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 most importantly, 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 no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and in what quantity? Which food is ideal at which age? Is usually dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be fed? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best natural dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot tolerate and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best natural dog food:
- Burns Pet Natural Nutrition Adult & Senior Wet Dog Food Organic Chicken,... — £15.28
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Forthglade Complementary Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Just Variety Pack...
—
£16.73
£22.25 -
Encore 100% Natural Dog Food Deluxe Collection Jelly Pouch Multipack, 4 x (5...
—
£19.20
£21.29 - Encore 100% Natural Wet Dog Food, Chicken Breast with Ham and Vegetable in... — £19.79
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Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x...
—
£19.89
£22.25 -
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Brown Rice Variety Pack (12 x 395...
—
£19.89
£22.25 -
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced,...
—
£21.49
£28.62 -
HiLife Banquet - Wet Dog Food - Flaked Chicken Breast, Rice, Liver, Veg -...
—
£22.50
£25.50 - Nature's Menu Dog Food, Multi-Flavored, 400g Cans (Pack of 12) — £32.90
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Lily's Kitchen Chicken and Duck Countryside Casserole Natural Grain Free...
—
£80.00
£87.80
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best natural dog food of 2024. We would recommend using Naturediet – Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Chicken, 390g (Pack of 18) as it is available at a resonable price.
Top 10 Best natural dog food
Best natural dog food
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Chicken, 390g (Pack of 18)
£21.49
Features
- NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED - This complete and nutritionally balanced natural dog food contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs for a healthy diet. Made with freshly prepared Chicken and wholefoods.
- 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS FOR GENTLE DIGESTION - Our recipes are simple, wholesome, and made with 100% natural ingredients to provide a gentle, nourishing diet that’s ideal for fussy eaters and dogs with sensitive tummies.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL BREEDS & SIZES - Our natural wet food meals provide a nourishing diet for adult dogs of all sizes and breeds. Conveniently packaged in eco-friendly cartons this healthy, super nutritious meal is packed with taste but with less packaging waste.
- BRITISH MADE - Naturediet foods are expertly made in Norfolk with British sourced ingredients, to keep food miles low and our carbon footprint small.
- ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING - Good for your dog and for the planet! Naturediet foods are packaged in fully recyclable plant-based cartons made from sustainably sourced, renewable materials.
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Turkey, Lamb & Duck (packing may vary)
£19.89
1 used from £33.99
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 x 395g trays in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey with sweet potato & vegetables, 4x Lamb with butternut squash & vegetables and 4x Duck with 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% turkey, lamb or 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
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Brown Rice Variety Pack (12 x 395 g) Trays - 4 x Turkey, 4 x Lamb and 4 x Chicken
£19.89
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 X 395g trays of brown rice wet dog food in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey, 4x Lamb and 4x Chicken with brown rice & 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: Brown rice is naturally nutrient-rich and a good source of dietary fibre; Made using our high quality recipe with 75% turkey, lamb or chicken
- 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
Nature's Menu Dog Food, Multi-Flavored, 400g Cans (Pack of 12)
Features
- Complete & nutritionally balanced, wholesome food for adult dogs
- Contains no meat meals or meat derivatives; Gently cooked to retain nutrients
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- Human grade meat; Made with real meat; Vet Approved
Lily's Kitchen Chicken and Duck Countryside Casserole Natural Grain Free Complete Adult Dry Dog Food (12 kg)
£80.00
Features
- Keep your pooch happy and healthy with this complete and balanced, grain-free recipe dry food for dogs 4 months+
- This dog food is made with natural ingredients including freshly prepared meat and offal. We’re talking 31% fresh chicken and 8% freshly prepared duck, steamed cooked for gentle digestion
- Once your woofer has devoured their dry food, why not try the rest of our delicious dog food made with natural ingredients. From wet food, dental and treats. Our natural food is suitable for small, medium and large dogs
- 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 Complementary Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Just Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Chicken, Lamb & Beef
£16.73
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 X 395 g trays of grain free dog food in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Chicken, 4x Lamb and 4x Beef
- 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 & hypoallergenic recipe, which means it's kind & gentle on your dog's tummy and easy to digest. Made using our high quality recipe with 90% chicken, lamb or beef
- COMPLEMENTARY DOG FOOD: Perfect for tailoring mealtimes, for a balanced meal add a good quality mixer such as our natural dry food, or mix with carbohydrates like pasta or brown rice & vegetables
- MADE IN DEVON: Forthglade have over 50 years of making natural, nutritious recipes with high-quality ingredients, no nasties and gentle cooking methods
HiLife Banquet - Wet Dog Food - Flaked Chicken Breast, Rice, Liver, Veg - 100% Natural Ingredients, 30 Pouches x 100g
£22.50
Features
- HILIFE BANQUET WET FOOD FOR DOGS: The HiLife Banquet wet dog food range has been created using only human-grade ingredients and absolutely no artificial additives. The range includes a choice of 4 delicious all-natural recipes in mouth-watering jelly that your dog is sure to love.
- A GREAT SOURCE OF PROTEIN & VITAMINS: Chicken Breast is a great source of protein, which is easy on the digestive system and rich in vitamins and minerals. Liver is packed with nutrients and a firm favourite for dogs, whilst being rich in essential vitamins and minerals including Iron and Vitamin A which promotes healthy muscle development.
- 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Only the very best quality ingredients go into our HiLife Dog and & Cat Recipes - our HiLife Banquet wet dog food pouches are made from 100% natural ingredients and absolutely no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
- A COMPLEMENTARY PET FOOD FOR ADULT DOGS: HiLife Banquet Pouches are a complementary pet food for adult dogs, and can be used every day as a treat or topping within a balanced diet. To ensure balanced nutrition, feed your dog a selection of products from the HiLife range but do remember to monitor total food intake.
- 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.
Encore 100% Natural Wet Dog Food, Chicken Breast with Ham and Vegetable in Broth, 156g (Pack of 12)
Features
- 100% Natural ingredients - high protein Ingredients that your pet will love, Suitable for all adult and senior dog breeds
- High protein recipe for active and athletic dogs and seniors
- Natural Source of Omega 6 & Taurine, Omega 6 helps maintain healthy skin and a fuller, shiner coat for your dog, Taurine, an amino acid essential for maintaining proper heart function and eye health - vital for small, large and senior dogs
- No derivatives, artificial flavours, colours, or preservatives, Our complimentary, nutritious dog food is perfect with any dry food, ensuring your dog has a balanced and healthy diet
- We use natural, highly digestible, limited ingredients in all our pet food, Pack contains 12 x 156g Tins Chicken Breast with Ham and Vegetables
Encore 100% Natural Dog Food Deluxe Collection Jelly Pouch Multipack, 4 x (5 x 100g)
£19.20
Features
- Made with natural ingredients - Ingredients that your pet will love.
- 55% Meat - More real meat and no unnecessary cereals, fillers or preservatives.
- High protein - Promotes lean muscle tissue.
- Complementary pet food - Serve on its own or with any dry complete food.
- Pack contains - 20 Pouches x 100g Chicken Selection
Burns Pet Natural Nutrition Adult & Senior Wet Dog Food Organic Chicken, Carrots & Organic Brown Rice 12 x 150gm
Features
- Our complete Burns wet food contains fresh wholesome ingredients such as wholegrain brown rice, carrots, vitamins and minerals
- Comes in several tasty varieties including free-range chicken, hearty lamb, wild fish and wholesome turkey
- This specific wet dog food contains delicious free-range chicken with carrots and brown rice
- A convenient alternative to home cooking that will get tails wagging
- Like all Burns complete diet options, our Hypoallergenic dog food is suitable for adult and senior dogs of any breed, fussy eaters and even dogs with sensitive skin and digestion – made without ingredients that commonly cause intolerance such as beef, wheat, soya and dairy
The particular best for the dog – according to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, 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 no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which food is suitable from which age? Is definitely dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and make clear how much food your 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 quickly
Simply as every person has their own nutritional 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. Grow older 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. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Therefore, they require less energy, i. e. calories from fat. However , the dog food should be easy to break down and contain a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in words of composition, method of development and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrients the dog needs every day. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals differs with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the important nutrients. 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 food markets usually comes from business production. This is the most common form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. With a few conditions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time without the loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Yet , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In phrases of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry food.
– Organic dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover differences between the various natural dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable elements have been prepared. With all the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic and natural food are 95 per dollar organic. If it says “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per dollar natural ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food will not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– A unique form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation means “biologically species-appropriate organic 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 uncooked fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are put together individually, barfing is far more ideal for experienced pet owners who have studied this diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This kind of is a declaration that needs to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These types of are supposed to give the food the smell and preference. Some dog lovers also avoid dog or cat 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 created by first drying the raw materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller presses this mass through the opportunities of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other aspect. Through the dog food production process, temperature ranges of about 90 levels Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold hitting. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been broken down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural ingredients. In case the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system and a disrupted digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in deciding the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – wet food or dry out food?
There is damp and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food consists of hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and thus teach their teeth. Consuming dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dried out food can be a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The huge 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 processed food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or paziente formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Often one package of wet food compares to one meal. Many dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for canines – once opened up – can only be kept for a few times. It ought to be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Beneath we have summarised the huge benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High popularity by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful helpings
- Since of the high water content in wet food, the dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, wet food cannot be stored perfectly
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to move and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is well suited for your dog. The dog ultimately 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 away both types.
Some dog owners change between wet and dry food. The following applies to both types of food: It should only be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of the dog.
How much meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The standard of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – no matter of whether it is wet food or dry food. The right composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive tract is similar to those of predators. So to start with, the supply of meat is important. Yet , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme are now able to break down starch, meaning that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
First and foremost, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are no longer as energetic as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 % meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meats to their four-legged friends, this could lead to digestive problems, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for example , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy herbal oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the abdomen and intestinal contents of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from hemp, potatoes and cereals into energy and want it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or hay are often added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal body fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these chemicals only less often. Just how much should be in the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated oily acids. They are stored in the body as emergency rations and are designed as a hold for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 % lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 percent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrition such as vitamin h or iron. Very good quality oils such as salmon oil or linseed oil improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy pores and skin.
How can I recognise superior quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before day of the dog food
– Identity of the food
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various claims are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual raw materials, however, not their percentage. The open up declaration provides structure in per cent and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term feed into individual organizations. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or source. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large amounts.
2. The ingredients in the supply 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 implies: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down 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 veg content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero 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 nutrition in a dog food is detailed under the definition of “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and canine by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare exactly what is engaged. It can be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, dried meats, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for instance , hair, bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and oil fruits. They are to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying 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 anti-oxidants 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 formula, 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 flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are utilized 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 inflammation. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. Sometimes the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is vital to give canines the right amount of food. 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 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. Accordingly, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs are still growing and are often more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It is highly recommended to reduce the amount of food a little every year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age group 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 kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When ever dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can rise 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 food content of your canine 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 movements a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 per cent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 percent of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I identify a food allergic reaction?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of your allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the difference between an allergic reaction and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain substance. A genuine food allergy or intolerance rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Feasible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include irritation, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may well not show up 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 or intolerance. That they can be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause cleared up by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or intolerance 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 fine deal of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little. Following the food change, the dog is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition improves and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is completed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, that could be the trigger for the allergic reactions. Over time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is highly recommended to seek advice from a professional or talk to the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is vital during an different diet. The dog must not be given chews, treats or outstanding during this period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If 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 chemicals. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often includes grains. These include wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Grain have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it causes obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains alternative ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also ideal for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. A few types of grain are also particularly easy to break down. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not way 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 even poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, based on the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or unwanted wind. Raw pork could retain the Aujeszky disease, which causes fatal illness. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs must not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw taters
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. 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 canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous because of it, you should contact the vet or the veterinary crisis service directly. In the mean time, keep the dog in a safe environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to 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:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family members and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off the side of the road.
The best choice is the Naturediet – Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Chicken, 390g (Pack of 18).
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Chicken, 390g (Pack of 18)
- NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED - This complete and nutritionally balanced natural dog food contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs for a healthy diet. Made with freshly prepared Chicken and wholefoods.
Video about best natural dog food
FAQ – Common 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 need 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 elements of puppy dog food are specially suitable for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bones, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the pup food must contain certain essential minerals and vitamins. 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. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided with small portions many times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends upon the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are considered 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 puppies, the enhancements made on 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 old. In addition to age group, the dog’s condition of health is also an important criterion. It is recommended 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 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 foodstuff can become “sticky” and lose its preference and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English 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 natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a well-balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. However , 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 the changeover is abrupt, sensitive canines in particular can easily suffer from digestive problems, a number of which can be considerable. A time of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
If the dog acts sensitively and, for example , 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 in any way, it is obviously not suitable for him. In cases like this, 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 kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. If the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is easier to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with soaked dry food.
How fast do dogs break down dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 several 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 more mature animal. The quantity of food is important too. Tiny 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 liquefied the meals is, the shortest the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
There are quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a set of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
Once may i start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother continually nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no more fed with mother’s dairy.
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 indeed it make sense?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it will incorporate some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Dog owners can include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the planning and adapt the food to these and the dog’s preference.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it may be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the meals, you should study different substances. The food should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often a good idea to talk to a vet in advance. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially ideal for dogs with allergy symptoms. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your canine. There is hypoallergenic dry out food and allergies wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will take place.
Usually there is merely one supply of proteins in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or drinking water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergy symptoms. This kind of happens when there is a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a delicate digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product provides prevention of digestive problems.
