Only the best for the dog – according to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but especially, of course, food. The meals 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 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 wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which usually food is suitable from which age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best dog food for older westies, we present 10 products. We provide 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 constituents and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot endure and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dog food for older westies:
- Pets Purest Natural Dog Treat Chews - 100% Healthy Air-Dried Pork & Beef... — £8.99
- MediPaws® Dog Supplement | Scottish Salmon Oil For Dogs 500ml | Supports Dog... — £14.99
- Cesar Country Kitchen Dog Tray Special Selection in Gravy 8x 150g — £15.99
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Lily's Kitchen Senior Recipe Wet Dog Food (6 x 400 g)
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£16.99
£19.50 - Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog... — £19.93
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Skinner’s Field & Trial Light & Senior 15kg – Complete Dry Dog Food, Ideal...
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£33.99
£44.29 - Wagg Senior Chicken and Rice Complete Dry Dog Food, 15 kg — £38.00
- Arden Grange Senior Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £50.98
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Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog...
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£51.79
£61.24 - Orijen Senior Dog Food, 6 kg — £64.88
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dog food for older westies of 2024. We would recommend using Skinner’s Field & Trial Light & Senior 15kg – Complete Dry Dog Food, Ideal for Older, Overweight or Less Active Dogs as it is available at a resonable price.
Top 10 Best dog food for older westies
Best dog food for older westies
Skinner’s Field & Trial Light & Senior 15kg – Complete Dry Dog Food, Ideal for Older, Overweight or Less Active Dogs
£33.99
Features
- DIETARY NEEDS - Field & Trial Light & Senior is a nutritionally complete dog food, specially developed and formulated for any dog that requires a less energy dense diet. Typically, older or less active dogs or those predisposed to weight gain. It has a wheat gluten free formulation, made with easily digestible chicken and contains enhanced levels of Glucosamine and Chondroitin to help support the joints.
- HERITAGE BRAND - The Stradbroke Mill in Suffolk has been in the Skinner family for seven generations and has been manufacturing complete dog foods since the early 1970s.
- NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE - Skinner’s Field & Trial now offers a range of 19 nutritionally complete diets for active and working dogs of every age, breed and activity level.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - Skinner’s does not add any artificial colouring, flavours or preservatives to any of our products, where possible we try and use locally sourced ingredients surrounding our Suffolk mill.
- LIGHT & SENIOR - Field & Trial Light & Senior is an oval shaped kibble to aid in feelings of fullness, is less energy dense than other diets and has reduced protein and fat levels to support weight loss and ongoing weight maintenance. “Packaging may vary”.
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog Original Chicken and Brown Rice 12 kg
£51.79
Features
- The original Burns recipe from 1993
- Developed by Veterinary Surgeon, John Burns
- Award-winning recipe
- Natural and complete diet
- Hypoallergenic
Arden Grange Senior Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for older dogs
- Containing significantly higher levels of joint supplements than our standard diets to help keep our seniors more mobile into their golden years; Also lower in fat to help prevent weight gain in less active dogs
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your pet; Including, prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, powerful natural antioxidants plus added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef, soya or dairy products in our recipes; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Pets Purest Natural Dog Treat Chews - 100% Healthy Air-Dried Pork & Beef Sausage Meat Treats for Dogs, Puppy & Senior. Grain & Gluten Free Low Fat Raw Protein Dog Food Snack (200g)
Features
- RAW & HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Treat your canine to a delicious reward snack that isn't associated with the problems of unhealthier dog chew products. Pork & Beef are the only ingredients making it a perfect pet safe alternative for a good boy or girl
- JUNK FREE: There are no additives, colourings, preservatives, sugar or grain in our all natural dog chews. Itching, digestive pain, obesity and allergic reactions are all symptoms that can be associated with unhealthy doggie treats, but not ours
- 100% NATURAL: Unlike rawhide chews that use chemical based air drying for reduced drying times, we use a chemical free air drying process that is better for furry best friends. You can have total peace of mind with our dog friendly healthy treats
- PET HEALTH & TRAINING: Our beef and pork sausage meat munchies contain only two ingredients making them a grain, gluten & lactose free option for any dog on a raw food diet. These hypoallergenic dog gift treats are also suitable training treats too
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Our sausages for dogs are expertly dried using low temperatures to lock in vitamins, minerals and goodness along with an enhancing aroma.
Wagg Senior Chicken and Rice Complete Dry Dog Food, 15 kg
Features
- 1. COMPLETE & BALANCED - Wagg Senior Dog food contains 100% natural ingredients including delicious Chicken, Rice & Gravy.
- 2. JOINT SUPPORT - Our food for senior dogs contains added Glucosamine and Chrondroitin alongside fish oils to help promote mobile and supple joints.
- 3. HEALTHY WEIGHT SUPPORT - Contains the amino acid L-Carnitine to help support lean muscle in older dogs.
- 4. HELPS REDUCE ODOUR - Contains an extract from the yucca plant to help reduce flatuent odours.
- 5. MADE IN UK - Wagg dry dog food is proudly made right here in the UK.
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog Grain Free Small/Toy Breed Duck and Potato Grain Free 2 kg
Features
- Developed by Veterinary Surgeon John Burns
- Grain-free, gluten free and dairy free
- Contains the nutrient-rich buckwheat
- Contains vitamins which support all-round health
Orijen Senior Dog Food, 6 kg
Features
- Biologically Appropriate Senior Dog Food.
- Featuring free run chicken & turkey, wild caught fish and nest laid eggs
- Bursting with the nourishing meats and fish (80%) Mother Nature evolved your dog to eat
Lily's Kitchen Senior Recipe Wet Dog Food (6 x 400 g)
£16.99
Features
- Nutritionally complete, grain free wet dog food - specifically made for senior dogs 7 years +
- Made with 60% freshly prepared turkey and 4% cranberries
- Green lipped mussel contains essential fatty acids, great support for healthy joints
- Salmon oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids to help support heart health
- Natural ingredients with no added sugar
Cesar Country Kitchen Dog Tray Special Selection in Gravy 8x 150g
Features
- country kitchen is a high quality dog food using a delicious range of rustic and hearty dishes with a lovingly homemade feel; cesar wet dog food in gravy will have your canine friend craving for more
- lovingly created to be both delicious and well-balanced for everyday enjoyment, individual portions of this dog food provide a moist, fresh meal each time
- these trays of high quality wet food recipes are made with carefully selected ingredients that you would expect from a luxury dog food
- at cesar we understand how the experiences you share with your dog bring you closer together; handy single dog food trays with mouth-watering sauces help keep your dog keen and interested
- country kitchen dog food in gravy contains no added sugar, artificial flavours or artificial colours
MediPaws® Dog Supplement | Scottish Salmon Oil For Dogs 500ml | Supports Dog Skin And Coat, Dog Itchy Skin & A Moulting Dog | Omega 3 Fish Oil | Perfect For Dog Grooming & Dog Food
Features
- No More Itchy, Dry Skin & Scratching – 100% Pure Scottish Salmon Oil For Dog Is An All-Natural Fish Oil Support Proven To Help Pets Of All Sizes Support Scratching, Itchy Skin, Ears, Paws & Hydrate Healthy Skin (No Need For Sprays)
- Soft Glossy Silky Shiny Coat – Powerful & Proven Omega 3-6-9 Fatty Acids Which Helps Maintain A Soft Glossy Silky Shiny Dog Coat While Supporting Overall Health & Wellbeing. Helps Moulting & Shedding Hair (Works Well With Dog Cool Coat)
- Supports Dog Joints & Immune System – Rich In Fatty Acids Which Support Joint Health & Function. Keeping The Heart & Immune System Healthy (Works Well with Dog Joint Supplements For Dog Agility)
- Quick, Simple, Easy To Use & Mess Free – Drizzled Over The Top or Mixed Directly Into The Food, The Mess Free & Easy To Use Leak-Proof Pump Dispenser Means You Can Forget Using Salmon Oil Capsules & Pump Directly Into Your Dog’s Food, Quick & Easy!
- 100% Natural & Cruelty Free – Dog Salmon Oil Is Ethically Sourced, GMO Free, All-Natural Sustainable Ingredients To Maintain Your Dog’s Overall Health & Wellbeing Safely With No Added Colours or Artificial Flavouring
Only the best for the dog – relating to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to 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 and in what quantity? Which 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 causes deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Simply as every person has their own own dietary 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 gastrointestinal system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs sugars, fats, oils, protein and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Consequently, they want less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Yet , the dog food should be easy to break down and include a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in terms of composition, technique of production and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrition the dog needs on a regular basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals varies with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the crucial nutrients. 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 pet shops and supermarkets usually comes from commercial production. This is the most common type of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. Nevertheless, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. By exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years without the 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. However , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to business food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will find differences between the various organic dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been processed. With all the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per cent organic. Whether it states “made with organic”, the product contains 70 per cent natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This dog food would not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– A unique form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually more healthy is debatable. Considering that the meals are put together individually, barfing much more ideal for experienced dog owners who have analyzed this 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 ought to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade dog or cat food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These kinds of are supposed to give the food an improved smell and preference. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid 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 uncooked materials and then grinding and blending them. A tool presses this mass through the opportunities of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other aspect. During the dog food production process, temperature ranges of about 90 certifications Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold hitting. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of need to be artificially added to the meals after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Feed produced in this way swells considerably 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 obviously, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food includes more natural substances. If the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system 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. However, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – damp food or dry out food?
There is certainly moist 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 . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and so teach their teeth. Consuming dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. For dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can become 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
- More affordable than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heat during production
- Even more eco-friendly than canned food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a diet food
- Risk of mould or mite formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Frequently one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. A large number of dogs like damp food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for canines – 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 benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in convenient helpings
- Because of the high water content in wet food, the dog 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
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- Even more difficult to move and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suitable for your dog. Your canine in the end 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 out both types.
Some dog owners change between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should only 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 exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients fit in 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 includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The proper composition of the dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to regarding predators. Thus 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 needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme are now able to break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
To start with, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy teeth and nerves and to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are no longer as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 pct meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meat to their four-legged friends, this can lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for example , vitamins and minerals found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty acids from healthy herbal oils. The four-legged good friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach 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 require it for their intestinal flora. On the other hand, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or straw tend to be added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are normally found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal body fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these substances only less often. Just how much should be in the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated oily acids. They may be stored in the body as emergency ration and are intended as a reserve for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 pct lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 % 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 nutrients such as biotin or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed oil based improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin.
How could i recognise high-quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before date of the dog food
– Identity of the meals
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various claims 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 data the individual raw materials, but not their percentage. The start declaration gives the composition in pct and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term feed into individual organizations. 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 really should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The elements in the supply are listed in descending order relating to their volume. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Alternatively, this implies: Only a small 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 ingredients with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Very little use of flavour enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is listed under the definition of “analytical ingredients”. We certainly 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 the dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is included. 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 instance , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They can be partially health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acid regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for example , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency 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 friend. They should be within 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 utilized to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. They include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is a growing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes inflammation. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles usually become overweight. Occasionally the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give puppies 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 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 from fat and has a slower metabolism. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs are still growing and tend to be more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It really is highly recommended to reduce the quantity of food a little annually. For more mature dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need 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 types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the calorie content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a lower 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 a normal activity level should be about two to three percent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that movements a lot or is recovering from an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 pct of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 pct of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I recognise a food allergic reaction?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of an allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , mi nombre es, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the difference between an allergic reaction and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain material. A real food allergy 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 itchiness, vomiting, stomach pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may well not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do certainly not have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. That they may also be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause solved with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to carry out an different diet. However, this involves a fine deal 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 friend has not eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. After the food change, your dog is fed the new food for several 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 allergies. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. However, it is advisable to seek advice from a professional or talk to the vet in advance.
Consistent action is crucial during an exemption diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or outstanding during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If it turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and everything dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it calls for a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often contains grains. Included in this are wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it causes obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternative ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also suitable for more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Some types of grain are also specifically easy to process. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without materials. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event 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 even poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, according to the size of the onion and the dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog eats raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky virus, that causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that dogs should not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw taters
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is advised in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should always be positioned in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the vet or the veterinary emergency service directly. Meanwhile, keep the dog in a safe environment. Nevertheless, 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 can occur with poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family members and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is crucial to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything from the side of the trail.
The best choice is the Skinner’s Field & Trial Light & Senior 15kg – Complete Dry Dog Food, Ideal for Older, Overweight or Less Active Dogs.
Skinner’s Field & Trial Light & Senior 15kg – Complete Dry Dog Food, Ideal for Older, Overweight or Less Active...
- DIETARY NEEDS - Field & Trial Light & Senior is a nutritionally complete dog food, specially developed and formulated for any dog that requires a less energy dense diet. Typically, older or less active dogs or those predisposed to weight gain. It has a wheat gluten free formulation, made with easily digestible chicken and contains enhanced levels of Glucosamine and Chondroitin to help support the joints.
Video about best dog food for older westies
FAQ – Frequently asked 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 have to have 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 8 weeks. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially made for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s gastrointestinal system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided with small portions many times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends upon the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are considered adults 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 elderly people?
For small dogs, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered mature at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age, the dog’s state 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 retained in an airtight 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 food can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is founded on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed unprocessed food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a well-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. However , you should inform yourself well or talk to with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can easily suffer from digestive : problems, a few of which can 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 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 changeover is complete.
In the event the dog acts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the version phase and boost the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food in any way, it is obviously not suited to him. In this instance, you should look for an alternative.
What should I actually do if my dog will not like dry food?
In that case it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier to allow them to become overweight and feel full. In case the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How quickly do dogs break down dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and scale the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The quantity of food is important too. Little 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 results in 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 mature dogs.
Are pet tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal 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 federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continues to give food to her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer provided with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a solution until the puppy 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 seem sensible?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it does incorporate some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners range from the special needs of their four-legged friend in the preparing and adapt the meals to these and the dog’s preference.
– 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 might be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the food, you should study the several ingredients. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often recommended to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergy symptoms. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your canine. Presently there is hypoallergenic dry out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. This contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that the dog will not tolerate it and that allergic reactions will occur.
Usually there is just one supply of proteins in such a product. This is usually an unique meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergic reactions. This happens when we have a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a delicate gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product provides protection against digestive problems.
