Only the best for the dog – relating to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but most importantly, of course, food. The food 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. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which usually food is appropriate from which age? Is definitely dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best ethical raw dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and describe how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot put up with and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best ethical raw dog food:
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Pets Purest Natural Dog Treat Chews - 100% Healthy Air-Dried Pork & Beef...
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£7.64
£8.99 -
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Chicken and Salmon Natural Grain Free Complete...
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£7.64
£9.40 - Organic Coconut Oil CocoNativo - 1000mL (1Liter) - Extra Virgin Coconut Oil,... — £9.95
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Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and...
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£12.37
£15.99 - Beco Cod & Haddock with Kale and Chickpeas - 2kg - Natural & Grain Free... — £17.00
- NATUREDIET Feel Good Selection Pack Complete Wet Food, 390g (Pack of 16) — £19.99
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Pooch & Mutt - Wet Dog Food (Grain Free), Complete & Fresh, Mixed Flavours,...
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£22.95
£23.99 - Beco Free Range Chicken with Carrot and Chicory - 6kg - Natural & Grain Free... — £51.00
- Beco Wild Boar with Broccoli and Pumpkin - 12kg - Natural & Grain Free... — £99.99
- Pets Purest Dog Treats Beefy Bites - 100% Natural Air-Dried Chews for Dogs,...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best ethical raw dog food of 2024. We would recommend using Beco Wild Boar with Broccoli and Pumpkin – 12kg – Natural & Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best ethical raw dog food
Best ethical raw dog food
Beco Wild Boar with Broccoli and Pumpkin - 12kg - Natural & Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food
Features
- HYPOALLERGENIC | Wild Boar is a novel protein which makes this recipe perfect for dogs with common allergies or intolerances to things like beef or chicken. It's delicious gamey flavour is also loved by even the fussiest dogs!
- NUTRITIOUS SUPERFOODS | Packed with fresh meat & vegetables, including Broccoli, Pumpkin & Spirulina. This recipe is gently digestible and hypoallergenic. What’s more, we’ve added extra vitamins & minerals to
- COOKED LOW & SLOW | We slow-cook our meals between 90 - 120˚C so every bite contains the same protein, vitamins, oils and flavours of the original ingredients. Not only does that mean they’re delicious, it
- RESPONSIBLY SOURCED | We source our free-roaming wild boar from Germany. Using wild boar instead of beef reduces the carbon footprint (CO2e) of the meat by 98%. It's all thanks to their naturally foraged diet,
- GRAIN FREE | Some dogs struggle to digest certain grains, which results in gas, itchy skin or unpleasant poops. We avoid that by using vegetables and superfoods instead of grains, making every mouthful really delicious and easy to digest.
Pets Purest Natural Dog Treat Chews - 100% Healthy Air-Dried Pork & Beef Sausage Meat Treats for Dogs, Puppy & Senior. Grain & Gluten Free Low Fat Raw Protein Dog Food Snack (200g)
£7.64
Features
- RAW & HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Treat your canine to a delicious reward snack that isn't associated with the problems of unhealthier dog chew products. Pork & Beef are the only ingredients making it a perfect pet safe alternative for a good boy or girl
- JUNK FREE: There are no additives, colourings, preservatives, sugar or grain in our all natural dog chews. Itching, digestive pain, obesity and allergic reactions are all symptoms that can be associated with unhealthy doggie treats, but not ours
- 100% NATURAL: Unlike rawhide chews that use chemical based air drying for reduced drying times, we use a chemical free air drying process that is better for furry best friends. You can have total peace of mind with our dog friendly healthy treats
- PET HEALTH & TRAINING: Our beef and pork sausage meat munchies contain only two ingredients making them a grain, gluten & lactose free option for any dog on a raw food diet. These hypoallergenic dog gift treats are also suitable training treats too
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Our sausages for dogs are expertly dried using low temperatures to lock in vitamins, minerals and goodness along with an enhancing aroma.
Pets Purest Dog Treats Beefy Bites - 100% Natural Air-Dried Chews for Dogs, Puppy & Senior. Pure Healthy Hypoallergenic Grain, Gluten & Lactose Free Raw Dog Food Treat Snacks (100g)
Features
- RAW & HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Treat your canine to a pure and delicious reward snack that isn't associated with the problems of unhealthier dog chew products. Beef is the only ingredient making it a perfect pet safe alternative for a good boy or girl
- JUNK FREE: There are no additives, colourings, preservatives, sugar or grain in any of our natural dog chews. Itching, digestive pain, obesity and allergic reactions are all symptoms that can be associated with unhealthy doggie treats, but not ours
- 100% NATURAL: Unlike rawhide chews that use chemical based air drying for reduced drying times, we use a chemical free air drying process that is better for furry best friends. You can have total peace of mind with our dog friendly healthy treats
- PET HEALTH: Our pet meat munchies only contain beef, making them grain, gluten & lactose free treats for dogs on a raw food diet. These hypoallergenic dog snacks are great for training, and help cause less plaque tartar build up in teeth and gums
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Our beefy bites for dogs are expertly dried using low temperatures to lock in vitamins, minerals and enhanced aroma goodness. We are so confident that your dog will love these tasty bites that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee
NATUREDIET Feel Good Selection Pack Complete Wet Food, 390g (Pack of 16)
Features
- NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED - This complete and nutritionally balanced natural dog food contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs for a healthy diet. Our Selection of Feel Good Small Breed Wet Dog Food includes: 4 wholesome and nourishing recipes: 8 x Feel Good Chicken 200g, 8 x Feel Good Lamb 200g, 8 x Feel Good Chicken & Lamb 200g and 8 x Feel Good Turkey & Chicken 200g packs.
- 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS FOR GENTLE DIGESTION - Our recipes are simple, wholesome, and made with 100% natural ingredients to provide a gentle, nourishing diet that’s ideal for fussy eaters and dogs with sensitive tummies.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL BREEDS & SIZES - Our natural wet food meals provide a nourishing diet for adult dogs of all sizes and breeds. Conveniently packaged in eco-friendly cartons this healthy, super nutritious meal is packed with taste but with less packaging waste.
- BRITISH MADE - Naturediet foods are expertly made in Norfolk with British sourced ingredients, to keep food miles low and our carbon footprint small.
- ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING - Good for your dog and for the planet! Naturediet foods are packaged in fully recyclable plant-based cartons made from sustainably sourced, renewable materials.
Organic Coconut Oil CocoNativo - 1000mL (1Liter) - Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Premium, Native, Cold Pressed, Raw Food Quality, Pure (1000ml) - for Cooking, Frying and Baking, for Hair and Skin
Features
- CocoNativo - organic coconut oil containing up to 53% lauric acid.
- Premium quality, raw, vegan, gluten and lactose free, trans-fatty acid free, unrefined, non-deodorized.
- Our organic coconut oil is first cold pressed and 100% natural.
- Perfect for cooking, frying and baking but also for external use as skin and hair care.
- Extra Virgin Organic coconut oil CocoNativo is natural oil without additives and very versatile.
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Chicken and Salmon Natural Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food (1 kg)
£7.64
Features
- Give your pup the healthiest start in life with this dry bag of complete, natural food brimming with freshly prepared meat and offal, with wholesome ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy, growing joints
- We’ve also used other freshly prepared ingredients including nutritious organs, vegetables and fruit in this puppy dry dog food, and an array of nutritious botanical herbs. This natural food provides gentle digestion, too
- Our selection of treats, dry, wet and organic dog food is made with freshly prepared meat and offal, and naturally nutritious, wholesome ingredients. You can also find food for allergic dogs for those with meat intolerances
- 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 brandstore
- Here at Lily’s Kitchen, we make proper food using responsibly sourced ingredients and freshly prepared meat and offal, so we can provide your pet with wholesome, natural food. Only the best for your furry family
Beco Cod & Haddock with Kale and Chickpeas - 2kg - Natural & Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food
Features
- LOW FAT, HIGH OMEGAS | This recipe is low fat and packed with omega 3 and omega 6. Which makes it great for your dog's eyesight as well as helping to support healthy joints and a shiny coat.
- NUTRITIOUS SUPERFOODS | Packed with fresh meat & vegetables, including Kale, Chickpeas and Broccoli. This recipe is gently digestible and low in fat. What’s more, we’ve added extra vitamins & minerals to help keep your dog happy and healthy.
- COOKED LOW & SLOW | We slow-cook our meals between 90 - 120˚C so every bite contains the same protein, vitamins, oils and flavours of the original ingredients. Not only does that mean they’re delicious, it provides a diet that has all the nutrients of a meal served fresh, with the convenience of dry food.
- RESPONSIBLY SOURCED | The cod & haddock in this recipe is wild caught and fully traceable.
- GRAIN FREE | Some dogs struggle to digest certain grains, which results in gas, itchy skin or unpleasant poops. We avoid that by using vegetables and superfoods instead of grains, making every mouthful really delicious and easy to digest.
Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and Sweet Potato, 2kg
£12.37
Features
- Designed to help anxious dogs stay calm and relaxed
- Premium, grain free complete dry dog food
- Includes chamomile, l-tryptophan, prebiotics and brewers yeast
- Single source protein with 45% lean turkey
- Free from grain, cereal , gluten, GM produce, artificial flavours, colours and preservatives
Beco Free Range Chicken with Carrot and Chicory - 6kg - Natural & Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food
Features
- HIGH IN PROTEIN - High in protein and good fats, chicken helps build muscle and whilst also being gentle on the digestive system, making it perfect for those with a sensitive stomach.
- NUTRITIOUS SUPERFOODS | Packed with fresh meat & vegetables, including Carrot, Chicory & Spirulina. This recipe is gently digestible and high in protein. What’s more, we’ve added extra vitamins & minerals to help keep your dog happy and healthy.
- COOKED LOW & SLOW | We slow-cook our meals between 90 - 120˚C so every bite contains the same protein, vitamins, oils and flavours of the original ingredients. Not only does that mean they’re delicious, it provides a diet that has all the nutrients of a meal served fresh, with the convenience of dry food.
- RESPONSIBLY SOURCED | The chicken in this recipe is traceable back to a single source in East Anglia. We’ve visited the farm ourselves and guarantee the birds have lived ethical free range lives that mirror their natural habitat.
- GRAIN FREE | Some dogs struggle to digest certain grains, which results in gas, itchy skin or unpleasant poops. We avoid that by using vegetables and superfoods instead of grains, making every mouthful really
Pooch & Mutt - Wet Dog Food (Grain Free), Complete & Fresh, Mixed Flavours, 12x375g
£22.95
Features
- A 12 pack assortment of wet dog food flavours to find the best for your dog
- Premium, grain free complete wet dog food
- Contains a new and improved recipe that includes local sourced fresh meat and vegetables from British farms
- With 100% recyclable packaging, cartons have an 80% lower global warming potential than cans
- Free from grain, cereal, gluten and GM produce
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 profession, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition 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. 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. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is ideal from which age? Is definitely dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be given? What causes deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Just as every person has their own own dietary needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves 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 gastrointestinal system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. Consequently, they want less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Yet , the dog food should be easy to digest and include a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in conditions of composition, way of production and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrients the dog needs on a regular basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements is different based on 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 vital nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and grocery stores usually comes from industrial production. This 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 pan is sufficient for one portion. On the other hand, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically modified raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. By exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for several years with no 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 never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to business food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover variations between the various natural dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable substances have been processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per cent organic. If this states “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per penny organic ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues 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 nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are put together individually, barfing is far more well suited for experienced dog owners who have studied the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a statement that should 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 types of are supposed to provide the food an improved smell and preference. Some dog lovers also avoid family pet 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 produced by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and mixing them. A tool presses this mass through the opportunities of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other part. Throughout the dog food production process, temps of about 90 degrees Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the term cold depressing. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those used in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Feed produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food contains more natural ingredients. In case the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system and a disrupted 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 an extra factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – damp food or dried out food?
There is moist and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food contains hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and thus teach their teeth. Ingesting dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. For dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can become a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are fed only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less expensive than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more eco-friendly than canned food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly 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 compares to one meal. A large number of dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for canines – once exposed – can only be kept for a few times. It must be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Below we have summarised the huge benefits and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy helpings
- Because of the high water content in wet food, the dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, damp food cannot be stored perfectly
- Good sized dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. The dog eventually 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 away both types.
Some dog owners change between wet and dry food. The following relates to both types of food: It should be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much meat and just how many sugars and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Just how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive tract is similar to that of predators. Therefore first and foremost, the resource of meat is important. Yet , 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 digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme can now break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest plant 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 teeth and nerves and also 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 % meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only various meats with their four-legged friends, this could lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen 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 carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal items of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from hemp, potatoes and cereals into energy and want it for their intestinal flora. On the other hand, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are normally 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 substances only moderately. How much should maintain the dog food depends on how much the animal moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated oily acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency rations and are meant as a hold for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 % lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 % high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as biotin or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed oil improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin.
How could i recognise high-quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of produce or best-before day of the dog food
– Brand of the foodstuff
– 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 example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual natural materials, but not their percentage. The open declaration gives the composition 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 materials into individual groupings. 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 should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The ingredients in the feed are listed in descending order according to their amount. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over 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 vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of taste enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have 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 now have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and animal by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare exactly what is included. It could be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, dried meats, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bone fragments, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood as well as its by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They can be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform 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 good friend. They should be included in the right formula, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to impact the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the digestive tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Physical additives are employed to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is a growing 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 inflammation. 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 may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles usually become overweight. Occasionally the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give dogs the right amount of 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 good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. Your dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories from fat and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs remain growing and in many cases are more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It is advisable to reduce the number of food a little each year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the age group of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: A few diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. Once dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are pregnant 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 lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the subsequent guidelines 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 per cent 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 per cent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 pct of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I identify a food allergic reaction?
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. What a dog might be allergic to include, for example , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the difference between an allergic reaction and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain material. A genuine food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible symptoms of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may well not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
Nevertheless, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They can also be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause cleared up by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. Additionally, it is possible to handle an exclusion diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an exemption diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source 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 a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition enhances and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergic reactions. Over time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is advisable to talk to a professional or talk to the vet in advance.
Consistent action is crucial during an different diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and everything dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it needs some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often contains grains. These include whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it leads to obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains option ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and it is also ideal for more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Some types of materials are also especially easy to process. These include maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, 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.
In the event you want to give your dog 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. Several of them are even poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, natural 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. When a dog consumes raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or unwanted wind. Raw pork could retain the Aujeszky virus, which in turn causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that dogs must not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw carrots
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruits starts
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose 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 messes, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should be placed in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for this, you should contact the vet or maybe the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. At the same time, keep your dog in a secure environment. On the other hand, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It could be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive desire
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Trouble sleeping
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all off of the side of the trail.
The best choice is the Beco Wild Boar with Broccoli and Pumpkin – 12kg – Natural & Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food.
Beco Wild Boar with Broccoli and Pumpkin - 12kg - Natural & Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food
- HYPOALLERGENIC | Wild Boar is a novel protein which makes this recipe perfect for dogs with common allergies or intolerances to things like beef or chicken. It's delicious gamey flavour is also loved by even the fussiest dogs!
Video about best ethical raw dog food
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 puppies. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 2 months. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially suitable for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bones, 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 nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s gastrointestinal system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends upon the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are believed grown ups 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 canines, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered older at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age group, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is a good idea 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 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 meals can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate 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 whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a well-balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , you should notify yourself well or seek advice from with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive puppies in particular can quickly suffer from intestinal problems, a number of which is often 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 employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about a quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the third and fourth day, replace half with the new food. On the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
If the dog reacts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the adaptation phase and increase the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not suited to him. In this instance, you should look for an alternative.
What should I do if my dog will not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already swollen in water, it fills the dog up faster and is simpler to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How quickly do dogs process dry food?
Canines usually need up to 14 hours to digest dry food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The amount of food is important too. Small portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also leads to faster digestion. In addition , the more liquefied the food is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
You will discover quite a few manufacturers who carry out creature 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 instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
Once can I start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother continually 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 puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer provided with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a water until the pup 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 it seem sensible?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it does have some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners can include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the planning and adapt the food to these and the dog’s taste.
– 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 could be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before planning the food, you should study the different ingredients. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes advisable to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially well suited for dogs with allergy symptoms. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your canine. There is hypoallergenic dried out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. This 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 take place.
Usually there is merely one source of proteins in such a product. This is usually an unique meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. Nevertheless, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergies. This happens when there is a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a very sensitive digestive system. For these dogs, such a product can provide prevention of digestive problems.
