The particular best for the dog – regarding to this motto, 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 comes 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 in addition to what quantity? Which usually food is ideal from which age? Is definitely dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be fed? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best quality dry dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups 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 your dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best quality dry dog food:
-
Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey with...
—
£9.99
£11.99 - Lakes Heritage Puppy 2kg Chicken Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium Kibble... — £19.99
-
Edgard & Cooper Organic Adult Dog Dry Food - Turkey & Chicken 2.5kg - Fresh...
—
£20.00
£24.99 -
Alpha Adult Worker Maintenance Complete Dry Dog Food British Beef, 15 kg
—
£22.95
£23.95 - Amazon Brand - Solimo - Complete Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Rich in Lamb... — £28.52
-
Arkwrights Complete Dry Dog Food 2 pack (30kg) - 1 x 15kg Beef & 1 x 15kg...
—
£37.98
£39.98 -
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Chicken, Salmon and Peas Complete Dry Dog Food (7...
—
£49.99
£58.10 - Arden Grange Senior Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £50.98
-
Forthglade Complete Natural Dry Dog Food -grain Free Chicken (2.5 kg)...
—
£26.47
£30.42 - 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 dry dog food of 2024. We would recommend using 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 as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best quality dry dog food
Best quality dry dog food
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.
Amazon Brand - Solimo - Complete Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Rich in Lamb and Rice, 1 Pack of 20kg
Features
- Packaging may vary from images shown. This product was previously a Solimo product. Now it’s a part of the by Amazon brand. The product is the exact same formulations, size, and quality
- Medium & Large Breeds
- Food for adult Dogs: 100% Complete and Balanced Nutrition
- Developed by pet nutritionists and checked by veterinarian
- Meat and animal derivatives: ca. 31% (derived from animals fit for human consumption)
Arkwrights Complete Dry Dog Food 2 pack (30kg) - 1 x 15kg Beef & 1 x 15kg Chicken - Complete Nutrition for Working and Sporting Adult Dogs
£37.98
Features
- TASTY BEEF & CHICKEN DRY FOOD — Arkwrights Complete with Beef and Complete with Chicken provide balanced nutrition and plenty of energy for working and sporting adult dogs, with a plenty of flavour that'll have them licking the bowl clean
- COMPLETE NUTRITION — we use only the finest ingredients in a nutritious formula that contains 18% protein, 7% fat and wholegrain cereals for slow energy release — no artificial colours, flavours or sugars
- PACKED WITH BENEFICIAL INGREDIENTS — our balanced formula contains crunchy kibble to help keep teeth clean, antioxidants for a healthy immune system, and vitamins A, D3 and E
- FEEDING GUIDE — serve dry or with water or gravy as preferred. When feeding for the first time, introduce the food gradually over a few days, adjusting the amount based on your dog’s condition and activity. See pack for full details
- UK MADE FOR OVER 150 YEARS — we’ve been creating premium dog food blends in the UK with the finest-quality UK-sourced ingredients since 1873, helping to enhance the health and happiness of your dog
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Chicken, Salmon and Peas Complete Dry Dog Food (7 kg)
£49.99
Features
- Give your pup the healthiest start in life with this dry bag of complete, natural food brimming with freshly prepared meat and offal, with wholesome ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy, growing joints
- We’ve also used other freshly prepared ingredients including nutritious organs, vegetables and fruit in this puppy dry dog food, and an array of nutritious botanical herbs. This natural food provides gentle digestion, too
- Our selection of treats, dry, wet and organic dog food is made with freshly prepared meat and offal, and naturally nutritious, wholesome ingredients. You can also find food for allergic dogs for those with meat intolerances
- As a B Corp company, we are committed to our target to be fully recyclable by 2025. To find out more about our sustainable initiatives, and how we use our business as a force for good! Visit our brandstore
- Here at Lily’s Kitchen, we make proper food using responsibly sourced ingredients and freshly prepared meat and offal, so we can provide your pet with wholesome, natural food. Only the best for your furry family
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
£26.47
Features
| Part Number | 63531 |
| Model | 63531 |
| Warranty | Manufacturer Fault |
| Color | Clear |
| Size | 2.5 kg |
| Energy Efficiency Class | A |
Arden Grange Senior Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for older dogs
- Containing significantly higher levels of joint supplements than our standard diets to help keep our seniors more mobile into their golden years; Also lower in fat to help prevent weight gain in less active dogs
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your pet; Including, prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, powerful natural antioxidants plus added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef, soya or dairy products in our recipes; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Edgard & Cooper Organic Adult Dog Dry Food - Turkey & Chicken 2.5kg - Fresh Meat, Gluten Free & High Protein
£20.00
Features
- 2.5kg NATURALLY TASTY DOG FOOD: PACKED WITH LOTS OF FRESH MEAT filled with quality and tasty protein (no meat meal, no overprocessed or dried meat), Non-GMO - We cook ingredients with care to preserve their flavour and natural nutrients. Suitable for adult neutered or unneutered dogs of all breeds and sizes. With a GRAIN FREE and GLUTEN FREE range, our dry food is perfect for sensitive stomachs, and contains PRE-BIOTICS for a healthy gut.
- KIBBLES PACKED WITH FRESH MEAT: This grain free dog food recipe is rich in fresh & irresistibly tasty venison & free-run duck, a less common source of protein that also helps REDUCE SKIN IRRITATION and supports STRONG MUSCLES. In this recipe, APPLE, BEETROOT, PEAR, BLUEBERRY and COWBERRY provide FIBER, VITAMINS A, C, K, essential ANTIOXIDANTS, CALCIUM.
- A HEALTHY WELL BALANCED COMPOSITION : Our simple, healthy recipes are developed by experts to provide optimal nutrition from natural ingredients. It's as if your dog had his own personal trainer! For a healthy, complete and balanced diet, our tasty recipes include a tasty mix of fresh meat & nutritious offal, plus fibre-rich fruits & vegetables.
- EDGARD & COOPER'S VALUES: 01 JOYFUL FOOD: Our naturally, tasty recipes are packed with lots of fresh meat and healthy ingredients, cooked with care to preserve taste and nutrients 02 PLAY NICE WITH NATURE: From our paper-based packaging, to our commitment to achieve Zero Carbon by 2025, we're on a mission to be the world's most sustainable pet brand 03 FRIENDS STICK TOGETHER : We donate 1% of our sales to our INDEPENDENT FOUNDATION to end the suffering of dogs and cats worldwide.
- OUR ADVICE: 01 TRANSITION TO NATURAL FOOD : Over 4 days, gradually increase the amount of Edgard & Cooper food in his bowl, while decreasing the amount of regular food - 02 WATER : Make sure fresh water is available at all times, especially at meal times - 03 STORAGE : Close their kibble bag tightly and store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Once opened, it will stay fresh for three months.
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
Alpha Adult Worker Maintenance Complete Dry Dog Food British Beef, 15 kg
£22.95
Features
- Alpha Working Maintenance is nutritionally formulated as an energy controlled, complete diet. It is suitable for dogs with lower energy requirements and helps to maintain a healthy weight.
Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey with Chicken Recipe, 1.5 kg
£9.99
Features
- ORAL HEALTH: Our small and crunchy nibbles reduce the build-up of plaque and are perfect for dogs with smaller mouths.
- HIP AND JOINT SUPPORT: Our Wellness CORE Small Breed Adult Original dry dog food supports the hip and joint of your small breed dog with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate. For an optimal body condition!
- HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: Our Wellness CORE dog food is easy to digest and contains prebiotic fibre and probiotics, providing your furry friend with a healthy digestive system!
- FRESH MEAT AS MAIN INGREDIENT: Our dry dog food contains fresh turkey and chicken. For a tasty meal with every bowl!
- LOW CARBS AND NO FILLERS: Our recipes are grain-free, supporting a high-protein and a meat-rich nutrition for your small breed dog.
Only the best for the dog – relating to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. 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. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which usually food is suitable at which age? Is definitely dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be provided? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We offer 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 your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot tolerate and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Merely as every person has their own own dietary needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that goes into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age 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 carbohydrates, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Consequently, they need 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 words of composition, way of production and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrition the dog needs on a regular basis. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins differs depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the important nutrients. These can be flakes that the dog owner combines into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and food markets usually comes from industrial production. This is the most common kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. By exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years with no 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. Yet , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cups or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover distinctions between the various organic dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been highly processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic and natural food are 95 per cent organic. Whether it says “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per cent organic ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food will not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When ever barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often combined with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually healthier is debatable. Since the meals are merged individually, barfing is far more ideal for experienced dog owners who have analyzed this diet 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 are supposed to supply the food a better smell and taste. Some dog fans also avoid pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is produced by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and combining them. A tool presses this mass through the opportunities of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other part. Through the dog food production process, temps of approximately 90 certifications Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the word cold hitting. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed 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 have to be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is communicated through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to 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 includes more natural ingredients. If the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal tract 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. However, the manufacturing process is merely a supplementary factor in identifying the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – wet food or dry food?
There is wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food consists of hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew up more and so teach their teeth. Consuming dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dried 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
- More affordable than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heat during production
- More green than canned food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a diet food
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Often one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Various 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. It ought to be used up within 2 times of opening. Under we have summarised the advantages and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful 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, damp food cannot be stored very well
- Major dogs need more space for storage
- Even more difficult to transport 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 dog eventually 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 he tolerates better, you should try away both types.
Some dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following relates 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 canine.
How much various meats and exactly how many sugars and nutrients fit in in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The right composition of your 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 descended from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to those of predators. Therefore above all, the supply 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 enzyme are now able to break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest herb food in smaller quantities.
To start with, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy teeth and nerves and to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower necessary protein requirement because they are not as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meat for their four-legged friends, this may lead to digestive problems, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not present in meat – for instance , vitamins and minerals found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty stomach acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach 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 herb waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or straw are often added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are normally found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these substances only moderately. Just how much should be in the dog food will depend on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated fatty acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency ration and are designed as a hold for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 % 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 vitamins and minerals. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrition such as biotin or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed oil improve nutrient absorption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat 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 types of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Identity of the meals
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various claims are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual raw materials, although not their percentage. The open up declaration provides the structure in pct 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 food, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The elements in the supply are listed in descending order according to their volume. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the greater its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a tiny 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 veg content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced ingredients with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavour enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any 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 listed under the term “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and canine by-products indicates the meat content in your canine food. Companies often do not declare just what is involved. It may 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 instance , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood 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 oil fruits. They are partially health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acid regulators. A few of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency of oil and water. Natural anti-oxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be within the right structure, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to influence the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Physical additives are widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. They will 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. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. At times the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give canines the right amount of food. Just 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 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 remain growing and tend to be more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It is recommended to reduce the amount of food a little annually. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age group of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. When ever dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the food content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the following 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 pct of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that techniques a lot or is recovering from an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 percent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 pct of the daily food requirement.
Any person who is uncertain about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I identify a food allergy?
The most common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of an allergy are, for example , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the difference between an allergic reaction and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain material. A true food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Feasible symptoms of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, abs pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may well not show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do certainly not have to indicate an allergy or intolerance or intolerance. That they can even be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to carry out an different diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. Following your food change, your canine is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition enhances and the symptoms will no longer occur, a provocation test is carried out. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which could be the trigger for the allergies. Over time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is recommended to talk to a professional or speak to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an different diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If it turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no more eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following your change in food.
Precisely what is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often contains grains. These include wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it results in obesity and sometimes to a problem with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, 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 suitable for more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. A few types of feed are also especially easy to break down. These include maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without materials. This is especially true if the dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that 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 dogs can’t tolerate. Some of them are even poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, natural cabbage and organic pork. Onions can be fatal, based on the size of the onion and your dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog eats raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky virus, which in turn causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pups must not eat include:
- Delicious chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit pits
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is suggested in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are available in them. Ashtrays should be placed in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the doctor and also the veterinary crisis service directly. At the same time, keep the dog in a safe environment. Nevertheless, 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 can occur with poisoning include:
- Abnormal salivation
- Excessive desire
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your canine from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is crucial to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off of the side of the street.
The best choice is the 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.
Beau Superfood 2kg English Country Duck Dog Food - 65% High Protein Premium Kibble for Adult Dogs & All Breed...
- 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.
Video about best quality dry dog food
FAQ – Frequently asked 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 puppies. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 2 months. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially created for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the puppy food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided with small portions many times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends on the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are believed older people from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small canines, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered mature at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to era, the dog’s express 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 food can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed unprocessed food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be purchased in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform yourself well or consult with experts.
What do We have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can quickly suffer from digestive problems, a few 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 comes after: 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. Within the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
If the dog responds sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the version phase and improve the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not suited to him. In this case, you should look for an option.
What should I do if my dog will not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier so they can become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How fast do dogs process dry food?
Puppies 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 older animal. The amount of food is important too. Tiny portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also brings about faster digestion. In addition , the more water the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
You will discover quite a few manufacturers who carry out pet 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 is i able to start feeding a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time period, the mother is constantly on the give food to her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a water until the puppy 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 make sense?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it does have some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners may include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the planning and adapt the meals to these and the dog’s flavor.
– 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 required to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the meals, you should study the different elements. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often advisable to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergy symptoms. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by the dog. Presently there is hypoallergenic dry food and allergies wet food on the market. That contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that allergic reactions will occur.
Usually there is merely one source of protein in such a product. This is usually an unique meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Nevertheless, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergies. This kind of happens when we have a substance in the foodstuff 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 gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can offer prevention of digestive problems.
