Only the best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients 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. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is ideal where age? Is usually dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best natural dog food for puppies, we present 10 products. We offer 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 clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best natural dog food for puppies:
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Pets Purest Dog Treats Chicken Beef Strips - 100% Natural Air-Dried Chews for...
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£8.99
£9.99 - Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Chicken and Salmon Natural Grain Free Complete... — £9.49
- Pets Purest Himalayan Yak Milk Chews for Dog, Puppy & Senior - 100% Natural... — £9.99
- Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Puppies - Puppy Days - 100% Natural Chicken... — £17.00
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Edgard & Cooper Grain Free Dog Dry Food - Fresh Meat, High Protein & Natural...
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£18.40
£21.99 -
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced,...
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£19.34
£28.62 - Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Organic Wet Dog Food, 11 x 150 g — £22.00
- Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Puppy Grain Free Duck (18 x 395g)... — £39.99
- Forthglade Complete Natural Dry Dog Food -grain Free Duck (6 kg) Resealable... — £43.99
- HILIFE It's Only Natural Complete Wet Puppy Food 100% Natural Ingredients, 24...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best natural dog food for puppies of 2024. We would recommend using Naturediet – Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Puppy, 390g (Pack of 18) as it is available at a resonable price.
Top 10 Best natural dog food for puppies
Best natural dog food for puppies
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.
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Chicken and Salmon Natural Grain Free Complete Dry Dog Food (1 kg)
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
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Puppy Grain Free Duck (18 x 395g) Trays - Puppy Dog Food 2-12 months
Features
- WET DOG FOOD: 18 x 395g trays of grain free dog food suitable for puppies aged 2-12 months, made with duck, sweet potato & vegetables
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Grain-free recipe making it easier to digest, which is great for sensitive tummies. Made using our high quality recipe with 75% duck
- COMPLETE DOG FOOD: A complete and balanced meal containing everything your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Free from junk, fillers and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- VOTED BEST WET DOG FOOD 2023 YOUR DOG MAGAZINE: Award winning dog food proudly made at Forthglade's factory in the heart of Devon
Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Puppies - Puppy Days - 100% Natural Chicken and Salmon, Grain-Free with No Artificial Flavours, Good for Strong Teeth and Bones, 2 kg
Features
- 100% NATURAL CHICKEN AND SALMON - Our yummy dry puppy food is made with 100% natural chicken and salmon blended with a super tail-wagging combo of vegetables and herbs for your newest family member.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - This dry dog food recipe is made using only the best quality, natural ingredients. Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO FEED A HAPPY, HEALTHY PUPPY- Our specially formulated recipe was developed with puppies in mind, to ensure your puppy is getting the very best.
- AIDS DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH - Our puppy food uses ingredients which will aid your puppy's digestion, brain development and help them grow strong teeth and bones.
- APPROVED BY VETS - Our natural dog food is approved by vets for puppies
Forthglade Complete Natural Dry Dog Food -grain Free Duck (6 kg) Resealable Bag - Easy to Digest Cold Pressed Dog Food for Puppy, Adult and Senior Dogs
Features
- COLD PRESSED DRY DOG FOOD: This duck dog food is made using lots of delicious ingredients and doing as little to them as possible before they reach your dog’s bowl. For dogs aged 2 months+
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, along with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals
- GRAIN FREE DRY DOG FOOD: The ingredients are gently cold pressed to produce delicious, easily digestible, grain free, dry food thats great for your four-legged friend's long term gut health
- GOOD DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Contains salmon oil, rich in omega 3 & 6 and made using brewer's yeast with added chicory root & MOS (mannan-oligo-saccharide) to help support good digestive health
- COMPLETE MEAL: Our vegetable and duck dry dog food has everything your dog needs. You don't need to mix it with anything else, but if you prefer to it's the perfect companion to our wet dog food
Edgard & Cooper Grain Free Dog Dry Food - Fresh Meat, High Protein & Natural Ingredients (Puppy - Duck & Chicken, 2.5kg)
£18.40
Features
- NATURALLY TASTY DRY DOG FOOD: PACKED WITH LOTS OF FRESH MEAT filled with quality and tasty protein (no meat meal, no overprocessed or dried meat), Non GMO - We cook ingredients with care to preserve their flavour and natural nutrients. Suitable for adult neutered or unneutered dogs of all breeds and sizes. With a GRAIN FREE and GLUTEN FREE range, our dry food is perfect for sensitive stomachs, and contains PRE-BIOTICS for a healthy gut.
- KIBBLES PACKED WITH FRESH MEAT: This grain free dog food recipe is rich in fresh free-run chicken, an incredible source of high quality PROTEINS that supports a good IMMUNE SYSTEM and STRONG BONES & MUSCLES. In this recipe MANGO, BLUEBERRY, STRAWBERRY, CARROT and APPLE provide FIBER, VITAMINS A, B6, C, E, K, essential ANTIOXIDANTS, POTASSIUM, and beta-carotene.
- A HEALTHY WELL BALANCED COMPOSITION: Our simple, healthy recipes are developed by experts to provide optimal nutrition from natural ingredients. It's as if your dog had his own personal trainer! For a healthy, complete, and balanced diet, our tasty recipes include a tasty mix of fresh meat & nutritious offal, plus fibre-rich fruits & vegetables.
- EDGARD & COOPER'S VALUES: 01 JOYFUL FOOD: Our naturally, tasty recipes are packed with lots of fresh meat and healthy ingredients, cooked with care to preserve taste and nutrients 02 PLAY NICE WITH NATURE: From our paper-based packaging, to our commitment to achieve Zero Carbon by 2025, we're on a mission to be the world's most sustainable pet brand 03 FRIENDS STICK TOGETHER: We donate 1% of our sales to our INDEPENDENT FOUNDATION to end the suffering of dogs and cats worldwide.
- OUR ADVICE: 01 TRANSITION TO NATURAL FOOD: Over 4 days, gradually increase the amount of Edgard & Cooper food in his bowl, while decreasing the amount of regular food - 02 WATER: Make sure fresh water is available at all times, especially at meal times - 03 STORAGE: Close their kibble bag tightly and store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Once opened, it will stay fresh for three months.
HILIFE It's Only Natural Complete Wet Puppy Food 100% Natural Ingredients, 24 x 150g Pouches
Features
- HILIFE IT'S ONLY NATURAL WET PUPPY FOOD: Introducing our NEW it's only natural Puppy pouches - A complete pet food for puppies from weaning to around 1 year. HiLife its only natural recipes are 100% complete to give your puppy everything it needs, containing two tasty tender chicken recipes with complementary fruit & vegetables.
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR GROWING PUPPIES: Our recipes contain quality ingredients, including wholegrain brown rice and a variety of nutritious, tasty fruits and vegetables. Chicken is a great source of protein for puppies, which is easy on the digestive system and rich in vitamins and minerals, whilst the wholegrain rice is both gentle on tummies and slow release energy.
- 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Only the very best quality ingredients go into our HiLife Dog and & Cat Recipes - each delicious recipe is carefully prepared with 100% natural ingredients to help your puppy stay healthy & happy.
- A COMPLETE PET FOOD FOR PUPPIES: HiLife its only natural recipes are 100% complete to give your puppy everything it needs. This food should be fed according to the age, size and activity level of your puppy. Use the table on the images to determine an appropriate feeding amount.
- HILIFE - OUR STORY: HiLife is a British run business, and for over 30 years, we've been delighting the nation's pets with nutritious and delicious meals. As pet owners ourselves, we understand just how important our canine companions and feline friends can be. We're proud of our pet food because it matters.
Pets Purest Himalayan Yak Milk Chews for Dog, Puppy & Senior - 100% Natural Cheese Bone Food Treats - Long Lasting Protein & Calcium Dogs Dental Stick Snack for Plaque Off, Tartar & Teeth (5 Pcs)
Features
- 100% NATURAL DENTAL CHEW - Treat your pet to a delicious 5-pack of yak chew bars that contains all natural ingredients only. There is absolutely no added sugar, salt, or nasties within our natural dog treats or dog chews. They're also gluten free
- SOURCE OF PROTEIN & CALCIUM: Yak chews help clean and strengthen the teeth and bones of puppies, dogs, and seniors. Our long lasting protein and calcium packed cheese milk dental sticks are suitable for small, medium, large and even extra large dogs
- 100% NATURALLY AIR DRIED CHEWS: Traditional Himalayan yak chews for dogs recipes use smoke, which can leave an undesirable taste from the chemicals in the product. However, our Himalayan dog yak chews are naturally air dried for a much healthier chew
- LONG LASTING DOG CHEW: Save time and money with these hardened and healthy dental chews, which are tasty, as well as beneficial for pet oral hygiene. Our natural dog chews help keep your pooch occupied for longer, whilst providing essential nutrition
- IFS CERTIFIED DENTAL DOG STICKS: We care about your pets diet, which is why our pet supplies adhere to the strictest industry standards and guidelines. Our yak dog chews are vegetarian, gluten free, and contains no junk, chemicals or preservatives
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Organic Wet Dog Food, 11 x 150 g
Features
- Nutritionally complete and natural wet food for puppies (8 weeks +)
- Freshly prepared with proper meat: 28 Percent chicken, 12 Percent pork, 10 Percent beef and 7 Percent fish
- All natural, certified organic ingredients
- This puppy food packed with wholesome vegetables and herbs
- No derivatives, preservatives or fillers - natural and healthy dog food
Pets Purest Dog Treats Chicken Beef Strips - 100% Natural Air-Dried Chews for Dogs, Puppy & Senior. Healthy Hypoallergenic Grain, Gluten & Lactose Free Raw Food Treat Snack Sticks (100g)
£8.99
Features
- RAW & HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Treat your canine to a pure and delicious reward that isn't associated with the problems of unhealthier dog chews. Chicken and beef are the only ingredients making them a perfect pet safe alternative for a good boy or girl
- JUNK FREE: There are no additives, colourings, preservatives, sugar or grain in any of our natural dog chews. Itching, digestive pain, obesity and allergic reactions are all symptoms that can be associated with unhealthy doggie treats, but not ours
- 100% NATURAL: Unlike rawhide chews that use chemical based air drying for reduced drying times, we use a chemical free air drying process that is better for furry best friends. You can have total peace of mind with our dog friendly healthy treats
- PET HEALTH: Our pet meat munchies are chicken and beef only, making them grain, gluten & lactose free treats for dogs on a raw food diet. These hypoallergenic dog snacks are great for training, and cause less plaque tartar buildup on teeth and gums
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Our chicken and beef strips for dogs are expertly dried using low temperatures to lock in vitamins, minerals and enhanced aroma goodness. We are so confident that your dog will love these that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Please note packaging may vary
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 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 health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable where age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and make clear how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot put up with and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Simply as every person has their own health needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should be produced according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Grow older 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, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. Therefore, they want less energy, i. e. calorie consumption. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to digest and include a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in terms of composition, technique of creation and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrients the dog needs on a daily basis. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals varies depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A complete food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the vital nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and grocery stores usually comes from business production. This is the most typical kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of industrial dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. With a few exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for several years without the 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 nutritional supplements are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry 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 altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will find variations between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been highly processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per dollar organic. If it claims “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per cent organic and 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 does not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and 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 ever barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually healthier is debatable. Because the meals are put together individually, barfing much more well suited for experienced dog owners who have studied the diet program 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 needs 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 kinds of are supposed to supply the food the smell and taste. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is created by first drying the raw materials and then grinding and blending them. A 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, temperature ranges of about 90 degrees Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the term cold depressing. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed 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 foodstuff after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish 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 obviously, little by little. In addition, the food consists of more natural substances. In the event the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal area and a disrupted digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. However, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – moist food or dried out 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 up more and thus train their teeth. Consuming dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. For dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can become a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are provided 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 cast food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating during production
- More eco-friendly than canned food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to your 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 food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or mite formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Frequently one package of wet food compares to one meal. Many dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for puppies – once opened – can only be kept for a few times. It ought to be used up within 2 times of opening. Beneath we have summarised the benefits and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful portions
- Mainly because 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 very well
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is ideal for your dog. Your dog in the end decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try away both types.
A few dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following relates to both types of food: It should only be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much various meats and how many carbohydrates and nutrients belong in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of the dog 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 descended from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to those of predators. Thus first and foremost, the supply of meat is important. Nevertheless , 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 digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical can now break down starch, meaning that the four-legged friend can also digest herb 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. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 pct meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only various meats for their four-legged friends, this may lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not found in meat – for example , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty stomach acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal material of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. On the other hand, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay are often added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are normally found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fats provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these substances only in moderation. How much should take the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated fatty acids. They are stored in the body as emergency portion and are meant as a reserve for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 percent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior 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. Great quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed fat improve nutrient absorption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin.
How do i recognise superior 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 manufacture or best-before date of the dog food
– Brand of the foodstuff
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient types. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual uncooked materials, although not their percentage. The open declaration provides formula in percent and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term grain into individual groupings. 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 grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large volumes.
2. The substances in the feed are listed in descending order according to their amount. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Alternatively, this means: Only a small proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout the list is within 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 ingredients with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Very little use of flavor 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 outlined under the term “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 pet by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is engaged. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for instance , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood and its by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish heads.
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 solidifying agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for example , 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 within the right structure, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to influence the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Physical additives are used to influence the appearance and taste of the dog food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is a growing 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 inflammation. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. But age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. Occasionally the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he uses, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give dogs the necessary food. 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 good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. Your dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories from fat and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs are still growing and tend to be more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It really is highly recommended to reduce the quantity of food a little every 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 era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: A few diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. Once dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the food content of your dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced 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 techniques 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 % of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I recognise a food allergic reaction?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of the allergy are, for instance , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in 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 response by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain material. A genuine food allergic reaction 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 itching, vomiting, abs pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may not show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
Nevertheless, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. 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 with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to carry out an exclusion diet. However, this involves a number 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 bit. Following your food change, the dog is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition increases and the symptoms no more occur, a provocation test is completed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, that could be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. Over time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to consult a professional or talk to the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is crucial during an exclusion diet. The dog must not be given chews, treats or outstanding 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 longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and everything dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely weeks after the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often includes grains. Such as wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it causes obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of grain, it contains option ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and it is also ideal for more sensitive dogs. However , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. A few types of materials are also particularly easy to break down. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without materials. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event you want to give your pet a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too much and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that puppies can’t tolerate. Some of them are actually poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and organic pork. Onions can be fatal, with respect to 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 consumes raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pups must not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw potatoes
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruits starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as caffeine
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is recommended in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always be positioned in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for this, you should contact the doctor or the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. At the same time, keep the dog in a secure environment. On the other hand, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family 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 off of the side of the road.
The best choice is the Naturediet – Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Puppy, 390g (Pack of 18).
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Puppy, 390g (Pack of 18)
- 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.
Video about best natural dog food for puppies
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often 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 dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the case after about 8 weeks. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially created for growing puppies. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the puppy dog food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s gastrointestinal system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions several 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: Promising small to medium breeds are believed 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 elderly people?
For small canines, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age, the dog’s condition of health is also an important criterion. It is advisable to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be kept in an foolproof container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the meals can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based 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. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform yourself well or check with with experts.
What do I actually have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive canines in particular can quickly suffer from intestinal problems, a few of that can be 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 employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. On the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
If the dog reacts sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the variation phase and improve the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not well suited for him. In this instance, you should look for an option.
What should We do if my dog does 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 up in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. In case the food has already swollen in water, it fills the dog up faster and is better to break down. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How fast 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 scale the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The amount of food is important too. Little portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquid the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are pet tests carried out for dog food?
You will discover 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 listing of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for example , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother is constantly on the give food to 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 which includes liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no more provided with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a water until the puppy is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does indeed it sound right?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it will incorporate some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the planning and adapt the meals 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 could be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the food, you should study different substances. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes recommended to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. 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 allergic reactions. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your dog. There is hypoallergenic dry food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. This 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 happen.
Usually there is just one way to obtain necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an exotic 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 business lead to allergies. This happens when there is a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a very sensitive gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product provides protection against digestive problems.
