Only the best for the dog – according to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but especially, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in good 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 multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate from which age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be provided? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best dog food for nursing dogs, we present 10 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and describe how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dog food for nursing dogs:
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Scrumbles Natural Gluten-Free Dog Dry Food With Fresh Chicken, For Puppies...
—
£10.00
£12.00 -
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Puppy Original...
—
£12.79
£13.52 -
Forthglade Complementary Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Just Variety Pack...
—
£19.49
£22.25 - Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x... — £19.89
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Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Brown Rice Variety Pack (12 x 395...
—
£19.89
£22.25 - Denes Complete Adult Wet Dog Food Tripe and Turkey, 12 x 400 g — £20.28
- Forthglade Christmas Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack... — £24.02
- Amazon Brand - Lifelong Complete Food for Adult Dogs - Meat In Jelly...
- Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Sardines & Haddock (7 x...
- The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Puppies or Junior Dogs and Large or...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dog food for nursing dogs of 2024. We would recommend using Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Puppy Original Chicken and Rice 2 kg as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best dog food for nursing dogs
Best dog food for nursing dogs
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Puppy Original Chicken and Rice 2 kg
£12.79
Features
- Made with natural ingredients
- Developed by Veterinary Surgeon, John Burns
- Based on our bestselling Original range
- Healthy growth and development
- Healthy skin and coat
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Turkey, Lamb & Duck
2 used from £33.99
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 x 395g trays in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey with sweet potato & vegetables, 4x Lamb with butternut squash & vegetables and 4x Duck with potato & vegetables
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Grain-free recipe making it easier to digest, which is great for sensitive tummies. Made using our high quality recipe with 75% turkey, lamb or duck
- COMPLETE DOG FOOD: A complete and balanced meal containing everything your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Free from junk, fillers and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- VOTED BEST WET DOG FOOD 2023 YOUR DOG MAGAZINE: Award winning dog food proudly made at Forthglade's factory in the heart of Devon
Denes Complete Adult Wet Dog Food Tripe and Turkey, 12 x 400 g
Features
- Real fresh meat
- Wholesome ingredients
- No added sugar or salt
- No artificial flavours, colours or preservatives
- Complete Food
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Brown Rice Variety Pack (12 x 395 g) Trays - 4 x Turkey, 4 x Lamb and 4 x Chicken
£19.89
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 X 395g trays of brown rice wet dog food in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey, 4x Lamb and 4x Chicken with brown rice & vegetables
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Brown rice is naturally nutrient-rich and a good source of dietary fibre; Made using our high quality recipe with 75% turkey, lamb or chicken
- COMPLETE DOG FOOD: A complete and balanced meal containing everything your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Free from junk, fillers and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- VOTED BEST WET DOG FOOD 2023 YOUR DOG MAGAZINE: Award winning dog food proudly made at Forthglade's factory in the heart of Devon
Forthglade Christmas Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Turkey, Beef & Lamb
Features
- CHRISTMAS WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 X 395g trays of limited-edition grain free dog food inspired by Christmas in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey, 4x Lamb and 4x Beef
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Grain-free recipe making it easier to digest, which is great for sensitive tummies. Made using our high quality recipe with 75% turkey, beef & lamb
- COMPLETE DOG FOOD: A complete and balanced meal containing everything your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Free from junk, fillers and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- VOTED BEST WET DOG FOOD 2023 YOUR DOG MAGAZINE: Award winning dog food proudly made at Forthglade's factory in the heart of Devon
Amazon Brand - Lifelong Complete Food for Adult Dogs - Meat In Jelly Selection, 2.4 kg (24 pouches x 100g)
Features
- Pack contains 24 pouches: 6 x chunks with beef in jelly; 6 x chunks with chicken in jelly; 6 x chunks with turkey in jelly; 6 x chunks with lamb in jelly
- Food for adult dogs: 100% Complete and Balanced Nutrition. Developed by pet Nutritionists and checked by Veterinarian
- Meat and Animal Derivatives 38% (including a minimum of 4% of the named protein). All meat ingredients and derivatives come from animals fit for human consumption
- Products contains ‘Various Sugars’ - this is from caramel syrup used as a source of natural colour (0.15%), no other sugars are added
- With fibre (Inulin) to support digestibility
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Sardines & Haddock (7 x 395g) Trays - Adult Dog Food 1 Year+
Features
- WET DOG FOOD: 7 x 395g trays of grain free dog food suitable for adult dogs aged 1-7 years, made with sardines & haddock with potato & broccoli
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Grain-free recipe making it easier to digest, which is great for sensitive tummies; Made using our high quality recipe with 75% sardines & haddock
- OMPLETE DOG FOOD: A complete and balanced meal containing everything your dog needs to stay happy and healthy; Free from junk, fillers and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- VOTED BEST WET DOG FOOD 2022 YOUR DOG MAGAZINE: Award winning dog food proudly made at Forthglade's factory in the heart of Devon
The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Puppies or Junior Dogs and Large or Giant Breeds - 14 Kilograms, Formula with High Content of Poultry Meat
Features
- Ideal for puppy growth - chondroitin and glucosamine content helps the musculoskeletal system to develop properly, Beta-glucans, MOS and FOS strengthen the immune system.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids help prevent the development of skin disorders.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- The real label - 295 g of chicken meal in 1 kg of food corresponds to 1180 g of fresh meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use a meal 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.
Scrumbles Natural Gluten-Free Dog Dry Food With Fresh Chicken, For Puppies And Adult Toy Breeds, 2 Kg
£10.00
Features
- Scrumbles complete dry puppy food is packed with natural ingredients! With added salmon oil, which contains omega 3 and DHA to support cognitive development
- Added probiotics makes this gut friendly recipe gentle on digestion, perfect for puppies and small dogs like chihuahuas
- This all natural, hypoallergenic recipe is made without common allergens like gluten, wheat, potato, dairy and eggs. Suitable for sensitive stomachs
- Scrumbles makes pet food that dogs love. We ONLY use responsibly sourced ingredients and human grade meat!
- Our delicious dog foods and treats are made in the UK and Ireland by our independent, family company and packed in recyclable packaging. Because we love animals as much as you do!
Forthglade Complementary Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Just Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Chicken, Lamb & Beef
£19.49
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 X 395 g trays of grain free dog food in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Chicken, 4x Lamb and 4x Beef
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Grain-free & hypoallergenic recipe, which means it's kind & gentle on your dog's tummy and easy to digest. Made using our high quality recipe with 90% chicken, lamb or beef
- COMPLEMENTARY DOG FOOD: Perfect for tailoring mealtimes, for a balanced meal add a good quality mixer such as our natural dry food, or mix with carbohydrates like pasta or brown rice & vegetables
- MADE IN DEVON: Forthglade have over 50 years of making natural, nutritious recipes with high-quality ingredients, no nasties and gentle cooking methods
The particular best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable where age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be fed? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and make clear how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot put up with and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food quickly
Just as every person has their own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Grow older also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. As a result, they require less energy, i. e. calories. Yet , the dog food should be easy to process and include a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in phrases of composition, technique of production and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrition the dog needs every day. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals is different according to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the important nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner combines into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and supermarkets usually comes from commercial production. This is the most frequent kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. Nevertheless, some manufacturers of industrial dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. With a few exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from grow, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Yet , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in containers or as dry out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will find differences between the various organic dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been prepared. With the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic and natural food are 95 per penny organic. If this says “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per dollar natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food would not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When ever barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are merged individually, barfing much more ideal for experienced pet 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 kind of is an assertion 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 types of are supposed to give the food a better smell and flavor. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
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 created by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and mixing them. A painting tool presses this mass through the openings of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other side. During the dog food production process, temps of around 90 levels Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the word cold pressing. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those used in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These types of need to be artificially added to the meals after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells substantially when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural substances. If the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal area and a disturbed 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 meals. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – wet food or dry out food?
There is damp and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food contains very little water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and so train their teeth. Consuming dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. For dogs that drink little, feeding dried out food can be a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less expensive than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating during production
- More environmentally friendly than refined food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or paziente 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 compares to one meal. Many dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for canines – once exposed – can only be kept for a few times. It should be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Below we have summarised the advantages and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in convenient portions
- Mainly 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 perfectly
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more intense
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is ideal for your dog. Your canine ultimately decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try away both types.
A few dog owners change 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 can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much meats and just how many carbs and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The caliber of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The right composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
Just how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive tract is similar to regarding predators. So above all, the resource 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 needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme are now able to break down starch, meaning that the four-legged friend can also digest plant food in smaller quantities.
First and foremost, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and to provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are not as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meat with their four-legged friends, this could lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not seen in meat – for example , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbs. 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 rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw in many cases are added to the feed. High-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 foodstuff should contain these chemicals only moderately. Just how much should be in the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated oily acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency rations and are intended as a hold for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should contain 50 to 70 % lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 per cent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary nutritional supplements. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrition such as vitamin h or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed fat improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin area.
How could i recognise superior quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Brand of the foodstuff
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various assertions are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient types. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration prospect lists the individual uncooked materials, although not their percentage. The open declaration provides formula in percent and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the word feed into individual groupings. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large quantities.
2. The ingredients in the supply are listed in descending order according to their amount. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down the list is contained 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 substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Very little use of flavor enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is detailed 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 pet by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare just what is engaged. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood as well as its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and oil fruits. They may be to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity of oil and water. Natural vitamin antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be within the right formula, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and search for elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to influence the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are used to influence the appearance and taste of the 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 bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also be involved. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. Sometimes the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event that the four-legged friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give puppies the right amount of food. Just how much pet food a dog needs will depend on various factors. In addition to the breed, the subsequent aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. Your dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories and has a slower metabolism. Accordingly, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs are still growing and in many cases are more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It really is advisable to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the age of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several 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 surge or fall, changing energy needs. For example , 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 caloric content of your dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the following rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with an ordinary activity level should be about 2 to 3 pct of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 pct 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 percent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 per cent of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognize a food allergy?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of the allergy are, for example , stress, unwanted organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for example , mi nombre es, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain material. A genuine food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, stomach pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergy or intolerance or intolerance. That they can also be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause solved with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to carry out an exemption 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 way to obtain protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little. Following the food change, the dog is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is advisable to seek advice from a professional or speak to the vet in advance.
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?
If it turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it takes a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergic reaction no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely months following the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often consists of grains. These include wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it results in obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains option 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 well suited for more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily necessary to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. Some types of grain are also especially easy to process. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without materials. This is especially true if the dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your pet a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not way too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that dogs can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, with respect to the size of the onion and the dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky disease, which causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that dogs should not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw potatoes
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is recommended in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should always be put in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the vet and also the veterinary crisis service directly. At the same time, keep the dog in a safe environment. On the other hand, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It could be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family members and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all from the side of the street.
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Video about best dog food for nursing dogs
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often asked questions about dog food.
What should I look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult puppies. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 2 months. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially created for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With puppy dog dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the pup food must contain certain essential minerals and vitamins. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of is determined by the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are considered grownups 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 older persons?
For small puppies, 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 mature at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age, the dog’s express of health is also an important criterion. It is advisable to discuss the change of food with the vet.
Precisely what is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be kept 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 flavor and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the British and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , you should notify yourself well or seek advice from with experts.
What do I actually have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive puppies in particular can quickly suffer from digestive problems, some of which may be considerable. A time of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get accustomed to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
In the event that the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the variation phase and increase the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not well suited for him. In cases like this, you should look for an alternative.
What should I actually do if my dog would not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. In case the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is better to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How fast do dogs process dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the caliber of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an older animal. The quantity of food is also important. Small portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also brings about faster digestion. In addition , the more water the foodstuff is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are pet tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out pet 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
Once may i start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this period, the mother continually nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it which includes liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no more fed with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a liquid until the puppy dog is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, mix in more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does it sound right?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it really does incorporate some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners may include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the planning and adapt the food to these and the dog’s flavor.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it may be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the food, you should study the various elements. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is advisable to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suitable for dogs with allergy symptoms. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by the dog. Presently there is hypoallergenic dry food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. This contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that the dog will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is just one way to obtain necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergies. This happens when there exists a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is suitable for four-legged friends with a sensitive gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can offer protection against digestive problems.
