Only the best for the dog – according to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate where age? Is definitely dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be given? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best quality grain free dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot endure and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best quality grain free dog food:
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Barking Heads Adult Dog Food Wet Pouches Variety Pack Natural and Grain-Free...
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£12.19
£14.40 - Forthglade National Trust Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Beef &... — £16.20
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Forthglade Complementary Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Just Variety Pack...
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£16.73
£22.25 - Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x... — £19.89
- Lakes Heritage Puppy 2kg Chicken Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium Kibble... — £19.99
- Arden Grange Sensitive Adult Dry Dog Food Grain Free, Fresh Ocean White Fish... — £63.39
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Nature's Protection Superior Care White Dogs Dry Food Grain Free Dog Food...
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£13.69
£19.99 - Clydach Farm Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food packed with Natural Scottish...
- Beau Superfood 2kg English Country Duck Dog Food - 65% High Protein Premium...
- Lovejoys Pure and Simple Complete Dry Grain Free Dog Food Lamb and Sweet...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best quality grain free dog food of 2024. We would recommend using 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 as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best quality grain free dog food
Best quality grain free 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
Clydach Farm Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food packed with Natural Scottish Salmon, High in Omega 3 & 6, 10kg
Features
- The natural Scottish Salmon from our grain free range means a premium quality, complete and balanced diet for pet and working dogs from large to small
- High quality fish with omega 3 in your dogs diet, improves skin and coat quality, reduces skin inflammation and promotes their best health
- We use the complex carb Sweet Potato, which has a low glycemic-index. This is a measure of how quickly a food causes the dog's blood sugar levels to rise. Preventing a spike in blood-sugar can prevent diabetes etc.
- Scottish Salmon and English Trout 50%, Sweet Potato 26%, Peas, Potato 6%, Pea Protein, Beet Pulp, Linseed, Vitamins & Minerals, Vegetable Stock, Omega 3 & 6 Supplement, Prebiotics (FOS & MOS)
- Endorsed and approved by dog vets. Naturally healthy, functional, transparent nutrition. Rich in dietary fibre
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.
Barking Heads Adult Dog Food Wet Pouches Variety Pack Natural and Grain-Free with No Artificial Flavours Plus Added Vitamins and Minerals 6 x 300g
£12.19
Features
- VARIETY Pack of mixed flavours: Chicken, Beef & Lamb
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - This recipe is made using only the best quality, natural ingredients. Free from artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives
- ADDED VITAMIN AND MINERALS- This delicious grain-free food has added vitamins and minerals to ensure your pup is getting everything they need
- SLOW COOKED TO PERFECTION - This grain-free, meat recipe for your pooch has everything you need to feed a happy, healthy canine
- FEEDING GUIDE ON EVERY PACK- Use the feeding guide on the back of the pack to ensure your dog is eating enough for their size!
Arden Grange Sensitive Adult Dry Dog Food Grain Free, Fresh Ocean White Fish and Potato, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for adult dogs with particularly sensitive skin or digestion
- This gentle recipe excludes grains and cereals and contains fresh ocean white fish as an easily digestible source of protein which is naturally high in omega-3 essential fatty acids
- It includes our superfood blend of fruits and plant extracts which consists of citrus extracts to help reduce inflammation and support the immune system; dried fruit extracts containing antioxidants which can help protect against free radicals; cranberries for urinary tract health; curcumin for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; black pepper to help increase the absorption time of curcumin into the body
- All of our diets contain a blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your pet; These include prebiotics to aid digestion; joint supplements; sustainably sourced krill to help promote a healthy skin and coat; plus added vitamins and minerals to help support your pet’s dental health; High quality ingredients are selected to create our diets and we do not include any artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
- All our products are naturally hypoallergenic so you won’t find any wheat gluten, beef, soya or dairy products in any of our recipes; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Forthglade Complementary Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Just Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Chicken, Lamb & Beef
£16.73
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 X 395 g trays of grain free dog food in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Chicken, 4x Lamb and 4x Beef
- 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 & hypoallergenic recipe, which means it's kind & gentle on your dog's tummy and easy to digest. Made using our high quality recipe with 90% chicken, lamb or beef
- COMPLEMENTARY DOG FOOD: Perfect for tailoring mealtimes, for a balanced meal add a good quality mixer such as our natural dry food, or mix with carbohydrates like pasta or brown rice & vegetables
- MADE IN DEVON: Forthglade have over 50 years of making natural, nutritious recipes with high-quality ingredients, no nasties and gentle cooking methods
Forthglade National Trust Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Beef & Wild Boar (7 x 395g) Trays - Gourmet Dog Food
Features
- WET DOG FOOD PACK: 7 X 395g trays of grain free gourmet dog food your dog will love, made with Beef & Wild Boar with root vegetables & apple
- 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% beef & wild boar
- 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
- IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NATIONAL TRUST - By choosing this gourmet dog food you are helping the National Trust to care for many of the beautiful places our furry friends love to explore
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free Variety Pack (12 x 395g) Trays - Turkey, Lamb & Duck (packing may vary)
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
Lovejoys Pure and Simple Complete Dry Grain Free Dog Food Lamb and Sweet Potato, 2 kg
Features
- Made with fresh grass fed Lamb and sweet potato
- Suitable for all breeds, everything a dog needs for a happy, healthy life.
- Contains rapeseed oil, a rich source of vitamin E.
- Totally grain free, no dairy, pork, beef or soya.
- No artificial colours or flavourings.
Nature's Protection Superior Care White Dogs Dry Food Grain Free Dog Food With Salmon For Adult Small And Mini Breeds No Tear Stain Healthy Dog Coat & Skin, Suitable For Bichon Frise, Maltese, 1.5 kg
£13.69
Features
- FOOD FOR LIGHT COLOUR COAT DOGS. Complete dog food for adult, small and mini breed dogs of body weight 1-10kg.
- TEARS STAINS OFF. Carefully selected protein sources with salmon maintain right composition of tears and can help to remove brown stains around the eyes, mouth and paws.
- HEALTHY DOG COAT&SKIN. The main and easily digestible source of the highest quality proteins is salmon. Certified highest quality salmon from Norway gives junior healthy skin and shiny coat.
- IMMUNE PROTECTION. Lutein and high level of vitamin E help to protect the cells, polyphenols from green tea and grapes delay the aging process and strengthen the immune system.
- SUPERB PALATABILITY AND DIGESTIBILITY. Complete, great palatable dogs food, created from precisely selected ingredients of the highest quality, processed in a professional way result in a highly digestible product and small, firm stools.
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 profession, but especially, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied 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. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable where age? Is 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?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and describe how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot endure and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Just as every person has their own own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that goes 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 gastrointestinal 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 need less energy, i. e. calorie consumption. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to process and contain a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food vary in terms of composition, method of creation and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrients the dog needs every day. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins is different according to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the important nutrients. These can be flakes that the dog owner combines into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and supermarkets usually comes from commercial production. This is the most frequent form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. By exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for several years with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in containers or as dry food.
– Organic dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will find variations between the various organic dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable elements have been highly processed. With the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic food are 95 per dollar organic. If this says “made with organic”, the product involves 70 per penny natural ingredients. Organic and natural 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 but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation means “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often combined with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Since the meals are assembled individually, barfing is far more ideal for experienced dog owners who have analyzed 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 an assertion 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 are supposed to provide the food the smell and flavor. Some dog fans also avoid dog or cat food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is created by first drying the natural materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other aspect. Through the dog food production process, temperatures of about 90 levels Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the term cold depressing. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those utilized in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These must be artificially added to the food after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Feed produced in this way swells substantially when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food consists of more natural substances. If the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system and an annoyed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. Nevertheless, the manufacturing process is just an extra factor in deciding the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – wet food or dry out food?
There is damp 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 – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and therefore coach their teeth. Consuming dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dried out food can be a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are provided only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- More affordable than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more eco-friendly than canned food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to your canine
- The dog’s person 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. Often one package of wet food compares to one meal. Many dogs like damp food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for canines – once opened – can only be kept for a few days. It ought to be used up within 2 days of opening. Beneath we have summarised the huge benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy servings
- Since of the high water content in wet food, the dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, damp food cannot be stored very well
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to move 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 suited to your dog. Your dog finally makes a decision which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your puppy likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Some dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of the dog.
How much meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The standard of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – no matter of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of the dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to those of predators. So above all, the resource 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 enzyme are now able to break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
First and foremost, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and also to 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 % meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only various meats to their four-legged friends, this could lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not seen in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty stomach acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal contents of prey pets or animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from grain, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from grow waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. Superior 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 substances only moderately. Just how much should be in the dog food depends on how much the dog moves. Lamb and poultry body fat are saturated fatty acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency portion and are designed as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are present 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 top quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 per cent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrition such as biotin or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon oil or linseed oil based improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy pores and skin.
How could i recognise high-quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of produce 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 lists the individual uncooked materials, however, not their percentage. The open declaration provides the formula in pct and the respective resources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term materials into individual organizations. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The substances in the supply are listed in descending order regarding to their amount. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Alternatively, this means: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over the list is included in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced ingredients with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavor enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no 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 detailed under the word “analytical ingredients”. We now have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and pet by-products indicates the meat content in your canine food. Companies often do not declare just what is involved. 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, bone fragments, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood and its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish heads.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They can be partially health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acidity regulators. A few of these are important. These include, for example , 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 friend. They should be within the right composition, 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 employed to influence the appearance and taste of the 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 bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. But age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles usually become overweight. Sometimes the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event the four-legged friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give puppies the right amount of food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends on various factors. In addition to the breed, the subsequent aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A puppy that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories from fat and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs are still growing and tend to be more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than older dogs. It truly is highly recommended to reduce the number of food a little every year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs around 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. Once dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are pregnant or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the calorie content of your dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the subsequent guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about 2 to 3 per cent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 percent of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that movements a lot or is coping with 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 % of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognise a food allergy or intolerance?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of your allergy are, for example , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. What a dog might be allergic to include, for example , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity response by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain substance. 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 irritation, vomiting, abs pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up right after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. They may also be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you ought to have the cause solved with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. Additionally, it is possible to carry out an exclusion diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an exclusion diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend have not eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by bit. Following the food change, your dog is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition increases and the symptoms will no longer occur, a provocation test is completed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergic reactions. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. However, it is a good idea to consult a professional or speak with the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is crucial during an exclusion diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or outstanding during this period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
Whether it turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it calls for some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergic reaction no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often contains grains. These include whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it causes obesity and sometimes to a problem with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, 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 suitable for more sensitive dogs. Yet , 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 feed are also especially easy to digest. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that puppies can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, depending on the size of the onion and the dog. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. When a dog eats raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that dogs must not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw taters
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fruits starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is recommended in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always 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 doctor or maybe the veterinary emergency service directly. At the same time, maintain the dog in a safe environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It could 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 desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off of the side of the road.
The best choice is the 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.
Lakes Heritage Puppy 2kg Chicken Dog Food – 50% High Protein Premium Kibble for Young Dogs & All Breed Sizes...
- 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.
Video about best quality grain free dog food
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies have to have a different dog food than adult canines. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the case after about 2 months. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially created for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, 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 the dog food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends on the breed of dog: Promising small to medium breeds are viewed as grownups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small canines, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to era, the dog’s state 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 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 preference and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate natural 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 natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, compound and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , you should notify yourself well or talk to with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive canines in particular can easily suffer from digestive problems, some of which is often considerable. An interval of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the third 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 conversion is complete.
If the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals 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 in any way, it is obviously not suited to him. In this instance, you should look for an alternate.
What should I actually do if my dog would 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 for them to become overweight and feel full. If the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is simpler to break down. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How fast do dogs digest dry food?
Canines usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The quantity of food is important too. Tiny portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquefied the food is, the short the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
There are quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a listing of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When ever can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother is constantly on the nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it seems sensible to moisten or dilute it with some liquid – for example with pup milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no more provided with mother’s dairy.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a liquid 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 indeed it sound right?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it does incorporate some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners may include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the preparation 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 instance , 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 planning the meals, you should study the several substances. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is recommended to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the web, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for puppies. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suited to dogs with allergies. It truly is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by the dog. Right now there is hypoallergenic dry out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. This contains few or no substances that often 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 only one source of necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an exotic meat, such as kangaroo or water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. Nevertheless, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergic reactions. This happens when there exists a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is well suited for four-legged friends with a very sensitive gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can provide prevention of digestive problems.
