar, citric acid, taurine, choline bitartrate, zinc gluconate, ferrous sulfate, vitamin E supplement, copper gluconate, niacin (vitamin B3), manganese gluconate, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), selenium yeast, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B12 supplement, cholecalciferol (source of vitamin D3), potassium iodide.
Pros
- All of Nom Nom’s ingredients are sourced and cooked in the USA
- No subscription is required to order, making it easy to give Nom Nom a try
- Option to add a probiotic to your Shiba’s food for an extra boost of digestive support
Cons
- Higher price tag compared to other dog food options
- While the food is prepared in U.S. kitchens, they’re not USDA-certified
- Meals require refrigeration
2. Wellness Complete Health [Best Dry Dog Food for Shiba Inus]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Shiba parents seeking a high-quality dry food with awesome extras.
About: Wellness Complete Health Dry Dog Food is a fantastic choice for Shiba Inu owners looking for kibble, as this crunchy goodness offers options that cater to the unique needs of almost every dog. High-quality protein is the main ingredient, followed by healthy produce, providing essential fiber and nutrients without corn, soy, wheat, or meat by-products.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, & Peas
Features:
- Joint-Friendly: Wellness Complete Health contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and fatty acids that aid in canine joint health, an area of concern for older Shiba Inus and active pups who may need extra TLC after a vigorous day of play.
- Belly-Boosting Probiotics: Wellness Complete Health boasts a mix of probiotics that promote healthy digestion for your Shiba Inu, suiting sniffers with a sensitive tummy or recovering from an illness.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Real produce in Wellness Complete Health packs a punch of antioxidants that give your Shiba’s immune system a helping hand.
- Made in the USA: Wellness Complete Health is produced in the USA with ingredients sourced from global suppliers who meet strict quality requirements.
- Safety Comes First: All Wellness manufacturing facilities meet the highest grade of AA for food safety on the BRC audit scale, with every batch of raw materials and finished products undergoing meticulous checks to ensure the absence of mold and other harmful pathogens.
Ingredients List
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Peas...,
Ground Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Tomato Pomace, Ground Flaxseed, Tomatoes, Carrots, Natural Chicken Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Chicory Root Extract, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Garlic Powder, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract. This is a naturally preserved product
Pros
- Available in an impressive assortment of recipes and flavors
- Prebiotics and probiotics aid in the overall gut health of your furry friend
- Antioxidants provide an extra boost to your Shiba Inu’s immune system
Cons
- Picky eaters might not warm up to the taste of Wellness Complete Health
- Some owners may prefer to avoid legumes in their dog’s diet
3. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Canned [Best Canned Dog Food for Shiba Inus]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Shibas with pickier palates or seniors with dental concerns.
About: Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe offers a tasty mix of real meat, nutrient-rich liver, fresh produce, and grains. Best of all, its soft and smooth pâté texture is easy for any Shiba to eat, including seniors or those with dental concerns.
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, & Peas
Features:
- Meat-Foward Recipe: With real meat as the leading ingredient, Blue Buffalo Homestyle ensures that your Shiba Inu receives the necessary protein for lean muscle development and tissue repair.
- Limited Allergens: This formula is free of common sensitivity triggers, including corn, soy, wheat, by-products, and artificial flavors and preservatives.
- Packed with Produce: This meaty blend is rich in garden vegetables such as carrots and peas, offering natural sources of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Plenty of Protein Options: Blue Buffalo Homestyle provides a range of proteins to choose from, including Chicken, Beef, Lamb, and Turkey Meatloaf flavors for variety and meeting your mutt’s dietary needs.
- American Made: Blue Buffalo is made in the USA using globally sourced ingredients that undergo strict quality and safety inspections.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Peas...,
Sweet Potatoes, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Flaxseed, Blueberries, Cranberries, Carrageenan, Cassia Gum, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate, Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Pros
- Made with nutrient-rich ingredients like real meat and veggies
- Pricing isn’t too steep, considering the quality of this food
- Pâté texture mixes into kibble well and is easy for dogs to eat
Cons
- Some pawrents may prefer pea-free dog food to avoid any potential link to DCM
- A stew-style canned food might be more appealing to picky pups
4. Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice [Most Affordable Dog Food for Shiba Inus]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Shiba Inu parents seeking a premium dog food without a steep price tag.
About: Looking for a budget-friendly dog food that doesn’t skimp on quality? Look no further than Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice, a kibble made with premium ingredients and awesome extras for snout-to-tail health without potentially problematic inclusions, like artificial colors and flavors, that may upset your Shiba’s system.
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, & Cracked Pearled Barley
Features:
- Protein Comes First: Diamond Naturals uses real chicken and chicken meal to deliver the goods your Shiba needs for lean muscle development.
- Rich in Probiotics: This kibble is packed with antioxidants, ensuring your Shiba Inu’s immune system operates at peak efficiency.
- Made in America: Diamond Naturals is made with love right here in the USA by a family-owned company using global ingredients from trusted suppliers.
- Fatty-Acid Forward: The omega-3s in this recipe support a lustrous coat and promote healthy skin, letting your Shiba Inu strut his stuff while looking and feeling his best.
- Stomach-Supporting Probiotics: A blend of probiotics gives your Shiba Inu’s digestive system a helping hand.
Pros
- Provides excellent nutrition without walloping your wallet
- Contains great extras, like glucosamine and probiotics
- Made with real meat, fruits, vegetables, and grains
Cons
- Pickier pups may need enticing to give this food a try
- Some pet parents aren’t fans of the brand
5. Nutro Natural Choice Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy [Best Puppy Food for Shiba Inus]
- Designed for large-breed dogs
- Made with nutritious grains
- Loaded with fiber
- Chicken alternatives would be nice
- Doesn’t contain any probiotics
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Shiba Inus puppies ready to take over the world (or at least training class.)
About: Nutro Natural Choice Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy Recipe is specially crafted to give your growing Shiba Inu a complete diet for proper growth. This kibble is packed with lean protein, wholesome grains, and nourishing fats to support your furry friend’s overall development.
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Brewers Rice, & Whole Grain Brown Rice
Features:
- Rich in Omega-3s: Nutro Natural Choice includes eye and brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA, that may also benefit your Shiba Inu puppy’s skin and coat.
- Free of Common Allergens: This puppy kibble doesn’t contain common allergy triggers like corn, wheat, soy, and chicken by-product meal that may upset sensitive systems.
- Non-GMO Ingredients: Nutro is committed to using non-GMO ingredients – a rarity in the dog food world.
- Contains Real Produce: Nutro prioritizes natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants by incorporating ingredients like dried spinach, kale, and coconut.
- Made in America: Nutro is proudly made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
Ingredients List
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice...,
Potato Protein, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Rice Bran, Natural Flavor, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract
Pros
- Kibble size works well for most Shiba Inu puppies
- Pricing is reasonable when considering the food’s exceptional quality
- Use of non-GMO ingredients a win for some pet parents
Cons
- Pickier puppies may need encouragement to try this kibble
- Probiotics for digestive support would be a nice addition
6. Merrick Healthy Grains Senior [Best Senior Dog Food for Shiba Inus]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Pawrents of mature Shiba Inus looking to fuel their four-footer’s golden years with a nutritious kibble.
About: Merrick Healthy Grains Senior is an excellent choice for your Shiba Inu during his golden years with its protein-forward recipe of real meat, grains, and quinoa. It also contains real fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots for natural sources of fiber, vitamins, and flavor.
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, & Barley
Features:
- Free of Potatoes and Legumes: This senior recipe doesn’t contain potatoes or legumes – controversial ingredients that trigger allergies in some doggos and may be linked to canine cardiac issues.
- Contains Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed and salmon oil support your Shiba’s coat from the inside out.
- Joint-Supportive Ingredients: Glucosamine and chondroitin help nourish your aging Shiba Inu’s joints, ensuring he’s moving and grooving comfortably.
- Digestion-Friendly Probiotics: A blend of probiotics promotes healthy digestion, an area of concern for many senior sniffers.
- American-Made: Merrick Healthy Grains Senior is made in the United States using globally sourced ingredients.
Ingredients List
Deboned chicken, Chicken meal, Brown rice, Oatmeal, Barley...,
Turkey meal, Chicken fat, Quinoa, Natural flavor, Flaxseed, Salmon oil, Potassium chloride, Salt, Apples, Carrots, Sunflower oil, Organic dehydrated alfalfa meal, Choline chloride, Iron amino acid complex, Zinc amino acid complex, Zinc sulfate, Sodium selenite, Manganese amino acid complex, Copper amino acid complex, Potassium iodide, Cobalt proteinate, Cobalt carbonate, Taurine, Yucca schidigera extract, Mixed tocopherols, Vitamin E supplement, Vitamin B12 supplement, Riboflavin supplement, Vitamin A acetate, d-Calcium pantothenate, Thiamine mononitrate, Folic acid, Niacin, Biotin, Pyridoxine hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 supplement, Citric acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product
Pros
- Glucosamine and chondroitin offer joint support
- Several owners reported visibly improved coat health after switching to this food
- Grain-inclusive recipe offer satiety, energy, and fiber
Cons
- On the pricier side
- More produce in the recipe would be ideal
7. Natural Balance LID with Grains [Best Limited Ingredient Dog Food for Shiba Inus]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Shiba Inus who struggle with food allergies or intolerances.
About: Featuring a concise ingredient list and a novel protein source, Natural Balance LID with Grains is an excellent match for Shiba Inus with food allergies or intolerances. This kibble also contains omega-3s, healthy fats that support your Shiba’s skin and coat.
First Five Ingredients: Duck, Duck Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, & Rice Bran
Features:
- Cardiac Care: Added taurine supports optimal heart health in canines.
- Skips Common Sensitivity Triggers: This kibble excludes soy, gluten, artificial colors, and flavors to focus on what matters – the best nutrition without unnecessary additives.
- Meat is Always #1: Real meat takes center stage in each recipe, with options ranging from common proteins like chicken and beef to unique choices like duck or salmon.
- Safety Comes First: Natural Balance prioritizes safety above all else, with each batch of food undergoing rigorous testing at multiple points during production, giving you peace of mind knowing that your Shiba Inu is eating from a trustworthy source.
- Made in the USA: Natural Balance is manufactured in the USA with globally sourced ingredients from trusted suppliers.
Ingredients List
Duck, Duck Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran...,
Sunflower Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Flaxseed, Brewers Dried Yeast, Natural Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Dl-methionine, Taurine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, D-calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement), Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), Citric Acid (Used As A Preservative), Lactic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract
Pros
- Many owners note improvement in canine coat condition and doggy digestion
- Pricing isn’t too bad compared to other limited-ingredient kibbles
- Single-protein source and short ingredient list perfect for allergy-prone Shibas
Cons
- Does not contain any joint supplements or probiotics
- The ingredient list is lacking in produce
8. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach [Best Dog Food for Shiba Inus with Skin Issues]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Shiba Inus with dry, itchy, or sensitive skin.
About: Designed specially to tackle tummy troubles and skin woes, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach ensures a high-quality diet without common allergens found in most kibbles, like corn, wheat, or soy. Its carefully chosen mix of ingredients includes fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids, proven to promote skin and coat health.
First Five Ingredients: Salmon, Barley, Rice, Oat Meal, & Canola Meal
Features:
- Good Source of Protein: Choose from salmon or turkey-based recipes, with these novel meats offering plenty of protein for lean muscle development in your Shiba Inu.
- Gut-Friendly Formula: Prebiotics and probiotics promote healthier canine digestion, encouraging firmer, healthier stools.
- Grain-Inclusive Recipe: Rice offers fiber, energy, and satiety while avoiding the potential hazards of grain-free diets.
- Immune Support: Added antioxidants boost your Shiba Inu’s immune system, benefitting Shibas with allergies and other intolerances.
- Joint-Nourishing Ingredients: Glucosamine boosters your four-footer’s frame from the inside out.
Ingredients List
Salmon, Barley, Rice, Oat Meal, Canola Meal, Fish Meal (Source Of Glucosamine)...,
Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Salmon Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Dried Yeast, Natural Flavor, Sunflower Oil, Chicory Root Inulin, Fish Oil, L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Salt, Potassium Chloride, DL-Methionine, VITAMINS [Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7)], Calcium Carbonate, MINERALS [Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite], Choline Chloride, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Vitamin C), Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product
Pros
- Specifically formulated for dogs with skin and stomach sensitivities
- Rice and oat meal provide fiber and energy without the possible ties to DCM seen in grain-free recipes
- Fish oil offers skin and coat-nourishing fatty acids that also battle inflammation
Cons
- More expensive than most kibbles
- Lacks probiotics, which could benefit the bellies of some barkers
9. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free High Prairie [Best Grain-Free Dog Food for Shiba Inus]
WHO’S THIS FOOD BEST FOR?
Shiba Inu pawrents whose woofer has been diagnosed grain allergies.
About: Fuel your Shiba Inu’s adventurous spirit with the tasty blend of roasted bison and venison in the Taste of the Wild Grain-Free High Prairie, a protein-rich recipe that also features water buffalo, lamb, and chicken meal. Grain-free, it powers your pooch with alternative carbohydrates, like sweet potatoes and peas, suiting sniffers with diagnosed grain allergies.
First Five Ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, & Peas
Features:
- Delicious Flavor: A meaty ingredient list makes for a mouthwatering flavor and taste even the pickiest pups are usually willing to try.
- Loaded with Produce: Packed with a range of fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, peas, and blueberries, this kibble provides natural fiber, antioxidants, and more.
- Skin and Coat-Friendly: Omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and a shiny coat in your Shiba, helping your pooch look and feel his best.
- Prebiotics and Probiotics: A belly-boosting ingredient list assists in maintaining a healthy digestive system, aiding in firmer, healthier pupper poops.
- Domestically Made: Taste of the Wild recipes are manufactured in the USA using ingredients from trusted suppliers worldwide.
Ingredients List
Water buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas...,
pea flour, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), egg product, roasted bison, roasted venison, beef, natural flavor, tomato pomace, ocean fish meal, salt, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, raspberries, yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamin E supplement, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate, manganese proteinate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid. Contains a source of live (viable), naturally occurring microorganisms
Pros
- Packed with protein, fueling active Shiba Inus
- Grain-free nature is ideal for Shibas with grain allergies
- Taste gets a paw’s up from most doggos
Cons
- Mixed proteins may be problematic for Shibas with sensitive systems
- The inclusion of peas isn’t every pet parent’s favorite
Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before selecting a grain-free food for your doggo.
Veterinarians have established a correlation between grain-free foods and increased rates of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
It isn’t yet clear whether grain-free foods are causing these problems or if it is coincidence.
Nevertheless, caution is warranted.
Additionally, the overwhelming majority of dogs digest grains without issue, and few four-footers are actually allergic to grains (most food allergies are caused by things like chicken, beef, or dairy products).
General Advice for Picking a Dog Food
Selecting a dog food for your canine companion can feel overwhelming, but there are three key factors to remember. If met, you’re likely looking at a great option for your dog (Shiba Inus or not!)
When browsing dog food options for your furry friend, remember to:
- Meet Nutritional Guidelines: Opt for a food specifically formulated to meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional guidelines. This ensures your dog receives all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals needed for his life stage, whether a bouncing puppy or a silver senior.
- Consult with Your Veterinarian: Before deciding, consult with your veterinarian. Your vet can provide expert advice based on your dog’s health history, breed-specific nutritional needs, and any dietary restrictions. Your vet can also guide you through the complexities of dog food labels and recommend the best option for your fur kiddo.
- Address Specific Health Conditions: If your pup has specific health conditions, choose a dog food that caters to those needs. Many manufacturers offer specialized formulas for various issues, such as joint problems or sensitive stomachs. There are also foods for specific illnesses, like veterinary diets for kidney disease and diabetes.
Additional Criteria for Choosing Dog Food
With the three main requirements met, you may still have a handful of options to choose between. Luckily, narrowing the field is easier if you look into other aspects of a food.
Other factors to consider when searching for great dog food include:
- Canine Nutritionist: Does the brand employ a canine nutritionist? Having such an expert on hand ensures the food is nutritionally balanced and suitable for dogs.
- Safety Inspections: How frequently does the company conduct safety checks? Regular inspections ensure hygiene, safety, and fresh, quality ingredients.
- Cooked or Pasteurized Protein: Does the brand cook or pasteurize proteins to eliminate pathogens? Raw ingredients can make your dog very ill.
- Country of Production and Ingredient Sourcing: Is the dog food produced and sourced from Western countries? Western nations often have stricter regulations and quality control standards, keeping canines safer.
- Ownership of Production Facilities: Does the brand own the kitchens where the dog food is made? Ownership indicates better control over quality and safety.
For more detailed information on selecting the right dog food, read our comprehensive guide, How to Choose Dog Food!
Best Dog Food for Shiba Inus: FAQ
Do you still have questions or concerns about the best dog food for Shiba Inus? Browse the most commonly asked questions and answers surrounding the topic.
What is the best food to feed a Shiba Inus?
The best food to feed your Shiba Inu depends on his current life stage, health conditions, and dietary concerns, so picking the best in the bunch is impossible. That said, Nom Nom, Wellness Complete Health, and Diamond Naturals are all solid picks many Shibas can enjoy without issue.
Choosing the best dog food for your Shiba Inu starts with looking for a balanced and nutritious diet that meets the AAFCO nutrient profile for your dog’s current life stage, addresses any health issues he has, and is OKed by your vet. From there, opt for high-quality dog food that contains lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish, as well as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, especially if your Shiba is prone to ingredient sensitivities.
Do Shibas have sensitive stomachs?
Yes, Shiba Inus can have delicate digestive systems prone to food allergies and intolerances. Pick a dog food without common allergens such as corn, soy, and wheat. Additionally, avoid dog food with excessive fat or high sodium content that can stress your Shiba’s stomach unnecessarily.
Should I feed my Shiba Inu a grain-free diet?
Grain-free options are necessary if your Shiba Inu has been diagnosed with grain allergies or sensitivities. However, consult your veterinarian to determine if a grain-free diet suits your specific Shiba Inu. Most of the time, dogs eat grains without issue. Most often, allergies are linked to a recipe’s protein source, such as chicken, lamb, or beef.
Can I feed my Shiba Inu a homemade diet instead of commercial dog food?
Feeding a strictly homemade diet isn’t a must with a Shiba Inu. In fact, you can unintentionally make your Shiba sick by feeding homemade dog food. A veterinary nutritionist must carefully formulate homemade diets to avoid any nutrient deficiencies. It’s also recommended to consult your veterinarian before switching to a homemade diet, as he may recommend a homemade dog food supplement or two.
Do Shina Inus need a lot of food?
Not usually. The right amount of food for your Shiba depends on age, weight, activity level, and overall health. Generally, follow the dog food manufacturer’s feeding guidelines as a starting point. Adjust the portion sizes based on your Shiba Inu’s needs and monitor his weight to prevent under or overfeeding. If unsure, ask your vet.
Can I switch my Shiba Inu’s food brand or flavor?
If you decide to switch your Shiba Inu’s food brand or flavor, it’s essential to do so gradually. Introduce the new food slowly over a week by mixing it with the old food, increasing the amount of new food each day. This gentle transition helps prevent digestive upset or food aversion
Should I consider breed-specific dog food for my Shiba Inus?
While breed-specific dog food exists, it’s not necessary for Shiba Inus. Instead, focus on choosing a high-quality dog food that addresses your dog’s nutritional needs for his life stage, addresses any health concerns he has, and has your vet’s OK. That said, if you prefer breed-specific options, that’s fine as long as the food satisfies the three core principles discussed.
We hope our list of the best dog food for Shiba Inus has been a helpful resource in your quest to find the ideal option for your pup. Remember, a well-fed Shiba Inu is a happy Shiba Inu!
We’d love to hear about your experiences and which food your furry friend enjoys the most. Happy feeding, and may your Shiba always have a full bowl and a wagging tail!
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