The particular best for the dog – relating to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but above all, 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. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate where age? Is definitely dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be fed? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best premium dog food for small dogs, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot put up with and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best premium dog food for small dogs:
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IAMS for Vitality Dry Dog Food for Senior Small Breed Dogs with Fresh...
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£10.50
£10.99 - Lakes Heritage Small Breed 2kg Chicken Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium... — £15.49
- Bonza Double Cat Bowls, 400ml Premium Stainless Steel Dog Bowls and Cat Food... — £17.95
- Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and... — £20.52
- The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium... — £37.70
- Eukanuba Adult Dog Food for Small Dogs Rich in Fresh Chicken, 12 kg — £47.64
- Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £47.99
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Arden Grange Puppy/Junior Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
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£49.28
£52.89 - Pippa & Max's Small Breed Sensitive Stomach 56% Chicken, Sweet Potato & Herb... — £52.99
- Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £54.49
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best premium dog food for small dogs of 2024. We would recommend using Pippa & Max’s Small Breed Sensitive Stomach 56% Chicken, Sweet Potato & Herb Premium Grain Free Dry Dog Food 10kg as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best premium dog food for small dogs
Best premium dog food for small dogs
Pippa & Max's Small Breed Sensitive Stomach 56% Chicken, Sweet Potato & Herb Premium Grain Free Dry Dog Food 10kg
Features
- 100% GRAIN FREE YUMMY PREMIUM DOG FOOD - Being GRAIN FREE, this COMPLETE DRY DOG FOOD is easy to digest resulting in FEWER TOILET RUNS and DECREASED FLATULENCE for your dog. Grain Free dog food can also REDUCE THE SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIES in your dog such as itching, patchy coat, hair loss and upset stomachs.
- VETERINARY APPROVED FRESHLY FORMULATED RECIPES - All our recipes have been approved by TRAINED VETS as we always want to be confident that your puppy, adult or senior dog is getting the VERY BEST AND MOST BALANCED NUTRITIONAL MEAL. We use only the FRESHEST AND PUREST INGREDIENTS in our formulas which deliver BENEFICIAL & NUTRIENT RICH FOOD in every bite.
- NO ARTIFICIAL COLOURS, FLAVOURINGS OR PRESERVATIVES - We produce all our pet food using only the most NATURAL OF INGREDIENTS. This means that our DRIED HEALTHY DOG FOOD uses NATURAL PRESERVATIVES to maintain the FRESHEST AND HEALTHIEST of pet foods SUITABLE FOR ALL TYPES OF DOGS including domestic or working dogs.
- 56% CHICKEN (INCLUDING 26% FRESHLY PREPARED CHICKEN) A HIGH PROTEIN SOURCE - Rich in AMINO ACIDS, VITAMINS & MINERALS this pet food is a natural, traditionally sourced HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE PROTEIN meal.
- ENHANCED WITH OMEGA 3 & VITAMINS - An excellent source of EPA & DHA to SUPPORT COGNITIVE FUNCTION, VISUAL DEVELOPMENT & help REDUCE THE INFLAMMATION RESPONSE.
Lakes Heritage Small Breed 2kg Chicken Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium Kibble for Adult Dogs & All Breed Sizes – Naturally Hypoallergenic, Grain Free, Complete Dry Dog Food with 45% Vegetables
Features
- 50% premium chicken, containing freshly prepared protein
- Herbs contain essential vitamins and beneficial plant compounds, including antibacterials and antioxidants
- Supporting digestive health using prebiotics is beneficial for the growth of helpful gut bacteria and the absorption of nutrients
- Premium fish oil containing Omega 3, supplemented to provide optimal skin and coat conditions
- Complete grain free dog food. No artificial additives
Bonza Double Cat Bowls, 400ml Premium Stainless Steel Dog Bowls and Cat Food Bowls with Non-Spill Silicone Base. For Small Dogs and Cats
Features
- TWO CAN SHARE or a full dinner set with food and water for one. Includes two premium 400ml stainless steel dog bowls, each measuring 14cm diameter x 4cm height.
- NO MORE MESS with the silicone base featuring a raised outer lip to contain spills. The soft flexible silicone won’t scratch your floors either. Just be careful to remove the dog or cat bowls before picking up.
- KEEPS YOUR BOWLS FROM SLIDING as the silicone base is non-slip on most floors. Watching your dog or cat chase their bowl around the floor is a thing of the past.
- SAVE YOURSELF MORE TIME and simply pop everything in the dishwasher. Your feeding station is 100% dishwasher safe. Bowls and base can be easily rinsed and cleaned under the tap too.
- LOOKS GREAT in any home or apartment with its attractive and compact design, Feel good knowing your floor and your most importantly your pets are safe too. All our products are food safe and 100% BPA free.
The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium Breeds - 14 Kilograms, Formula with Chicken, Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Features
- Ideal for adult dogs of small and medium breeds - the size, structure and shape of these kibbles are adapted to suit small and medium dog breeds.
- Healthy formula - contains essential amino acids for tissue recovery, all-round good health and also Vitamins E and C which increase immunity, enhance cell protection and regeneration.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- The real label - 280 g of chicken meal in 1 kg of food corresponds to 1120 g of fresh meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use a meal so we do not claim very high content of raw meat only to make the labels look much better to the consumer than they really are. Raw meat may contain 70%-90% water. For example chicken meal is simply fresh chicken that has already been cooked to remove moisture – this makes it a much more highly-concentrated source of protein.
- A delicious taste your dog will love - by creating this dog food we remembered about ancestors of dogs - wolves, which are true carnivores, therefore, the main ingredient of our food is always meat.
Eukanuba Adult Dog Food for Small Dogs Rich in Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
Features
- Tailored adult dog food with fresh chicken for small breed dogs in a resealable bag
- Improved formula for the healthy digestion and optimal body condition of your dog
- A hexagon kibble shape which improves palatability
- Contains DentaDefense to reduce tartar build-up and maintain strong clean teeth
- At least 25 percent of factory’s energy is generated from own wind turbine
Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for adult dogs
- Generous levels of fresh chicken make this a highly palatable and digestible diet which may be particularly beneficial for fussy eaters; The recipe is also maize free to suit dogs with an allergy or intolerance to this ingredient
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your dog; Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef soya or dairy products; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for normally active adult dogs; Containing fresh chicken which is a highly digestible protein source
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your dog
- Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef soya or dairy products
- This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
IAMS for Vitality Dry Dog Food for Senior Small Breed Dogs with Fresh Chicken, 3 kg
£10.50
Features
- IAMS for Vitality with fresh chicken for large breed adult dogs is a 100% complete and balanced pet food that nourishes your dog's healthy vitality & Supporting 7 signs of healthy vitality
- Tailored fibre blend including prebiotics and beet pulp for healthy digestion & With high quality animal protein and essential minerals to help maintain strong muscles
- Contains Omega 3 & 6 to support healthy skin and shiny coat & Enriched with essential minerals and vitamin D to support strong bones
- Crunchy kibbles and tailored mineral levels to help reduce tartar build up for healthy teeth
- Contains antioxidant blend with vitamin C & E to help the immune system
Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and Sweet Potato, 2kg
Features
- Designed to help anxious dogs stay calm and relaxed
- Premium, grain free complete dry dog food
- Includes chamomile, l-tryptophan, prebiotics and brewers yeast
- Single source protein with 45% lean turkey
- Free from grain, cereal , gluten, GM produce, artificial flavours, colours and preservatives
Arden Grange Puppy/Junior Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
£49.28
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for small and medium breed puppies and adolescent dogs; Formulated with the optimal balance of vitamins and minerals to encourage steady, healthy growth and development
- With a generous helping of fresh chicken included to provide a delicious and easily digestible source of protein
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your pet
- Including, prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, powerful natural antioxidants plus added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef, soya or dairy products in our recipes; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Only the best for the dog – relating to this saying, 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 is supplied 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. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and 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 given? What can 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 pups the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot tolerate and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Merely as every person has their own own dietary needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that goes into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. As a result, they require less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Yet , the dog food should be easy to process and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food vary in conditions of composition, technique of creation and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed includes all the nutrients the dog needs on a daily basis. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements is different based on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the important nutrients. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and supermarkets usually comes from industrial production. This kind of is the most common form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. On the other hand, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically altered 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 many years without the loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from grow, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to business food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are differences between the various organic dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been prepared. With the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per dollar organic. Whether it states “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 available too on the market. This dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When ever barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often combined with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually healthier is debatable. Since the meals are assembled individually, barfing is far more suited to experienced dog owners who have analyzed 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 statement that ought to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These kinds of are supposed to give the food an improved smell and taste. Some dog fans also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is produced 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, temperatures of about 90 levels Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold depressing. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed 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 have to be artificially added to the meals after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food contains more natural ingredients. In the event the four-legged good 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 determining the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – wet food or dry food?
There is certainly wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and so train their teeth. Eating dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry 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
- Even more green than refined food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight faster if it is not a diet food
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. A large number of dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for puppies – once opened – can only be kept for a few days. It ought to be used up within 2 days of opening. Under we have summarised the advantages and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful helpings
- 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, moist food cannot be stored very well
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- More difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- 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 dog finally decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your puppy likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Several dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should just be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much meats and just how many carbohydrates and nutrients fit in in dog food?
The caliber of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious 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 descended from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to regarding predators. Therefore first and foremost, the source of meat is important. Yet , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, and its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme can now break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
First and foremost, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves and provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are no longer as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts say that dog food should contain between 50 and 70 % meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meat for their four-legged friends, this can lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for instance , vitamins and mineral deposits 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 want 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 straw are often added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal body fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these substances only less often. How much should maintain the dog food will depend on how much the dog moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated oily acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency rations and are intended as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should contain 50 to 70 % lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 per cent 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 nutrients such as biotin or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin.
How could i recognise superior quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Name of the food
– 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 groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration prospect lists the individual raw materials, however, not their percentage. The open up declaration provides the structure in percent 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 groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meals, maize flour, maize gluten or source. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large amounts.
2. The ingredients in the give food to are listed in descending order regarding to their quantity. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Conversely, this implies: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over the list is contained in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavour enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have 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 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 canine by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare just what is included. It could be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They can be partially health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acidity regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for example , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be contained in the right formula, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to impact the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are used to influence the appearance and taste of the dog food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is an expanding problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes inflammation. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. But age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. Occasionally 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 consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is vital to give canines the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs is determined by 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 calorie consumption and has a slower metabolism. Accordingly, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs are still growing and are often more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than older dogs. It truly is a good idea to reduce the quantity of food a little every year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need 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 kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. Once dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child 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 lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog 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 two to three % of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that techniques 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 % of the daily food requirement.
Any person who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognize a food allergy or intolerance?
The most common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of an allergy are, for instance , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can trigger allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and cause.
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain substance. A real food allergy or intolerance rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, belly pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They may also be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause cleared up with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. Additionally, it is possible to carry out an different diet. However, this involves a lot 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 good friend have not eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by bit. After the food change, your canine is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no more occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which 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 removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is recommended to consult a professional or speak to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an different diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If it turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it calls for a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergic reaction no longer happen. Sometimes they only disappear completely months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often contains grains. Included in this are 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 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 is also also well suited for more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Some types of grain are also especially easy to digest. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
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 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. Several of them are actually poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, natural cabbage and organic pork. Onions can be fatal, with respect to the size of the onion and your dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky virus, which causes fatal illness. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should never eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw carrots
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is suggested in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are available in them. Ashtrays should be positioned in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the vet or the veterinary emergency service directly. Meanwhile, maintain the dog in a secure environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It might be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that could occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- 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 of the side of the road.
The best choice is the Pippa & Max’s Small Breed Sensitive Stomach 56% Chicken, Sweet Potato & Herb Premium Grain Free Dry Dog Food 10kg.
Pippa & Max's Small Breed Sensitive Stomach 56% Chicken, Sweet Potato & Herb Premium Grain Free Dry Dog Food 10kg
- 100% GRAIN FREE YUMMY PREMIUM DOG FOOD - Being GRAIN FREE, this COMPLETE DRY DOG FOOD is easy to digest resulting in FEWER TOILET RUNS and DECREASED FLATULENCE for your dog. Grain Free dog food can also REDUCE THE SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIES in your dog such as itching, patchy coat, hair loss and upset stomachs.
Video about best premium dog food for small dogs
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should We look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult puppies. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 8 weeks. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially made for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the puppy dog food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions a couple of times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This will depend on the breed of dog: Promising small to medium breeds are believed older people 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 dogs, the change in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large bread of dogs are considered senior at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to era, 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 retained 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 foodstuff can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the British and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed unprocessed food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should notify yourself well or consult 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, some 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 quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Within the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
In the event the dog acts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the adaptation phase and raise the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food in any way, it is obviously not ideal for him. In cases like this, you should look for an alternate.
What should I actually do if my dog would not like dry food?
Then 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 much easier to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How quickly do dogs digest dry food?
Canines usually need up to 14 hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an older animal. The number of food is important too. Little portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also brings about faster digestion. In addition , the more liquid the food is, the shortest the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are pet tests carried out for dog food?
There are quite a few manufacturers who carry out creature experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a 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 is i able to start feeding a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother continues to feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with pup milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer given with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a solution until the puppy dog is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, mix in more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does indeed it make sense?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it really does incorporate some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can determine 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 taste.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it could be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the meals, you should study the several elements. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes highly recommended to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your dog. Right now there is hypoallergenic dry food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. That 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 happen.
Usually there is only one supply of protein in such a product. This is usually an unique meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergic reactions. This happens when there is a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot tolerate.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a delicate digestive tract. For these dogs, such a product provides protection against digestive problems.
