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Before I got my beagle, I did extensive research about the breed to be completely prepared when my puppy finally arrived. The thing that surprised me the most is that these little dogs come with big appetites and I realized how important finding the best dog food for beagles really is.
At first, I thought that any high-quality food will do just fine for my beagle. But as I dove deeper into their nutritional needs and potential health problems, I realized that not all foods are going to cut it.
Needless to say, portion control is essential, but so is finding the perfect balance between nutrients, supplements, and calories. Keeping in mind all these things and a few more, finding the right balance of nutrients and the right food is a bit harder than it seems.
Luckily I’m here to share my findings with you and in this article, you will find the best food for your beagle regardless of his age, weight, or food sensitivities. You will also learn about your dog’s nutritional needs, calorie intake, and what foods to avoid to keep your beagle healthy and active!
Quick Links To The Best Dog Food For Beagles
- Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dog Food – Best Overall
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe Grain-Free Dog Food
- Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Food
- Instinct by Nature’s Variety Limited Ingredient Diet
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Puppy Food
- Solid Gold Fit & Fabulous Dry Dog Food
- Canidae Life Stages Platinum Formula Canned Dog Food
- American Journey All Life Stages Dog Food – Best Budget
- Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Dog Food
- Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe
Top-Rated Dog Foods For Beagles
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Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dog Food – Best Overall |
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Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe Grain-Free Dog Food |
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Reviews Of The 10 Best Dog Foods For Beagles
Bred to be hunting dogs, beagles are one of the most popular dog breeds that like to tag along with their owners and make great pets. Beagles don’t have many specific dietary requirements but can pack on the pounds quite easily and become obese.
That’s why it is important that you find a good dog food for beagles which will ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy. Let’s take a look at 10 great foods that will keep your pooch full and fit!
1. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dog Food – Best Overall
Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular dog food brands and their Pacific Stream formula is a great option for your beagle. It features premium-quality ingredients and is packed with antioxidants that come from real fruits and veggies.
Features
- Made without grains, artificial colors, or preservatives
- Chelated minerals
- Highly digestible
Featuring salmon as the main ingredient, this food comes at a minimum of 25% protein which supports lean muscles. Being grain-free, this food contains sweet potatoes, potatoes, and peas as easily digestible carbs that won’t cause allergies.
Omega-3 & -6 fatty acids are included to keep your beagle’s skin and coat healthy and are beneficial if your pooch suffers from allergies. Added prebiotics support good digestion and help your dog absorb all the nutrients he needs.
Pros
- Supports higher nutrient absorption
- Ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs
- Moderate calorie count
- Added vitamins & minerals support overall health
Cons
- Extremely picky beagles may not like the taste of this food
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Food is a premium quality food that contains all the ingredients a beagle needs. The fact that it works for dogs with allergies and sensitive stomachs makes it the best dry food for beagles.
2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe Grain-Free Dog Food
The Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe Grain-Free Dog Food is another great choice for beagles. It is made without by-products, grains, or harmful additives in order to support your dog’s overall wellness.
Features
- Natural sources of antioxidants
- Glucosamine
- Probiotics
The main ingredient, deboned beef, creates 30% protein and will keep your dog’s muscles toned and give him energy to stay active all day. Peas are easily digestible carbs that won’t overwhelm his digestive system or cause an allergic reaction.
Blue Buffalo included chicken fat to keep your pooch energized and keep his skin and coat healthy and shiny. This formula contains glucosamine and the proper calcium-phosphorus ratio which supports joint health, strong bones, and teeth.
Pros
- Higher fiber count gives a feeling of fullness
- Added vitamins and minerals support a strong immune system
- L-carnitine helps burn fat and supports weight loss
- Antioxidants slow down the aging process
Cons
- A few customers noted that the bag arrived damaged, but overall they were pleased with this food
The Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe is a great option for beagles who have allergies or frequent bouts of diarrhea. It contains all the nutrients your pooch needs and my beagle loves it!
3. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Food
Designed to mimic the ancestral diet of dogs, the Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Food is packed with high-quality animal proteins. It has just the right amount of calories to keep your beagle energized throughout the day without causing weight gain.
Features
- Glucosamine & chondroitin
- High protein count
- Botanical probiotics
The two main ingredients in this formula are deboned turkey and turkey meal which are low in fat and help build lean and strong muscles. Potatoes, peas, and broccoli are healthy carbs that support good digestion and contain valuable vitamins.
To ensure that your dog’s bones and teeth stay strong this food has the right calcium-phosphorus ratio and it also supports joint health. Besides fresh fruits and veggies, this food has added vitamins and minerals that support a strong immune system and overall health.
Pros
- Supports higher energy needs of active beagles
- No wheat, soy, grains, or gluten
- Supports good gut bacteria and a healthy GI tract
- High-quality meat sources
Cons
- A few customers noted that there is no zip which will seal the bag
Formulated with high-quality ingredients, this food contains all the right nutrients without packing a lot of calories that cause obesity. This is good dog food for beagles that have sensitive stomachs, allergies, or joint issues and overall a great pick even if your pooch is completely healthy.
4. Instinct by Nature’s Variety Limited Ingredient Diet
Formulated especially for dogs who have food allergies or sensitive stomachs, the Instinct by Nature’s Variety Limited Ingredient Diet has just one protein source. But rest assured, this food is complete, balanced, and safe for your beagle to eat every day.
Features
- Omega-3 & -6 fatty acids
- Added vitamins and minerals
- Limited ingredients
This food has turkey meal as the main ingredient and a protein count of 29%. Easy-to-digest peas and tapioca are the only carbs present in this food.
Canola and coconut oil are sources of omega fatty acids which will keep your dog’s coat and skin healthy and improve its quality. To ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients he needs from every bite, this food has added vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Pros
- Designed especially for food sensitivities
- Supports normal digestion
- Ideal levels of protein and fat for active dogs
- Made without eggs, dairy, chicken, or other common allergens
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs who are allergic to peas
Overall, the Instinct by Nature’s Variety Limited Ingredient Diet is a great option for all beagles who have digestive issues and are allergic to chicken or beef. The greatest thing is that it remains tasty although it contains a very small number of ingredients.
5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Puppy Food
The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Puppy Food is designed to provide premium quality nutrition to your young beagle. The puppy-sized kibble is easy to chew and the LifeSource bits are packed with nutrients which promote immune system health and proper growth.
Features
- No wheat, corn, or soy
- Rich in antioxidants
- DHA & ARA for brain and eye development
The best puppy food for beagles features deboned chicken as the main ingredient and has 29% protein to build lean and strong muscles. This isn’t a grain-free formula, but oatmeal and barley are wholesome grains that support good digestion and will keep your puppy’s tummy full for a longer time.
This formula is packed with antioxidant-rich blueberries and cranberries which support a still-developing immune system and ensure that your puppy grows up into a healthy dog. Calcium and phosphorus are included in the right amounts to support healthy teeth and proper bone growth.
Pros
- It contains omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
- Designed to support proper growth and development of puppies
- Higher fat and protein levels are ideal for energetic pups
- Contains all essential vitamins & minerals for overall well-being
Cons
- Contains grains which can be an issue if your pooch is allergic to them
The Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Puppy Food has everything that a still growing pup needs and is one of the best dry food for beagle puppies. My pooch loved it when he was young and the kibble is just the right size for smaller teeth and mouths.
6. Solid Gold Fit & Fabulous Dry Dog Food
The Solid Gold Fit & Fabulous Dry Dog Food is, as you may guess, is designed specifically for weight control. It is low in fat and calories which makes it the best dog food for overweight beagles who need to shed a few pounds to look their best.
Features
- 20 nutrient-rich superfoods
- High in fiber
- Pollock fish as the main ingredient
This food features pollock and pollock meal as the main novel protein ingredients which create 26% protein content. Wholesome grains, such as oatmeal and brown rice, are packed with fiber which will give your dog a sense of fullness and support digestion.
Healthy olive oil, canola oil, and salmon oil support a great looking skin and coat but aren’t present in a huge amount that will slow down your dog’s weight loss. This food also contains fresh fruits, veggies, and added vitamins and minerals which ensure that your dog stays healthy during and after his weight loss journey.
Pros
- Supports muscle growth
- It is suitable for dogs with allergies and sensitive stomachs
- High fiber content helps your dog’s tummy to stay full for longer
- Probiotic cultures for proper digestion
Cons
- A few dogs didn’t like the taste of this food, but generally, beagles aren’t picky, so this probably won’t be an issue
The Solid Gold Fit & Fabulous Dry Dog Food is a great choice if you want to help your beagle lose some weight and it also works for maintenance. It is so packed with superfoods and healthy ingredients that your beagle won’t even realize that he is on a diet.
7. Canidae Life Stages Platinum Formula Canned Dog Food
Formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs regardless of their age, the Canidae Life Stages Premium Formula Canned Dog Food is a great choice. Designed especially for less active dogs, this formula is the best wet dog food for beagles since they are prone to obesity.
Features
- Made without wheat, soy, or corn
- Tasty flavor
- Added vitamins & minerals
Featuring chicken as the main ingredient, this food has 27% protein on a dry matter basis, which is ideal for beagles of all life stages. Brown rice is easily digestible carbs that won’t overwhelm your dog’s GI tract and will improve his stool.
This food has a high fat count of 20%, but it has a moderate calorie count which won’t contribute to weight gain. Canidae added all essential vitamins and minerals that will keep your dog’s immune system strong regardless of his age.
Pros
- It’s simmered in broth and is very tasty
- Suitable for less active and older beagles
- Supports healthy skin and shiny coat
- Moderate calorie count
Cons
- A few owners noted that the food has a strong smell, but say that their dogs don’t mind it at all
The Canidae Life Stages Premium Formula Canned Dog Food is great for all beagles regardless of their age and is suitable for older, less active dogs. This healthy and tasty pate is a real hit with my beagle and yours will love it too.
8. American Journey All Life Stages Dog Food – Best Budget
The American Journey All Life Stages Dog Food is a great option if you are on a tight budget or you have several dogs. Although it contains grains, this food is made from quality ingredients that your beagle needs.
Features
- Packed with antioxidants
- Omega-3 & -6 fatty acids
- Healthy fibers
Deboned chicken and chicken meal are the main ingredients in this food which support lean muscles and create 25% protein content. Brown rice and peas are easily digestible carbs that won’t overwhelm your dog’s digestive tract but will keep his tummy full.
Fresh blueberries and cranberries are rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals and slow down the aging process. This formula also has added vitamins and minerals which ensure that your beagle stays healthy and happy.
Pros
- Its moderate calorie count is ideal for beagles
- Supports strong bones and teeth
- Added DHA for brain and eye development in puppies
- Wholesome carbs support healthy digestion
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs who are allergic to chicken and grains
Overall, the American Journey All Life Stages Dog Food is a quality and affordable food for beagles. It has the right protein and fat count and is rich in fibers that improve digestion.
9. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Dog Food
The Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Dog Food is formulated for sensitive digestive tracts and has antioxidants that slow down the aging process. It is low in calories and has all the nutrients an older dog needs to thrive which makes it the best dog food for senior beagles.
Features
- Optimal fiber count
- Glucosamine & chondroitin
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
With a 23% protein count, this food features deboned lamb as the main ingredient which builds muscles and maintains a healthy metabolism. Whole brown rice and whole-grain oatmeal are included in this formula as wholesome, easily digestible carbs.
Chicken fat and sunflower oil support a healthy skin and coat and give your senior dog enough energy to lead an active life. Naturally sourced glucosamine and chondroitin are a must for older dogs since they help build healthy cartilage and increase joint health.
Pros
- Low in calories and supports healthy weigh
- Added vitamins and minerals keep older dogs healthy
- Promotes optimal digestion in dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Helps older dogs retain their muscle mass
Cons
- Contains grains and chicken which can be problematic for dogs with allergies
The fact that this food is low in fat and calories makes it a great choice for chubby senior beagles. It is formulated in a way to give your older dog the right mix of micro and macro-nutrients that will keep him healthy in his golden years.
10. Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe
Last but not least is the Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe which contains fruits and vegetables and nutrient-rich ingredients. It also has a lower glycemic index, which means that your beagle won’t feel the need to eat as often as he does.
Features
- Added glucosamine and chondroitin
- Omega-3 & -6 fatty acids
- Locally sourced ingredients
This formula features chicken and chicken meal as the two main ingredients which create a 30% protein count which is ideal for active beagles. Although it contains grains, this food won’t be hard on your dog’s stomach since brown rice is very easy to digest.
Fruits and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, and carrots contain essential vitamins that support a strong immune system. This food has a slightly higher calorie count, so stick with the recommended portion sizes for your dog to prevent weight gain.
Pros
- Supports healthy joints and better mobility
- Fresh fruits and vegetables ensure overall health
- Ideal fat count for moderately active dogs
- Supports digestion and healthy GI tract
Cons
- The only downside of this food is that the four-pound bag is rather small
The Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe is a good option for beagles who aren’t allergic to grains but have digestive issues. Overall, this food has all the right nutrients to support your dog’s overall health.
Beagle Diet And Nutrition
Beagles are active little dogs that come in two sizes – 13 inches and 15 inches. Although there is no specific weight indicated in the breed’s standard, most show beagles weigh 20 to 25 pounds.
To be honest, my beagle weighs more that than, and yours probably does too, which is not surprising when you consider the appetite these dogs have. Unfortunately, obesity is a big issue for this breed which can only be avoided with the best diet for beagles and an active lifestyle.
Let’s take a look at how many calories beagles need to stay fit and trim:
- Puppy: A growing beagle puppy has high energy needs and requires 40 to 50 calories per pound of body weight. Make sure that you pick the best puppy food for beagles that will be rich in calories and nutrients that a still developing pup needs.
- Adult: As your pooch becomes an adult, his energy levels and nutritional needs are going to change and he will no longer require so many calories. An average adult beagle will need around 30 calories per pound of body weight. But if you have a very active dog, you can increase his calorie intake to match his energy needs.
- Senior: As a dog gets older he becomes less energetic and even more prone to weight gain. Senior beagles will need around 25 calories per pound of body weight to stay fit and trim.
What Nutrients To Feed To A Beagle?
Like all other dogs, beagles need high-quality protein to thrive and maintain their body in perfect condition. When it comes to protein count, look for foods that contain a minimum of 22% protein for puppies, and a minimum of 18% protein for adult dogs. Considering that beagles are energetic and active breed, foods with higher protein count are a good option.
Besides protein, your beagle needs plenty of fat to keep his body properly fueled and to provide energy. Although 5% fat is a bare minimum recommendation for dogs, ideally you want to choose a food that is in the 10% to 30% range.
Aside from protein and fats, you want to see some wholesome carbohydrates in the food you choose for your beagle. Since this breed can have problems with allergies, consider a grain-free food, or check if the main carbs are whole ingredients such as brown rice or oatmeal.
Finally, make sure that the food you pick offers the right nutritional balance and contains healthy supplements. Look for foods that contain all key vitamins and minerals, probiotics, and omega fatty acids. For senior beagles look for chondroitin and glucosamine for joint support and for puppies DHA for brain and eye development.
What To Avoid Feeding To Your Beagle
Aside from the usual foods all dogs should avoid, such as caffeine, onion, garlic, and chocolate, there are a few additional things that are not good for your beagle to eat. So, read the food labels carefully and avoid foods that contain:
- Fillers: Manufacturers include fillers which usually don’t have any nutritional value but add bulk to dog food. However, the most commonly used fillers such as rice and potatoes have nutrients that are valuable to dogs. To find quality food for your beagle, look for foods that have more meat proteins than fillers.
- By-products: Some dog foods feature by-products instead of named meats. But while by-products contain protein and micronutrients, the protein they contain isn’t of the highest quality. So it is best if you stay away from foods that contain by-products, or at least check that they aren’t among the food’s first five ingredients.
- Artificial ingredients: There really shouldn’t be any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in the food you pick for your beagle. Besides being completely unnecessary, many of these substances are proven to be harmful to dogs in the long run.
Beagle Health Problems And How Feeding The Right Food Can Help
Beagles have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years and are less prone to common canine diseases than other breeds. Keep the following conditions in mind when choosing the right food for your beagle:
Hip Dysplasia
Beagles, like many other breeds, have a genetic predisposition to develop hip dysplasia and arthritis. To help your dog maintain his joint health look for foods that contain:
- Glucosamine: A naturally occurring substance that helps repair damaged and deteriorating cartilage. It also supports healthy joints and will help your beagle to stay in perfect shape.
- Chondroitin: A natural molecule found within cartilage and has a role to absorb shocks and lubricate the cartilage. When added to dog food, chondroitin supports joint health and improves mobility.
Eye Disease
Beagles are prone to a variety of eye problems, including glaucoma, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and cherry eye. You can support your beagle’s eye health by choosing food with the following ingredients:
- Eggs
- Blueberries
- Cod, salmon, and tuna
- Carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli
These ingredients contain nutrients such as zinc, selenium, and lutein which support eye health by making your beagle’s eyes stronger.
Obesity
For such small dogs, beagles have enormous appetites and will take every opportunity to score an extra meal, which causes them to become obese in no time. Generally, an adult beagle should have two smaller meals a day and free-feeding should not be allowed.
Although chubby beagles are extremely cute, every pound of extra weight puts your pooch at an increased risk for arthritis, cancer, and heart problems. Thus, make sure that you aren’t overfeeding your pooch, and give him daily exercise as well as choose a weight management food which has a low or moderate calorie content.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
It isn’t always known what causes irritable bowel syndrome, but fiber deficiency and dietary intolerances due to allergies are the common culprits. Since this can be a chronic condition, a diet that supports digestive health is a must and needs to possess the following features:
- Low-fat and hypoallergenic
- Higher fiber count
- Quality meat protein and grain-free
Make sure that your beagle eats the right amount of dietary fiber since it will help regulate his bowel movements and prevent stomach upset.
Bladder Cancer
Unfortunately, beagles can get bladder cancer, which is also one of the most commonly seen cancers in dogs. Luckily, you can take certain precautions to lower the chances of your dog getting ill.
- Ensure that your beagle eats food that is packed with quality protein
- Pick a formula that contains fresh fruits and veggies which are rich in antioxidants that fight cancer cells
- Stay away from foods that contain fillers, additives, artificial flavors, and colors
- Pick low-carb foods since sugar-rich diets promote cancer growth
- Obese dogs are at higher risk of cancer, so keep your dog active and at the ideal weight
Features To Look For In The Best Dog Food For Beagles
Since Beagles are prone to certain health problems and obesity, it is very important for you to know how to identify really great food and what separates it from average choices. Keep the following features in mind when shopping for your pooch:
1. Whole Protein As The Main Ingredient
Dogs need to have a meat-based diet to thrive and stay healthy. You should only feed your beagle foods that feature a named meat protein, such as chicken, turkey, beef, or salmon as the main ingredient.
Foods that list corn, wheat, or unnamed meat meal as the main ingredient are low quality and not suitable for beagles. On the other hand, high-quality foods usually include several different types of meat among the top five ingredients.
2. Made Without Unnamed Meat Meals And By-Products
A lot of owners shy away from foods that contain by-products and meals, but these ingredients contain valuable nutrients and aren’t as bad as they are made out to be.
Still, it is very important that these ingredients are properly labeled so you know what exactly is going into your dog. Chicken meal or beef by-products, for example, are completely fine for your pooch to eat. But ingredients labeled simply as “meat meal” or “poultry by-products” are not, since there is no way for you to know what meats are used to make them.
3. Made Without Artificial Colors, Additives, Or Flavors
High-quality foods are made from fresh and nutritious ingredients, which are by themselves tasty for your dog to eat. On the other hand, low-quality foods are made from unpalatable cheaper ingredients and have to contain artificial flavors to make the food edible.
Besides being harmful to your dog’s overall health, artificial flavors and colors can trigger allergies in beagles and are best avoided altogether.
4. Contains Probiotics And Other Important Supplements
Most good dog foods have added vitamins and minerals to prevent nutrient deficiencies and support a strong immune system. However, high-quality brands go the extra mile and include several other beneficial supplements such as probiotics, prebiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, and antioxidants.
Probiotics support good gut bacteria and ensure that your dog’s digestive tract is working properly, while prebiotics serve as a food source for those bacteria. As I already mentioned, glucosamine and chondroitin protect joints from damage and are essential for beagles which are genetically predisposed to hip and joint problems.
Foods that contain antioxidants will slow down the aging process and fight free radicals that are linked with cancer cells.
5. Manufactured According To Food-Safety Regulations
Certain countries have higher food-quality standards and food-safety regulations and monitor the quality of ingredients used in dog foods. Generally, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or Western Europe are countries that have higher safety standards, and you should choose foods that are manufactured there.
Conclusion
Extremely active and energetic, beagles are small dogs with an enormous appetite and few health problems. While you may think that any food will work for your beagle, this isn’t true, and a wrong formula can lead to obesity and serious health problems.
Even though all 10 foods listed above are a great pick for your beagle, the Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dog Food is a clear winner for me. It features premium-quality protein, it is easy to digest and is packed with fruits and veggies which create a delicious flavor my beagle loves.
I hope that my reviews and guide have all the information you need to find the best food for your beagle! Happy shopping!
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