Finding the right wet dog food for small breeds can be tricky, as these dogs often have specific nutritional needs and smaller appetites. The Optimeal Wet Dog Food Small Breed Variety Pack stands out for its high protein, grain-free formula that appeals to health-conscious owners. Meanwhile, Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food offers excellent value with a variety of flavors and convenient packaging. The main tradeoffs involve balancing quality ingredients with cost and variety, which can be challenging in the small breed category. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option to help you choose the best fit for your furry friend.
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Key Takeaways
- High-quality ingredients are more common in premium picks like Blue Buffalo, but they come at a higher price.
- Variety packs tend to offer better value and flavor options, which can keep small dogs more engaged with their meals.
- Grain-free formulas are popular among health-focused owners, but they often cost more than grain-inclusive options.
- Packaging size and convenience are important; smaller pouches appeal to owners who prefer fresh-feeling portions.
- Price varies widely; understanding the balance between quality and budget is key to making a satisfying choice.
| small breed wet dog food | Brand | Flavor | Item Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optimeal Wet Dog Food Small Br | Optimeal | Variety Pack | Wet |
| Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet | Beneful | Variety Pack (Beef, Chicken, Salmon) | Can |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Variety | — | — | — |
| Cesar Mini-Pouch Wet Dog Food | Cesar | — | Wet |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Rotisser | — | Rotisserie Chicken | — |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Variety | — | — | — |
| Beneful Purina IncrediBites Sm | Beneful | Beef | Chunk |
| Nulo Signature Stews Variety P | Nulo | — | Chunk |
| Pedigree Choice Cuts Wet Dog F | — | Protein Variety | — |
| Purina Beneful Kitchen Creatio | Beneful | Variety Pack (Beef, Chicken, Lamb) | Gravy |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Variety | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Optimeal Wet Dog Food Small Breed Variety Pack – Grain-Free, High Protein, Tender Morsels in Aspic, 3oz Pouch (Pack of 12)
This grain-free option stands out for its balanced nutrition and digestibility, making it ideal for small dogs with sensitive stomachs. Compared with Blue Buffalo Delights, Optimeal offers a more comprehensive blend of omega fatty acids to support skin and coat health. Its tender morsels are easy to serve as a meal or topper, but the relatively small portions might require multiple feedings per day, which could be inconvenient for some owners. Additionally, the price point is higher than some bulk canned options, reflecting its premium ingredients. This pick makes the most sense for small breeds needing grain-free, easily digestible food that also promotes digestive health.
Pros:- Provides complete and balanced nutrition tailored for small dogs
- Enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 for healthy skin and coat
- Made with real protein and easy to digest
- Grain-free and suitable for sensitive stomachs
Cons:- Relatively small portion size may require multiple feedings
- Higher price compared to standard canned foods
Best for: Small dogs with sensitive digestion or grain allergies seeking a complete, balanced meal or topper.
Not ideal for: Owners on a tight budget or those preferring larger portion sizes for multiple daily feedings.
- Brand:Optimeal
- Flavor:Variety Pack
- Item Form:Wet
- Container Type:Pouch
- Breed Recommendation:All Breed Sizes
- Allergen Information:Corn-Free, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Preservative-Free, Soy-Free
- Nutrient Content Claim:High Fiber, High Protein
- Shape:Cloud-shaped morsels
- Special Uses:Digestive Health, Immune Support, Skin and Coat Health
Our verdict“Ideal for small breed owners seeking a digestible, grain-free option that supports skin and coat health.”
Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack, 30 (3 oz) Cans
This pack of Beneful IncrediBites offers a convenient way to provide a variety of flavors that appeal to many small dogs, supporting muscle strength and overall health with real meat and vegetables. Compared to the Blue Buffalo Delights, Beneful’s inclusion of grains may appeal to owners who prefer traditional ingredients but could be a downside for those seeking grain-free diets. The canned format makes portion control straightforward, yet some owners might find the cans less eco-friendly and more wasteful. Its broad flavor selection suits owners who want to rotate meals easily without buying multiple brands. Overall, this pack is a practical choice for small dogs that enjoy variety and owners who prioritize convenience.
Pros:- Made with real meat and visible vegetables
- Supports muscle strength and overall health
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Convenient portion size for small dogs
Cons:- Contains grains which may not suit all dietary preferences
- Limited to small breed dogs only
- Only available in canned form
Best for: Owners wanting a variety of flavors in a budget-friendly, easy-to-serve format for small dogs.
Not ideal for: Pet owners seeking grain-free or limited-ingredient diets or those concerned about canned waste.
- Brand:Beneful
- Flavor:Variety Pack (Beef, Chicken, Salmon)
- Item Form:Can
- Container Type:Can
- Breed Recommendation:Small Breeds
- Package Quantity:30 cans
- Can Size:3 oz
- Benefits:High protein, vitamins, no artificial colors/flavors/preservatives
Our verdict“A solid choice for owners prioritizing variety, affordability, and ease of feeding for small breeds.”
Blue Buffalo Delights Variety Pack Small Breed Wet Dog Food, 3.5 oz, 12 ct
This variety pack emphasizes natural ingredients with real meat as the first ingredient, housed in single-serve cups that provide quick and clean feeding. Compared with Optimeal, Blue Buffalo Delights focuses on simplicity and naturalness, but it offers fewer functional benefits like added Omega fatty acids. Its smaller size and single-serve design make it ideal for precise portioning but may be less economical for owners feeding multiple small dogs or larger portions. Refrigeration after opening is necessary, which adds a step for busy owners. This option suits owners who want a straightforward, natural meal that is easy to serve and store.
Pros:- Real meat as the first ingredient
- Grain-free with natural ingredients
- Convenient single-serve cups for easy feeding
- No artificial flavors, preservatives, or by-products
Cons:- Limited flavor variety for some dogs
- Requires refrigeration after opening
- Less economical for multiple feedings or larger diets
Best for: Pet owners seeking natural, minimally processed food with convenient single-serve cups for small dogs.
Not ideal for: Owners needing a grain-free or highly enriched diet, or those with multiple small dogs requiring bulk feeding.
- Weight:3.5 oz per cup
- Quantity:12 cups
- Flavors:Top Sirloin, Grilled Chicken
- Package:Variety pack
- Benefits:Real meat, grain-free, no artificial additives
- Refrigeration:Required after opening
Our verdict“Ideal for owners wanting a natural, simple meal in an easy-to-serve format for small dogs.”
Cesar Mini-Pouch Wet Dog Food, Filet Variety Pack, 1.76 oz, 40 Count
Cesar’s mini pouches excel for busy owners who want to serve high-quality, protein-rich meals with minimal fuss. Its peel-and-serve design makes portioning effortless, especially compared to larger cans like Beneful. The flavor variety, including Rotisserie Chicken and Filet Mignon, appeals to small dogs with sophisticated palates, but the limited flavor choices mean owners seeking more diversity might need to buy multiple packs or brands. While the individual pouches generate waste, some owners prioritize convenience over eco-friendliness. This product makes sense for those who value simplicity and high-quality ingredients in quick, single-serve portions.
Pros:- Made with real chicken or beef for high-quality protein
- Convenient peel-and-serve packaging
- No fillers, added sugar, or artificial flavors
- Complete and balanced for adult dogs
Cons:- Single-use pouches produce waste
- Limited flavor options in the variety pack
- May be costlier over time compared to bulk cans
Best for: Pet owners needing quick, high-quality meals or snacks for small adult dogs, especially during travel or busy days.
Not ideal for: Owners looking for eco-friendly packaging or larger portion sizes for frequent feeding.
- Brand:Cesar
- Item Form:Wet
- Package Quantity:40 Count
- Size:1.76 oz per pouch
- Flavor Variety:Rotisserie Chicken, Filet Mignon, Wood-Grilled Chicken
Our verdict“A great choice for busy owners who want quick, high-quality meals or treats for small dogs on the go.”
Blue Buffalo Delights Rotisserie Chicken Wet Dog Food, 3.5 oz, 12 ct
This grain-free option emphasizes natural ingredients, with tender cuts of chicken in hearty gravy, making it appealing for small adult dogs that enjoy flavorful, moist meals. Compared with the Optimeal variety pack, it offers a more straightforward, single-flavor approach with a focus on real meat and gravy for added flavor and moisture. The single-serve cups are convenient but may be less environmentally friendly than pouch options. The gravy can be messy for some pets and owners, and portion sizes may not suit larger dogs or those with higher caloric needs. This product is best for owners who prioritize simple, natural ingredients and easy serving in a familiar cup format.
Pros:- Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
- Grain-free and free of artificial additives
- Convenient single-serve cups for easy feeding
- Rich gravy for flavor and moisture
Cons:- Limited to small breed dogs only
- Messy gravy may be inconvenient for some owners
- Portion size may not suffice for higher-calorie needs
Best for: Small breed owners seeking a grain-free, minimal-ingredient meal with added moisture and flavor.
Not ideal for: Owners wanting variety or those with multiple small dogs requiring bulk feeding options.
- Weight:3.5 oz per cup
- Quantity:12 cups
- Flavor:Rotisserie Chicken
- Form:Wet dog food
- Ingredients:Real chicken, carrots, potatoes, peas, vitamins, minerals
- Dietary features:Grain-free, no artificial flavors or preservatives
Our verdict“Perfect for owners wanting a natural, moist, and flavorful meal in a simple cup for small dogs.”
Blue Buffalo Delights Variety Pack Small Breed Wet Dog Food, 3.5 oz, 12 count
This variety pack offers an excellent balance of quality and convenience, making it a versatile choice for small breed owners who prioritize natural ingredients. With real beef as the primary ingredient and grain-free recipes, it provides balanced nutrition without artificial additives. Compared to Beneful Purina IncrediBites, it emphasizes higher-quality, minimally processed ingredients, though it’s limited to adult small breeds only. The pre-portioned cups reduce mess and portioning time, ideal for busy households. The main tradeoff is its limited recipe options and the beef base, which may not suit all dogs’ taste preferences or dietary needs.
Pros:- Made with real beef as the first ingredient
- Grain-free and free of artificial flavors, corn, wheat, and soy
- Pre-portioned cups for easy feeding and less mess
- Formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists
Cons:- Limited to small breed adult dogs only
- Contains beef, which may not be suitable for all dogs
Best for: Small breed adult dogs whose owners want natural, grain-free options and value convenience.
Not ideal for: Dog owners with multi-breed households where variety or different protein sources are needed, or dogs with beef sensitivities.
- Size:3.5 oz
- Quantity:12 cups
- Recipes:Filet Mignon, New York Strip
- Grain-Free:Yes
- Primary Ingredient:Real beef
Our verdict“This pick suits small breed owners seeking a natural, convenient, and protein-rich meal option for their adult dogs.”
Beneful Purina IncrediBites Small Wet Dog Food in Gravy, Beef, (12) 3 oz
Beneful IncrediBites stands out for its inclusion of real beef and vegetables in a flavorful gravy, making it a hit for dogs that enjoy tasty, moist foods. Its added vitamins and minerals support overall health, comparable to Pedigree Choice Cuts, but with a focus on natural ingredients and no artificial preservatives. The small 3 oz cans are perfect for portion control, yet the gravy can be messy and less appealing for dogs that prefer drier textures. While convenient, the limited flavor variety and gravy-based consistency may not satisfy dogs with more selective tastes or those prone to mess.
Pros:- Made with real beef and vegetables for flavor and nutrition
- Supports muscle and overall health with added vitamins and minerals
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Convenient 3 oz cans suited for small dogs
Cons:- Limited to small breed dogs only
- Gravy may be messy or less preferred by some dogs
- Only available in 3 oz cans, potentially requiring multiple for daily feeding
Best for: Small breed dogs that thrive on flavorful, high-protein meals and owners who want a straightforward, nutritious option.
Not ideal for: Owners seeking grain-free, minimally processed diets or dogs sensitive to gravy textures that may be messy or disliked.
- Brand:Beneful
- Flavor:Beef
- Age Range:Adult
- Item Form:Chunk
- Container Type:Can
- Breed Recommendation:Small Breeds
Our verdict“This food is ideal for small dogs that prefer moist, flavorful meals and owners valuing natural ingredients and convenience.”
Nulo Signature Stews Variety Pack: Small Breed Wet Dog Food, 2.8 oz, Pack of 12
Nulo Signature Stews appeal to owners seeking grain-free, collagen-rich options that support hydration and skin health. The real shredded meat in a broth offers a different texture compared to the denser options like Blue Buffalo Delights. Its added omega fatty acids and taurine make it a good choice for small dogs with skin or coat concerns, though the added ingredients may be unnecessary for healthy dogs with balanced diets. The 2.8 oz tubs are travel-friendly but limit portion flexibility, especially if feeding multiple small dogs. Compared to grain-free stews like Optimeal, it emphasizes collagen content, which is excellent for joint and coat health but might not appeal to all dogs’ taste preferences.
Pros:- Grain-free and made with real meat in collagen-rich broth
- Supports hydration, skin, and coat health with omega fatty acids
- Convenient for small breed dogs and travel
- Contains added taurine and L-Carnitine for heart health
Cons:- Added ingredients like taurine and L-Carnitine may be unnecessary for some dogs
- Limited to small breed sizes, not suitable for larger dogs
- More expensive per serving compared to basic options
Best for: Small breed dogs with skin, coat, or joint concerns, and owners prioritizing hydration and natural ingredients.
Not ideal for: Dog owners with larger breeds or those seeking highly economical or basic diets, as the collagen-rich broth and added supplements increase cost and complexity.
- Brand:Nulo
- Flavor Variety:Variety Pack
- Item Form:Chunk
- Container Type:Tub
- Breed Recommendation:All Breed Sizes
- Allergen Information:Corn-Free, Grain-Free, Soy Free, Wheat Free
Our verdict“This food is best for small dogs needing extra hydration and coat support, especially those with skin sensitivities or joint issues.”
Pedigree Choice Cuts Wet Dog Food Pouch, Protein Variety, 3.5 oz, 30 Count
Pedigree Choice Cuts provides a reliable, complete diet in convenient pouches, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious owners who want consistent quality. Its high-quality animal protein supports muscle maintenance, and the high water content helps with hydration. Compared with Blue Buffalo Delights, it offers a more budget-friendly, widely available option, but at the expense of some ingredient transparency and minimal recipe variety. The soft pouches are easy to serve but can be less eco-friendly and generate more waste, and some dogs may prefer dry kibble for texture or flavor.
Pros:- Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs
- High-quality animal protein supports lean muscles
- Over 50% water content for hydration
- Versatile as meal, topper, or mixer
Cons:- Contains multiple pouches, which may be less eco-friendly
- May be more expensive over time compared to dry food
- Limited flavor variety in the pack
Best for: Owners of small breed dogs needing affordable, complete meals with easy serving options.
Not ideal for: Dog owners looking for grain-free, organic, or highly natural diets, or those who prefer minimal packaging waste.
- Size:3.5 oz
- Count:30
- Type:Wet Dog Food Pouch
- Flavor:Protein Variety
- Age Range:Adult
- Specific Uses:Meal, Topper, Mix
Our verdict“This pouch-based option suits small dog owners seeking affordable, easy-to-serve complete nutrition with flexibility.”
Purina Beneful Kitchen Creations Wet Dog Food Variety Pack, 3 oz Cans (30 Pack)
Beneful Kitchen Creations offers a broad flavor selection with real meats, vegetables, grains, or pasta, making it a flexible choice for owners who want variety in small cans. Its balanced formula provides essential nutrients and supports muscle strength, comparable to Pedigree Choice Cuts, but with additional options and textures. The sauces add flavor, though they can be messy for some dogs and owners. The variety pack makes it easy to rotate flavors, but some dogs may prefer dry kibble or dislike the sauces’ messiness, which could limit its appeal for picky eaters.
Pros:- Made with real meat and vegetables for quality
- Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs
- Single-serve cans for easy portioning
- Variety pack with multiple flavors
Cons:- Sauces may be messy or less appealing for some dogs
- Limited flavor options within each pack
- Some dogs prefer dry kibble over wet food
Best for: Owners who want to offer their small dogs a variety of flavors while maintaining balanced nutrition.
Not ideal for: Owners seeking minimal ingredient processing or those concerned about sauces creating messes or waste.
- Brand:Beneful
- Flavor:Variety Pack (Beef, Chicken, Lamb)
- Item Form:Gravy
- Package Quantity:30 cans
- Can Size:3 oz
- Age Range:Adult
Our verdict“This variety pack is well-suited for small dogs that enjoy multiple flavors and owners seeking versatility in their dog’s diet.”
Blue Buffalo Delights Variety Pack Small Breed Wet Dog Food, 3.5 oz, 12 count
This variety pack from Blue Buffalo stands out for offering two gourmet flavors—Filet Mignon and Porterhouse—that cater to small breed dogs with discerning palates. Compared with the Optimeal Grain-Free Pouches, which emphasize high protein and tender morsels, this selection prioritizes a more natural ingredient profile with real beef as the first ingredient, appealing to owners seeking clean, grain-free options. The pre-portioned cups ensure convenience and minimize mess, but the single-serving format can make it more costly over time for owners with multiple small dogs or frequent feeders. Its focus on no artificial flavors or poultry by-products makes it suitable for health-conscious pet owners, yet it’s limited exclusively to small breeds and offers limited info on shelf life and storage, which may concern those buying in bulk or for long-term use.
Pros:- Real beef as the first ingredient, supporting high-quality nutrition
- Grain-free with no artificial flavors or preservatives, ideal for sensitive stomachs
- Pre-portioned cups simplify feeding and reduce mess
- Includes diverse flavors to appeal to picky eaters
Cons:- Limited to small breed dogs only, reducing versatility
- Cost per meal may be higher compared to larger bulk cans
- Lack of detailed storage or shelf life information
Best for: Owners of small breed dogs who prefer natural, gourmet options with a variety of flavors and value convenience.
Not ideal for: Pet owners with large or multiple dogs seeking cost-effective bulk options, or those who prefer shelf-stable, canned formats for long-term storage.
- Size:3.5 oz per cup
- Quantity:12 cups
- Flavor options:Filet Mignon, Porterhouse
- Ingredients:Real beef, carrots, potatoes, peas
- Dietary features:Grain-free, no poultry by-products, no artificial flavors
- Intended pet size:Small breed dogs
Our verdict“This pick is well-suited for owners who want a natural, gourmet wet food experience for small dogs and don’t mind paying a premium for variety and convenience.”
How We Picked
Products were selected based on a combination of nutritional quality, ingredient transparency, variety, packaging convenience, and overall value. We prioritized brands with clear labeling and minimal fillers, ensuring options suited for small breeds’ specific caloric and nutritional needs. Cost per serving and customer reviews also influenced ranking, alongside considerations of ease of feeding and storage. Our goal was to identify options that balance health benefits with affordability and convenience, making the top choices versatile for different owner priorities.
| small breed wet dog food | Brand | Flavor | Item Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optimeal Wet Dog Food Small Br | Optimeal | Variety Pack | Wet |
| Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet | Beneful | Variety Pack (Beef, Chicken, Salmon) | Can |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Variety | — | — | — |
| Cesar Mini-Pouch Wet Dog Food | Cesar | — | Wet |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Rotisser | — | Rotisserie Chicken | — |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Variety | — | — | — |
| Beneful Purina IncrediBites Sm | Beneful | Beef | Chunk |
| Nulo Signature Stews Variety P | Nulo | — | Chunk |
| Pedigree Choice Cuts Wet Dog F | — | Protein Variety | — |
| Purina Beneful Kitchen Creatio | Beneful | Variety Pack (Beef, Chicken, Lamb) | Gravy |
| Blue Buffalo Delights Variety | — | — | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Small Breed Wet Dog Food
Choosing the right small breed wet dog food involves more than just brand names. You should consider ingredients, nutritional balance, flavor variety, packaging, and your dog’s specific health needs. Understanding these factors helps avoid common pitfalls like buying low-quality fillers or overpaying for unnecessary features. The following sections outline key considerations to help you make a well-informed decision.Ingredients and Nutritional Quality
Prioritize products with real meat, minimal fillers, and recognizable ingredients. Small breeds often have faster metabolisms, so nutrient-dense formulas support their health without overfeeding. Beware of foods high in artificial preservatives, colors, or generic by-products that may compromise your dog’s well-being. Comparing ingredient lists can reveal quality differences that impact your pet’s digestion and energy levels.
Flavor Variety and Palatability
Small dogs can be picky, so selecting brands that offer multiple flavors or textures encourages variety and prevents mealtime boredom. Opting for variety packs can also give you insights into what your dog prefers, saving money on recurring purchases of less-liked flavors. However, be cautious of overly processed flavors that may contain artificial additives, which can reduce palatability over time.
Packaging and Portion Control
Smaller pouches or cans help maintain freshness and prevent waste, especially important for small breeds with limited intake. Consider ease of opening and storage—recyclable or resealable packaging can simplify feeding routines. Overly large cans might be less practical for small dogs, leading to spoilage or waste, so select options that match your dog’s typical portion size.
Price and Value
While premium formulas often cost more, they can offer better ingredients and health benefits, making them worthwhile for many owners. Conversely, budget options may suffice for less sensitive dogs but could involve fillers or lower nutritional density. Calculating cost per serving helps compare value, ensuring you get quality nutrition without overspending.
Special Dietary Needs
If your small dog has allergies, sensitivities, or health conditions, look for specialized formulas such as limited ingredient diets or vet-recommended options. Consulting your veterinarian can guide you toward the best choice, especially if your pet requires specific nutrient ratios or avoidance of certain ingredients. Avoid generic solutions that aren’t tailored to small breed health considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is grain-free wet dog food better for small breeds?
Grain-free options can benefit small breeds that have sensitivities or allergies to grains, or if you prefer a diet closer to their ancestral eating habits. However, grain-free foods often come at a higher cost and may contain alternative fillers that aren’t necessarily healthier. It’s important to assess your dog’s specific health needs and consult with your vet before choosing grain-free formulas over traditional options.
How do I know if the wet food is appropriate for my small breed puppy or senior?
Different life stages require different nutrient profiles. Puppy formulas focus on growth and energy, while senior foods emphasize joint health and digestibility. Always check the packaging for age-specific labels and consult your veterinarian to match the food to your dog’s developmental stage. Feeding the wrong formula can lead to nutritional gaps or excesses that impact your dog’s health.
Should I choose a variety pack or stick to one flavor?
Variety packs can keep your small dog interested in their meals and help identify preferred flavors, especially if they are finicky eaters. However, if your dog develops sensitivities or allergies, sticking to a single, limited-ingredient formula might be safer. Consider your dog’s eating habits and health history when deciding whether to provide variety or consistency.
How much wet food should I feed my small breed dog daily?
The amount varies based on your dog’s weight, age, activity level, and the calorie density of the food. Typically, small breeds need between 1/4 to 1 cup of wet food per day, divided into multiple meals. Always follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging and adjust based on your dog’s body condition, consulting your vet for personalized recommendations.
Are premium brands worth the extra cost?
Premium brands often use higher-quality ingredients, fewer fillers, and more transparent sourcing, which can translate into better health for your dog. While they cost more upfront, they may reduce vet bills related to diet-related health issues over time. If your dog has sensitivities or special needs, investing in quality food can be especially beneficial. However, for healthy, less picky dogs, a mid-range option might provide sufficient nutrition at a better price.
Conclusion
For owners seeking the best overall quality, the Optimeal Wet Dog Food Small Breed Variety Pack offers high protein, natural ingredients, and great variety, making it ideal for health-conscious pet parents. Those on a budget will appreciate the value offered by Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food, which balances affordability with decent quality. For first-time small breed owners or those unsure of preferences, the Cesar Mini-Pouch Wet Dog Food provides convenient, portion-controlled options. If your dog has specific dietary needs or sensitivities, considering specialized formulas like limited ingredient or vet-recommended options is best. Ultimately, aligning your choice with your dog’s health, preferences, and your budget will ensure a happy, healthy small companion.
