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 profession, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which usually food is suitable from which age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be provided? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best over the counter dog food, 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 constituents and describe how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best over the counter dog food:
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Addis Everyday Kitchen Food Waste Compost Caddy Bin, 4.5 Litre, Air Blue
—
£4.00
£9.59 -
Nexium Control Heartburn and Acid Reflux Relief Tablets, Pack of 14
—
£11.00
£13.00 -
Green Kitchen Compost Caddy (5L - Small) - for Food Waste Recycling (5 Litre)...
—
£11.99
£12.99 - Lesser & Pavey New Sweet Home Dog Food tin with Scoop, Metal, Grey, 18 x 15 x... — £13.60
- PET FOOD STORAGE CONTAINER BLACK HOLDS 15 25 KG. ORANGE LID RUBBER AIRTIGHT SEAL — £16.99
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Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-fill Slimline Food Waste Caddy, 4 Litres-Graphite
—
£20.24
£30.00 -
simplehuman CW1643 10L In-Cabinet Bin, Polished Heavy-Duty Steel Frame, W...
—
£22.46
£29.95 -
Bakers Adult Dry Dog Food Beef and Veg 14 kg
—
£27.69
£37.50 - HOMESPON 2 Pack Door Mounted Trash Can Food Waste Bin with Lid for Kitchen...
- EVERANIMALS Pet Food Mat for Dogs and Cats, Silicone dog bowl mat 15.7x23.6...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best over the counter dog food of 2024. We would recommend using Addis Everyday Kitchen Food Waste Compost Caddy Bin, 4.5 Litre, Air Blue as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best over the counter dog food
Best over the counter dog food
Addis Everyday Kitchen Food Waste Compost Caddy Bin, 4.5 Litre, Air Blue
£4.00
Features
- Ideal 4.5 litre capacity for everyday kitchen food waste composting use
- Can also be used as a cleaning, utility or storage caddy with carrying handle and clip lock / removable lid
- Available in a wide range of fresh colours, Hard wearing quality finish, Easy to wipe clean
- Dimensions w25 x d18 x h19cm (10" x 7" x 7. 5 inches) - Dishwasher, Food safe, BPA Free
- Made in the UK with 10 year Addis guarantee / Addis part of the home since 1783
simplehuman CW1643 10L In-Cabinet Bin, Polished Heavy-Duty Steel Frame, W 29.7cm x H 36.3cm x D 22.0cm
£22.46
Features
- heavy-duty steel frame: Hooks securely onto the kitchen cupboard door or, for a cleaner look, remove the hanger and screw in for a permanent mount.
- removable plastic bucket: Keeps your kitchen cabinet free from messy spills and lifts out for easy cleaning.
- custom fit liners: Our code R liners are designed to fit these bins perfectly so they don't slip. Extra-thick plastic and double-seam construction prevent rips and tears.
Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-fill Slimline Food Waste Caddy, 4 Litres-Graphite
£20.24
Features
- Wide aperture makes scraping food from plates easier
- Adjustable air vent: Open - helps reduce moisture and odour build-up; Closed - provides insect barrier
- Slimline design perfect for storing on the worktop or inside cupboards
- Door-mounting bracket included
- Capacity: 4 litres
HOMESPON 2 Pack Door Mounted Trash Can Food Waste Bin with Lid for Kitchen Cupboard Bedroom Bathroom Dog Proof Garbage Can(White and Grey)
Features
- 【YOU WILL GET】2 trash bins in 1 set for garbage sorting (smell control, waterproof, door mounted)
- 【PROPER SIZE】 28(H) x 27(L) x 17(W) cm, this trash bin can be hanging on the kitchen door, cabinet door, pantry door, or anywhere else. The thickness of the door should be less than 0.78 inch(2cm). For everyday trash, this trash can is the perfect size
- 【SLIDE LID DESIGN】Just press down on lid, push it back entirely and you will feel a click, then the lid can stay open. If you want the lid automatic returns after you drop trash, just push the lid gently, don't need to push it back entirely, it will back to the place
- 【GOOD SEALING】 The lid of this hanging trash can is sealed after automatic reset, which can effectively prevent the odor from escaping especially in the summer and also a good dog proof trash can. Made of high quality PP material, have strong bearing capacity
- 【MULTIPLE USES】Our small trash can work great with reusable grocery bags. Suitable for office, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, RV, laundry, dorm room, etc. Perfect for baby changing table. Space saving and environmentally friendly garbage can
EVERANIMALS Pet Food Mat for Dogs and Cats, Silicone dog bowl mat 15.7x23.6 inch - Grey
Features
- 100% WATERPROOF - cat food mat and dog food mat with extra high rim to keep water and food bowl on the mat
- SLIP RESISTANT - dog mats for bowls and for cat food tray with anti-slip knots on bottom (mat does not slip) and top (prevent bowls or trays of any size to slip)
- EASY TO CLEAN - dog bowl mat and cat feeding mat made out of 100% silicone - High quality material: flexible, safe and easy to clean with water only
- PERFECT SIZE 60x40cm - comfortable cat mat and dog mat with perfect size for all pets to reach the bowl
- MULTI USE PET FEEDING MAT - Can also be used as mat underlay for shoes or coffee machines
Bakers Adult Dry Dog Food Beef and Veg 14 kg
£27.69
Features
- 100% Complete Complete dog food for adult dogs Perfect nutritional balance for all your dog's daily needs Made with Selected Natural Ingredients
- Recipe using superfoods With Natural Spirulina Algae, known for its beneficial impact on intestinal health With spinach, a natural ingredient contributing to essential minerals
- No added Artificial Colours, Flavours & Preservatives
- Antioxidants to help support natural defences
- Added quality protein to help support muscle strength
Lesser & Pavey New Sweet Home Dog Food tin with Scoop, Metal, Grey, 18 x 15 x 25 cm
Features
- Handy storage tin with Scoop
- H 25cm x L 18cm
- New Grey colour for a sleek and contemporary style kitchen
- Part of the Leonardo Collection
- Many other items in the range to complete your collection
Nexium Control Heartburn and Acid Reflux Relief Tablets, Pack of 14
£11.00
Features
- Do you suffer from frequent heartburn? If you get heartburn more than once a week, Nexium Control 20 mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets can give you 24 hr protection.
- Just one pill a day helps to prevent heartburn from recurring and reduce stomach acid at the source to provide relief that lasts all day and all night
- Nexium Control is the UK’s No 1 brand for 24-hour heartburn protection (Based on NielsenIQ Total Coverage PPI Value Sales Unit Sales for the MAT period WE 01.01.2022)
- Now you can do more than just treat the burning pain of heartburn - you can tackle it straight at the source. Nexium Control works by reducing the amount of acid produced in your stomach. Its target, Zero heartburn helping with a good night sleep and no heartburn pain.
- Nexium Control is a proton pump inhibitor . It works by reducing the amount of acid produced by your stomach.
Green Kitchen Compost Caddy (5L - Small) - for Food Waste Recycling (5 Litre) - 5L Plastic Composting Bin
£11.99
Features
- 5L Composting Bin - With Composting Guide produced by All-Green
- Green colour, with robust handle -Smaller size is ideal for small kitchens and smaller households
- Smooth, wipe-clean interior
- Close-fitting, snap-shut lid
- Ideal for use with '6L Biobags'
PET FOOD STORAGE CONTAINER BLACK HOLDS 15 25 KG. ORANGE LID RUBBER AIRTIGHT SEAL
Features
| Color | Black Base + Orange Lid + Orange Scoop |
| Size | 25 kg (Pack of 1) |
Only the best for the dog – regarding to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but especially, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. 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. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which usually food is appropriate at which age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be fed? What may 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 pups 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.
The different types of dog food easily
Simply as every person has their own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that goes into the dog’s bowl should be produced according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive tract is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Consequently, they want less energy, i. e. calories. However , the dog food should be easy to process and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in phrases of composition, method of production and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrition the dog needs every day. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements varies depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or cast food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the crucial nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner combines into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and grocery stores usually comes from professional production. This is the most common kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one pan is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of business dog food use genetically modified raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. By exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. However , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In terms of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to industrial food: natural dog food is packaged in containers or as dried out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are dissimilarities between the various natural dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable elements have been prepared. With the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic and natural food are 95 per dollar organic. Whether it says “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per cent organic ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food would not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed raw fresh meat, often combined with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually more healthy is debatable. Considering that the meals are put together individually, barfing is far more ideal for experienced pet owners who have learned the diet program of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that 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 types of are supposed to supply the food a better smell and preference. Some dog lovers also avoid 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 produced by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller presses this mass through the openings 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 certifications Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold depressing. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those used in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These must be artificially added to the meals after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells substantially when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural elements. If the four-legged 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. However, the manufacturing process is just an extra factor in deciding the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the raw materials.
Which is better – damp food or dry food?
There is moist and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and therefore teach their teeth. Eating dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can be considered 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 huge benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- More affordable than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heat during production
- More green than processed food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a diet food
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food compares to one meal. Various dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for canines – once opened – can only be kept for a few times. It should be used up within 2 times of opening. Beneath we have summarised the huge benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High popularity by most four-legged friends
- Packed in convenient portions
- Since of the high water content in wet food, your dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, wet food cannot be stored very well
- Major dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to move and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your canine 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.
A few dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should only be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of the dog.
How much meat and how many carbohydrates and nutrients belong in dog food?
The standard of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective 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 originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to regarding predators. So to start with, the source of meat is important. However , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, and its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy teeth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are not as active 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 may lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not found in meat – for example , vitamins and nutrients found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal items of prey pets or 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. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these chemicals only less often. How much should be in the dog food is determined by how much the animal moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated oily acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency ration and are intended as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 natural 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 pct lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 % high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary 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 olive oil or linseed oil improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin.
How could i recognise high-quality dog food?
Dog food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Address and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before day of the dog food
– Identity of the foodstuff
– 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 example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual natural materials, but not their percentage. The open up declaration provides the composition in per cent and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the word grain into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large quantities.
2. The ingredients in the supply are listed in descending order according to their volume. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout the list is contained in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavour enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is outlined 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 canine food. Manufacturers often do not declare exactly what is included. 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 and its by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They may be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for example , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity 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 good friend. They should be included in the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and search for elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to influence the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the digestive tract flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are employed to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies suffer! Obesity is an expanding problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. But age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles usually become overweight. At times the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged friend gets more energy than he uses, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give canines the necessary food. How much pet food a dog needs will depend on various factors. In addition to the breed, the subsequent aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. Your dog 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: Young dogs remain growing and are often more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than older dogs. It really is highly recommended to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For more mature 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 around 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. Once dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are pregnant or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the caloric content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the following guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about two to three percent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves a lot or is recovering from 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 per cent of the daily food requirement.
Any person who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I recognise a food allergic reaction?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of your allergy are, for instance , stress, parasitic organisms 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 allergic reaction and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain compound. A true food allergic reaction rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible symptoms of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up immediately after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They will can even be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause cleared up with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Additionally, it is possible to carry out an exclusion diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an exemption diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special way to obtain protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little. After the food change, your canine is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. Over time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to talk to a professional or speak with the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is crucial during an exemption diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or left over spots 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 more eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it calls for some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer happen. Sometimes they only disappear completely weeks after the change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often consists of grains. Such as whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it leads to obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also also well suited for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. Several types of materials are also especially easy to process. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that canines can’t tolerate. Several of them are even poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, according to the size of the onion and your dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog eats raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky disease, which in turn causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pups should not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw potatoes
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should always be located 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 and also the veterinary emergency service directly. In the mean time, maintain the dog in a safe environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It might be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that could occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your 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 at all off of the side of the road.
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Video about best over the counter dog food
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 2 months. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially designed for growing puppies. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Above all, the puppy food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s digestive 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 small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends upon the breed of dog: Promising small to medium breeds are viewed as grown ups 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 change in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is a good idea to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the food can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
Precisely 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, natural oils and carbohydrates for a well-balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be purchased in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform yourself well or consult with experts.
What do We have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive canines in particular can quickly suffer from digestive : problems, some of which may 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 employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about a quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
In the event the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the foodstuff 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 whatsoever, it is obviously not suitable for him. In this case, you should look for an alternative.
What should I do if my dog would not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is better to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with soaked dry food.
How fast do dogs digest dry food?
Dogs usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dry 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 quantity of food is also important. Small 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. In addition , the more liquid the foodstuff 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?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a list of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
Once can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this period, the mother continues to 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 some liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a liquid 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 – will it make sense?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it really does incorporate some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners may include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the planning and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s preference.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it may be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the food, you should study the different ingredients. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often recommended to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be eaten by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially well suited for dogs with allergies. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by the dog. Presently there is hypoallergenic dry out 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 your dog will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is just one supply of protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergies. This kind of happens when there is a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot tolerate.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a very sensitive digestive system. For these dogs, such a product provides protection against digestive problems.
