Only the best for the dog – regarding to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog 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. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable from which age? Is definitely dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best dry dog food for small dogs, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and describe how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot put up with and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dry dog food for small dogs:
- Wellness CORE Small Breed Ocean Dog Food Dry - Salmon with tuna recipe, 1.5 kg — £12.49
- James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Lamb and Rice, 1.5 kg — £13.90
- James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Turkey and Rice,... — £15.43
- Applaws Complete and Grain Free Dry Dog Food Small/Medium breed Adult Chicken... — £16.59
- Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog... — £20.66
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IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken,...
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£27.39
£32.95 -
PRO PLAN Small and Mini Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice 7kg
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£36.29
£41.99 - The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium... — £37.70
- James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Fish and...
- Pedigree Dry Dog Food for Adult Small Dogs from 5-10 kg with Chicken and...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dry dog food for small dogs of 2024. We would recommend using IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 12 kg as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best dry dog food for small dogs
Best dry dog food for small dogs
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
James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Turkey 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 mature dogs' immune system, with essential amino acids to help maintain healthy hearts
- Turkey meal - A delicious protein from sustainable sources, brown and white rice a highly digestible carbohydrate, alfalfa a natural source of fibre and the antioxidant beta carotene
- 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
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.
Pedigree Dry Dog Food for Adult Small Dogs from 5-10 kg with Chicken and Vegetables, 5 Bags (5 x 900 g)
Features
- 100 percent complete and balanced
- No added artificial flavour
- No added flavour enhancers
- Developed by vets
- Chicken and vegetables
James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Lamb 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
- Lamb 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
PRO PLAN Small and Mini Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice 7kg
£36.29
Features
- OPTIBALANCE is a combination of specific nutrients that are balanced at levels to promote overall health.
- Specifically adapted nutrient concentration to support the fast metabolism of small dogs
- A combination of key nutrients that helps to support healthy joints for your dog’s active lifestyle
- Helps maintain your dog's healthy heart.
- Specially formulated for dental care.
Wellness CORE Small Breed Ocean Dog Food Dry - Salmon with tuna recipe, 1.5 kg
Features
- HEALTHY SKIN AND SHINY COAT: Our CORE Small Breed Adult Ocean perfectly supports a healthy skin and shiny coat for your small breed dog thanks to the omega-3 fatty acids from salmon.
- FRESH FISH AS MAIN INGREDIENT: Our dry dog food contains a pure fish formula to support your small breed dog’s sensitive stomach.
- HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: Our Wellness CORE Small Breed Adult Ocean for smaller dogs is easy to digest and contains prebiotic fibre and probiotics, providing your furry friend with a healthy digestive system!
- LOW CARBS AND NO FILLERS: Our recipes are grain-free, supporting a high-protein and a meat-rich nutrition for your small breed dog.
- ORAL HYGIENE: Our CORE Small Breed Adult Ocean crunchy kibbles are smaller than the original kibbles making them perfect for smaller mouths. These kibbles help reduce the plaque build-up of your dog’s teeth. For a healthy oral hygiene!
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 Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium Breeds - 14 Kilograms, Formula with Chicken, Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Features
- Ideal for adult dogs of small and medium breeds - the size, structure and shape of these kibbles are adapted to suit small and medium dog breeds.
- Healthy formula - contains essential amino acids for tissue recovery, all-round good health and also Vitamins E and C which increase immunity, enhance cell protection and regeneration.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- The real label - 280 g of chicken meal in 1 kg of food corresponds to 1120 g of fresh meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use a meal so we do not claim very high content of raw meat only to make the labels look much better to the consumer than they really are. Raw meat may contain 70%-90% water. For example chicken meal is simply fresh chicken that has already been cooked to remove moisture – this makes it a much more highly-concentrated source of protein.
- A delicious taste your dog will love - by creating this dog food we remembered about ancestors of dogs - wolves, which are true carnivores, therefore, the main ingredient of our food is always meat.
Applaws Complete and Grain Free Dry Dog Food Small/Medium breed Adult Chicken with Lamb 2 kg
Features
- 75% chicken with lamb, 25% vegetables and natural extracts. High meat content promotes the development of lean muscle tissue.
- Complete, hypoallergenic & balanced recipe with no added sugar and low carbohydrates, promoting a healthy weight and reducing the chance of obseity.
- Natural Omega 3 & 6 for a healthy, shiny coat and brain development.
- Grain free recipe for easier digestion and relief of grain related allergies.
- Contains natural pre-biotic and pro-biotic promoting protective and friendly bacteria in the gut.
The particular best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but above all, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which food is ideal where age? Is definitely dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and describe how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot put up with and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Merely as every person has their own dietary needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that goes into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group 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, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. Consequently, they require less energy, i. e. calorie consumption. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to digest and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in phrases of composition, method of production and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrients the dog needs every day. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals differs with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the vital 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 dog or cat shops and food markets usually comes from business production. This kind of is the most common form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of professional dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. By exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time without the loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. However , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dried out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are variations between the various natural dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been prepared. With the claim “organic”, the constituents in the natural food are 95 per cent organic. If it states “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per dollar organic ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This kind of dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive 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 ever barfing, the dog is fed raw fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are put together individually, barfing is more suited to experienced pet owners who have learned 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 needs 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 provide the food the smell and taste. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is created by first drying the raw materials and then grinding and blending them. A painting tool presses this mass through the spaces of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other part. Throughout the dog food production process, temps of around 90 certifications Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the term cold depressing. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These have to be artificially added to the food after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is communicated through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells significantly 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 normally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food includes more natural substances. In the event the four-legged 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 only a secondary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the meals. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – moist food or dry 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 contains very little water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and so train their teeth. Ingesting dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. For dogs that drink little, feeding dried 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
- Less expensive than cast food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more eco-friendly than refined food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a diet food
- 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. Frequently one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Various dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for puppies – once opened up – can only be kept for a few times. It ought to be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Beneath we have summarised the advantages and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in convenient servings
- Mainly because of the high water content in wet food, your dog 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 very well
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- More difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
It is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your canine eventually chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try away both types.
A few dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much meats and how many carbohydrates and nutrients belong in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious diet. It is important that the dog food includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The proper composition of your 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 system is similar to that of predators. So first and foremost, the resource of meat is important. However , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest herb food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are not as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts say that dog food should contain between 50 and 70 percent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meats for their four-legged friends, this could lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not found in meat – for example , vitamins and mineral deposits found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach and intestinal contents of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from hemp, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay are often added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the meals should contain these chemicals only moderately. Just how much should maintain the dog food will depend on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated oily acids. They are stored in the body as emergency ration and are designed as a hold for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 % lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 pct high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary vitamins and minerals. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as biotin or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed oil improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin area.
How could i recognise superior quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Address and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before day of the dog food
– Identity of the food
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual raw materials, although not their percentage. The open up declaration gives the structure 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 grain into individual groupings. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The elements in the supply are listed in descending order according to their volume. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the greater its proportion. On the other hand, this means: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout 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 vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of flavor enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is outlined 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 canine by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is included. It can 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 its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and oil fruits. They can be to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acidity regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity of oil and water. Natural 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 search for elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are used to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies suffer! Obesity is a growing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. But age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. Occasionally 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 consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give canines the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends upon various factors. In addition to the breed, the following aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A puppy that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories from fat and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs are still growing and are often more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It truly is highly recommended to reduce the number of food a little each year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need 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 kinds 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 hormone levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the caloric content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the subsequent 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 two to three per cent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 per cent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 pct of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
Just how can I identify a food allergy?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of an allergy are, for instance , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A true food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up immediately 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 or intolerance. They will can be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or intolerance or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to carry out an exclusion diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special supply of protein and carbs. 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 the food change, the dog is fed the new food for many weeks.
When the dog’s condition improves 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, which could be the trigger for the allergies. Over 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 pet owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to check with a professional or talk to the vet in advance.
Consistent action is vital during an exclusion diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged 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 your canine cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it needs a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely months following your change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often includes grains. Such as wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it results in obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of grain, it contains option ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also suited to more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Several types of feed are also particularly easy to process. These include maize and rice, for example. In some cases, 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.
If 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 canines can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, according to the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog eats raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pups should not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw potatoes
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugar and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- 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 be positioned in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the doctor or the veterinary crisis service directly. At the same time, keep your dog in a secure 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 could occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat whatever from the side of the street.
The best choice is the IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 12 kg.
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
- 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
Video about best dry dog food for small dogs
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies have to have a different dog food than adult canines. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the case after about 2 months. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially created for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With puppy dog dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the puppy dog food must contain certain essential minerals and vitamins. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends 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 elderly people?
For small puppies, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large different 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 snug container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the foodstuff can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed unprocessed food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should advise yourself well or check with with experts.
What do We have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can easily suffer from digestive : problems, a number of which can be considerable. A period of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Within the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
In the event the dog responds 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 cases like this, you should look for an option.
What should I actually do if my dog will not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier so they can become overweight and feel full. In case the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is easier to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with soaked dry food.
How quickly do dogs digest dry food?
Canines 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 caliber of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The number of food is important too. Tiny portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also brings about faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquid the foodstuff is, the short 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 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. Solid food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this period, the mother continues to feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it seems sensible to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with pup milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer fed with mother’s 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 – will it make sense?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it really does have some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners may include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the preparation and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s taste.
– 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 may be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the foodstuff, you should study the different ingredients. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often advisable to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suitable for dogs with allergies. It truly is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your dog. There is hypoallergenic dry out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. That contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is only one supply of protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergy symptoms. This happens when there exists a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is well suited for four-legged friends with a delicate gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product provides protection against digestive problems.
