The particular best for the dog – according to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but most importantly, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so 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 range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which food is suitable from which age? Is definitely dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best quality dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot tolerate and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best quality dog food:
- Edgard & Cooper Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free, High in Protein & Healthy... — £8.78
-
Lily's Kitchen Adult Wild Campfire Stew Wet Dog Food (10 x 150 g)
—
£13.50
£14.00 -
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x...
—
£19.89
£22.25 - Lakes Heritage Puppy 2kg Chicken Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium Kibble... — £19.99
-
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken,...
—
£28.99
£32.95 - Eukanuba Junior Dry Dog Food For Large Dog With Fresh Chicken, 15 kg — £58.43
- NUTRIMENT ENHANCED ADULT WORKING DOGS Raw Food (20 Tray Starter Pack) Frozen,... — £58.99
- Forthglade Complete Natural Dry Dog Food -grain Free Chicken (2.5 kg)... — £26.69
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Eukanuba Junior Dog Food For Large Dogs Rich In Fresh Chicken For the Optimal...
—
£40.51
£44.99 - Wainwright's Adult Small Breed Complete Lamb And Rice 2KG Hypoallergenic &...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best quality dog food of 2024. We would recommend using Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food – Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays – Turkey, Lamb & Duck (packing may vary) as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best quality dog food
Best quality dog food
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Turkey, Lamb & Duck (packing may vary)
£19.89
2 used from £33.99
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 x 395g trays in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey with sweet potato & vegetables, 4x Lamb with butternut squash & vegetables and 4x Duck with potato & vegetables
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Grain-free recipe making it easier to digest, which is great for sensitive tummies. Made using our high quality recipe with 75% turkey, lamb or duck
- COMPLETE DOG FOOD: A complete and balanced meal containing everything your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Free from junk, fillers and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- VOTED BEST WET DOG FOOD 2023 YOUR DOG MAGAZINE: Award winning dog food proudly made at Forthglade's factory in the heart of Devon
NUTRIMENT ENHANCED ADULT WORKING DOGS Raw Food (20 Tray Starter Pack) Frozen, Complete Premium BARF Diet Wet Dog food, Gluten-Free, Raw Protein, Digestible, All breeds, Sizes – 10kg Mixed Flavour
Features
- B.A.R.F. RAW DIET TO IMPROVE YOUR DOG’S HEALTH: Carefully selected natural ingredients. Recipes formulated with quality fresh proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals
- QUICK & EASY TO USE: Each tray is a complete meal with all the regular dietary requirements, additional supplements not needed. Simply defrost and serve the correct amount to your dog’s size specification
- HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE: Nutriment is consumed raw. Nutrients are naturally preserved and easily digested. With human grade quality, natural, fresh, grain free ingredients and meats. Great for your pet’s immune system, coat, skin, oral health, vitality & stools
- MADE AND SOURCED IN UK: Ethically sourced, carefully selected British raw meats, fish, biologically appropriate vegetables and nutrient-dense superfoods are combined in our expertly designed recipes to produce high quality and nutritious raw foods
- 20 TRAY MIXED FLAVOUR PACK: Mix and match with our other flavor packs and treat bundles to create a varied diet for your dog
Eukanuba Junior Dry Dog Food For Large Dog With Fresh Chicken, 15 kg
Features
- Premium food for young dogs of large and giant breeds: for large breeds (full grown 25-40kg) aged 12-18 months and giant breeds (full grown over 40kg) aged 14 months - 2 years
- Matched to growing dogs of large breeds, the formula contains fatty acid DHA, which improves puppy learning ability and calcium that supports bone and joint development
- The tailor-made fibre blend from the prebiotic FOS, MOS and beet pulps promotes healthy digestion, the antioxidants vitamin E and C strengthen the immune system
- The fresh chicken is not only particularly tasty, but also easily digestible and the high-quality animal proteins promote the maintenance of strong and lean muscles
- Natural omega-6 and omega-3 sources support healthy skin and shiny coat. DentaDefense dental care system for clean and healthy teeth. No artificial colours or flavourings and GMOs
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.
Eukanuba Junior Dog Food For Large Dogs Rich In Fresh Chicken For the Optimal Body Condition of Your Dog, 12 kg
£40.51
Features
- Tailored junior dog food with fresh chicken for large breed dogs in a resealable bag
- Improved formula for the healthy digestion and optimal body condition of your dog
- A distinct hexagon kibble shape which improves palatability
- Contains DentaDefense to reduce tartar build-up and maintain strong clean teeth
- Planet friendly pet food: At least 25 percent of Eukanuba factory’s energy is generated from Eukanuba own wind turbine
Edgard & Cooper Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free, High in Protein & Healthy (Multipack, 100g (Pack of 6))
Features
- Pet Things - Fur, Hair, Fins & Feathers!
IAMS for Vitality Small/Medium Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken, 12 kg
£28.99
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
Lily's Kitchen Adult Wild Campfire Stew Wet Dog Food (10 x 150 g)
£13.50
Features
- Nutritionally complete, grain free and natural wet food for adult dogs (4 months +)
- Full of protein and prepared with meat: 40 Percent venison, 15 Percent pheasant and 10 Percent salmon
- The perfect dog wet food if your dog is allergic to the traditional protein sources
- Full of tasty wholesome vegetables - potatoes and butternut squash
- No derivatives, preservatives or fillers - natural and healthy dog food
Lakes Heritage Puppy 2kg Chicken Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium Kibble for Young Dogs & All Breed Sizes – Naturally Hypoallergenic, Grain Free, Complete Dry Dog Food
Features
- 60% premium chicken, containing freshly prepared protein.
- Carrot is known for being a good source of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which helps support eye health and vision.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin help support cartilage metabolism for the growth of healthy joints in puppies.
- Omega 3 supplement to help support your puppy's cognitive and visual development.
- Complete grain free dog food. No artificial additives
Forthglade Complete Natural Dry Dog Food -grain Free Chicken (2.5 kg) Resealable Bag - Easy to Digest Cold Pressed Dog Food for Puppy, Adult and Senior Dogs
Features
| Part Number | 63531 |
| Model | 63531 |
| Warranty | Manufacturer Fault |
| Color | Clear |
| Size | 2.5 kg |
| Energy Efficiency Class | A |
The particular best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Comparable to 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 in addition to what quantity? Which usually food is ideal where age? Is usually dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be fed? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot put up with and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food quickly
Simply as every person has their own dietary needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should be produced 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 digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. Therefore, they require less energy, i. e. calorie consumption. Yet , the dog food should be easy to break down and contain a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in phrases of composition, method of development and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed includes all the nutrition the dog needs every day. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements differs depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A complete food can be dry or cast food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the essential 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 pet shops and food markets usually comes from commercial production. This is the most frequent form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. On the other hand, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. By conditions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time without the loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic vitamins and minerals are permitted. In terms of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dried out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover distinctions between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable elements have been processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the natural food are 95 per penny organic. If it claims “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per penny organic and natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food does not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A unique form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation means “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often combined with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are put together individually, barfing much more suitable for experienced pet owners who have learned the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This kind of is a declaration that ought to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These kinds of are supposed to give the food a better smell and flavor. Some dog fans also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is made by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller presses this mass through the spaces of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other side. Through the dog food production process, temperature ranges of about 90 certifications Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the term cold depressing. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food obviously, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food contains more natural elements. If the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system and a disturbed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is just a secondary factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the raw materials.
Which is better – moist food or dried out food?
There is wet 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 – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew up more and thus coach their teeth. Eating dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can be considered 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 benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less expensive than cast food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- More green than processed food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or paziente formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Various dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for canines – once exposed – 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 benefits and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in convenient portions
- Since of the high water content in wet food, your dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, moist food cannot be stored perfectly
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more intense
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suitable for your dog. Your canine ultimately chooses 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.
Several dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following applies to both types of food: It should only be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much various meats and exactly how many sugars and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless 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 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 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 its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical can now break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are no longer as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent 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.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for instance , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty stomach acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbs. Wolves, for example, eat the abdomen and intestinal material of prey 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. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from grow waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw in many cases are added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fats provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these chemicals only in moderation. Just how much should take the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated fatty acids. They may be stored in the body as emergency ration and are designed as a book for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should be in 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 percent 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 fat improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy pores and skin.
How can I recognise high-quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Name of the 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 instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual natural materials, however, not their percentage. The open declaration provides the formula in percent 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 feed into individual organizations. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meals, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large quantities.
2. The substances 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 better its proportion. Conversely, this implies: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout 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 veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavour enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is outlined under the definition of “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 animal by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Companies often do not declare just what is included. It can be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish and its by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They can be to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and level of acidity regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for example , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity of oil and water. Natural anti-oxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be contained in the right structure, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to influence the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Physical additives are 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. It can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes irritation. 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 tend to become overweight. Sometimes the use of diet food 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 very important to give dogs the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs is determined by 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. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs continue to be growing and in many cases are more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It truly is highly recommended to reduce the quantity of food a little annually. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the age group 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, 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 calorie content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a lower 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 pct 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 per cent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 % of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I recognize a food allergy?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible causes of an allergy are, for example , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and cause.
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A real food allergy 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 itchiness, vomiting, stomach pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may well not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. They may also be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause solved by 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 handle an different diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an exemption diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and carbs. 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, the dog is fed the new food for many weeks.
When the dog’s condition improves 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, that could be the trigger for the allergic reactions. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can tolerate or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is a good idea to consult a professional or speak with the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an exclusion diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no more eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your dog cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it needs a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often includes grains. These include 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 digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, 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 required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. Some types of grain are also especially easy to break down. Such as maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if the dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event you want to give your dog a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too much and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that dogs can’t tolerate. Several of them are even poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and organic pork. Onions can be fatal, based on the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky virus, which in turn causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pups must not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw potatoes
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruits pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw eggs
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as caffeine
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should be positioned in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the vet or maybe the veterinary crisis service directly. Meanwhile, maintain the dog in a safe environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family 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 whatever from the side of the trail.
The best choice is the Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food – Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays – Turkey, Lamb & Duck (packing may vary).
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Turkey, Lamb & Duck...
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 x 395g trays in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey with sweet potato & vegetables, 4x Lamb with butternut squash & vegetables and 4x Duck with potato & vegetables
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies desire a different dog food than adult puppies. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 8 weeks. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially made for growing puppies. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to build up.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Above all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends on the breed of dog: Promising small to medium breeds are viewed as older people from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small canines, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered older at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age, the dog’s condition of health is also an important criterion. It is highly recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an 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 preference and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw 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 unprocessed food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, compound and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. However , you should advise yourself well or seek advice from with experts.
What do I actually have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive canines in particular can quickly suffer from intestinal problems, a number of that 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 an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
If the dog acts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the variation phase and improve the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food whatsoever, it is obviously not ideal for him. In this case, you should look for an alternative.
What should I actually do if my dog will not like dry food?
In that case it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier so they can become overweight and feel full. If the food has already swollen in water, it fills the dog up faster and is better 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 several hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and scale the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an older animal. The quantity of food is important too. Small portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also brings about faster digestion. In addition , the more liquid the foodstuff 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 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
When can I start feeding a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by pups 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 feels right to moisten or dilute it with some liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer fed with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a liquid until the pup is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does it seem sensible?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it will have some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners may include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the food to these and the dog’s taste.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it can be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the foodstuff, you should study the several ingredients. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is advisable to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be eaten by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by the dog. There is hypoallergenic dried out food and allergies wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is only one supply of proteins in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergy symptoms. This happens when we have a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a sensitive digestive system. For these dogs, such a product can offer protection against digestive problems.
