Only the best for the dog – relating to this saying, 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 comes 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. 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. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which food is appropriate where age? Is dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be provided? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best dry dog food, we present 10 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet 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 learn which foods dogs cannot endure and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dry dog food:
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Alpha Adult Worker Maintenance Complete Dry Dog Food British Beef, 15 kg
—
£22.24
£22.95 -
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken,...
—
£27.39
£32.95 -
Autarky Hypoallergenic Delicious Chicken Dry Dog Food with Added Herbs, 12 kg
—
£27.45
£28.75 - Burgess Supadog Adult dry dog food with tasty chicken 15 kg — £28.99
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HARRINGTONS Dog Food Complete Lamb and Rice Dry Mix, 15 kg
—
£29.00
£29.89 -
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb, 12 kg
—
£30.94
£32.95 - Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £47.99
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Arden Grange Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
—
£48.00
£50.99 -
Lily's Kitchen Chicken and Duck Countryside Casserole - Grain Free Adult Dry...
—
£48.75
£58.10 -
Harringtons Complete Grain Free Hypoallergenic Chicken & Sweet Potato Dry Dog...
—
£51.79
£56.00
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dry dog food of 2024. We would recommend using HARRINGTONS Dog Food Complete Lamb and Rice Dry Mix, 15 kg as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best dry dog food
Best dry dog food
HARRINGTONS Dog Food Complete Lamb and Rice Dry Mix, 15 kg
£29.00
Features
- 1. THE NATURAL CHOICE - At Harringtons, we believe every dog deserves natural food that's balanced, wholesome and tasty. From puppies to seniors to special diets, we make a range that's perfect for you
- 2. RICH IN LAMB - Harringtons Lamb & Rice Dry Dog Food 15kg is a complete adult dog food that has been carefully formulated using all natural ingredients to provide wholesome nutrition for your dog
- 3. NO NASTIES - The #1 ingredient in our dry dog food is meat, for a nutritionally balanced meal. And we never use artificial colour and flavours or added wheat
- 4. CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT - As part of our efforts to keep packaging to a minimum and help send less packaging waste to landfill, this pack is 100% polyethylene and can be recycled
- 5. MADE IN THE UK – Harringtons dog food is proudly made by ourselves right here in the UK and has been family run since 1923
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for normally active adult dogs; Containing fresh chicken which is a highly digestible protein source
- 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 dog
- Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and 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
- This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Lily's Kitchen Chicken and Duck Countryside Casserole - Grain Free Adult Dry Dog Food (7 kg)
£48.75
Features
- Keep your pooch happy with this bag of complete and balanced food, made to a grain-free recipe* for dogs 4 months+
- This dry dog food is made with natural ingredients including freshly prepared meat and offal. We’re talking 31% fresh chicken and 8% freshly prepared duck with prebiotics to help encourage healthy digestion
- Why not try the rest of our delicious dog food, all made with natural ingredients. From wholesome wet food to delicious organic options, treats, recipes with one source of animal protein, and more, each suitable for small, medium and large dogs
- As a B Corp company, we are committed to our target to be fully recyclable by 2025. To find out more about our sustainable initiatives, and how we use our business as a force for good! Visit our brand store
- Here at Lily’s Kitchen, we make proper dog food and cat food made with natural ingredients and freshly prepared meat and offal. Only the best for your furry family
Autarky Hypoallergenic Delicious Chicken Dry Dog Food with Added Herbs, 12 kg
£27.45
Features
- Delicious chicken offers naturally balanced hypoallergenic dog food for adult active dogs; the diet is packed with high levels of essential fatty acids and B vitamins to give dogs a healthy coat and skin and boost scenting ability
- 20 percent protein, 12 percent fat, this diet has been designed to keep a dogs energy at a maintained level
- The diet is wheat gluten and soya free making the diet a good option for dogs with a sensitive stomach; prebiotics are also included to support digestive health
- The diet includes taurine and carnitine which helps to keep hearts healthy while the addition of herbs and natural antioxidants support the immune system
- Formulated by a leading canine nutritionist, delicious chicken is naturally hypoallergenic with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
Burgess Supadog Adult dry dog food with tasty chicken 15 kg
Features
- Burgess Supadog Adult with tasty chicken is a dry dog food that is suitable for all breeds of adult dogs
- Specially formulated to be suitable for all breeds
- Fortified with calcium and minerals to support healthy teeth and bones
- Biotin and zinc to support skin and coat health
- Made with highly digestible ingredients to help support healthy digestion
Alpha Adult Worker Maintenance Complete Dry Dog Food British Beef, 15 kg
£22.24
Features
- Value for money
- Good product with good quality
- Durable
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Lamb, 12 kg
£30.94
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
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
Harringtons Complete Grain Free Hypoallergenic Chicken & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food 15kg
£51.79
Features
- Grain Free Formulation for Sensitive Digestions
- With Freshly Prepared Chicken, A Good Source of Protein
- No Soya, Dairy, Egg, Beef, Pork or Added Wheat
- Beet Pulp & Chicory to Help Promote A Healthy Digestive System
- Balanced Ratio of Omega 6 & 3 Oils for A Glossy Coat
Arden Grange Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
£48.00
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for large breed adult dogs; Benefiting from a larger kibble size for a bigger bite and increased levels of glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM which may help maintain supple, strong joints and cartilage which is so important in large and giant breeds
- 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 dog
- Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and 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; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
- Large kibble size
The particular 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 foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. 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 and what quantity? Which food is ideal where age? Is dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? 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 pet dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and explain how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot endure and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food quickly
Just as every person has their own own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that goes into the dog’s bowl should be produced 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 digestive tract 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 for a longer time as active. Therefore, they want less energy, i. e. calories from fat. However , the dog food should be easy to digest and contain a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in terms of composition, method of creation and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrition the dog needs on a daily basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements is different according to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the vital nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in pet shops and food markets usually comes from industrial production. This kind of is the most frequent kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. Nevertheless, some manufacturers of business 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 several years without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Yet , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In terms of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to business 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 not contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are dissimilarities between the various natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been highly processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per penny organic. Whether it says “made with organic”, the product includes 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 available too on the market. This dog food does not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– A unique form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed raw 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 is far more suitable for experienced dog owners who have learned the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is an assertion that ought to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These are supposed to provide the food an improved smell and taste. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid dog or cat 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 mixing them. A painting tool presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other part. Throughout the dog food production process, temps of approximately 90 certifications Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold pressing. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These types of need to be artificially added to the food after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food consists of more natural substances. In the event 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. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is just an extra factor in determining 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 out food?
There is wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and so coach their teeth. Consuming dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. For 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 benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less costly than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more environmentally friendly than processed food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or 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 compares to one meal. Many dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for canines – once opened – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It should be used up within 2 times of opening. Below we have summarised the advantages and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful servings
- 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 perfectly
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your dog finally 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 this individual tolerates better, you should try away both types.
A few dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following relates to both types of food: It should just be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much meat and how many sugars and nutrients fit in in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless 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 good friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to that of predators. Therefore to start with, the supply 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 chemical are now able to break down starch, meaning 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 teeth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are no longer as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts say that dog food should contain between 50 and 70 % meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meats with 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.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not found in meat – for instance , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty stomach acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach and intestinal contents of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw tend to be added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fats 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 depends upon how much the dog moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated fatty acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency rations and are designed as a hold for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain saturated 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 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-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 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 oil based improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin area.
How can I recognise high-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 date of the dog food
– Brand of the foodstuff
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various assertions are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual natural materials, but not their percentage. The open up declaration provides 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 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 source. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large amounts.
2. The ingredients in the feed are listed in descending order relating to their quantity. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. On the other hand, this implies: Only a small proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout the list is included in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavor enhancers
These nutrition 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 nutrition in a dog food is detailed 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 animal by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is included. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for instance , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood as well as its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive 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 solidifying agents and acid regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity of oil and water. Natural vitamin antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be within the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace 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 widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight dogs suffer! Obesity is an increasing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. That can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes irritation. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , 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 tend to become overweight. At times the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event that the four-legged friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give dogs the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends upon various factors. In addition to the breed, the next aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A 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: More youthful dogs are still growing and tend to be more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It truly is highly recommended to reduce the number of food a little annually. For more mature dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age group of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs around 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 surge or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the caloric content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the subsequent 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 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 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that movements a lot or is coping with 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.
Anyone who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
How can I recognize a food allergy?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of an allergy are, for instance , stress, unwanted organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can trigger allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the difference between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain substance. A real food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Feasible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, abs pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not exactly show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do certainly not have to indicate an allergy or intolerance or intolerance. They can even be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause solved with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to undertake an exemption 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 supply of protein and carbohydrates. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend hasn’t eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little. After the food change, the dog is fed the new food for many weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which could be the trigger for the allergic reactions. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is a good idea to consult a professional or speak with the vet in advance.
Consistent action is vital during an exclusion diet. The dog really 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 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 absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it takes a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely weeks following the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often contains grains. Included in this are 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 contributes to obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, 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 also suitable for more sensitive dogs. However , 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 feed are also specifically easy to break down. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
If you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not 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. Some of them are actually poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, organic 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 the dog eats raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky virus, that causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pups must not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw taters
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw eggs
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is advised in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always be placed in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous because of it, you should contact the vet or maybe the veterinary emergency service directly. Meanwhile, maintain the dog in a secure environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Trouble sleeping
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives 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 whatever from the side of the street.
The best choice is the HARRINGTONS Dog Food Complete Lamb and Rice Dry Mix, 15 kg.
HARRINGTONS Dog Food Complete Lamb and Rice Dry Mix, 15 kg
- 1. THE NATURAL CHOICE - At Harringtons, we believe every dog deserves natural food that's balanced, wholesome and tasty. From puppies to seniors to special diets, we make a range that's perfect for you
Video about best dry dog food
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 desire a different dog food than adult puppies. 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 substances 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 develop.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions many times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This is determined by the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are considered 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 older persons?
For small dogs, the change 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 different breeds are considered older at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to era, the dog’s express of health is also an important criterion. It is advisable to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be held 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 taste and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
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 organic feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, 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. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , 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 must be done slowly. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive puppies in particular can easily suffer from digestive : problems, a few of that can be considerable. A time of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 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 three quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
If the dog reacts sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the foodstuff change, you should extend the variation phase and boost the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not well suited for him. In cases like this, you should look for an alternate.
What should We do if my dog would 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 in the stomach first. This makes it easier to allow them to become overweight and feel full. In the event 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?
Puppies usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dry food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The amount of food is also important. Small portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also results in faster digestion. Additionally , the more water the foodstuff is, the short the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
There are 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 set 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 ever may i start nourishing a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother continually give food to her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense 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 given with mother’s dairy.
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 seem sensible?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it will incorporate some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners may include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the planning and adapt the food 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 can be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the food, you should study different elements. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often advisable to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suitable for dogs with allergic reactions. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by the dog. Presently there is hypoallergenic dried out food and allergies wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Consequently, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your dog will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is only one supply 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 causes an intolerance. Nevertheless, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergic reactions. This happens when there exists a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot tolerate.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a very sensitive digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product can offer protection against digestive problems.
