10 Best Dog Food For Maltipoo Puppy in 2026

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The Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is the best overall choice for Maltipoo puppies. Its formula is tailored specifically for extra-small breeds with adult weights under 8 pounds, supporting brain development and digestive health. For puppies expected to grow larger, the Best For Growing Puppies pick. Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food, offers balanced nutrition for small breeds up to 22 pounds. The Purina Pro Plan Toy Breed Puppy Food takes the Best For Toy Breeds award for active little ones who need high protein.

Feeding a Maltipoo puppy means navigating a tiny stomach with big nutritional needs. These mixed-breed pups can vary widely in adult size, and the wrong kibble size or calorie density can lead to picky eating or digestive upset. Getting the formula right from the start makes house training and growth smoother.

We built this guide by studying manufacturer specifications, veterinarian-developed formulas, and patterns in owner feedback for each product. You will find 10 ranked picks with clear strengths and trade-offs, a comparison table, and buying criteria that matter for Maltipoo puppies specifically.

Top 10 Dog Foods For Maltipoo Puppies in the Market

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The Best Dog Foods For Maltipoo Puppies, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
Target breedX-Small (≤8 lbs adult)
Age range2 to 10 months
Kibble typeCrunchy
Key nutrientsAntioxidants, prebiotics, proteins
Weight3 lb bag
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What We Like

  • Formulated for extra-small breeds
  • Supports brain development and energy needs
  • Antioxidants for immune support
  • Prebiotics and proteins for digestive health

Trade-offs

  • Only 3 lb bag means frequent repurchasing
  • Designed for puppies under 8 lbs adult weight

A formula designed for puppies that will weigh no more than 8 pounds as adults means every nutrient is tailored to a tiny body’s needs. The crunchy kibble is simple to serve and can be mixed with the brand’s wet food for texture variety, while antioxidants, prebiotics, and proteins support immune and digestive health during growth. It takes the guesswork out of feeding an extra-small breed puppy.

The 3-pound bag keeps the kibble fresh for a small eater, which matters when every meal counts. If you want a recipe built specifically for the smallest puppies and don’t mind buying a new bag more often, this one delivers targeted nutrition without the bulk.

Best for: Owners of extra-small breed puppies (adult weight ≤8 lbs) who want a veterinarian-developed kibble tailored to their puppy's size and don't mind buying smaller bags more frequently. Not ideal for those who prefer a larger bag size to reduce reorder frequency.
#2Best For Growing Puppies

Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
Target Breed SizeSmall (9-22 lb adult)
Age Range2 to 10 months
Kibble TextureCrunchy
Key NutrientsAntioxidants, prebiotics, proteins
Bag Size14 lb
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What We Like

  • Supports brain development during growth
  • Antioxidants boost immune system
  • Prebiotics and proteins aid digestion
  • Crunchy kibble pairs with wet food

Trade-offs

  • Only for small breeds, not toy or medium
  • Not suitable for toy breeds under 9 pounds

The 14-pound bag is a practical size for a growing small-breed puppy, and the crunchy kibble is designed to support both brain development and digestive health through antioxidants, prebiotics, and proteins. This formula targets puppies expected to weigh 9 to 22 pounds as adults, making it a solid fit for a Maltipoo that will land in that range. The mix of immune support and energy for growth means you’re covering the basics without overcomplicating mealtime.

The trade-off is that this food is specifically formulated for small breeds, not toy or medium sizes. So if your Maltipoo ends up on the smaller side (under 9 pounds), you’d be better off with a toy breed option like Purina Pro Plan Toy Breed Puppy Food. The 14-pound bag also takes up more pantry space than smaller bags from competitors, which might be a consideration if you prefer buying in smaller quantities. Still, for a puppy that fits the target weight range, this delivers focused nutrition without guesswork.

Best for: Maltipoo puppies expected to reach 9-22 pounds as adults who need balanced growth and digestive support. Not ideal for toy-sized puppies under 9 pounds or those who prefer smaller bag sizes.
#3Best For Toy Breeds

Purina Pro Plan Toy Breed Puppy Food

Purina Pro Plan Toy Breed Puppy Food
Protein SourceReal chicken first
Key NutrientsDHA, probiotics, antioxidants
Weight5.0 lb bag
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What We Like

  • Real chicken is first ingredient
  • High protein for active toy breeds
  • DHA from fish oil for brain development
  • Live probiotics for digestive health

Trade-offs

  • Only one protein option available
  • Not suitable for medium or large breed puppies

High protein with real chicken as the first ingredient means this food is built for the energy demands of toy breed puppies that never seem to stop moving. DHA from omega-rich fish oil supports brain and vision development during those critical early months, and guaranteed live probiotics help keep digestion on track. It’s a straightforward, nutritionally dense option that matches the needs of a Maltipoo puppy without extra fillers or gimmicks.

The Purina Pro Plan Toy Breed Puppy Food packs a high-protein formula with real chicken as the first ingredient, so your tiny pup gets the fuel needed for steady growth and energy without any filler. Compared to Royal Canin X-Small Puppy, which comes in a smaller 3-pound bag, this 5-pound bag gives you more food per purchase while still fitting easily on a countertop. Owners of toy breeds like Maltipoos who tolerate chicken well will find this a straightforward, effective option for supporting digestive and immune health thanks to the guaranteed live probiotics.

Best for: Owners of active toy breed puppies who want a high-protein, chicken-first recipe with DHA and probiotics. Not ideal for puppies with chicken sensitivities or those needing a grain-free formula.
#4Best Natural Ingredients

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Small Breed Puppy Food

Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Small Breed Puppy Food
First IngredientChicken
Protein SourceReal Meat First
Key NutrientDHA
Size4 lb bag
Special FeatureLifeSource Bits
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What We Like

  • Real chicken is the #1 ingredient
  • DHA supports cognitive development
  • Antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits
  • No chicken by-products, corn, wheat, or soy

Trade-offs

  • Small 4-pound bag requires frequent repurchasing
  • Not suitable for large breed puppies requiring different nutrition

Real chicken as the first ingredient means your Maltipoo puppy gets a high-protein start that supports steady growth and play. The DHA added for cognitive development is a smart touch for a breed known for being clever and trainable, and the antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits help back up their immune system during those early months. This is a natural-focused recipe that skips chicken by-products, corn, wheat, and soy, which makes it a clean option for owners who want to avoid fillers and common allergens from the start.

The bag size is 4 pounds, which means you’ll be reordering more often than with a larger bag like the 14-pound Royal Canin Small Puppy option. That smaller size does make it easier to keep the kibble fresh, but it’s worth factoring in if you prefer buying in bulk. For owners who prioritize a chicken-first recipe with DHA and no chicken by-products, corn, wheat, or soy, this is a straightforward pick.

Best for: Owners who want a natural, chicken-first recipe with DHA for brain development and no fillers. Not ideal for those who prefer a larger bag size or a grain-free formula.
#5Best Digestive Health

NutriSource Small & Medium Breed Puppy Food

NutriSource Small & Medium Breed Puppy Food
Protein SourceChicken meal
Kibble SizeSmall & Medium Breed
Digestive SupportPrebiotics and probiotics
Heart HealthL-Carnitine, taurine
Bag Weight4 lb
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What We Like

  • Chicken meal as first ingredient
  • Prebiotics and probiotics for digestion
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 for skin and coat
  • Wholesome grains for sustained energy

Trade-offs

  • Contains grains, which some owners avoid
  • Not suitable for large breed puppies

Chicken meal is the number one ingredient, which means a Maltipoo puppy gets a concentrated source of essential amino acids for steady muscle development without the water weight of whole chicken. That protein base, combined with prebiotics and probiotics, targets the sensitive stomachs common in toy and small breeds, so you’re less likely to deal with loose stools during the transition to solid food. The omega fatty acids also support the soft, healthy coat that makes Maltipoos so irresistible, and the brown rice, oatmeal, and barley provide digestible carbs for the endless zoomies of puppyhood.

Chicken meal is the first ingredient, providing the amino acids puppies need for muscle growth, and the formula includes prebiotics and probiotics to support digestion. The 4-pound bag is a practical size for a single small-breed puppy, helping the food stay fresh before it’s finished. It also contains L-carnitine and taurine for heart health, plus omega fatty acids for skin and coat.

Best for: Owners of a single Maltipoo puppy who want a chicken-first recipe with digestive probiotics. Not ideal for those who prefer grain-free diets or need a larger bag for multiple dogs.

Product photos

#6Best For Brain Development

Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Protein SourceReal Chicken First
DHAClinically Proven Levels
Target AgeUp to 12 Months
Expected Adult WeightUnder 23 lbs
Bag Size4.5 lb
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What We Like

  • Real chicken is first ingredient
  • Clinically proven DHA for brain development
  • Supports muscle and bone growth
  • Concentrated energy for growing puppies

Trade-offs

  • Only 4.5 lb bag, smaller than some alternatives
  • No probiotic support for digestive health

The clinically proven levels of DHA in this formula are the standout feature for a Maltipoo puppy’s developing brain. That’s the kind of specific nutritional support that can make training sessions stick. Real chicken comes first on the ingredient list, giving your pup the animal protein needed for lean muscle and bone growth, while the concentrated energy from fats and carbs matches the high metabolism of a small breed puppy. It’s designed for puppies up to 12 months old with an expected adult weight under 23 pounds, which covers most Maltipoos perfectly.

Bag size is a consideration: at 4.5 pounds, you’ll be reordering more frequently than you would with a 14-pound bag of Royal Canin Small Puppy, which might matter if you prefer fewer trips to the store. That said, the DHA here is clinically proven to support healthy brain development, and for a breed known for being bright but sometimes stubborn, that brain development support is a real advantage. If your priority is giving your Maltipoo puppy the best start mentally and physically, this one earns its place.

Best for: Maltipoo owners who want a small-breed puppy food with clinically proven DHA for brain development and real chicken as the first ingredient. Not ideal for puppies expected to exceed 23 pounds as adults.
#7Best Veterinarian Recommended

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Weight12.5 lb
Key IngredientsChicken & Brown Rice
Life StagePuppy
Kibble SizeSmall Bites
Made InUSA with global ingredients
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What We Like

  • Balanced minerals for growing bones and teeth
  • DHA and Fish Oil for brain and eye development
  • Antioxidant blend supports developing immune system
  • High quality proteins fuel growing muscles

Trade-offs

  • 12.5 lb bag is heavier than many small breed options
  • Not suitable for puppies with poultry sensitivities

The #1 Veterinarian Recommended brand in the US means this food carries professional trust that’s hard to match when you’re choosing for a growing puppy. The small bites kibble is sized for tiny mouths, and the formula includes DHA from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development in the early months. Balanced minerals help build strong bones and teeth, while the antioxidant blend works on the developing immune system, all backed by natural ingredients made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust.

This 12.5 lb bag is a larger quantity than some other puppy food options, which matters if you’re storing it in tight kitchen cabinets or carrying it up stairs. Compared to the Royal Canin X-Small Puppy option at 3 lb, Hill’s Science Diet offers a bigger bag that may last longer. That said, the chicken and brown rice recipe is straightforward and widely tolerated, though it won’t work for puppies with poultry sensitivities. For most puppy owners, the veterinarian backing and targeted nutrition make the extra weight worth the shelf space.

Best for: Maltipoo owners who want a veterinarian-trusted, well-rounded dry food with small kibble and brain-supporting DHA. Not ideal for those needing a chicken-free recipe or a very lightweight bag.

Product photos

#8Best Wholesome Grain Recipe

Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Puppy Food

Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Puppy Food
Protein SourceTurkey, Oatmeal, Salmon
Grain TypeWholesome Grain
Bag Size4 lb
Made InUSA
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What We Like

  • No corn, wheat, or soy
  • Supports immune system with antioxidants
  • Omega fatty acids for skin and coat
  • Probiotics for digestive health

Trade-offs

  • 4 lb bag is small for larger puppies
  • Contains grains, not grain-free

Turkey, oatmeal, and salmon give this kibble a protein-rich start for building lean muscle in a small breed puppy, while skipping corn, wheat, and soy helps avoid common fillers that can upset a sensitive stomach. Probiotics support digestion, and omega fatty acids help keep the coat healthy, so you get a grain-inclusive recipe that covers the basics without extra ingredients you don’t need.

The 4-pound bag means you’ll need to reorder more frequently than you would with a larger option like Royal Canin Small Puppy’s 14-pound bag. But for owners who want a grain-inclusive recipe with no poultry by-products, this delivers what it promises. It’s made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, which reviewers appreciate for the quality control.

Best for: Small breed puppy owners who want a grain-inclusive, all-natural recipe with no corn, wheat, or soy. Not ideal for those who prefer a grain-free diet or need a larger bag size.

Product photos

#9Best Lamb Meal Recipe

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Food

Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Food
Protein SourceLamb Meal
Weight4.0 lb
Key IngredientDHA and Fish Oil
Vet Recommendation#1 Veterinarian Recommended
Made InUSA
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What We Like

  • Balanced minerals for growing bones and teeth
  • DHA and Fish Oil for brain and eye development
  • Antioxidant blend supports developing immune system
  • High quality proteins fuel growing muscles

Trade-offs

  • 4 lb bag is small for larger breed puppies
  • Not suitable for puppies that need a chicken-based diet

The #1 Veterinarian Recommended brand backing this formula means you’re getting a diet built around balanced minerals for growing bones and teeth, plus DHA and Fish Oil to support healthy brain and eye development. That’s exactly what a Maltipoo puppy needs during those rapid growth months. The antioxidant blend also gives the developing immune system a hand, and high quality proteins keep those little muscles fueled. If you want a recipe centered on lamb meal rather than chicken or fish, this is a straightforward, science-backed choice that doesn’t overcomplicate things.

The bag is 4 pounds, which is a manageable size for a small puppy, but you’ll need to reorder sooner than if you bought a larger bag. If you prefer a chicken-based recipe, Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites is available in a 12.5-pound bag. But if lamb is your preferred protein source, this recipe delivers the same trusted nutritional foundation in a more focused package.

Best for: Maltipoo owners who want a lamb-based, veterinarian-recommended formula with targeted support for bone, brain, and immune development. Not ideal for those who prefer a larger bag size or a chicken-based recipe.

Product photos

#10Best High Protein Formula

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Puppy Food

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Puppy Food
ProteinHigh protein
First IngredientReal chicken
ProbioticsGuaranteed live probiotics
DHA SourceOmega-rich fish oil
Weight6.0 pounds
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What We Like

  • Real chicken is first ingredient
  • High protein for active small dogs
  • DHA from fish oil for brain development
  • Live probiotics for digestive health

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for toy breed puppies under 4 pounds

Real chicken leads the ingredient list, so a Maltipoo puppy gets a protein-packed start that supports their high energy levels. The guaranteed live probiotics help keep their developing digestive system on track, while DHA from omega-rich fish oil fuels brain and vision development in the early months. This formula is built for small breeds that need more than just basic nutrition, it’s designed to match the pace of a lively growing pup without relying on fillers.

Compared to the Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food, which comes in a 3-pound bag and is developed by veterinarians, Purina Pro Plan offers a 6-pound bag. It has high protein and guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health. If you want a chicken-first formula with digestive support, this is a strong fit.

Best for: Owners of active maltipoo puppies who want a high-protein, chicken-first formula with probiotics and DHA for brain development. Not ideal for those who prefer a smaller bag or a chicken-free protein source.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Dog Foods For Maltipoo Puppies

We evaluated each product against the specific needs of Maltipoo puppies, a crossbreed that can range from toy-sized (under 8 pounds) to small (up to 22 pounds). Our research focused on manufacturer specifications, ingredient lists, guaranteed analysis, and kibble size, all factors that affect how well a puppy can chew and digest its food. We also reviewed patterns in owner feedback to understand real-world palatability and stool quality.

The four criteria that mattered most were breed-specific formulation, first-ingredient protein source, DHA content for brain development, and digestive health support. Maltipoos are prone to sensitive stomachs, so prebiotics and probiotics carried extra weight. Kibble size was critical, a toy-breed puppy cannot manage large chunks, and many small-breed formulas are still too big for a 2-pound mouth.

A research-led evaluation has limits. We did not feed these foods to puppies or measure growth rates. Our recommendations are based on nutritional science, ingredient quality, and what owners consistently report works for their Maltipoos. Every puppy is an individual, and a vet should always weigh in on a specific pup’s needs.

What To Look For In Dog Foods For Maltipoo Puppies

Choosing the right food for a Maltipoo puppy means matching kibble size, protein source, and calorie density to your puppy’s expected adult weight and activity level.

Look for a formula labeled for small or toy breeds, with a first-ingredient protein source, guaranteed DHA for brain development, and prebiotics or probiotics for sensitive digestion. Kibble should be small enough for a tiny mouth to pick up easily.

Breed-Specific Formulation

Maltipoos are not one-size-fits-all. Some puppies will top out at 4 pounds; others will reach a much higher weight. A toy-breed formula (designed for adult weights under 8 pounds) has smaller kibble and a different calorie profile than a small-breed formula (9-22 pounds). Feeding the wrong size can mean a puppy either struggles to chew or gets too many calories per bite. The best food for Maltipoo puppies matches the puppy’s expected adult size, not just its current age.

DHA and Brain Development

Puppyhood is the critical window for cognitive development, and DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) is the key nutrient. Look for formulas that list a specific DHA source, such as fish oil, and guarantee a minimum level. The nutrition for small breed puppies emphasizes DHA because small brains develop rapidly in the first year. Foods that include clinically proven levels of DHA give Maltipoo puppies the best start for training and socialization.

Digestive Health and Sensitive Stomachs

Maltipoos are notorious for sensitive digestion. Loose stools, gas, and picky eating are common when a food does not agree with them. Prebiotics (like beet pulp or chicory root) and probiotics (live active cultures) help maintain a balanced gut microbiome. The Maltipoo puppy dry food options with added probiotics tend to produce firmer stools and less digestive upset, according to owner reports. Avoid foods with artificial colors, flavors, or excessive fillers like corn and soy.

Kibble Size and Texture

A Maltipoo puppy has a tiny jaw and small teeth. Kibble that is too large can be difficult to pick up and may discourage eating. Toy-breed formulas use kibble as small as 6-8 millimeters in diameter. Some small-breed formulas use kibble closer to 10-12 millimeters, which may still work for a larger Maltipoo puppy. The puppy food selection guide recommends checking kibble dimensions on the manufacturer’s site before buying. If the bag does not list kibble size, look at customer photos for scale.

  • Check the guaranteed analysis for crude protein (aim for a high percentage) and crude fat (aim for a moderate percentage).
  • Verify the first ingredient is a named protein source (chicken, lamb, fish, etc.), not a by-product meal.
  • Look for a statement from the manufacturer about meeting AAFCO nutrient profiles for growth.
  • Choose a bag size you can use within a few weeks to maintain freshness.

A good rule of thumb: if the kibble looks like a pea or smaller, it is probably the right size for a Maltipoo puppy.

Dog Foods For Maltipoo Puppies Compared

The table below compares all 10 picks across the key specs that matter for Maltipoo puppies: breed size designation, first ingredient, DHA source, and digestive support.

ProductAge RangeKibble TypeKey Nutrients
Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food2 to 10 monthsCrunchyAntioxidants, prebiotics, proteins
Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food2 to 10 monthsCrunchyAntioxidants, prebiotics, proteins
Purina Pro Plan Toy Breed Puppy FoodN/AN/ADHA, probiotics, antioxidants
Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Small Breed Puppy FoodN/AN/ADHA
NutriSource Small & Medium Breed Puppy FoodN/AN/APrebiotics and probiotics
Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog FoodUp to 12 MonthsCrunchyDHA
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog FoodN/AN/AN/A
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Puppy FoodN/AN/AN/A
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice FoodN/AN/ADHA and Fish Oil
Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Puppy FoodN/AN/ADHA, probiotics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dog food for a Maltipoo puppy?

The Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is the best overall choice for Maltipoo puppies expected to weigh under 8 pounds as adults. It is formulated specifically for extra-small breeds with small kibble, DHA for brain development, and prebiotics for digestive health. For larger Maltipoo puppies, the Royal Canin Small Puppy formula is a better fit.

How much should I feed my Maltipoo puppy?

Feeding amounts depend on the puppy’s current weight, expected adult size, and the specific food’s calorie density. Most manufacturers provide a feeding chart on the bag based on weight. Start with the recommended amount for your puppy’s current weight, monitor body condition, and adjust as needed. A vet can help fine-tune portions during growth spurts.

When should I switch my Maltipoo from puppy food to adult food?

Most Maltipoos should transition to adult food between 9 and 12 months of age, but the exact timing depends on when the puppy reaches its full adult size. Toy-breed Maltipoos may be ready closer to 9 months, while larger ones may need puppy food until 12 months. The life stage nutrition guide explains the differences in calorie density and nutrient ratios between the two life stages.

Can Maltipoo puppies eat grain-free dog food?

Some Maltipoo puppies do well on grain-free diets, but there is no general recommendation to avoid grains unless a vet has diagnosed a grain allergy. Many of the top picks on this list include wholesome grains like brown rice and oatmeal, which provide fiber and sustained energy. The Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE formula is a natural option that excludes corn, wheat, and soy without going grain-free.

What ingredients should I avoid in Maltipoo puppy food?

Avoid artificial preservatives (BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin), artificial colors, and excessive fillers like corn gluten meal and soybean meal. Some Maltipoos have chicken sensitivities, so a lamb-based formula like Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Food can be a good alternative. Always check the ingredient list for named protein sources rather than vague “meat meal” or “poultry by-product meal.”

The Bottom Line

The Royal Canin X-Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is the best overall pick for Maltipoo puppies because it was designed from the ground up for extra-small breeds. If your puppy is expected to reach 9-22 pounds as an adult, the Royal Canin Small Puppy formula (our Best For Growing Puppies pick) offers the same veterinarian-backed nutrition in a slightly larger kibble. For active toy-breed puppies who need more protein, the Purina Pro Plan Toy Breed Puppy Food is the top choice.

Budget-conscious owners should look at the Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food (Best Veterinarian Recommended) for a well-rounded formula at a reasonable per-pound cost. Those who prioritize natural ingredients without fillers will appreciate the Blue Buffalo Baby BLUE Small Breed Puppy Food (Best Natural Ingredients).

The single most important factor in choosing a Maltipoo puppy food is matching the formula to your puppy’s expected adult size. A toy-breed puppy eating a large-breed formula will struggle with kibble size and may get too many or too few calories. Measure your puppy’s current weight, ask your breeder or vet about expected adult size, and pick from the size-appropriate picks above.