The particular best for the dog – relating to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but most importantly, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so 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. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which food is ideal at 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?
Inside the following best food for whelping dog, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and describe how much food a 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 whelping dog:
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Royal Canin Mother and Babydog Mini Starter - Dog food for small breeds
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£14.79
£16.77 - King International Stainless Steel 2 Puppy Bowls,Puppy Food Bowl,Puppy Bowls... — £15.90
- Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Puppy Original... — £16.99
- PEDIGREE Dog Pouches Mixed Selection in Jelly 40x100g Mega Pack — £18.99
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Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced,...
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£19.34
£28.62 - Naturediet - Grain Free Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced,... — £28.50
- Vet's Kitchen Dry Dog Food, Grow & Develop/ Chicken/ 7.5 kg — £36.00
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Royal Canin Dog Food Medium Adult 15kg
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£56.99
£59.80 - Beaphar Calcium Tablets 180 for Puppy Dogs birthing Whelping box birthing — £11.01
- MIIMER Washable Pee Pads for Dogs Reusable Pet Pee Pad, Waterproof Dog Floor...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best food for whelping dog of 2024. We would recommend using Royal Canin Mother and Babydog Mini Starter – Dog food for small breeds as it is one of the best products currently available in market.
Top 10 Best food for whelping dog
Best food for whelping dog
Royal Canin Mother and Babydog Mini Starter - Dog food for small breeds
£14.79
Features
- BIRTH PROGRAM
- SUPPORT DURING MANAGEMENT AND BREASTFEEDING
- IDEAL FOR FOOD TRANSITION
- EASY REHYDRATION
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Puppy Original Chicken and Rice 2 kg
Features
- Made with natural ingredients
- Developed by Veterinary Surgeon, John Burns
- Based on our bestselling Original range
- Healthy growth and development
- Healthy skin and coat
MIIMER Washable Pee Pads for Dogs Reusable Pet Pee Pad, Waterproof Dog Floor Mats, Non Slip Puppy Training Pad, Whelping Pads for Guinea Pigs, Bunnies, Cats 2 Pack (92x79cm)
Features
- Great Urine Absorption: Premium pee pads for dogs 36’’x31’’(92x79cm) is ultra absorbent with surface knitting fabric and high density middle layer, can wick quick away dogs urine and odor within 2 minutes. Comes in pack of 2 pads, one is in use, one is in washing machine or hand for back up.
- Leak Proof & Reusable: Waterproof PUL coating prevent urine seep on wood floor, make your pets and floor clean and dry. Housebreaking puppy pad is reusable and washable for countless times. Protect your furniture from scratches, drool, shedding, and those occasional accidents when your pet gets a little too excited to see you.
- Anti Slip and Durable: There are a great deal of rubber grips on the backing of puppy play mat. So, the pads won’t slippery, stable for lovely fur babies. Triple stitched edge is firmly for using. Premium washable pee pads are stylish blend in home while attractive to pets.
- Multiple Functions: Our dog pee pad is not only for potty training, more than a puppy whelping pads, underneath water and food dishes, cat litter box, kennel and crate liner, play pen mat, dog bed mats, protecting car seat, couch, bed and furniture from dirty. And easily transport to trip.
- 100% Satisfaction: If you are not happy with this shopping, we will buy it back from you. Money back guarantee, your satisfaction is priority for us, we stand strong behind you.
Beaphar Calcium Tablets 180 for Puppy Dogs birthing Whelping box birthing
Features
- Promotes strong bones, and healthy teeth, coat and skin
- Ideal for puppies and nursing bitches
- Contains high-quality minerals combined with vegetable extracts and seaweed
- Easy-to-administer tablets
- Suitable for dogs from 6 weeks of age
Vet's Kitchen Dry Dog Food, Grow & Develop/ Chicken/ 7.5 kg
Features
- Included components: dry dog kibble
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Puppy, 390g (Pack of 18)
£19.34
Features
- NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED - This complete and nutritionally balanced natural puppy food contains all the essential nutrients your puppy needs for a healthy diet. Made with freshly prepared Chicken and wholefoods. Suitable from 4 weeks to 12 months.
- 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 puppy and for the planet! Naturediet foods are packaged in fully recyclable plant-based cartons made from sustainably sourced, renewable materials.
King International Stainless Steel 2 Puppy Bowls,Puppy Food Bowl,Puppy Bowls for Small Dogs,29cm,Puppy Bowl,Puppy Supplies,Puppy Feeder,Puppy Feeding Bowls for Litters
Features
- IDEAL SIZE PUPPY FOOD BOWLS Puppy Bowl measured 29cm diameter| 11.5 inches diameter. Perfect Puppy supplies, dog supplies for dog food, puppy food, dog water bowl
- IDEAL STAINLESS STEEL PUPPY BOWL A bowl is just a bowl, right? Sadly, that's not the case. Most pet food bowls are made from stainless steel, plastic, ceramic. Plastic is the worst option which contain chemicals that could disrupt an animals hormonal balance. Apart from that, plastic accumulates deep scratches that harbor insanitary things and can be hard to clean.
- Convenient Design Puppy Weaning Bowl This dish is perfect for young puppies to share their food or water. With a sturdy stainless steel construction the bowl is dishwasher safe and hygienic. The raised center helps to ensure puppies do not walk or sit on the bowl and the low rim makes feeding time much easier and helps keep puppies cleaner.
- Stackable Design Puppy Bowls With a considerate and convenient design, these bowls stack easily inside one another for easy storage or travel. Durable for long time use and healthy for your beloved four-paw companions.
- 【Easy to Clean & Dishwasher Safe DOG DISH 】puppy bowls made out of stainless steel can easily be cleaned with mild dish soap and warm water. In addition, they are also dishwasher safe, making for easy cleanup
Naturediet - Grain Free Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Grain Free, Puppy, 390g (Pack of 18)
Features
- NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED - This complete and nutritionally balanced grain free natural puppy food contains all the essential nutrients your puppy needs for a healthy diet. Made with freshly prepared Chicken and root vegetables. Suitable from 4 weeks to 12 months.
- 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS FOR SENSITIVE PUPPIES - Our grain free recipes are simple, wholesome, and made with 100% natural ingredients to provide a gentle, nourishing diet that’s ideal for fussy eaters and puppies 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.
Royal Canin Dog Food Medium Adult 15kg
£56.99
Features
- Promotes ideal shape in adulthood from 12 months to 7 years
- Supporting natural defences
- Optimal weight
- High digestibility
- Enhanced flavour
PEDIGREE Dog Pouches Mixed Selection in Jelly 40x100g Mega Pack
Features
- 100% Complete and delicious wet dog food for adult dogs
- Easy-to-open pouches, perfect for a fresh healthy meal, on its own or on top of dry dog food
- Dog food developed with our vets and nutritionists at Waltham Pet Nutrition Centre
- This pet food contains no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
The particular best for the dog – according to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but most importantly, of course, food. The meals 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. Comparable 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 food is ideal at which age? Is dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be provided? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and describe how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot tolerate and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Merely as every person has their own health 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 also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs sugars, fats, oils, protein and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. As a result, they want less energy, i. e. calories. Yet , the dog food should be easy to digest and contain a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in phrases of composition, method of production and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrition the dog needs every day. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins is different with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the essential nutrients. These can be flakes that the dog owner combines into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in pet shops and food markets usually comes from industrial production. This kind of is the most frequent kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one pan is sufficient for one portion. On the other hand, some manufacturers of industrial dog food use genetically modified raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. By exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for several years without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or highly processed. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In phrases of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dry food.
– Organic dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product must not contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are variations between the various organic dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable substances have been prepared. With all the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per cent organic. If it claims “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per dollar natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food would not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Because the meals are put together individually, barfing much more suited to experienced pet owners who have analyzed the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This kind of is a declaration that ought to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These types of are supposed to supply the food an improved smell and taste. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid dog or cat food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is created by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and blending them. A tool presses this mass through the spaces of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other side. Throughout the dog food production process, temperatures of around 90 certifications Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the word cold hitting. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those used in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your canine food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of must be artificially added to the meals after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is communicated through nozzles at high pressure. Feed produced in this way swells substantially 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 normally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food includes more natural substances. If the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal area and a disturbed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. Nevertheless, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the meals. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – wet food or dried out food?
There is certainly damp 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 . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and therefore coach their teeth. Eating dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dried out food can be 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
- More affordable than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heat during production
- Even more eco-friendly than canned food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight faster 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. Generally one package of wet food compares to one meal. A large number of dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for dogs – once exposed – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It ought to be used up within 2 days of opening. Below we have summarised the advantages and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful portions
- Since of the high water content in wet food, your dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, damp food cannot be stored perfectly
- Good sized dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to move and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your dog finally 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.
Some dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should only be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much meat and 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 includes 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.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to those of predators. Thus first and foremost, the source 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 needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest herb food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as energetic as young or adult animals. In general, experts say that dog food should contain between 50 and 70 pct meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meats for their four-legged friends, this can lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not present in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbs. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal material of prey pets or animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from hemp, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal body fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these substances only moderately. Just how much should take the dog food is determined by how much the animal moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated oily acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency portion and are meant as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 pct lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 per cent 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 nutrition such as biotin or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin.
How can I recognise high-quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These include:
– Address and name of the manufacturer
– Date of produce or best-before time of the dog food
– Identity of the meals
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various claims are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual uncooked materials, but not their percentage. The open declaration provides formula in % and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the definition of feed into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed 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 substances in the feed are listed in descending order relating to their volume. 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 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 vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced ingredients with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of flavour enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is detailed under the definition of “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and canine by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Producers often do not declare precisely what is included. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood as well as its by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They are partially health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acidity regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency 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 included in the right structure, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and search for elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to impact the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies suffer! Obesity is an expanding problem in dogs with serious health consequences. It can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes irritation. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. Occasionally the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event that the four-legged friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give puppies the right amount of food. Just how much pet food a dog needs will depend on various factors. In addition to the breed, the next aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A puppy 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 are often more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It is recommended to reduce the number of food a little each year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the age of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: A few diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of 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 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 your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the subsequent rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with an ordinary activity level should be about 2 to 3 % of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 pct of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that movements a lot or is recovering from an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 % of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 per cent 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 recognize a food allergy?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of an allergy are, for instance , stress, unwanted organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the between an allergy 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 or intolerance rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include irritation, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They can even be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to handle an exclusion diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an exclusion diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special way to obtain protein and carbohydrates. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend has not eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little. Following your food change, your dog is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition improves and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is carried out. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can tolerate or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is advisable to consult a professional or speak to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an exemption diet. The dog 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 substances. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergic reaction no longer happen. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often includes grains. These include wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it contributes to obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains alternate 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 well suited for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. Several types of feed are also particularly easy to digest. These include maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, 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 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 actually 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 dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog eats raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky disease, that causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw taters
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fresh fruit pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is suggested in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should always be put in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous because of it, you should contact the doctor and also the veterinary crisis service directly. In the mean time, keep your dog in a safe environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It could be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that could occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family members and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all from the side of the road.
The best choice is the Royal Canin Mother and Babydog Mini Starter – Dog food for small breeds.
Royal Canin Mother and Babydog Mini Starter - Dog food for small breeds
- BIRTH PROGRAM
- SUPPORT DURING MANAGEMENT AND BREASTFEEDING
- IDEAL FOR FOOD TRANSITION
- EASY REHYDRATION
Video about best food for whelping dog
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 8 weeks. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially made for growing puppies. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With puppy dog dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the puppy food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s gastrointestinal system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions several times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This will depend on the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are viewed as grownups 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 puppies, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age, 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 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 meals can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the British and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate organic 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 are available in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform yourself well or seek advice from with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can quickly suffer from digestive : problems, a number of which may be considerable. A period of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as comes after: On day 1 and 2, replace about an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Within the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
In the event that the dog acts sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the adaptation phase and improve the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food whatsoever, it is obviously not well suited for him. In this instance, you should look for an alternative.
What should I do if my dog would not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier so they can become overweight and feel full. In case the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is simpler to break down. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How quickly do dogs digest dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The quantity of food is important too. Little portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also results in faster digestion. Additionally , the more water the meals is, the shortest the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are pet tests carried out for dog food?
There are 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 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 ever can I start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother is constantly on the 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 dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no more fed 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 – does it sound right?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it really does incorporate some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners may include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparation and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s preference.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it can be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the food, you should study the different ingredients. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes a good idea to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your canine. Right now there is hypoallergenic dry out food and allergies wet food on the market. This contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is just one source of necessary protein 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. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergy symptoms. This kind of happens when we have a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot tolerate.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a very sensitive digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product can provide prevention of digestive problems.
