The particular best for the dog – regarding to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but especially, of course, food. The foodstuff 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. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which food is suitable from which age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be fed? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best holistic dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and explain how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot endure and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best holistic dog food:
- Benevo Duo vegan cat and dog food, complete, gluten free, adult, puppy and... — £2.49
-
Vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried...
—
£11.99
£13.99 - Almo Nature -Holistic Maintenance Complete Dry Adult Dog Food Small Breed... — £13.98
- Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Wet Food Adult Dog Penlan Pouch... — £25.48
-
Almo Nature Dog Food Holistic Large with Salmon and Rice 12 Kg
—
£43.07
£49.90 - V-dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Traditional Flakes non-gm,... — £48.53
- Simpsons Premium Sensitive Adult Dog Salmon & Potato 12kg Natural & Holistic... — £72.52
- Simpsons Premium 80/20 Adult Dog Mixed Meat & Fish 12kg Holistic & Natural... — £89.86
- Organic dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried...
- Eden Dog Food 80:20 Country Cuisine 2kg Small Kibble — £26.49
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best holistic dog food of 2024. We would recommend using Eden Dog Food 80:20 Country Cuisine 2kg Small Kibble as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best holistic dog food
Best holistic dog food
Eden Dog Food 80:20 Country Cuisine 2kg Small Kibble
Features
- Freshly prepared meats (80%) of human grade quality
- 20% Fruit, Vegetables, Vitamins and Herbs
- Low Carbohydrate content with fruit and vegetables
- 0% Grain (No Wheat, Maize, Rice, Corn or Beet Pulp
- Made in Britain and very proud of it!
Almo Nature Dog Food Holistic Large with Salmon and Rice 12 Kg
£43.07
Features
- Less ingredients: free from any unnecessary ingredients that can cause problems for sensitive dogs
- Natural: holistic recipe that is free from artificial additives
- Made with up to 26% of fresh meat, making it more palatable and healthier for your furry friend.
- age range description: Adult
Simpsons Premium Sensitive Adult Dog Salmon & Potato 12kg Natural & Holistic Dog Food for Dogs with Skin Problems & Allergy Contains High Meat Content Easy to Digest, Grain-free
Features
| Size | 12 kg (Pack of 1) |
Almo Nature -Holistic Maintenance Complete Dry Adult Dog Food Small Breed with fresh Beef- 1 Pack of 2 Kg
Features
- Less ingredients: free from any unnecessary ingredients that can cause problems for sensitive dogs
- Natural: holistic recipe that is free from artificial additives
- Made with up to 26% of fresh meat, making it more palatable and healthier for your furry friend.
- Item display weight: 2000.0 grams.
Simpsons Premium 80/20 Adult Dog Mixed Meat & Fish 12kg Holistic & Natural Dog Food No Cereals High Meat Content with Human Grade Protein Meat & Animal Ingredients
Features
| Size | 12 kg (Pack of 1) |
Organic dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried kibble, hypoallergenic & healthy. Holistic & non-gm 2kg
Features
- Complete Organic Dog Food | Benevo Dog organic dog food contains all the nutrients an adult dog needs including a wide range of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids, without the need for supplements or slaughterhouse meat. Benevo Dog Organic is a certified organic and vegan dog food.
- Sensitive Dog Food | Our wheat free, meat free and dairy free recipe is free from common allergens including meat proteins and wheat gluten making it a great hypoallergenic option for dogs with a sensitive tummy.
- Wheat Free Recipe | Benevo Dog Organic dried adult dog food is formulated to meet the European nutritional levels set out by FEDIAF making it suitable for most dog breeds. Our organic ingredients are carefully milled before mixing to avoid whole grains which are hard to digest. An added Prebiotic also aids digestion and omega oils provide a source of essential fatty acids.
- Is Meat Free Dog Food Natural? | Dogs are classed as omnivores, so like us humans, they can survive and thrive on a plant-based diet too. Studies suggest dogs split from wolves around 20,000-40,000 years ago and they were domesticated between 15,000-30,000 year ago. So they have lived with humans co-existing on the same foods ever since. So yes, professional meat-free food for dogs is fine and as natural as giving them a name, buying them birthday presents and having them on a lead 🙂
- Why You're The Best! | Buying Benevo is a choice for a better and more sustainable World. That makes you our hero! As for Benevo Dog Organic: Made in the UK, Benevo Dog Organic has kept 1000's of dogs across the World happy and healthy for the last 13 years. Approved. PETA approved cruelty-free brand. Vegan owned company with an ethical company score of 100/100 every year since 2016.
Benevo Duo vegan cat and dog food, complete, gluten free, adult, puppy and kitten friendly, holistic, non-gm and sensitive recipe. 369g
Features
- Complete Cat & Dog Food | Benevo Duo is a unique food containing all the nutrients cats and dogs need, including a wide range of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids, without the need for supplements or slaughterhouse meat. Benevo Duo is made with maket fresh potatoes, carrots, peas, tomatoes and berries with brown rice to make a tasty and nutritious meal. It also contains essential nutrients like Taurine.
- Sensitive Dog Food | Our non-gm wheat free, meat free and dairy free recipe is free from common allergens including meat proteins and wheat gluten making it a great hypoallergenic option for pets with a sensitive tummy.
- Formulated for Kittens and Puppies and Adult Cats and Dogs | By following the feeding guidelines, Benevo Duo makes a great puppy food and kitten food as well as a complete wet food option for adult and senior cats and dogs. By meeting the needs of cats nutritional requirements, you exceed those required by dogs. In the right portions, this makes it suitable for both.
- Rich In Nutrition | Our recipe is supplemented with vegan sourced taurine, vitamin A and arachidonic acid with added vitamins and minerals (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C, Folic Acid, Zinc, Iron, Manganese, Copper and Calcium). The natural blueberries, cranberries and ascorbic acid help support a healthy pH level in urine.
- Why You're The Best! | Buying Benevo is a choice for a better World, that makes you our hero! Benevo Duo has kept 1000's of cats and dogs across the World happy and healthy since 2006. Vegan Society UK and Vegetarian Society UK Approved. PETA approved cruelty-free brand. Vegan owned company with an ethical company score of 100/100 every year since 2016.
Vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried kibble, hypoallergenic & healthy. Holistic & non-gm 2kg bag
£11.99
Features
- [ NUTRITION YOU CAN TRUST ] With crucial fatty acids, prebiotics, and non-animal taurine, Benevo Vegan Dog Food is your one-stop solution for nurturing your dog’s growth. Plus, you’re supporting their well-being without the need for slaughterhouse meat!
- [ FOR SENSITIVE TUMS ] Our wheat-free, meat-free, and dairy-free recipe is designed with your dog's sensitive tummy in mind. Free from meat proteins & wheat gluten, this dog kibble is an ideal choice for pooches with dietary sensitivities.
- [ 27.5% PLANT-BASED PROTEIN ] Each bowl of pet food is packed with plant-based protein to fuel your dog’s active lifestyle. With 27.5% protein in every bowl, you can rely on Benevo dog food to keep noses wet & tails wagging.
- [ TRUSTED FOR OVER A DECADE ] Proudly made in the UK, Benevo Vegan Dog food is formulated to meet the European nutritional levels set out by FEDIAF, making it the perfect choice for your pampered pooch. With over 15 years experience, we put your dog’s health and happiness first.
- [ PETA & VEGAN SOCIETY APPROVED ] As a vegan-owned company, we are proud to be approved by PETA, the Vegan Society UK, and Vegetarian Society UK. Plus, we have consistently maintained an ethical company score of 100/100 since 2016!
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Wet Food Adult Dog Penlan Pouch Chicken Brown Rice & Vegetables 6x400 g
Features
- Developed by Veterinary Surgeon John Burns
- Made with natural ingredients
- Contains organic brown rice
- Contains organic chicken
- Hypoallergenic
V-dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Traditional Flakes non-gm, hypoallergenic kibble for large and small breeds. Meat-free, holistic dried food for over 40 years. 15kg
Features
- Complete Dog Food: V-Dog Traditional Flake food contains all the nutrients an adult dog needs to thrive including a balanced range of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Our vegan dog foods was established in 1980 in the UK and is free from meat by-products and dairy.
- Sensitive Dog Food: Our meat free and dairy free recipe is also free from some allergens including meat proteins making V-dog a hypoallergenic option for dogs with a sensitive tummy.
- Formulated by Animal Nutritionists: Dogs are omnivores and can survive on both plant and animal based diets, V-dog is formulted by professional animal nutritionists to allow dogs to thrive, rather than just survive, on a meat-free diet.
- Certified Veggie Dog Food: V-dog is checked and certified by the UK Vegan Society and Vegetarian Society. V-dog is also a PeTA approved cruelty-free brand.
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 occupation, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff 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. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable where age? Is usually dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be fed? What can cause 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. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and make clear how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot tolerate and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Just as every person has their own health needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should come in 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, protein and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. Therefore, they want less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to process and contain a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food vary in terms of composition, way of development and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrition the dog needs on a daily basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements is different with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the essential nutrients. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and supermarkets usually comes from industrial production. This kind of is the most common form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. On the other hand, some manufacturers of professional dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. By exceptions, 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 plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or highly processed. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In terms of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dried out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product must not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover distinctions between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable elements have been processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the constituents in the natural food are 95 per penny organic. If this claims “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per cent organic 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 would not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A unique form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed raw fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually healthier is debatable. Because the meals are put together individually, barfing is more suited to experienced dog owners who have learned the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a statement that ought to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade dog or cat food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These are supposed to provide the food a better smell and flavor. Some dog enthusiasts 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 painting tool presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other side. Through the dog food production process, temps of approximately 90 certifications Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the term cold hitting. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of have to be artificially added to the food after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food includes more natural elements. If 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. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is merely a supplementary factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – moist food or dry food?
There is certainly wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food contains very little water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and so coach their teeth. Consuming dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can be 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 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 heating system during production
- More environmentally 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 faster 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. Generally one package of wet food compares to one meal. Many dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for dogs – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days. It must be used up within 2 days of opening. Under we have summarised the benefits and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in convenient helpings
- Because of the high water content in wet food, your canine does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, wet food cannot be stored 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 intense
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suitable for your dog. The dog finally decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
A few dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following applies 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 meats and just how many sugars and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The standard of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious 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 proper composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
Just how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to those of predators. Thus to start with, the source of meat is important. However , 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.
First and foremost, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves and also to provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are no longer as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 percent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only various meats to their four-legged friends, this may lead to digestive problems, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not found in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and veggies, or fatty stomach acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal items of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and want it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from grow waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. Superior 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 foodstuff should contain these chemicals only moderately. How much should be in the dog food is determined by how much the dog moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated oily acids. They may be stored in the body as emergency rations and are meant as a hold for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 % 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. Great quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed oil improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat and healthy skin.
How could i recognise high-quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of manufacture or best-before time of the dog food
– Brand of the meals
– 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 natural materials, however, not their percentage. The start declaration provides the structure in per cent and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the word feed into individual organizations. 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 really should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The substances in the supply are listed in descending order relating to their quantity. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Alternatively, what this means is: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over the list is contained in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavour enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is detailed under the definition of “analytical ingredients”. We certainly have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and canine by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Producers 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, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as 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 may be to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acidity regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform 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 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 effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. They include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight dogs suffer! Obesity is an increasing 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 swelling. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles usually become overweight. Sometimes the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is vital to give canines the right amount of food. Just how much pet food a dog needs will depend on 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. 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. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs are still growing and tend to be more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It really is highly recommended to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs around 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the calorie content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a reduced 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 a normal activity level should be about two to three pct of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that movements a lot or is 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 % of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
Just how can I identify a food allergy?
The most common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible causes of an allergy are, for instance , stress, unwanted organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and cause.
What is the between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity response by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain substance. A true food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, stomach pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. They will may also be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Additionally, it is possible to carry out an different 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 source of 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 bit. After the food change, your dog is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition increases 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 allergy symptoms. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to seek advice from a professional or speak to the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is crucial during an different diet. The dog must not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If it turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and everything dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following your change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often includes grains. Included in this are whole 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 a problem 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 well suited for more sensitive dogs. However , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. Some types of feed are also particularly easy to break down. Included in this are 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 canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
If you want to give your pet a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that dogs can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and natural 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. When a dog eats raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should never eat include:
- Delicious chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw eggs
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugar and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is advised in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are available in them. Ashtrays should always be located 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 vet and also the veterinary crisis service directly. Meanwhile, keep the dog in a secure environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It might 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 thirst
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Trouble sleeping
- 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 necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything from the side of the road.
The best choice is the Eden Dog Food 80:20 Country Cuisine 2kg Small Kibble.
Eden Dog Food 80:20 Country Cuisine 2kg Small Kibble
- Freshly prepared meats (80%) of human grade quality
- 20% Fruit, Vegetables, Vitamins and Herbs
- Low Carbohydrate content with fruit and vegetables
- 0% Grain (No Wheat, Maize, Rice, Corn or Beet Pulp
- Made in Britain and very proud of it!
Video about best holistic dog food
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies desire a different dog food than adult canines. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the case after about 2 months. The components and 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 build up.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the puppy 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 the dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions many times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends on the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are believed adults from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for older persons?
For small canines, 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 mature at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age, the dog’s express of health is also an important criterion. It is highly recommended 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 food can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. At worst, 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 natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , 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. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can quickly suffer from digestive : problems, a few of that can be considerable. A period of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get accustomed to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: 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. On the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
If the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the variation phase and increase 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 option.
What should I actually do if my dog would not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier so they can 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 break down. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How quickly do dogs break down 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 quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The amount of food is also important. Little portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also brings about faster digestion. Additionally , the more water the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out pet experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a list of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for example , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When ever can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continually nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able 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 more given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your 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 make sense?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it does incorporate some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners range from the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the meals 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 might be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the meals, you should study the different elements. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often a good idea 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 consumed by dogs.
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 dog. There is hypoallergenic dry out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. That contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that the dog will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is only one supply of proteins in such a product. This is usually an exotic meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergy symptoms. This kind of happens when there exists a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is well suited for four-legged friends with a sensitive digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product can offer prevention of digestive problems.
