What are the Best Dog Foods for English Toy Spaniels?
As a smaller dog breed, English Toy Spaniels are susceptible to certain health problems and have very specific nutritional needs. Owners will need to watch for eye, ear, heart and digestive issues. Thankfully, these loyal little pups can live a long, healthy life with the right nutrition and care!
AKC Classification: Toy group
Exercise Required: 30 minutes/day
Ideal Weight
Healthy Male Weight: Up to 7 lbs
Healthy Female Weight: 4-6 lbs
Breed Summary
As a member of the spaniel family, the English Toy Spaniel is cheerful, friendly and loving. These traits make them perfect for any family and great with children. Originally bred to be the companion of kings, this fun-loving breed is full of energy, faithful and loyal. Although they can thrive in an apartment setting, these pampered lap dogs can also be moderately active and enjoy lots of time outdoors. They are considered to be highly intelligent and require daily activity to stay happy and eliminate any behavioral issues. While they are smart, English Toy Spaniels can also be strong-willed and independent, making training a challenge for some owners. However, persistence and love can result in a very pleasant and well-trained companion.
Physical Traits
Small, boxy, short nose, smooth coat, a merry
Personality Traits
Loving, happy, sweet, gentle
Health Considerations for English Toy Spaniels
English Toy Spaniels are susceptible to many of the same health problems that plague many small dog breeds. While their average life span is 10-12 years, there are some potential areas for health concerns that owners should keep an eye on. These can include eye, ear, skin, joint, hip, heart and respiratory problems. Their flat faces and noses make them sensitive to heat and they will not fare well outdoors in very hot conditions. In addition, the temperament of some English Toy Spaniels can lean more towards a sedentary lifestyle so they should be monitored closely to be sure they do not overeat and become overweight. However, the right diet and nutritional support can make a big difference in preventing and healing any potential health problems.
Bone & Joint Issues
Like most other small dog breeds, English Toy Spaniels are prone to developing conditions such as Luxating Patella, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease and Hip or Elbow Dysplasia. We like dog food formulas with:
Heart Conditions
English Toy Spaniels are susceptible to common heart conditions including Congestive Coronary Disease, Mitral Valve Disease and Patent Ductus Arteriosus. These should be addressed individually, but we do prefer foods or treats with the following ingredients for heart health:
Ear Problems
Because of their large floppy ears, English Toy Spaniels can experience common ear conditions including Ear Infections and Ear Mites. Make sure to keep their ears clean and dry.
Digestive & Anal Gland Problems
English Toy Spaniels are known for having a sensitive stomach and quite commonly experience Diarrhea, Digestive Problems, Food Allergies and Anal Sores. With any diet, keep a close eye on how food affects their digestion, including stool patterns.
Eye Issues
English Toy Spaniels are prone to many common eye problems including Cataracts, Glaucoma, Entropion, Distichiasis and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). These can be at least partially prevented or treated with the following nutrients:
Complete a nutritional assessment to view individualized diet recommendations specifically for your pet.
Foods We Recommend: English Toy Spaniel Puppies
When do English Toy Spaniel dogs grow out of the puppy stage?
12 months old
Small dogs tend to mature much more rapidly than larger dog breeds. And as rambunctious little puppies, growing English Toy Spaniels need a higher caloric intake and nutritional support than adult dogs. These diets are ideal for your beloved little pup:
Smart Puppy Original Dry Dog Food
Be Natural Puppy Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Pro Plan Puppy Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Small Breed Complete Health Puppy Turkey, Oatmeal & Salmon Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food
Foods We Recommend: English Toy Spaniel Adults
When do English Toy Spaniel dogs become adults?
12 months old
Once they’ve reached adulthood, your spunky little English Toy Spaniel requires a different blend of nutrients to continue growing healthily while at the same time preventing obesity. Our tip picks include these popular formulas:
Naked Essentials Grain-Free Chicken & Duck Recipe Dry Dog Food
Pro Plan Adult Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Grain-Free Organic Small Breed Recipe Dry Dog Food
Fresh, Personalized Ingredient Meal Plan
+ Custom, human-grade diet
+ More expensive than kibble
Foods We Recommend: English Toy Spaniel Seniors
When do English Toy Spaniel dogs become seniors?
7-10 years old
As English Toy Spaniels age, they become even more susceptible to a whole host of health problems. Thankfully, the right diet can help prevent developing health issues and manage a variety of conditions. We recommend English Toy Spaniel owners give the following brands a try:
Lil' Plates Grain Free Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food
Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey & Potato Recipe Senior Dry Dog Food
Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food
Senior Real Chicken, Sweet Potato & Garbanzo Bean Recipe Dry Dog Food