Best Dog Food for Dachshunds in New Zealand: Tailored Nutrition for Sausage Dogs

With your Dachshund’s cheeky personality and those iconic sausage-dog looks, it’s no wonder they’ve earned a special place in Kiwi homes. But did you know their unique shape and size call for specific nutritional care? In this blog, we’ll share expert advice and top product picks to help you find the best dog food for Dachshunds in NZ. From keeping their long backs strong to supporting their small jaws, we’ll cover everything you need to know to fuel your Doxie’s health from tail to toe.

Why Dachshunds Need Special Nutrition

Dachshunds may be small, but their dietary needs are anything but simple. With their elongated spines and short legs, they’re prone to back issues like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), so foods that support joint and muscle health are a must. Plus, as a small breed, they burn energy quickly and can benefit from calorie-dense nutrition in small portions.

Here’s what your Dachshund’s diet should include:

• High-quality protein to support lean muscle
• Joint-support ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin
• Easily digestible carbohydrates for sustained energy
• Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
• Smaller kibble size for easy chewing

Choosing a diet designed specifically for small breeds or Dachshunds can help you tick all these boxes effortlessly.

Top Dog Food Brands For Dachshunds

At Petdirect, we get Dachshunds — and we’ve sniffed out the top nutrition options tailored to their needs. Whether you’re feeding a puppy, adult or senior sausage dog, here are some of our favourite brands that balance health, taste and convenience:

• Royal Canin Dachshund formulas are crafted with breed-specific needs in mind, including nutrients that support joint health and a kibble shape made for their jaw.
• Hill’s Science Diet offers small breed adult and puppy options with precise nutrient support and smaller bite-sized pieces.
• ZIWI, proudly New Zealand made, delivers whole-prey recipes that are rich in naturally sourced glucosamine, perfect for Dachshunds who need joint support.
• Black Hawk small breed formulas are loaded with Aussie-sourced meat, real veggies, and healthy fats — great for energy and coat health.

K9 Natural provides freeze-dried, raw nutrition using New Zealand meat and organs, ideal for pups needing high-protein diets with natural Omega oils.

Best Food Types For Dachshunds

Dachshunds can thrive on a range of food types, provided they’re balanced and appropriate for their life stage and health needs. Here are popular food styles Dachshie parents love:

Dry Food (Kibble)

Dry dog food is convenient and helps maintain dental health, especially when it’s tailored for small breeds. Look for small-bite kibble packed with nutrients for energy and joint support.

Wet Food

Wet food is often more palatable for picky pups and can support hydration. Just ensure it’s part of a balanced diet — mix with dry food or top with a freeze-dried booster for variety.

Freeze-Dried & Raw Diets

Many pet parents are turning to freeze-dried options like K9 Natural and ZIWI for their whole-prey approach and naturally occurring nutrients, including glucosamine and essential fatty acids.

Ingredients To Look For (And Avoid)

When shopping for the best food for your Dachshund, keep an eye on ingredients that support their health goals:

Good for your Doxie:

• Animal-based proteins like lamb, beef or salmon
• Omega-rich ingredients like fish oil and flaxseed
• Joint support from green-lipped mussels or added glucosamine
• Brown rice or sweet potatoes for easily digestible carbs

Best to avoid:

• Excessive fillers like soy, corn or wheat
• Artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
• Excessive fat or sodium, especially for less active or older Dachshunds

Don’t Forget Treats, Toppers & Supplements

Meal time isn’t just about kibble — it's also an opportunity to add variety and specific support. Consider these extras:

• Use dog food toppers to boost flavour and nutrients, especially those with joint or digestive support
• Choose training treats that are small, soft and low in fat for smart snacking
• Explore curated options in our skin & coat health collection, or find extra support in our pet supplement range

Remember: moderation is key. Treats and toppers should complement a balanced diet, not replace it.

Final Woof: What’s The Best Dog Food For Your Dachshund?

Every sausage dog is a little different, but great nutrition starts with quality ingredients, breed-specific support, and food that excites their taste buds. Whether you prefer raw, kibble, wet, or a mix, Petdirect has a carefully curated range that meets your Dachshund’s needs at every life stage.

Join our Pet Perks loyalty programme to earn rewards while you shop, and don’t forget we offer convenient Autodeliver so your pup never runs out of their favourite food.

We get Dachshunds — and we’d love to help yours live a long, wag-filled life. Explore our full range of dog food options and find what makes your Doxie’s tail wag today!