The particular best for the dog – according 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 foodstuff 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 no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable at which age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be fed? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best premium dry dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot endure and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best premium dry dog food:
- Arden Grange Puppy/Junior Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken, 2 Kg — £12.50
- Lakes Heritage 2kg Pork Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium Kibble for Adult... — £15.49
- The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium... — £37.70
- Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Rich in Pork and Rice, 12 kg — £48.00
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Pooch & Mutt - Health & Digestion, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Salmon...
—
£54.49
£59.99 - Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £54.96
- Crave Adult Turkey & Chicken Dry Dog Food 1kg Premium Dry Food Adult Dogs... — £10.50
- Wainwright's Adult Small Breed Complete Duck And Rice 2KG A Hypoallergenic...
- Beau Superfood 2kg English Country Duck Dog Food - 65% High Protein Premium...
- Pero 10649 Premium Dry Dog Food 15 kilograms — £35.18
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best premium dry dog food of 2024. We would recommend using Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best premium dry dog food
Best premium dry dog food
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
Pero 10649 Premium Dry Dog Food 15 kilograms
Features
- Pero Premium 15kg
- Foods - Dog - Dry Working / Racing
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Rich in Pork and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- Arden Grange adult rich in fresh pork & rice is a complete, super premium pet food for normally active adult dogs
- It contains high quality pork in a carefully balanced formulation, which is great for dogs requiring a delicious and digestible alternative protein source
- Pork provides a nutritionally valuable source of protein and is a rich natural source of zinc, selenium and the B vitamins
- This recipe is also egg and maize free to suit dogs with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients
Arden Grange Puppy/Junior Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken, 2 Kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for large breed puppies and adolescent dogs, containing delicious fresh chicken has been formulated to meet the nutritional requirements for steady, healthy growth and development
- Boosted levels of joint supplements have been added to account for the extra demands placed on large and giant breeds
- 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; powerful natural antioxidants antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- A naturally hypoallergenic product - free from 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
Lakes Heritage 2kg Pork 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 pork, containing freshly prepared protein
- Apples are a rich source of flavonoid antioxidants, which can help shield cells from damage caused by free radicals in the body
- 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 is supplemented to provide optimal skin and coat conditions
- Complete grain free dog food. No artificial additives
Pooch & Mutt - Health & Digestion, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Salmon and Sweet Potato, 10kg
£54.49
Features
- Premium, grain free complete dry dog food
- To help dogs with poor or sensitive digestion
- Includes prebiotics to aid the balance of good bacteria
- Single source protein with 45% Salmon
- Free from Grain, Cereal , Gluten, GM produce, Artificial flavours, colours and preservatives
Wainwright's Adult Small Breed Complete Duck And Rice 2KG A Hypoallergenic Nutriment Premium Dry Dog Food For Sensitive General Stomach Digestion
Features
| Size | 2 kg (Pack of 1) |
Beau Superfood 2kg English Country Duck Dog Food - 65% High Protein Premium Kibble for Adult Dogs & All Breed Sizes – Naturally Hypoallergenic, Grain Free, Complete Dry Dog Food
Features
- 65% TOTAL DUCK CONTENT – Beau Superfoods premium dry dog food is high in protein and contains a minimum of 35% freshly prepared Duck. Duck is a lean, nutrient-dense protein source. It is a responsibly sourced and highly digestible source of protein. It is also rich in collagen which helps maintain healthy joints and skin.
- PLUS 20% NATURAL SUPERFOODS – Beau Superfoods natural dry dog food boasts a blend of Parsnip (Vitamin B3 for metabolism, energy and playing), Orange (Vitamin C or boosted immune system), Asparagus (Iron to support circulatory system), Beetroot (Dietary Fibre to normalise gastrointestinal transit time) and Pumpkin (Vitamin B3 for metabolism) will keep your dog active and healthy.
- EVERYDAY HEALTH & WELLBEING - Beau Superfoods complete dry dog food is rich in essential amino acids, vitamins & minerals to help maintain a healthy immune system. Contains Omega 3 & 6 essential fatty acids, Zinc and Biotin to help maintain a healthy skin & coat, plus pre-biotics MOS and FOS which are beneficial for the growth of healthy gut bacteria and support digestion. No Added Artificial Colours & Preservatives.
- GRAIN FREE & NATURALLY HYPOALLERGENIC - All Beau Superfoods caring dry dog food are 100% grain, gluten, wheat and dairy free which makes it easier to digest. This also helps your dog's health with reduced allergy reactions, flatulence, upset stomachs, discomfort, inflammation, itchiness, skin/coat issues and hair loss.
- 100 YEARS OF UK HERITAGE & EXPERTISE - Beau Superfoods is a WCF brand, who develop high quality, complete dry food to aid your dog's health and wellbeing. WCF's experience stems back to 1911 in the rural natural beauty of the Lake District, selling dog food through their Cumbrian stores to thousands of loyal customers.
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.
Crave Adult Turkey & Chicken Dry Dog Food 1kg Premium Dry Food Adult Dogs Rich in Protein Minimum of 60% Animal Ingredients No Grains Soya or Dairy Products
Features
| Size | 1 kg (Pack of 1) |
The particular best for the dog – regarding to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is ideal 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 may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and describe how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot endure and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Just as every person has their own own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should be made 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. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. As a result, they require less energy, i. e. calories. Yet , the dog food should be easy to digest and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food vary in phrases of composition, method of creation and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrients the dog needs every day. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins varies depending 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 damp food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the essential 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 pet shops and grocery stores usually comes from professional production. This is the most common form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of professional dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. By conditions, this dog food can be stored unopened for several years without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Yet , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to business food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will find dissimilarities between the various organic dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been highly processed. With all the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic and natural food are 95 per dollar organic. If this says “made with organic”, the product includes 70 per penny organic ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food will not contain meat and 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.
– A special 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 barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Since the meals are put together individually, barfing much more well suited for experienced dog owners who have studied the diet program of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that should 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 provide the food an improved smell and flavor. Some dog fans also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is produced by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and mixing them. A tool presses this mass through the openings of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other part. During the dog food production process, temps of approximately 90 certifications Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the word cold hitting. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These must be artificially added to the meals after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Feed 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 normally, little by little. In addition, the food consists of more natural ingredients. If the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal tract and an annoyed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is only an extra factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the raw materials.
Which is better – damp food or dry food?
There is certainly moist and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes very little 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. For dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can be a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are fed only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less costly than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- More environmentally friendly than processed food
Cons
- Often 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 paziente 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. Many dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for dogs – once opened – can only be kept for a few days. It ought to be used up within 2 days of opening. Below we have summarised the huge benefits and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy portions
- 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, moist food cannot be stored very well
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your dog ultimately chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Several dog owners change between wet and dry food. The following relates to both types of food: It should 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 various meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients belong 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 proper composition of the dog 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 originated from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to those of 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, as well as 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, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest plant food in smaller quantities.
To start with, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy teeth and nerves and provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as energetic as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 percent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only various meats to their four-legged friends, this could lead to digestive problems, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not found in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the abdomen and intestinal contents of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from grain, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from grow waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. High-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 chemicals only less often. How much should take the dog food depends on how much the dog moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated oily acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency rations and are intended as a book for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 percent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 % high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary nutritional supplements. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as vitamin h or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin area.
How could i recognise superior quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time 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 teams. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual natural materials, however, not their percentage. The start declaration provides the composition in pct and the respective resources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the word grain into individual groupings. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large amounts.
2. The elements in the give food to are listed in descending order relating to their volume. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the greater its proportion. Conversely, this means: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over the list is included in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of taste enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is outlined under the term “analytical ingredients”. We now have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and pet by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Companies often do not declare exactly what is engaged. It may 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 example , 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 essential oil fruits. They can be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity of oil and water. Natural vitamin antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be within the right formula, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and search for elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to impact the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are utilized to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. They include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is an expanding problem in dogs with serious health consequences. That can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless 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 food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event the four-legged friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give puppies the right amount of food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends 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. 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. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs remain growing and in many cases are more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It truly is recommended to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the caloric content of your dog food. A higher calorie content means a lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the next 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 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 movements a lot or is recovering from an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 % of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 percent of the daily food requirement.
Any person who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
Just how can I identify a food allergy?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of your allergy are, for example , stress, unwanted organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce 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 difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain compound. A true food allergy or intolerance 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 irritation, vomiting, stomach pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not exactly show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
Nevertheless, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. They will can be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause cleared up by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Additionally, it is possible to handle an exclusion diet. However, this involves a fine deal of effort.
What is an exclusion diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special supply of protein and carbohydrates. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend have not eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. After the food change, your canine is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition enhances and the symptoms will no longer occur, a provocation test is completed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can tolerate or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is highly recommended to seek advice from a professional or speak with the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is vital during an exemption diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
Whether it turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will 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 applies to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it takes a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely months following your change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often includes grains. Included in this are 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 results in obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of grain, 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 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 break down vegetable protein. Several types of materials are also particularly easy to digest. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without materials. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your dog a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that dogs can’t tolerate. Several of them are even poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and organic pork. Onions can be fatal, according to the size of the onion and the dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog consumes raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that dogs must not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw potatoes
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- 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. Therefore, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should be located in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for this, you should contact the doctor and also the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. At the same time, keep the dog in a secure environment. On the other hand, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that could occur with poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Trouble sleeping
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives 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 the side of the road.
The best choice is the Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg.
Arden Grange Adult Premium Dry Dog Food Rich in Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
- 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
Video about best premium dry dog food
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I 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 8 weeks. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially designed for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bones, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the puppy dog food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s digestive tract is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions many times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends upon the breed of dog: Up-and-coming 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 seniors?
For small puppies, the difference 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 bread of dogs are considered older at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age group, the dog’s condition 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 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 meals can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the British and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate organic 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 natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a well-balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. However , you should advise yourself well or seek advice from 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 period of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get accustomed to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about a quarter of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the third and fourth day, replace half with the new food. On the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
If the dog acts sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the variation phase and raise the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not well suited for him. In this case, you should look for an alternate.
What should I do if my dog does not like dry food?
In that case 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 case the food has already swollen in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How quickly do dogs break down dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and scale the dog and the caliber of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The number of food is important too. Tiny portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also brings about faster digestion. In addition , the more liquefied the food is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult 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 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 can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continues to feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it seems sensible to moisten or dilute it which includes liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer fed with mother’s milk.
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 – will it make sense?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it really does incorporate some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the planning and adapt the food to these and the dog’s flavor.
– 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 may be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the food, you should study the various ingredients. The food should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes a good idea to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suitable for dogs with allergic reactions. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your canine. Right now there is hypoallergenic dry food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. This contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your dog will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is merely one supply of protein 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. Nevertheless, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergic reactions. 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 well suited for four-legged friends with a sensitive digestive system. For these dogs, such a product can provide prevention of digestive problems.
