The Best Corgi Dog Foods: Reviewed

Written by Judie Sigdel
Updated: November 28, 2022
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Are you the proud owner of a corgi? Then you know that these feisty dogs may be short, but they are agile and quick, physically strong and athletic, mentally bright, emotionally sensitive and affectionate, but not overly needy. They also make great watchdogs due to their bold barks.

Not surprisingly, the corgi is a breed with special nutritional needs. The challenge is to find a dog food that will that help your pet maintain a healthy weight while sustaining its energy level.

Depending on whether you’re feeding puppies or adults, different calorie counts and nutritional profiles are required. A corgi is not a breed that you would feed the same way as a large or toy-sized dog. Also, adult and senior corgis have different nutritional requirements than younger corgis. You also need to take their activity levels into consideration. Although a feeding chart can be a helpful guide, you will also need to stay attuned to your dog’s needs as they change.

So, what is the best dog food for corgis? We’ve compiled a list of the best options for these short-but-mighty dogs. A few other things that we will address in this review include whether these dogs do better with wet or dry foods, what circumstances are best for grain-free or raw foods, and how to keep your dog from becoming overweight.

  1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult  Dry Dog Food
    • Essential, high-quality protein for healthy muscle development, and carbs for energy for an active life.
    • Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
    • Glucosamine is added for joint health and mobility support.
    • Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants contribute to your pup's immune system health.
    • No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.


    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  2. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
    • ADVANCED NATURAL NUTRITION TO FUEL YOUR DOG'S BEST LIFE: Premium protein expertly balanced with nutrient rich superfoods for a complete and balanced dog food, with guaranteed levels of all the nutrients your dog needs to thrive and no fillers
    • SAVORY FOOD DOGS LOVE: Wellness CORE is available in grain and grain free recipes, as well as limited ingredient diets for dogs with food sensitivities
    • LEANER BODY MASS AND MUSCLE TONE: Wellness CORE dog food is made with a high concentration of protein from fresh meat ingredients
    • SUPPORTS HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT with guaranteed levels of omega fatty acids from ingredients such as flaxseed and salmon oil
    • WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart


    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Puppy Dry Dog Food
    • Tasty salmon and oatmeal recipe
    • Made from only nine ingredients
    • Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics for a healthy immune system
    Check Amazon
  4. Karma Balanced Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food
    • Contains one (1) 4 lb. bag of KARMA Plant-First Recipe with White Fish, Adult Natural Dry Dog Kibble Plus Vitamins, Minerals, & Other Nutrients for any size dog
    • Made with real sustainable white fish, this plant-first recipe is rich in protein from plant and animal sources
    • Crafted with plant-based superfoods and 60+% plant ingredients
    • Dog food made with non-GMO ingredients ( Trace amounts may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing)
    • This product is manufactured in a site committed to zero waste to landfill
    • Nourishes whole-body health and vitality in adult dogs with essential nutrients
    • Supports a healthy skin and coat with a balance of Omega Fatty Acids and healthy digestion with natural fiber
    • Made in the USA with the World’s Finest Ingredients


    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  5. Purina Pro Plan Small Breed
    • Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula with probiotics for small dogs
    • Fortified with probiotics for digestive and immune health
    • Calcium, phosphorus and other minerals maintain strong bones and teeth
    • Prebiotic fiber from wheat bran for digestive health
    Check Chewy Check Amazon

#1 Best Overall: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed

Our #1 Best Overall choice for feeding your corgi is the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed food. One of the things that impressed us the most about Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula was the use of real meat or chicken as the first ingredient. The non-meat ingredients include whole grains, vegetables, and fruit.

This option is perfect for dogs the size of a corgi because of the smaller kibble. Increased carbohydrate and protein levels in vet-recommended amounts help meet this breed’s high energy needs.

An antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral base similar to what is in many organic foods help boost your dog’s immune system. There are no preservatives, artificial flavors, or by-products. This kibble also contains no corn, soy, or wheat.

Some reviewers reported dogs having digestive upsets when eating this food and mild problems in dogs with sensitive skin. Aside from these incidents, most of the reviewers were pleased.

Pros and Cons of Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed

ProsCons
The first ingredient is real meat or chicken, and non-meat ingredients include whole grains, veggies, and fruit.Some reviewers reported that their dogs had digestion issues when eating this food.
The smaller kibble size is perfect for a corgi.Similarly, some dogs with sensitive skin experienced issues after eating this dog food.
This recipe includes increased vet-recommended levels of carbohydrates and protein to meet this breed’s high energy requirements.
This formula features an antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral base to help boost your dog’s immune system.
This food does not contain corn, soy, or wheat.
Best Overall
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Essential, high-quality protein for healthy muscle development, and carbs for energy for an active life.
  • Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth.
  • Glucosamine is added for joint health and mobility support.
  • Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants contribute to your pup's immune system health.
  • No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.


Check Chewy Check Amazon

2. Best Grain-Free Corgi Dog Food: Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best grain-free option for this breed that provides balanced nutrition. Dogs with food sensitivities often do very well on this diet.

The protein helps build healthy bone and muscle mass, while the omega fatty acids provide a healthy coat and skin. This USA-made product also contains glucosamine, taurine, and probiotics.

A few reviewers said that this meal option upset their dogs’ digestion, and there was an isolated complaint about mold in one bag. Another concern was that the feeding directions possibly call for giving dogs too much for their size.

Pros and Cons of Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

ProsCons
This grain-free recipe provides balanced nutrition that is also ideal for many dogs with food sensitivities.Some dogs experienced digestive upset after eating this food.
The protein in this formula will help build and maintain bone and muscle mass and the omega fatty acids will keep your corgi’s skin and coat healthy.A single buyer reported that there was mold in one bag.
This dog food, which is made in the US, also contains glucosamine, taurine, and probiotics.The feeding instructions on the package may call for giving dogs too much food for their size.
Best Grain-Free
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
  • ADVANCED NATURAL NUTRITION TO FUEL YOUR DOG'S BEST LIFE: Premium protein expertly balanced with nutrient rich superfoods for a complete and balanced dog food, with guaranteed levels of all the nutrients your dog needs to thrive and no fillers
  • SAVORY FOOD DOGS LOVE: Wellness CORE is available in grain and grain free recipes, as well as limited ingredient diets for dogs with food sensitivities
  • LEANER BODY MASS AND MUSCLE TONE: Wellness CORE dog food is made with a high concentration of protein from fresh meat ingredients
  • SUPPORTS HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT with guaranteed levels of omega fatty acids from ingredients such as flaxseed and salmon oil
  • WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart


Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best Corgi Puppy Food: Canidae PURE Limited Ingredient Puppy

PURE Limited Ingredient Puppy is one of the best dog food options for corgi puppies, with real chicken, and other healthy ingredients like lentils, peas, and whole eggs. We were impressed with how the ingredients come from farms that use regenerative sourcing, which is always good for the planet.

The ingredients in this food have been chosen to address the needs of puppies with sensitive stomach and sensitive skin issues, as well as allergies. Probiotics and antioxidants help support puppies’ digestive and immune systems. The vitamins and minerals help keep your puppy’s coat beautiful and provide healthy joints.

One concern that a few of reviewers raised was inconsistent food quality among different bags. There were also a couple of complaints about digestive upsets.

Pros and Cons of Canidae PURE Limited Ingredient Puppy

ProsCons
This limited-ingredient puppy food features real chicken, lentils, peas, and whole eggs from farms that practice regenerative sourcing.Some reviewers reported inconsistent food quality among different bags.
The ingredients were chosen to address the needs of puppies with stomach and skin issues, as well as allergies.A number of puppies experienced digestive issues after eating this food.
Probiotics and antioxidants provide digestive and immune system support while vitamins and minerals support healthy joints and a lustrous coat.
Best Puppy Food
Canidae PURE Limited Ingredient Puppy
  • Made with wholesome, real-food ingredients
  • Grain-free, hypoallergenic formula
  • Supports your puppy’s digestive and immune systems
  • Contains antioxidants and probiotics
Check Chewy Check Amazon

4. Best Natural Corgi Dog Food: KARMA Balanced Nutrition Dry Dog Food

KARMA Balanced Nutrition Dry Dog Food is among one of the best dog food options for anyone seeking healthy options for their dog.

The majority of the recipe features plant-based superfoods and real chicken. Ingredients are non-GMO, and the USA-based based manufacturer has a commitment to zero landfill waste. Natural fiber ingredients contribute to healthy digestion and omega acids contribute to healthy skin and coats.

A few reviewers cited concerns that meat was not the first ingredient. There were also a couple of incidents that involved the kibble triggering allergies, possibly because of its ingredients.

Pros and Cons of KARMA Balanced Nutrition Dry Dog Food

ProsCons
This recipe features plant-based superfoods and real chicken.A few reviewers expressed concern because meat isn’t the first ingredient in this formula.
The ingredients are non-GMO and the US-based manufacturer has a zero-landfill-waste commitment.Some buyers reported that the kibble triggered allergic reactions in their dogs.
Omega acids will contribute to your dog’s healthy skin and lustrous coat and natural fiber will promote healthy digestion.
Best Natural
Karma Balanced Nutrition Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Contains one (1) 4 lb. bag of KARMA Plant-First Recipe with White Fish, Adult Natural Dry Dog Kibble Plus Vitamins, Minerals, & Other Nutrients for any size dog
  • Made with real sustainable white fish, this plant-first recipe is rich in protein from plant and animal sources
  • Crafted with plant-based superfoods and 60+% plant ingredients
  • Dog food made with non-GMO ingredients ( Trace amounts may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing)
  • This product is manufactured in a site committed to zero waste to landfill
  • Nourishes whole-body health and vitality in adult dogs with essential nutrients
  • Supports a healthy skin and coat with a balance of Omega Fatty Acids and healthy digestion with natural fiber
  • Made in the USA with the World’s Finest Ingredients


Check Chewy Check Amazon

5. Best Small Dog-Specific Corgi Dog Food: Purina Pro Plan Small Breed

Purina Pro Plan Small Breed has a formula that suits dogs from puppy to senior age, with either chicken or beef. The kibble is bite-sized, making it easier for small breeds to eat.

Real chicken provides a taste dogs love, coupled with high protein making it an excellent alternative to a raw formula. Live probiotics provide a boost to the immune and digestive systems that all dogs require.

A complaint that some reviewers reported was having more of the shredded chicken product in the bag than the kibble part. Another concern for some was that the food is high calorie, which is not always good for dogs the size of most corgis.

Pros and Cons of Purina Pro Plan Small Breed

ProsCons
This recipe is formulated for dogs of all life stages.Some buyers were displeased that the product includes more shredded chicken than kibble.
It’s available in chicken or beef.Others expressed concern that the food contains more calories than corgi-sized dogs should eat.
The kibble is designed to be easy for small breeds to eat.
Dogs love the real chicken taste and the high-protein formula makes it an excellent alternative to raw dog foods.
This food also contains live probiotics to support dogs’ immune and digestive systems.
Best Small Dog-Specific
Purina Pro Plan Small Breed
  • Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula with probiotics for small dogs
  • Fortified with probiotics for digestive and immune health
  • Calcium, phosphorus and other minerals maintain strong bones and teeth
  • Prebiotic fiber from wheat bran for digestive health
Check Chewy Check Amazon

Our Criteria and Experience: How We Chose the Best

We researched many dog foods appropriate for the unique needs of corgis, and compiled a list of our top recommendations based on several factors. Many pet owners are turning to grain-free dog foods to help cut down cravings, so we made sure to include the best grain-free option. We also looked for foods that benefited dogs with sensitive stomachs and sensitive skin issues. Owners whose dogs have allergies will find some great choices among these selections. We also sought foods that were high in quality, containing essential antioxidants, prebiotics, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals to promote good health in your beloved corgi.

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About the Author

My passion is writing about animals. I’ve published articles on pet parrots, birds, and small animal care and reviews about pet food and products. I have an ever-evolving aviary and menagerie that has included cockatiels, parakeets, conures, European starlings, a chukar partridge, guinea pigs, dogs, and cats. I’m also the author of Faith without Labels: a Guide to Eclectic Spirituality.

The Best Corgi Dog Foods: Reviewed FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is the best dog food for a corgi?

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed is the best option because of its nutritional balance that suits corgis’ unique needs.

How much food does a corgi dog need?

Most adult corgis require 1 1/2 to 2 cups of food daily, in two meals, although you should always consult your food’s feeding chart. And ask your veterinarian for guidance if you have questions or concerns.

When do you switch a corgi to senior dog food?

Your dog should start eating a senior diet at seven or eight years old.

How do you keep corgis from getting overweight?

Corgis are somewhat more likely to become overweight because of their small size. Added fiber in the form of green beans and canned pumpkin may help your dog lose weight. A common vet-recommended tip is to give your dog green beans as a treat instead of bone treats.

Should corgis have grain-free or raw diets?

Grain-free or raw diets work well for corgis’ nutritional needs. High-quality foods without grains contain enough nutrients to compensate. Balanced raw diets using quality organic ingredients are also helpful.

Do corgis do better with wet or dry food?

Most corgis do best with a mixture of wet and dry foods. A diet that includes wet and dry food provides the benefits of increased DHA levels from the moist formula and the better dental health that comes with kibble. Getting your dog accustomed to both varieties helps prevent problems with finicky behavior.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.