Only the best for the dog – according 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 foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which usually food is ideal from which age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best food for sick dog, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and describe how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best food for sick dog:
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Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Chicken and Salmon Natural Grain Free Complete...
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£7.64
£9.40 - Algoods Working Dog Food Complete Dry Dog Food Chicken Flavour, 10 Kg — £11.99
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Barking Heads Adult Dog Food Wet Pouches Variety Pack Natural and Grain-Free...
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£12.19
£14.40 -
Pooch & Mutt - Health & Digestion, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Salmon...
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£12.37
£15.99 - Lily's Kitchen Adult Recovery Recipe Wet Dog Food (6 x 400 g) — £20.49
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Skinner's Field & Trial Complete Dry Adult Working Dog Food Chicken and Rice,...
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£32.78
£40.39 - PURINA PRO PLAN VETERINARY DIETS HA Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Food 3 kg — £33.99
- Chappie Dog Food Cans Favourites, 24 x 412g — £38.98
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Wellness CORE Original, Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey & Chicken, 10 kg
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£41.99
£45.99 - Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Salmon and Rice, 12 kg — £52.99
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best food for sick dog of 2024. We would recommend using Lily’s Kitchen Adult Recovery Recipe Wet Dog Food (6 x 400 g) as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best food for sick dog
Best food for sick dog
Lily's Kitchen Adult Recovery Recipe Wet Dog Food (6 x 400 g)
Features
- A nutritionally complete, gentle recipe, perfect for dogs recovering from illness
- A soothing combination of ingredients including 50% fresh chicken, banana and potato
- Contains bananas which contain potassium and soluble fibre to help digestion
- Contains FOS & MOS, great for supporting a healthy digestive system
- Natural ingredients with no added sugar
Chappie Dog Food Cans Favourites, 24 x 412g
Features
- Complete pet food for adult dogs
- 100% complete and balanced dog food developed with vets
- No artificial colours, flavours and no added sugar, eggs, dairy, red meat or soya
- Contains all of the essential nutrients that your dog requires to keep him in top condition every single day
- Rich in white fish
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Salmon and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- Arden Grange adult rich in fresh pork & rice is a complete, super premium pet food for normally active adult dogs
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your 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
Algoods Working Dog Food Complete Dry Dog Food Chicken Flavour, 10 Kg
Features
- VAT Free
- Specially formulated for working dogs
- Added vitamins and minerals
- Complete food with Chicken
- Ideal for an active, healthy life
Wellness CORE Original, Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey & Chicken, 10 kg
£41.99
Features
- HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: Our Wellness CORE Adult Original is easy to digest and contains prebiotic fibre and probiotics, providing your furry friend with a healthy digestive system!
- STRENGTHENING HIPS AND JOINTS: The mobility of adult dogs will be supported by guaranteed amounts of glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate and controlled sodium levels.
- FRESH MEAT AS MAIN INGREDIENT: The dry dog food contains fresh turkey and chicken, for a tasty meal with every bowl!
- LOW CARBS AND NO FILLERS: Our recipes are grain-free, supporting a high-protein and a meat-rich nutrition for your dog.
- NATURAL HYPOALLERGENIC DOG FOOD: Our product does not contain cereals, gluten, eggs, artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
PURINA PRO PLAN VETERINARY DIETS HA Hypoallergenic Dry Dog Food 3 kg
Features
- - Hypoallergenic elimination diet for food trials - Long-term management of food allergy - Dermatitis and/or gastroenteritis associated with food allergy - Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) - Food intolerance - Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)* - Hyperlipidaemia* - Lymphangiectasia* - Malabsorption* - Protein losing enteropathy - Chronic diarrhoea* - Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)*
- Single hydrolysed protein with low molecular weight to help avoid allergic responses.
- Purified carbohydrates sources to help avoid allergic responses
- With omega-3 fatty acids to help maximise the natural anti-inflammatory processes.
- Provides a lipid energy source which is much easier1 to digest and absorb Contains MCFAs (medium-chain fatty acids)
Skinner's Field & Trial Complete Dry Adult Working Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 15 kg
£32.78
Features
- DIETARY NEEDS - Field & Trial Chicken & Rice is a nutritionally complete sensitive food, specially formulated to be free from wheat, wheat gluten, dairy, beef, egg and soya.
- HERITAGE BRAND - The Stradbroke Mill in Suffolk has been in the Skinner family for seven generations and has been manufacturing complete dog foods since the early 1970s.
- NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE - Skinner’s Field & Trial now offers a range of 19 nutritionally complete diets for active and working dogs of every age, breed and activity level.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - Skinner’s does not add any artificial colouring, flavours or preservatives to any of our products, where possible we try and use locally sourced ingredients surrounding our Suffolk mill.
- ACTIVE DOGS - Field & Trial Chicken & Rice is a complete food specially developed and formulated to support active dogs who are regularly working or exercising at a moderate activity intensity. “Packaging may vary”.
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
Barking Heads Adult Dog Food Wet Pouches Variety Pack Natural and Grain-Free with No Artificial Flavours Plus Added Vitamins and Minerals 6 x 300g
£12.19
Features
- VARIETY Pack of mixed flavours: Chicken, Beef & Lamb
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - This recipe is made using only the best quality, natural ingredients. Free from artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives
- ADDED VITAMIN AND MINERALS- This delicious grain-free food has added vitamins and minerals to ensure your pup is getting everything they need
- SLOW COOKED TO PERFECTION - This grain-free, meat recipe for your pooch has everything you need to feed a happy, healthy canine
- FEEDING GUIDE ON EVERY PACK- Use the feeding guide on the back of the pack to ensure your dog is eating enough for their size!
Pooch & Mutt - Health & Digestion, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Salmon and Sweet Potato, 2kg
£12.37
Features
- Designed to help dogs with poor or sensitive digestion
- Premium, grain free complete dry dog food
- Includes prebiotics to aid the balance of good bacteria
- Single source protein with 45% lean salmon
- Free from grain, cereal , gluten, GM produce, artificial flavours, colours and preservatives
The particular best for the dog – according to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and in 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 how much should the dog be fed? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and describe how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Merely 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 made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive tract is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, protein and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Consequently, they require less energy, i. e. calorie consumption. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to digest and contain a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in phrases of composition, way of creation and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrition the dog needs on a regular basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements varies according to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A complete food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the crucial nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner combines into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and grocery stores usually comes from professional production. This kind of is the most common type of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed 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. With a few exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. However , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In terms of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in containers or as dried out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product must not contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are distinctions between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable elements have been prepared. Together with the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic and natural food are 95 per penny organic. Whether it claims “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per penny organic and natural ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , vegetarian 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 feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When ever barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are put together individually, barfing is more suitable for experienced pet owners who have learned this diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that 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 supply the food the smell and flavor. Some dog fans also avoid pet food/dog food from factory farming.
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 raw materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller 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, temperatures of about 90 degrees Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold hitting. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These have to be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural elements. In case the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal area 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. Nevertheless, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the meals. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – damp food or dried out food?
There is certainly moist and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food consists of hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and so train their teeth. Consuming dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can become a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less costly than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating during production
- More eco-friendly than refined food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Often one package of wet food compares to one meal. Many dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for dogs – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days. It ought to be used up within 2 times of opening. Below we have summarised the advantages and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful 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, damp food cannot be stored perfectly
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
It is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. The dog eventually chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Several dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of the dog.
How much meat and just how many carbohydrates and nutrients are supposed to be 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 – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The right composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive tract is similar to regarding predators. So 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, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical can now break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
To start with, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy teeth and nerves and also to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are no longer as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meats to their four-legged friends, this may lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for example , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty stomach acids from healthy herbal oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal material of prey animals, 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 grow waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or hay are often added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal body fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these substances only moderately. Just how much should maintain the dog food depends on how much the animal moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated fatty acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency portion and are meant as a book for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 percent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 percent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary nutritional supplements. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as biotin or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil improve nutrient absorption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin area.
How could i recognise top quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before date of the dog food
– Brand of the food
– 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 types. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual raw materials, although not their percentage. The open declaration provides the structure in % and the respective resources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term materials 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 feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large quantities.
2. The ingredients in the give food to are listed in descending order according to their amount. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Conversely, this implies: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down 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
– Very little use of taste enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no 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 outlined under the definition of “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 precisely what is engaged. It can be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish and its by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish heads.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and oil fruits. They can be partially health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and level of acidity regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be contained 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 widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of your canine 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 swelling. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also be involved. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles usually become overweight. At times the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give puppies the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends upon various factors. In addition to the breed, the subsequent 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 and has a slower metabolism. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs remain growing and in many cases are more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than older dogs. It truly is advisable to reduce the number of food a little each year. For more mature dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. When dogs are recovering from 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 with child or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the calorie content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the next guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about two to three % 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 moves 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 pct of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is uncertain 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 causes of the allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity response by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A true food allergy or intolerance rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Likely indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include irritation, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may well not show up immediately after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. That they can even be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause clarified by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to carry out an exemption diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special way to obtain protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend hasn’t eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by bit. Following your food change, your canine is fed the new food for many weeks.
When the dog’s condition enhances and the symptoms no more occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which could be the trigger for the allergic reactions. Over 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 pet owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is advisable to consult a professional or speak with the vet in advance.
Consistent action is crucial during an exclusion 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?
Whether it turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no more eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected family 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 needs a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often consists of grains. Included in this are wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grain have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it causes obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of grain, it contains alternative ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also also well suited for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily necessary to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Several types of feed are also specifically easy to process. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that 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 puppies can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and natural pork. Onions can be fatal, based on the size of the onion and the dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky disease, which in turn causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pups must not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw taters
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should be placed in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the doctor or maybe the veterinary emergency service directly. At the same time, maintain the dog in a safe 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 may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that can occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- 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 necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat whatever from the side of the trail.
The best choice is the Lily’s Kitchen Adult Recovery Recipe Wet Dog Food (6 x 400 g).
Lily's Kitchen Adult Recovery Recipe Wet Dog Food (6 x 400 g)
- A nutritionally complete, gentle recipe, perfect for dogs recovering from illness
- A soothing combination of ingredients including 50% fresh chicken, banana and potato
- Contains bananas which contain potassium and soluble fibre to help digestion
Video about best food for sick dog
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should We look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies have to have a different dog food than adult canines. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 2 months. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially made for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With puppy dog dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the puppy dog 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 canine food for adult quadrupeds. Found 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: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are viewed as older people from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small dogs, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered older at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is highly recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
Precisely what is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the food can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the British and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw 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 natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform 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 quickly suffer from digestive problems, a few of which is often considerable. An interval of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as comes after: 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. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
In the event that the dog reacts sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the version phase and boost the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not ideal for him. In this case, you should look for an option.
What should We do if my dog would not like dry food?
In that case it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier to allow them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How quickly do dogs digest dry food?
Canines usually need up to 14 hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the caliber of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The quantity of food is important too. Tiny portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquefied the foodstuff is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are animal 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 list of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When may i start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continues to feed 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 puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a water until the puppy dog is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, mix in more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – will it seem sensible?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it will have some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners may include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the food to these and the dog’s flavor.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it might be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the meals, you should study different substances. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often advisable to talk to a vet in advance. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially ideal for dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by the dog. Right now there is hypoallergenic dried out food and allergies wet food on the market. That 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 just one way to obtain proteins in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergies. This happens when we have a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is well suited for four-legged friends with a very sensitive digestive system. For these dogs, such a product provides protection against digestive problems.
