The particular best for the dog – regarding to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but especially, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable where age? Is dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best dog food for gaining weight, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and describe how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dog food for gaining weight:
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Mark & Chappell Limited Nutri-Vit supplement vitamins for cats
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£4.54
£7.59 -
PRO PLAN VETERINARY DIETS Feline OM Obesity Management Dry Cat Food 1.5kg
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£18.59
£39.48 -
Buddy & Lola Dog Weight Gainer Supplement - Great for Fussy Eaters, Helps...
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£29.97
£39.99 - BETA Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food Turkey 14kg — £34.99
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Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Puppy Grain Free...
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£40.47
£47.31 - The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult, Working Dogs and All Breeds... — £41.90
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Lily's Kitchen Duck, Salmon and Venison Natural Grain Free Complete Adult Dry...
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£48.59
£58.10 - V-dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Traditional Flakes non-gm,... — £49.99
- Harringtons Just 6 Slow Baked Complete Grain Free Lamb and Pea Dry Dog Food,... — £55.84
- Amazon Brand - Solimo - Complete Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Rich in Beef...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dog food for gaining weight of 2024. We would recommend using Buddy & Lola Dog Weight Gainer Supplement – Great for Fussy Eaters, Helps Build Muscle, Aids Recovery From Injury – A Must Have For Rescue And Re-homed Dogs Who Need to Put on Weight as it is one of the best products currently available in market.
Top 10 Best dog food for gaining weight
Best dog food for gaining weight
Buddy & Lola Dog Weight Gainer Supplement - Great for Fussy Eaters, Helps Build Muscle, Aids Recovery From Injury - A Must Have For Rescue And Re-homed Dogs Who Need to Put on Weight
£29.97
Features
- THE ULTIMATE DOG FOOD SUPPLEMENT: Our yummy chicken flavoured powered supplement is formulated with essential nutrients and high calorie proteins to help your dog gain healthy mass and weight. Highly recommended for PICKY EATERS, UNDERWEIGHT DOGS, RESCUE DOGS, BULLY BREEDS. Simply add the powder to your dog's food and monitor the results over the next few weeks.
- MAXIMIZE ENERGY: We understand how important energy and proteins are for building your dog's muscle mass and weight. Proteins are also essential for the ongoing development of lean muscles in dogs and that's why we have developed this awesome weight gainer dog supplement that will maximize protein intake for the optimum health of your dog.
- A MUST HAVE FOR RESCUE AND RE-HOMED DOGS: Our weight gainer for dogs is formulated to help improve muscle endurance, muscle recovery, muscle performance, and muscle building. It is also formulated to provide essential nutrients to add healthy weight and promote overall muscle strength in dogs and to immensely reduce muscle fatigue. A must-have for RESCUE and RE-HOMED dogs that need to increase mass.
- PERFECT FOR PUPPIES & NURSING MOTHERS: Great for a nursing mother and puppies to promote growth and development of body tissue. Helps to support ATP levels, normalize blood glucose levels, promotes muscle recovery after a long walk or prolonged workout and contains healthy fats to support healthy skin and shiny coats.
- MADE IN UK: 100% WE CARE PASSIONATELY ABOUT your dog’s health and the wellbeing of dogs is our primary motivator. We use this product on our own re-homed dogs with great results. All the ingredients used in formulating this special powdered supplement for dogs are strictly subject to guidelines. We have consistent quality standards which we can stand by hand on heart.
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Puppy Grain Free Duck and Potato Grain Free 6 kg
£40.47
Features
- Developed by Veterinary Surgeon John Burns
- Grain-free, gluten free and dairy free
- Contains nutrient-rich buckwheat
- Contains vitamins which support all-round health
- Highly-digestible
Harringtons Just 6 Slow Baked Complete Grain Free Lamb and Pea Dry Dog Food, 2 kg, Pack of 4
Features
- 1. THE NATURAL CHOICE - At Harringtons, we believe every dog deserves natural food that's balanced, wholesome and tasty. From puppies to seniors to special diets, we make a range that's perfect for you.
- 2. AWARD WINNING - Harringtons Just 6 is a grain free & hypoallergenic recipe made with freshly prepared meat, perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- 3. LIMITED INGREDIENT - With just 6 specially selected ingredients, it's a complete meal that makes it easy for you to know exactly what you're feeding.
- 4. CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT - As part of our efforts to keep packaging to a minimum and help send less packaging waste to landfill, this pack is 100% polyethylene and can be recycled.
- 5. MADE IN THE UK – Harringtons dog food is proudly made by ourselves right here in the UK and has been family run since 1923.
The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult, Working Dogs and All Breeds - 14 Kilograms, High Calorie, High Energy Formula
Features
- High protein (32%) and fat (21%) content - this food has been specially developed to meet the nutritional requirements of active, sporting and working dogs.
- Contains plant extracts: Rosemarinus, Vitis, Curcuma, Citrus, Eugenia - powerful antioxidants which slow down cell damage and the aging process.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- The real label - 300 g of dried chicken in 1 kg of food corresponds to 1140 g of fresh meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use a meal or dried meat so we do not claim very high content of raw meat only to make the labels look much better to the consumer than they really are. Raw meat may contain 70%-90% water. For example chicken meal is simply fresh chicken that has already been cooked to remove moisture – this makes it a much more highly-concentrated source of protein.
- A delicious taste your dog will love - by creating this dog food we remembered about ancestors of dogs - wolves, which are true carnivores, therefore, the main ingredient of our food is always meat.
Amazon Brand - Solimo - Complete Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Rich in Beef with Peas, 1 Pack of 20kg
Features
- Medium & Large Breeds
- Food for adult Dogs: 100% Complete and Balanced Nutrition
- Developed by pet nutritionists and checked by veterinarian
- Meat and animal derivatives: ca. 30% (derived from animals fit for human consumption)
- Natural prebiotics to support sensitive digestion
Lily's Kitchen Duck, Salmon and Venison Natural Grain Free Complete Adult Dry Dog Food (7 kg)
£48.59
Features
- This grain-free recipe* dry dog food uses freshly prepared meat and offal, such as duck, salmon and venison. Made with carefully chosen fruits and vegetables, it’s bursting with wholesome goodness. For adult dogs 4 months+
- Made with natural ingredients, this dog food recipe also has glucosamine and chondroitin for bone and joint support, prebiotics to help encourage healthy digestion, as well as essential nutrients
- For more dog food - look no further. From organic suppers to treats, our recipes include freshly prepared meat and offal made properly (that means no meat meal or rendered meat) and vibrant vegetables. For small, medium, large dogs alike
- As a B Corp company, we are committed to our target to be fully recyclable by 2025. To find out more about our sustainable initiatives, and how we use our business as a force for good! Visit our brand store
- Here at Lily’s Kitchen, we make proper dog food and cat food made with natural ingredients and freshly prepared meat and offal. Only the best for your furry family
BETA Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food Turkey 14kg
Features
- Turkey is #1 ingredient. RICH IN TURKEY
- No added artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
- Made with selected natural ingredients. Made in the UK.(RECYCLING INFORMATION:Recycle at Large Supermarkets)
- With a natural prebiotic proven to help support digestive health
- Dual shape and size kibbles
PRO PLAN VETERINARY DIETS Feline OM Obesity Management Dry Cat Food 1.5kg
£18.59
Features
- High protein to help promote loss of body fat while maintaining lean muscles during weight loss.
- Low calorie diet to help with weight loss
- Urinary security: helps minimise struvite and oxalate urinary stones formation which are more common in overweight cats
- With St/Ox to help support urinary health in cats which may be susceptible to urinary conditions.
- High levels of natural fibre and protein to help your cat feel full and satisfied.
Mark & Chappell Limited Nutri-Vit supplement vitamins for cats
£4.54
Features
- ESSENTIAL CAT SUPPLEMENT - a high calorie, tasty and nutritional supplement providing a range of essential vitamins and minerals for your cat, that even “finicky eaters” will love
- HELPS PROVIDE EXTRA ENERGY AND NUTRITION - supplement your cat’s diet with this cat vitamin paste containing nutrients that provide your pet with extra energy and support better overall health, with Biotin & Zinc for healthy skin and coat
- IDEAL FOR CONVALESCING CATS - as well as being a great staple supplement, this paste aids cats recovering from illness or surgery by supplying essential cat vitamins while stimulating appetite to encourage weight gain and wellbeing
- EASY TO ADMINISTER - simply dab the cat multivitamin paste onto your pet's front paws and let them lick it off, pop on your finger and let them enjoy the taste, or mix with cat food
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED WITH YOU AND YOUR PET IN MIND – valued and trusted by 'Pet Parents' for over three decades, VETIQ Healthy+ is dedicated to bringing simple but proven solutions to the needs and well-being of your pets
V-dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Traditional Flakes non-gm, hypoallergenic kibble for large and small breeds. Meat-free, holistic dried food for over 40 years. 15kg
Features
- Complete Dog Food: V-Dog Traditional Flake food contains all the nutrients an adult dog needs to thrive including a balanced range of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Our vegan dog foods was established in 1980 in the UK and is free from meat by-products and dairy.
- Sensitive Dog Food: Our meat free and dairy free recipe is also free from some allergens including meat proteins making V-dog a hypoallergenic option for dogs with a sensitive tummy.
- Formulated by Animal Nutritionists: Dogs are omnivores and can survive on both plant and animal based diets, V-dog is formulted by professional animal nutritionists to allow dogs to thrive, rather than just survive, on a meat-free diet.
- Certified Veggie Dog Food: V-dog is checked and certified by the UK Vegan Society and Vegetarian Society. V-dog is also a PeTA approved cruelty-free brand.
The particular best for the dog – regarding to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but above all, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which food is suitable from which age? Is usually dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and make clear how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot put up with and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Just as every person has their own own health needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should come in according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive tract is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs sugars, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Therefore, they require less energy, i. e. calories. However , the dog food should be easy to process and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in phrases of composition, method of development and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed includes all the nutrients the dog needs every day. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements varies depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A complete food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the essential nutrients. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and grocery stores usually comes from commercial production. This is the most typical form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. On the other hand, some manufacturers of professional dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. With a few exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from grow, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. However , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to industrial food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dry food.
– Organic dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are distinctions between the various organic dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable elements have been highly processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic and natural food are 95 per cent organic. If this says “made with organic”, the product includes 70 per dollar organic ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often combined with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Because the meals are assembled individually, barfing is more suited to experienced dog owners who have learned the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that needs to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These are supposed to supply the food a much better smell and preference. Some dog fans also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is made by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and mixing them. A painting tool presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other part. During the dog food production process, temperatures of around 90 levels Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the word cold depressing. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your canine food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, little by little. In addition, the food consists of more natural elements. In the event the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal area and an annoyed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is only a supplementary factor in identifying the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – wet food or dry out food?
There is certainly damp and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes very little water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and thus train their teeth. Ingesting dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dried out food can be a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are fed only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- More affordable than cast food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heat during production
- Even more green than canned food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Various dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for puppies – once opened – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It should be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Under we have summarised the advantages and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High popularity by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy helpings
- Because of the high water content in wet food, your canine does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, moist food cannot be stored well
- Major dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suitable for your dog. The dog eventually makes a decision which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your puppy likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Several dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following relates to both types of food: It should just be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of the dog.
How much various meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients belong in dog food?
The caliber of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The proper composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to that of predators. Therefore to start with, the source of meat is important. However , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical can now break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves and also to provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are no longer as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 % meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meats for their four-legged friends, this may lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not found in meat – for example , vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and veggies, or fatty stomach acids from healthy oils. The four-legged good friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the abdomen and intestinal contents of prey pets or animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from grain, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from grow waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or hay are often added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the meals should contain these substances only moderately. How much should take the dog food depends upon how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated fatty acids. They may be stored in the body as emergency rations and are designed as a hold for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 percent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 % high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as biotin or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed fat improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin.
How can I recognise top quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Address and name of the manufacturer
– Date of manufacture or best-before day of the dog food
– Brand of the food
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual raw materials, however, not their percentage. The start declaration provides the structure in per cent and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term feed into individual groupings. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed food, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The elements in the feed are listed in descending order relating to their quantity. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the greater its proportion. On the other hand, what this means is: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over the list is included in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of taste enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is listed under the word “analytical ingredients”. We now have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and animal by-products indicates the meat content in your canine food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is engaged. It could be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, dried meats, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood and its by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and oil fruits. They are partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and level of acidity regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be contained in the right formula, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the digestive tract flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight dogs suffer! Obesity is an increasing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. That can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes inflammation. Additionally, it may shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles usually become overweight. Occasionally the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged friend gets more energy than he uses, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give canines the right amount of food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends upon various factors. In addition to the breed, the next aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A puppy that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories and has a slower metabolism. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs are still growing and are often more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It is highly recommended to reduce the amount of food a little every year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age group of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. Once dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the food content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the following guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a normal activity level should be about 2 to 3 % of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that techniques a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 % of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 percent of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I identify a food allergy or intolerance?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of your allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can trigger allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain substance. A genuine food allergic reaction rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible symptoms of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, belly pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may well not show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do certainly not have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. That they can be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause solved by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or intolerance or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to undertake an exclusion diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an exclusion diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and carbohydrates. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend have not eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by bit. Following your food change, the dog is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms will no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, that could be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to check with a professional or speak with the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is essential during an exemption diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
Whether it turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no more eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it needs a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergic reaction no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely months following your change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often consists of grains. Such as wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grain have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it leads to obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and it is also suited to more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. Some types of grain are also particularly easy to break down. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too much and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that canines can’t tolerate. Some of them are even poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, natural cabbage and natural pork. Onions can be fatal, with respect to the size of the onion and your dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog eats raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky virus, which in turn causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pups must not eat include:
- Delicious chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues are available in them. Ashtrays should be positioned in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for this, you should contact the vet and also the veterinary crisis service directly. In the mean time, keep the dog in a secure environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It could be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that can occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive desire
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off the side of the road.
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FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should We look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 8 weeks. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially suitable for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive tract is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions many times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This is determined by the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are believed grown ups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small dogs, the change in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age group, the dog’s express of health is also an important criterion. It is highly recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
Precisely what is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an snug container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the foodstuff can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, compound and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should advise yourself well or seek advice from with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can easily suffer from digestive : problems, a few of which is often considerable. A time of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the third and fourth day, replace half with the new food. On the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
In the event that the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the adaptation phase and raise the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food whatsoever, it is obviously not suitable for him. In cases like this, you should look for an alternative.
What should I do if my dog will not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier so they can become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is simpler to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How fast do dogs break down dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The quantity of food is important too. Small portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also leads to faster digestion. In addition , the more liquefied the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out creature experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a list of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When ever is i able to start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continues to nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it feels right to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with pup milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer fed with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a solution until the puppy dog is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does indeed it sound right?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it will have some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparation and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s flavor.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it might be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the foodstuff, you should study the various ingredients. The food should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is a good idea to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your dog. There is hypoallergenic dried out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Consequently, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your dog will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is merely one supply of protein in such a product. This is usually an unique meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergies. This happens when we have a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a delicate digestive system. For these dogs, such a product can provide prevention of digestive problems.
