Only the best for the dog – according to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but above all, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in good 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 range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which usually food is ideal at which age? Is usually dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be provided? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best quality dog food for small dogs, we present 10 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Within 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 see which foods dogs cannot tolerate and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best quality dog food for small dogs:
- Bakers Meaty Meals Beef Complete Semi Moist Dog Food - Small Dog (Pack Of 4)... — £8.77
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IAMS Vitality Adult Small & Medium Dog Food With Lamb 2kg x 1
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£9.44
£10.93 - Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds - Bowl Lickin' Chicken - 100%... — £13.90
- PRO PLAN Small and Mini Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken 3kg — £17.79
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IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken,...
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£25.00
£32.95 - James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Turkey and Rice,7.5 kg — £31.50
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Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds - Doggylicious Duck - 100%...
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£31.82
£33.39 - The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium... — £37.70
- Wainwright's Adult Small Breed Complete Lamb And Rice 2KG Hypoallergenic &...
- Beau Superfood 2kg English Country Duck Dog Food - 65% High Protein Premium...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best quality dog food for small dogs of 2024. We would recommend using Wainwright’s Adult Small Breed Complete Lamb And Rice 2KG Hypoallergenic & Wheat Free Dry Dog Food. Complete And Balanced Small Breed Adult Dog Food. Quality Ingredients Chosen With Care. as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best quality dog food for small dogs
Best quality dog food for small dogs
Wainwright's Adult Small Breed Complete Lamb And Rice 2KG Hypoallergenic & Wheat Free Dry Dog Food. Complete And Balanced Small Breed Adult Dog Food. Quality Ingredients Chosen With Care.
IAMS Vitality Adult Small & Medium Dog Food With Lamb 2kg x 1
£9.44
Features
- Our new and improved tasty adult recipe with lamb is based on high quality animal protein, carefully selected to support your dogs 7 signs of healthy vitality.
- Recipe contains 8Genuine quality pet item from the UK% animal protein (out of total protein).
- 1Genuine quality pet item from the UKGenuine quality pet item from the UK% Food
Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds - Doggylicious Duck - 100% Natural Free-Run Duck with Hypoallergenic Ingredients, Grain-Free Recipe, 4 kg
£31.82
Features
- 100% NATURAL FREE-RUN DUCK - Our Dogglicious Duck dry dog food recipe is made for small breeds using dry dog food is made with 100% natural free-run duck blended with sweet potato, peas & herbs, this delicious duck dinner will set tails wagging!
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - This dry dog food recipe is made using only the best quality, natural ingredients. Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- NATURALLY HYPOALLERGENIC AND grain-free - These dog biscuits are made using a sensitive formula ensuring a grain-free, hypoallergenic dog food for your canine companion!
- BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM - This pet food boosts your furry friend's immune system and has everything you need to feed a happy, healthy dog
- APPROVED BY VETS - Our natural dog food is approved by vets for adult dogs of small breeds
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.
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
£25.00
Features
- IAMS for Vitality with fresh chicken for small and medium 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
Bakers Meaty Meals Beef Complete Semi Moist Dog Food - Small Dog (Pack Of 4) (4 x 1kg) (May Vary)
Features
- Compoition: Meat and animal derivative (26% meat
- 4% beef)
- Cereals
- Various sugars
- Vegetable Protein Extracts
Barking Heads Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds - Bowl Lickin' Chicken - 100% Natural Chicken with No Artificial Flavours, Good for Healthy Digestion and Joint Health, 1.5 kg
Features
- 100% NATURAL FREE-RUN CHICKEN - Our Bowl Lickin' Chicken dry dog food is made with 100% natural free-run chicken blended with a seriously yummy combination of garden veg and herbs, this chicken dinner isn’t called “Bowl Lickin” for nothing!
- GLUTEN FREE, NATURAL INGREDIENTS - This small dog food recipe is made using only the best quality, natural ingredients. Free from gluten, artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives
- NATURALLY HYPOALLERGENIC AND GLUTEN FREE - These dog biscuits are made using a sensitive formula ensuring a hypoallergenic dog food for your canine companion!
- BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM - This pet food boosts your furry friend's immune system and has everything you need to feed a happy, healthy small dog
- APPROVED BY VETS - Our natural dog food is approved by vets for adult dogs of a small breed
James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Turkey and Rice,7.5 kg
Features
- Hypoallergenic dog food for pets with sensitivities, selected natural ingredients, no added artificial flavours, colours, or antioxidants
- Adult small breed dog food with a single source animal protein recipe excludes common allergens beef, pork, soya, eggs, dairy and wheat with natural prebiotics for mature dogs' healthy digestion
- Dog food dry with vitamin E and minerals to support the immune system, omega 6 fatty acids and zinc to promote healthy skin and coat
- Turkey meal - A delicious source of protein with essential minerals brown and white rice a highly digestible carbohydrate, gentle on the stomach, linseed a great source of omega 3
- Chicory extract – A source of prebiotic inulin helping to maintain the gut flora, yucca a natural deodoriser for less smelly poos, smaller kibble for small breed dogs' smaller mouths
PRO PLAN Small and Mini Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken 3kg
Features
- OPTIBALANCE is a combination of specific nutrients that are balanced at levels to promote overall health.
- Specifically adapted nutrient concentration to support the fast metabolism of small dogs
- A combination of key nutrients that helps to support healthy joints for your dog’s active lifestyle
- Helps maintain your dog's healthy heart.
- Specially formulated for dental care.
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 particular best for the dog – according to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The meals 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. 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. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which usually food is suitable where age? Is usually dry or moist 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 dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and clarify how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot tolerate and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Just as every person has their own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs sugars, fats, oils, protein and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. Therefore, they need less energy, i. e. calories from fat. However , the dog food should be easy to break down and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in words of composition, way of creation and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed includes all the nutrition the dog needs on a daily basis. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins differs with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A complete food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the crucial nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends 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 professional production. This kind of is the most frequent kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of professional dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. By conditions, 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 herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Yet , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dried out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will find distinctions between the various natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable elements have been highly processed. With the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic and natural food are 95 per cent organic. If this claims “made with organic”, the product includes 70 per cent 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 , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A unique form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed raw fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Since the meals are merged individually, barfing much more suitable 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 an assertion that should 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 supply the food a much better smell and preference. Some dog fans also avoid dog or cat food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is created by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and combining them. A tool presses this mass through the openings of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other part. Throughout the dog food production process, temperature ranges of about 90 levels Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold depressing. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of must be artificially added to the food after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is communicated through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells considerably 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, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural ingredients. In case 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. Nevertheless, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – moist food or dry food?
There is damp 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 munch more and so teach their teeth. Consuming dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can become a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages 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 eco-friendly than processed food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly 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. Often one package of wet food compares to one meal. A large number of dogs like damp food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for puppies – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It must be used up within 2 times of opening. Under we have summarised the advantages and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful servings
- Since of the high water content in wet food, your canine does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, damp food cannot be stored very well
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- More difficult to move and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. The dog ultimately decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Some dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of the dog.
How much various meats and exactly how many carbs and nutrients belong 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 consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of the dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Just how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to those of predators. Thus above all, the source of meat is important. Nevertheless , 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 chemical are now able to break down starch, meaning that the four-legged friend can also digest plant food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and provide energy for its activities. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are not as energetic as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit 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 may lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not seen in meat – for example , vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbs. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach and intestinal material of prey pets or animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from grain, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. On the other hand, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw tend to be added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are normally 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 meals should contain these chemicals only in moderation. Just how much should maintain the dog food is determined by how much the animal moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated oily acids. They may be stored in the body as emergency ration and are meant as a book for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should contain 50 to 70 percent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior 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. Good quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat and healthy skin area.
How could i recognise top quality dog food?
Dog food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Name of the foodstuff
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual uncooked materials, however, not their percentage. The open declaration provides the structure in % and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the definition of 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 source. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large amounts.
2. The ingredients in the feed are listed in descending order regarding to their amount. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down 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
– No use of taste enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrition in a dog food is outlined under the definition of “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and canine by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Companies often do not declare precisely what is included. 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, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They can be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , 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 friend. They should be within the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are employed to influence the appearance and taste of the dog food. They include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is a growing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often 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 good friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is vital to give canines the right amount of food. How much pet food a dog needs will depend on various factors. In addition to the breed, the following aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. Your dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories and has a slower metabolism. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs are still growing and are often more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It truly is highly recommended to reduce the amount of food a little annually. 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 age of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. When dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the food content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the following guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with an ordinary activity level should be about 2 to 3 per cent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 pct of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves 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 % of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is uncertain about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
How can I recognize a food allergy?
The most common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of your allergy are, for example , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can trigger allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , 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 response by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain material. A genuine food allergic reaction rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Feasible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abs pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up soon 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. That they can be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to undertake an exclusion diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an exclusion diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by bit. Following your food change, the dog is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition increases and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergies. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can tolerate or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to check with a professional or speak with the vet in advance.
Consistent action is essential during an exclusion diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If it turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will no longer eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it needs a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely weeks after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often contains grains. Such as whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grain have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it results in obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also also ideal for more sensitive dogs. However , it is not necessarily necessary to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. Several types of feed are also specifically easy to process. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event you want to give your pet 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 puppies can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and natural pork. Onions can be fatal, based on 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 feeds on raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or unwanted wind. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky disease, which causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pups should never eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw carrots
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruits pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw eggs
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugar and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as caffeine
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is suggested in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always be put 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 vet and also the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. At the same time, maintain the dog in a safe environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It might be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that can occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive desire
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Trouble sleeping
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the 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 important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all from the side of the street.
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FAQ – Frequently asked 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 dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 2 months. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially made for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With puppy dog dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. 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. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions many times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends upon the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are viewed as grownups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for elderly people?
For small dogs, 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 different breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age group, the dog’s express of health is also an important criterion. It is advisable to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be kept in an snug 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 flavor and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. However , you should notify yourself well or consult with experts.
What do I actually have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive canines in particular can quickly suffer from intestinal problems, some of which can be considerable. A period 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 3 rd 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 move 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 at all, it is obviously not ideal for him. In cases like this, you should look for an alternative.
What should I do if my dog does not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier to allow them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is better to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How fast 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 scale the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The amount of food is also important. Small portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquefied the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a 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 instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
Once may i start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother is constantly on the feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it feels right to moisten or dilute it with some liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no more provided with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a liquid until the pup is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, 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 acquired food. However, it does have some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Dog owners range from the special needs of their four-legged friend in the planning and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s preference.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it might be sensible or essential to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the foodstuff, you should study different substances. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often highly recommended to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergies. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by the dog. Presently there is hypoallergenic dry out food and allergies wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is merely one supply of protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergy symptoms. This kind of happens when there is a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a delicate digestive system. For these dogs, such a product can provide protection against digestive problems.
