Dog Food Similar to Ziwi Peak for Pugs: Smart Alternatives That Work
Feeding a pug isn’t always simple. With their sensitive stomachs, food allergies, and tendency to gain weight, finding the right diet can take trial and error. Ziwi Peak has earned a loyal following because of its air-dried, meat-rich recipes that keep ingredients clean and minimal—perfect for pugs that thrive on high-quality food.
But let’s face it—Ziwi Peak isn’t always budget-friendly or easy to keep in stock. Luckily, there are other great options out there that deliver similar results, whether you’re looking for freeze-dried raw, dehydrated blends, or super-clean kibble.
Why Ziwi Peak Is Popular Among Pug Owners
Ziwi Peak’s air-dried formula offers the benefits of raw food without the mess. It’s loaded with whole meat and organs, skips unnecessary fillers, and is gentle on digestion. That’s a win for many pug parents dealing with allergies, bloating, or pickiness.
Still, the price tag and availability make some owners look for alternatives. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that come close to Ziwi’s quality and cater to small breed needs.
What to Look for in a Ziwi Peak Alternative
When switching foods, not all “premium” brands are created equal. For a food to truly compare with Ziwi Peak, it should meet a few key criteria:
- High meat content, ideally 85% or more
- No artificial additives or low-quality fillers
- Processing methods like freeze-drying or air-drying to preserve nutrients
- Small breed–friendly size or texture
- Limited ingredient recipes for easier digestion
Now, let’s look at five foods that check those boxes and work well for pugs.
Only Natural Pet EasyRaw Beef & Sweet Potato – Clean and Simple
This dehydrated raw blend uses real beef and sweet potato for a wholesome, low-glycemic meal. You just add water—no special prep needed. It’s a good pick for pugs that need gentle ingredients and controlled carbs.
View on Amazon – Only Natural Pet EasyRaw Dehydrated Raw Dog Food (Beef & Sweet Potato)
BIXBI Rawbble Freeze-Dried Beef – Rich, Meaty, and Easy to Use
With 98% meat and organs, Rawbble is as close to raw as you can get without the freezer. It’s perfect for pugs who do better on high-protein diets and need something clean, nutrient-dense, and super tasty.
View on Amazon – BIXBI Rawbble Freeze Dried Dog Food (Beef Recipe)
Open Farm Small Breed Chicken & Turkey – Kibble Done Right
If your pug prefers kibble, Open Farm’s small breed formula is worth a look. It’s high in protein, easy to chew, and made with ethical sourcing and non-GMO produce. It’s especially useful if you want something less processed but still convenient.
View on Amazon – Open Farm Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds (Chicken & Turkey)
The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters – Great for Growing Pugs
This gently baked dry food is made with human-grade ingredients and designed for puppies. It’s easy to digest and works well for younger pugs who are just starting out on dry food but need high-quality nutrition.
View on Amazon – The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Puppy Chicken
Stella & Chewy’s Chicken Freeze-Dried Patties – A Win for Picky Eaters
These patties are high in protein and full of real chicken flavor. Many pug owners use them as full meals or as toppers to encourage eating. They’re shelf-stable, nutrient-rich, and free of grains or synthetic additives.
View on Amazon – Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties (Chicken Recipe)
Conclusion
Ziwi Peak might be a favorite, but it’s far from the only option that works for pugs. Whether your dog needs help with digestion, prefers freeze-dried over kibble, or just refuses to eat bland food, the options above offer real nutrition without the compromises.
Just remember to switch foods slowly, keep an eye on how your pug responds, and choose a formula that fits their activity level and health needs. With a little experimentation, you’ll find something that keeps both you and your pug happy.
