Schnoodles are cheerful and intelligent dogs known for their teddy bear-like appearance. These designer dogs are a cross between the Miniature Schnauzer and Poodle, originating in the 1980s. They are now a popular family pet and make for excellent watchdogs despite their small stature.
Smart and affectionate, Schnoodles make for loyal companions but require a great deal of coat maintenance. They are moderately active and get along well with children, adults, and companion animals.
Your Schnoodle’s eating habits can vary depending on size and activity level, but a high-quality dog food is key in promoting good health. However, a healthy diet is just as important as the right amount of exercise to prevent unhealthy weight gain.
After thorough research and careful consideration, we have compiled a list of the best dog foods for your Schnoodle.
The Best Dog Foods for Schnoodles
| Best Products | Ratings | Top Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| 1. ACANA: Grasslands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food | 4.8 | Deboned Lamb, Deboned Duck, Eggs… |
| 2. Taste of the Wild: Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food | 4.8 | Duck, Duck Meal, Chicken Meal… |
| 3. Now Fresh: Grain-Free Small Breed Adult Recipe | 4.8 | De-Boned Turkey, Whole Dried Egg, Peas… |
| 4. Diamond: Naturals Small Breed Puppy Formula | 4.7 | Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground White Rice… |
| 5. American Journey: Active Life Formula Beef, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe | 4.5 | Deboned Beef, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice… |
1. ACANA: Grasslands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Deboned Duck, Eggs, Lamb Meal, Goat Meal
This recipe by Acana is rich in protein from fresh or raw lamb, duck, and eggs. The kibble is made with 70% quality animal ingredients such as quail, duck meal, and lamb liver which are naturally rich in essential nutrients such as DHA. Additionally, the pumpkin, collard greens, butternut squash, and apples provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
This grain-free kibble contains no artificial additives. It is coated with freeze-dried lamb and duck for maximum flavor. Your Schnoodle will find this kibble easy to digest due to fiber and added probiotics.
2. Taste of the Wild: Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Duck, Duck Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas
Taste of the Wild’s Wetlands recipe is made with protein from duck, and duck and chicken meals. The protein is combined with sweet potatoes and peas which are easily digestible carbohydrate sources. This grain-free kibble is made using premium local and global ingredients from trusted sources.
Your Schnoodle gets ample vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the fruits and vegetables in this recipe. This kibble is also easy to digest due to prebiotic fiber and added probiotics. The taurine and omega fatty acids in this kibble ensure heart and coat health.
3. Now Fresh: Grain-Free Small Breed Adult Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: De-Boned Turkey, Whole Dried Egg, Peas, Potatoes, Potato Flour
This recipe by Now Fresh combines the flavors of turkey, salmon, and duck. It also features superfoods such as pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and blueberries which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This recipe contains many additional nutrients such as taurine, L-carnitine, and omega fatty acids that contribute to whole-body health. Your Schnoodle will love this easily digestible kibble that has the right balance of flavor and nutrition. Now Fresh uses fresh ingredients that are minimally processed for optimal nutrition.
4. Diamond: Naturals Small Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground White Rice, Chicken Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley
Diamond’s kibble is made with protein from real chicken followed by fruits and vegetables including kale, pumpkin, blueberries and oranges. This recipe contains ample vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which boost your pet’s immunity. The formula is fortified with essential nutrients and probiotics to support your Schnoodle’s development. Your puppy gets a good dose of DHA from fish oil to support healthy brain and eyes. Additionally, the omega fatty acids in this recipe support healthy skin and coat.
5. American Journey: Active Life Formula Beef, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Rice Bran
This kibble by American Journey is made for active Schnoodles with beef as the first ingredient. There are many healthy sources of fiber in this recipe such as brown rice and barley. Nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and cranberries provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Your Schnoodle’s coat will stay healthy due to the addition of omega-rich fish oil and flaxseed. Additionally, the DHA in this recipe ensures healthy brain and eye function. This kibble is free of fillers and gluten to ensure the health and safety of your pet.
6. Natural Balance: L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Lamb & Brown Rice Formula Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Lamb, Brown Rice, Lamb Meal, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran
This kibble by Natural Balance is one of your options if your Schnoodle has allergies or digestive sensitivities. Lamb is the single protein source in this recipe, accompanied by healthy and fiber-rich brown rice. While this recipe is simple, it contains added vitamins and minerals to ensure balanced nutrition. It also ensures a healthy heart and coat due to the addition of taurine and omega fatty acids. The kibble is made in just the right size for your Schnoodle with carefully chosen, nutrient-rich ingredients.
7. Merrick: Lil’ Plates Healthy Grains Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal
This dry food by Merrick uses protein from lamb, as well as lamb and chicken meals. Your pet gets digestive support from brown rice, quinoa, chicory root, and added probiotics. This recipe is further enriched with added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for immune support. Your Schnoodle will love this crunchy kibble that is just the right size. Plus it also contains essential nutrients like taurine, glucosamine, chondroitin and omega fatty acids to promote overall health and wellness.
8. Lotus: Wholesome Puppy Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Meal, Rye, Brown Rice
This recipe by Lotus is made for your Schnoodle puppy with delicious and nutritious ingredients. The chicken provides lean proteins for healthy muscles, while rye and brown rice provide fiber for digestive support. Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and blueberries add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to make a balanced kibble. Lotus’ kibble is low in starch and oven-baked to preserve the nutritional value of ingredients. Plus this kibble is rich in omega fatty acids from herring meal that ensure skin and coat health.
9. Ziwi: Peak Chicken Grain-Free Air-Dried Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Heart, New Zealand Green Mussel, Chicken Bone
This nutrient-dense kibble by Ziwi is designed to promote a feeling of fullness for your Schnoodle. This grain-free food includes fresh chicken, chicken organs, chicken bone, and New Zealand Green Mussels to promote strong muscles, joints and bones. The addition of vitamins and minerals ensures healthy immune function. The air-dried food combines the richness of a raw diet with the convenience of dry food. This nutrient-rich, minimally processed food that is free of preservatives and fillers has many health benefits for your Schnoodle.
10. Nulo: Freestyle Senior Grain-Free Trout & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Deboned Trout, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Yellow Peas, Sweet Potato
This recipe by Nulo contains all the right nutrients for your senior Schnoodle. Lean proteins from turkey and fish are combined with easy-to-digest peas and sweet potatoes. Lentils, chickpeas, chicory root, and pure strain probiotics in this kibble support gastrointestinal health. This recipe is designed to support immune health and keep your aging pet strong. Taurine, L-carnitine, glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids ensure internal and external health.
11. Wellness: Complete Health Adult Whitefish & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Whitefish, Ground Barley, Peas, Menhaden Fish Meal, Oatmeal
Wellness’ Complete Health formula is made using premium proteins and wholesome grains. The delicious flavors of whitefish are combined with peas and sweet potatoes for a balanced meal. Your pet gets digestive support from healthy grains that are rich in fiber like barley and oatmeal. This recipe is further fortified with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine. Wellness’ healthy and balanced kibble promotes overall health and is free of filler ingredients.
12. Blue Buffalo: Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal
Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection formula is made for your senior Schnoodle. Lean proteins from chicken accompany healthy and highly digestible brown rice. The added fiber and probiotics make this kibble easy to digest. The addition of superfoods such as sweet potatoes and blueberries make this a balanced kibble.
This recipe is enriched with Blue Buffalo’s LifeSource bits, a rich blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost immune health. DHA, taurine, L-carnitine, glucosamine, and chondroitin provide whole-body nutritional support.
13. CANIDAE: Grain-Free PURE Ancestral Fish Formula Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Salmon, Mackerel, Pacific Whiting Meal, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal
Canidae’s Ancestral Fish Formula uses proteins from seven different types of fish including salmon, mackerel, and pollock. Tapioca and lentils provide energy and fiber for digestive support. This grain-free kibble is further fortified after cooking with the addition of Canidae’s HealthPLUS blend of probiotics, antioxidants and omega fatty acids. Your pet will find this kibble hard to resist due to the coating of freeze-dried raw salmon.
14. Annamaet: Grain-Free Lean Low Fat Formula Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Field Peas, Lentils, Potato, Tapioca
This recipe by Annamaet is for Schnoodles that have trouble maintaining a healthy weight or suffer from pancreatitis. Made with protein from chicken meal combined with peas and lentils, this is a complete and balanced kibble. This grain-free kibble contains chicory root and antioxidant-rich berries that provide digestive and immune support. Additionally, added taurine and L-carnitine ensure heart health and increase fat metabolism. This recipe encourages healthy brain, heart, coat, and vision.
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Buyer’s Guide
When buying food for your dog, one of the most important factors that need to be taken into account is your dog’s size. When it comes to Schnoodles, they can vary in size but usually weigh as much as a small-breed dog. Small dogs have a faster metabolism and burn through calories faster, so their nutritional needs differ from larger dogs.
However, like other crossbreed dogs, you cannot be sure of your Schnoodle’s size so consult the breeder for this information. You can also inquire from the breeder/shelter about the food they are feeding your dog. This will give you a good idea about the kind of nutrition your pet does well with.
Buying Food for Your Schnoodle
All pet parents know the struggle of figuring out their dog’s favorite food. It is also the case that more options make it significantly harder to settle on what would be the best for your pet. In this day and age, one can never be sure about what goes into your pet’s food unless you are well-informed. Having a good understanding of what belongs in your dog’s food and what doesn’t can help you in choosing the right food. In order to make a good decision, you should look for the following when purchasing food for your Schnoodle.
1. Real Meat
Our dogs are carnivores and need a meat-rich diet to thrive. Their stomachs have not evolved to digest a diet that is rich in carbohydrates and fats. When buying food your Schnoodle, make sure the first ingredient is real meat. Meat contains essential amino acids that your pet needs for many vital processes such as digestion and immunity. It is also biologically appropriate so your dog will be able to digest and derive nutrition from it easily.
2. Meat-based Protein vs Plant-based Protein
The food you buy for your Schnoodle should not include an excess of plant-based proteins. These are usually derived from soy, lentils, and chickpeas which are commonly found in dog food. While these foods can be excellent sources of fiber and nutrients in moderation, an excess can cause digestive difficulties such as diarrhea and flatulence. Make sure your pet’s food contains ample meat proteins and only a small fraction of plant-based proteins. Meat proteins are biologically appropriate and easy to digest.
3. High Digestibility
When buying food for your Schnoodle, look for ingredients that are highly digestible. The meat source along with fruits and vegetables included should not be difficult to digest. Lean meats are easier to digest than fatty sources. Fiber is also important for easy digestion so your pet’s food should contain at least 4% fiber. Additionally, pre and probiotics are responsible for healthy digestion. Prebiotic fiber is obtained from chicory root, while probiotics include:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Enterococcus faecium
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Lactobacillus casei
- Bifidobacterium breve
The above are the best probiotics for your dog because they are species-specific, meaning they are already found in your dog’s gut.
4. Zero Fillers
Certain ingredients do not belong in your dog’s food and can cause health issues with long-term use. Your Schnoodle’s food should not contain wheat, corn, soy, or an excess of starches as these lower the overall quality of food. Wheat, corn, and soy are also known for causing allergies in dogs. Additionally, you should also make sure no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives are included in your dog’s food. Natural preservatives such as Vitamin C are the best way to preserve dog safely.
5. Added Vitamins, Minerals, and Essential Nutrients
The best food for your Schnoodle should also contain added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. They are responsible for maintaining your pet’s health and providing them energy. Chelated minerals are the best for your dog since they are the easiest to absorb. The essential nutrients you should look for include:
- Taurine— promotes heart health
- L-carnitine— responsible for fat metabolism, maintains lean muscles
- Glucosamine— promotes the healthy function of joints
- Chondroitin sulphate— works with glucosamine to provide extra joint protection and supports joint structure
6. Antioxidants and Omega Fatty Acids
Antioxidants are necessary to boost your pet’s immunity. Many fruits and vegetables, especially berries are high in antioxidants. Your pet’s food should contain the following antioxidant-rich foods:
- Blueberries
- Cranberries
- Carrots
- Sweet Potatoes
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Kale
Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids are also important for your pet’s overall wellbeing. The three main Omega-3 Fatty Acids are Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).They are responsible for the health of the brain, eyes, and skin. Additionally, they also maintain a healthy lipid balance and reduce inflammation.
The following ingredients in your pet’s food provide Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids:
- Fish such as Salmon, Mackerel, Tuna, Herring, and Sardines are rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Fish oil (Salmon and Herring oil)
- Flaxseed
- Sunflower seeds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Eggs
- Canola oil
FAQs
What is the best dog food for my Schnoodle?
The best food for your Schnoodle will contain meat as the first ingredient, easy-to-digest carbohydrates, ample fiber, and added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Your Schnoodle’s preferences also matter so look for food they like with the above characteristics.
How much should I feed my Schnoodle in a day?
Adult Schnoodles weighing 20 pounds need 3/4th to 1 cup of food daily. Since they are small dogs, it is recommended that you break up their daily caloric intake into 2-3 small meals. If your Schnoodle weighs less or more, his/her daily caloric intake should be adjusted according to weight.
Are Schnoodles hypoallergenic?
While it is impossible for any dog breed to be truly hypoallergenic, Schnoodles don’t drool and shed much lesser than other dogs. As a result, they can be a good option for people with allergies.
What health issues can my Schnoodle have?
There isn’t much data and statistics that show what illnesses are common in Schnoodles because they are a crossbreed. Since the Schnoodle is a crossbreed between Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers, it can inherit the illnesses both of these breeds are prone to. These illnesses are:
- Addison’s disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Allergies
- Hyperlipidemia
- Atrial Septal Defects
- Cataracts
- Pancreatitis
Can I give my Schnoodle peanut butter?
Yes, peanut butter is safe for your Schnoodle to consume in moderation. In fact, it can also be an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, niacin, and vitamins B and E. However, make sure it is free of chocolate and xylitol as these are toxic for dogs.
Which human food is the best for my Schnoodle?
The best human food for your Schnoodle includes fresh meat, vegetables and fruits. These can provide your dog with essential vitamins and minerals. You should avoid giving your dog human food because it is too rich in fats and sodium, causing digestive issues.
How can I prevent digestive issues for my Schnoodle?
Make sure your Schnoodle’s diet contains ingredients that are easy to digest. Additionally, fiber and probiotics are also necessary for healthy digestion. Digestive issues can also be caused by allergies or sensitivities so consult your vet to determine the cause.
How do I know if my Schnoodle has allergies?
Many dogs suffer from food-related allergies but it can be difficult to determine the exact cause. If your Schnoodle has the following symptoms, consult a vet immediately:
- Hives
- Itchy paws
- Itchy skin
- Red and inflamed skin
- Recurrent ear infections
- Swelling of the face, ears, lips, eyelids, or earflaps
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
What are the best fruits and vegetables for my Schnoodle?
The best fruits and vegetables for your Schnoodle are:
- Blueberries— rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and potassium
- Pumpkin— contains vitamins A, C and E, fiber, iron and potassium
- Carrots— contains vitamin E and K, beta-carotene, and calcium
- Apples— rich in vitamins A, C, an fiber
- Spinach— contains vitamins A, B, C, and K as well as iron, antioxidants, beta-carotene, and roughage
How big are Schnoodles?
Depending on their pedigree, Schnoodles can vary in size. They usually weigh 20 pounds, making them a small-breed dog but there are also Miniature and Giant Schnoodles.
- Miniature Schnoodles weigh 6-12kg and stand at 35cm
- Medium Schnoodles weight 20-30kg and stand at 40-45cm
- Standard Schnoodles weigh 30-45kg and stand at 45-65cm
Is a limited ingredient diet good for my Schnoodle?
If your Schnoodle has allergies or suffers from digestive sensitivities, a limited ingredient diet can be very beneficial. However, a perfectly healthy Schnoodle does not need a limited ingredient diet.
Can I give raw meat to my Schnoodle?
Raw meat contains harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli and more. Cooking meat kills off these harmful bacteria, and makes it safe for consumption. If you feed your dog uncooked meat, there is a high risk of developing a foodborne illness or a bacterial infection.
Can I give bones to my Schnoodle?
Bones are a great source of calcium and can satisfy a teething puppy’s urge to gnaw. However, avoid giving small or cooked bones as these can splinter and cause harm to your pet. Large bones or artificial bones are much safer options.
How much exercise does my Schnoodle need?
Schnoodles are moderately active and need 20 to 40 minutes of exercise daily. Since they are small, they do not need intensive exercise and even a short walk around your apartment could be enough for them. Keep in mind that Schnoodles love attention and exercise is also a means to bond with you, so training can be a great exercise.
Why does my Schnoodle bark so much?
Schnoodles have a protective nature and make excellent watchdogs. However, they can be prone to excessive barking due to their Schnauzer roots. With early training, this habit can be nipped in the bud.
How can I tell if my Schnoodle has an illness?
It is important to screen your Schnoodle for health issues before adopting them. This includes bloodwork, X-rays, and a thorough investigation into your dog’s pedigree. If your Schnoodle’s parents have suffered from any illnesses, it is likely he/she could’ve inherited them.
How much do Schnoodles cost?
In general, if you’re buying your Schnoodle from a breeder, you can expect to pay $2,000 to $3,000. If you’re rescuing your Schnoodle from a shelter, the cost will approximately be $500. After the initial cost, the maintenance and upkeep of a Schnoodle ranges from $1,500 — $2,000 annually.
Do Schnoodles get along with children?
Schnoodles are known for their soft and friendly nature, which makes them exceptionally good with children. With proper socialization, they make great pets for families that have children and other animals. Schnoodles love playing with children and being the center of attention.
What should I feed my senior Schnoodle?
Your senior Schnoodle will do well on a diet that is low in fat and carbohydrates. The food should also contain fiber for digestive support and additional nutrients. Your aging pet needs nutrients such as taurine, L-carnitine, glucosamine, and chondroitin for maintaining a healthy and strong body.