Only the best for the dog – regarding to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but above all, of course, food. The meals 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 wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is ideal at which age? Is usually dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be fed? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best dry dog food for small breeds, 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 ingredients and explain how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dry dog food for small breeds:
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IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 3 kg
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£8.23
£10.99 - Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey with... — £12.49
- Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds - Bowl Lickin' Chicken - 100%... — £13.90
- James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Duck and Rice, 1.5 kg — £13.99
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IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Senior Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken,...
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£15.99
£16.99 - Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog... — £18.12
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IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb, 12 kg
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£25.85
£32.95 -
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken,...
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£27.39
£32.95 -
Eukanuba Dog Food with Lamb and Rice for Small/Medium Breed, 12 Kg
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£38.99
£46.99 - James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Fish and...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dry dog food for small breeds of 2024. We would recommend using Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free – Turkey with Chicken Recipe, 1.5 kg as it is available at a resonable price.
Top 10 Best dry dog food for small breeds
Best dry dog food for small breeds
Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey with Chicken Recipe, 1.5 kg
Features
- ORAL HEALTH: Our small and crunchy nibbles reduce the build-up of plaque and are perfect for dogs with smaller mouths.
- HIP AND JOINT SUPPORT: Our Wellness CORE Small Breed Adult Original dry dog food supports the hip and joint of your small breed dog with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate. For an optimal body condition!
- HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: Our Wellness CORE dog food is easy to digest and contains prebiotic fibre and probiotics, providing your furry friend with a healthy digestive system!
- FRESH MEAT AS MAIN INGREDIENT: Our dry dog food contains fresh turkey and chicken. For a tasty meal with every bowl!
- LOW CARBS AND NO FILLERS: Our recipes are grain-free, supporting a high-protein and a meat-rich nutrition for your small breed dog.
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb, 12 kg
£25.85
Features
- Dog food for small and medium breeds with up to 85 percent of animal protein to support seven signs of healthy vitality
- Wheat free pet food with no fillers, artificial colours, flavours or GMOs
- Antioxidant blend with Vitamin E to help support the immune system of your dog
- Crunchy kibbles and tailored mineral levels for healthy teeth
- Dog food lovingly developed with vets and over 70 years experience
James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Fish and Vegetables, 1.5 kg
Features
- Suitable for Small Breed Adult dogs (up to 10kg), not suitable for puppies.
- All the goodness of James Welbeloved but formulated without cereals, making it ideal for those dogs who react to wheat, barley, oats, maize or rice.
- Naturally healthy, complete, hypo-allergenic food.
- The recipes are made using the finest natural ingredients, with all the nutrients pets need throughout their life.
- Contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, as we believe goodness tastes best.
Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds - Bowl Lickin' Chicken - 100% Natural Chicken with No Artificial Flavours, Good for Healthy Digestion and Joint Health, 1.5 kg
Features
- 100% NATURAL FREE-RUN CHICKEN - Our Bowl Lickin' Chicken dry dog food is made with 100% natural free-run chicken blended with a seriously yummy combination of garden veg and herbs, this chicken dinner isn’t called “Bowl Lickin” for nothing!
- GLUTEN FREE, NATURAL INGREDIENTS - This small dog food recipe is made using only the best quality, natural ingredients. Free from gluten, artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives
- NATURALLY HYPOALLERGENIC AND GLUTEN FREE - These dog biscuits are made using a sensitive formula ensuring a hypoallergenic dog food for your canine companion!
- BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM - This pet food boosts your furry friend's immune system and has everything you need to feed a happy, healthy small dog
- APPROVED BY VETS - Our natural dog food is approved by vets for adult dogs of a small breed
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
£27.39
Features
- IAMS for Vitality with fresh chicken for small and medium breed adult dogs is a 100% complete and balanced pet food that nourishes your dog's healthy vitality & Supporting 7 signs of healthy vitality
- Tailored fibre blend including prebiotics and beet pulp for healthy digestion & With high quality animal protein and essential minerals to help maintain strong muscles
- Contains Omega 3 & 6 to support healthy skin and shiny coat & Enriched with essential minerals and vitamin D to support strong bones
- Crunchy kibbles and tailored mineral levels to help reduce tartar build up for healthy teeth
- Contains antioxidant blend with vitamin C & E to help the immune system
Eukanuba Dog Food with Lamb and Rice for Small/Medium Breed, 12 Kg
£38.99
Features
- For small and medium adult dogs with a sensitive skin and digestion who prefer the taste of lamb
- Easy-to-digest proteins and beet fibre aid the absorption of nutrients and encourage a healthy digestion
- Valuable calcium and a good balance of nutrients help to support healthy bones and joints
- Contains no artificial colours, aromas or preservatives
James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Duck and Rice, 1.5 kg
Features
- Hypoallergenic dog food for pets with sensitivities, selected natural ingredients, no added artificial flavours, colours, or antioxidants
- Adult small breed dog food with a single source animal protein recipe excludes common allergens beef, pork, soya, eggs, dairy and wheat with natural prebiotics for mature dogs' healthy digestion
- Dog food dry with vitamin E and minerals to support the immune system, omega 6 fatty acids and zinc to promote healthy skin and coat
- Duck meal – A delicious source of protein with essential minerals brown and white rice a highly digestible carbohydrate, linseed a great source of omega 3
- Chicory extract – A source of prebiotic inulin helping to maintain the gut flora, yucca a natural deodoriser for less smelly poos, smaller kibble for small breed dogs' smaller mouths
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Senior Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 5 kg
£15.99
Features
- IAMS for Vitality with fresh chicken for large breed adult dogs is a 100% complete and balanced pet food that nourishes your dog's healthy vitality & Supporting 7 signs of healthy vitality
- Tailored fibre blend including prebiotics and beet pulp for healthy digestion & With high quality animal protein and essential minerals to help maintain strong muscles
- Contains Omega 3 & 6 to support healthy skin and shiny coat & Enriched with essential minerals and vitamin D to support strong bones
- Crunchy kibbles and tailored mineral levels to help reduce tartar build up for healthy teeth
- Contains antioxidant blend with vitamin C & E to help the immune system
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 3 kg
£8.23
Features
- IAMS for Vitality with fresh chicken for small and medium breed puppies is a 100% complete and balanced pet food that nourishes your puppy's healthy vitality & Supporting 7 signs of healthy vitality
- Contains DHA to promote healthy brain development & With high quality animal protein and essential minerals to support healthy growth
- Contains antioxidant blend with vitamin C & E to help the immune system & Enriched with essential minerals and vitamin D to support strong bones
- Crunchy kibbles and tailored mineral levels for healthy teeth
- Tailored fibre blend including prebiotics and beet pulp for healthy digestion
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
The particular best for the dog – regarding to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Comparable to 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 usually food is ideal at which age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be given? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and make clear how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Merely as every person has their own health needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should come in 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 carbs, fats, oils, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. As a result, they require less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Yet , the dog food should be easy to break down and contain a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in conditions of composition, technique of development and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrients the dog needs on a daily 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. A whole food can be dry or cast food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the crucial nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends 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 grocery stores usually comes from industrial production. This kind of is the most typical kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of professional 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 several years without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to industrial food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are distinctions between the various organic dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been processed. With the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per penny organic. If this claims “made with organic”, the product contains 70 per dollar organic and natural ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food does not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually more healthy is debatable. Since the meals are put together individually, barfing is far more suitable for experienced pet 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 kind of is a statement that should 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 kinds of are supposed to supply the food an improved smell and flavor. Some dog lovers also avoid dog or cat food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is made by first drying the raw materials and then grinding and blending them. A tool presses this mass through the openings of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other aspect. Throughout the dog food production process, temperatures of around 90 degrees Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the word cold hitting. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized 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 must be artificially added to the food after processing. During processing, 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 elements. In the event the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system 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. However, the manufacturing process is just a supplementary factor in deciding the tolerability and quality of the meals. The most important thing is the quality of the raw materials.
Which is better – wet food or dry food?
There is wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food consists of almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and therefore coach their teeth. Consuming dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can be considered 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 huge benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- More affordable than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heat during production
- More environmentally friendly than processed food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. A large number of dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for puppies – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It should be used up within 2 times of opening. Under we have summarised the benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful portions
- Since 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, wet food cannot be stored perfectly
- Good sized dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to move and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more intense
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your dog in the end decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
A few dog owners change between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should just be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much various meats and how many carbohydrates and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The standard of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – no matter of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to that of predators. Therefore 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, and its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
To start with, 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. As a result, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 pct meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meat with their four-legged friends, this may lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not present in meat – for instance , vitamins and mineral deposits found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach and intestinal material of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw are often added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are located 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 meals should contain these chemicals only moderately. 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 rations and are meant as a hold for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 percent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 per cent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrition such as biotin or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon oil or linseed fat improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat and healthy skin area.
How do i recognise superior quality dog food?
Dog food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of manufacture or best-before time of the dog food
– Brand of the meals
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient teams. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual natural materials, however, not their percentage. The open declaration gives the structure in % and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the definition of feed into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meals, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large quantities.
2. The ingredients in the supply are listed in descending order relating to their quantity. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. On the other hand, what this means is: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over the list is within 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 vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of taste enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is listed under the word “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and animal by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Companies often do not declare just what is engaged. It could 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, bone fragments, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood as well as by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish heads.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They are partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and level of acidity regulators. Some 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 good friend. They should be contained in the right composition, 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 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 puppies 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 irritation. 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 may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. At times the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he uses, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give dogs the necessary food. How much pet food a dog needs depends on various factors. In addition to the breed, the following 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. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs are still growing and in many cases are more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It really is highly recommended to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. When dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can climb 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 food content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the next 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 per cent 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 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 percent of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognise a food allergic reaction?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of the allergy are, for instance , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and cause.
What is the difference between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A real food allergy or intolerance 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, belly pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
Nevertheless, the symptoms do certainly not have to indicate an allergy or intolerance or intolerance. They may also be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause solved with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or intolerance or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to handle an different diet. However, this involves a fine deal of effort.
What is an exemption diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special supply of protein and carbohydrates. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by bit. Following your food change, your canine is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition increases and the symptoms no more 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 allergic reactions. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is a good idea to seek advice from a professional or speak to the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is essential during an exemption diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this 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 more eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it needs some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely months following the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often consists of grains. These include wheat, 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 digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also suitable for more sensitive dogs. However , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. Some types of materials are also especially easy to digest. 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 your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your dog 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 canines can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and organic 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. If a dog eats raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky disease, which causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw potatoes
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruits starts
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as caffeine
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is recommended in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should always be placed in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the doctor or the veterinary emergency service directly. At the same time, keep your dog in a safe environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that could occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Trouble sleeping
- 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 important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all from the side of the trail.
The best choice is the Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free – Turkey with Chicken Recipe, 1.5 kg.
Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey with Chicken Recipe, 1.5 kg
- ORAL HEALTH: Our small and crunchy nibbles reduce the build-up of plaque and are perfect for dogs with smaller mouths.
- HIP AND JOINT SUPPORT: Our Wellness CORE Small Breed Adult Original dry dog food supports the hip and joint of your small breed dog with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate. For an optimal body condition!
Video about best dry dog food for small breeds
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should We look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies desire a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the case after about 8 weeks. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially made for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With puppy dog dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the puppy food must contain certain essential minerals and vitamins. So that the puppy’s gastrointestinal system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided with small portions several times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This will depend on the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are believed older people from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small dogs, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large bread of dogs are considered older at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age, the dog’s condition of health is also an important criterion. It is highly recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an foolproof 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 natural 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, 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 consult 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 puppies in particular can easily suffer from digestive problems, a few of which may be considerable. An interval of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd 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.
If the dog reacts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the foodstuff change, you should extend the version phase and raise the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food in any way, it is obviously not suitable for him. In this case, you should look for an alternate.
What should I do if my dog does not like dry food?
After that 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 so they can become overweight and feel full. If the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is easier to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How quickly do dogs digest 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 size of the dog and the caliber of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The amount of food is also important. Tiny portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also leads to faster digestion. In addition , the more liquid the food 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 discover 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 listing 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 example , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother is constantly on the give food to her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it feels right to moisten or dilute it with some liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer fed with mother’s milk.
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, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does indeed it sound right?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it does have some advantages:
– If 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 good friend in the preparation 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 instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it can be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before planning the food, you should study the various substances. The food should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is highly recommended to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergic reactions. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your dog. There is hypoallergenic dry food and allergies wet food on the market. That contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is only one source of necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an unique meat, such as kangaroo or drinking 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 business lead to allergies. This kind of happens when we have a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a very sensitive digestive system. For these dogs, such a product provides prevention of digestive problems.
