Royal Canin Calm Small Dog is a specialized dry food formula designed specifically for small breed dogs under 15kg facing stressful situations. Whether your furry friend is dealing with anxiety during behavioral therapy, or experiencing stress-related issues like digestive upset, skin problems, or urinary disorders, this product offers targeted nutritional support. Developed by veterinary nutrition experts at Royal Canin, it incorporates scientifically proven ingredients to promote calmness and overall well-being. Backed by extensive research, including the use of hydrolyzed milk proteins to mimic the soothing effects of a mother’s presence, this food helps manage stress responses effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the typical composition, feeding instructions, and key benefits to help you make informed choices for your pet’s health.
Typical Composition and Key Ingredients
The foundation of Royal Canin Calm Small Dog lies in its carefully selected ingredients, optimized for high digestibility and nutritional balance. Primary components include rice, dehydrated poultry protein, maize, wheat flour, and animal fats, providing a digestible energy source suitable for small dogs with sensitive systems. Hydrolyzed animal proteins and chicory pulp support gut health, while dehydrated pork protein (L.I.P.: selected for very high digestibility) ensures optimal protein absorption.
Soya oil and fish oil deliver essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, crucial for maintaining healthy skin and coat—especially important for dogs prone to stress-induced dermatitis. Fructo-oligo-saccharides (0.49%) act as prebiotics to foster beneficial gut bacteria, aiding digestion during anxious periods. A standout feature is the inclusion of hydrolyzed milk protein (Alpha-S1.0 trypsin-hydrolysed bovine casein at 1.24 g/kg), which studies show releases calming peptides similar to those in mother’s milk, helping to reduce anxiety behaviors like barking or pacing.
Additional elements like borage oil and marigold meal contribute antioxidants and support immune function. According to Royal Canin’s research, this blend has demonstrated effectiveness in clinical trials for dogs undergoing stress-related therapies, with improvements in fecal quality and reduced signs of urinary issues.
Calm dog nutrition label showing product details
This composition reflects Royal Canin’s commitment to precision nutrition, tailored for small breeds where portion control and palatability are key. Pet owners report noticeable differences in their dogs’ demeanor after consistent use, aligning with veterinary recommendations for stress management.
Feeding Instructions and Daily Guide
Proper feeding is essential to maximize the benefits of Royal Canin Calm Small Dog. Always split the daily amount into two meals to maintain steady energy levels and prevent digestive overload. Fresh water should be available at all times to support hydration, particularly for dogs with urinary sensitivities.
The feeding guide is based on your dog’s ideal body condition, adjusted for age, activity level, and health status. For instance, an adult small dog around 5kg might require 81-100g per day, while a 10kg dog could need 128-158g. Use the body condition chart to monitor progress—aim for a visible waistline and palpable ribs without excess fat.
Body condition chart for Calm dog food with weight and feeding recommendations
Veterinarians often advise gradual introduction over 7-10 days when switching foods to avoid tummy troubles. Combine with behavioral enrichment like puzzle toys or pheromone diffusers for holistic stress relief. Real-world experience from breeders shows that dogs on this diet transition more calmly to new environments, such as travel or household changes.
Product Recommendations and Suitability
Royal Canin Calm Small Dog is ideal for small breeds under 15kg in high-stress scenarios, including fireworks, vet visits, or separation anxiety. It’s also suitable during growth phases, gestation, and lactation, providing balanced nutrition without overwhelming delicate systems.
This product stands out for addressing stress-related disorders holistically. For digestive issues, the prebiotics help stabilize the microbiome; for skin problems, omega fatty acids reduce inflammation; and for urinary health, controlled mineral levels prevent crystal formation. Not recommended as a lifelong diet unless advised by a vet—transition to maintenance formulas post-therapy.
Nutritional Additives for Complete Health
To ensure comprehensive support, the formula includes vital additives:
- Vitamins: Vitamin A (30,000 IU) for vision and immunity; Vitamin D3 (800 IU) for bone health.
- Minerals: Iron (48 mg), Iodine (4.8 mg), Copper (15 mg), Manganese (62 mg), Zinc (127 mg), Selenium (0.1 mg) for metabolic and antioxidant functions.
- Technological Additives: Clinoptilolite (5g) for toxin binding in the gut.
- Preservatives and antioxidants maintain freshness and nutrient integrity.
These levels meet or exceed AAFCO standards, as verified by independent testing. Royal Canin emphasizes transparency, noting potential minor formulation updates due to global sourcing—always check the latest packaging.
In summary, Royal Canin Calm Small Dog delivers science-backed nutrition to help your small companion thrive amid stress. Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice, especially if combining with medications. For more tips on pet anxiety management, explore our guides on behavioral training and calming supplements. Your dog’s calm starts with the right food—try it today and see the difference!
References
- Royal Canin Veterinary Nutrition Research: royalcanin.com
- AAFCO Nutrient Profiles for Dog Food
- Clinical studies on hydrolyzed casein for canine stress (published in Journal of Veterinary Behavior)
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