Only the best for the dog – regarding to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. 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 does the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate where age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best soft kibble dog food, we present 10 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best soft kibble dog food:
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Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and...
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£11.00
£15.99 - Wellness CORE Small Breed Ocean Dog Food Dry - Salmon with tuna recipe, 1.5 kg — £12.49
- Arden Grange Adult Mini Dry Dog Food Chicken & Rice, 2 kg — £12.99
- James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Turkey and Rice,... — £14.43
- Wellness CORE Lamb Dog Food Dry Grain Free - Lamb, 1.8 kg — £14.99
- HiLife FEED ME! - Complete Dry Dog Food - Turkey Chicken Bacon Vegetables -... — £23.60
- Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £47.99
- Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Light with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £50.99
- Arden Grange Senior Dry Dog Food with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg — £50.99
- Lakes Original Small Breed 2kg Chicken & Rice Dog Food - Veterinary Approved,...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best soft kibble dog food of 2024. We would recommend using HiLife FEED ME! – Complete Dry Dog Food – Turkey Chicken Bacon Vegetables – Soft Moist & Meaty, 8kg as it is available at a resonable price.
Top 10 Best soft kibble dog food
Best soft kibble dog food
HiLife FEED ME! - Complete Dry Dog Food - Turkey Chicken Bacon Vegetables - Soft Moist & Meaty, 8kg
Features
- A nutritionally balanced ready-to-serve meal for your dog
- Soft moist and meaty
- Made with real meat
- Made with fresh vegetables
- Proudly made in the UK
Lakes Original Small Breed 2kg Chicken & Rice Dog Food - Veterinary Approved, Sensitive, Kibble for Adult Dogs & Smaller Breeds - Wheat-Free, Naturally Hypoallergenic, Complete Dry Dog Food
Features
- VETERINARY APPROVED – Lakes Original Chicken & Rice is veterinary approved to provide your smaller dog with a natural source of energy, whilst offering them a diet filled with premium natural ingredients.
- SENSITIVE TO STOMACHS – Lakes Original contains rice which is helps dogs with sensitive stomachs. It is a great source of dietary fibre that maintains normalintestinal transit time, plus contains Yucca extract which helps reduce faecal odour.
- EVERYDAY HEALTH & WELLBEING – Lakes Original 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. No Added Artificial Colours & Preservatives.
- WHEAT FREE & NATURALLY HYPOALLERGENIC - All Lakes Original veterinary dry dog food are 100% beef, pork, wheat, dairy and soya 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 – Lakes Original (previoulsy known as Super Premium) 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.
Pooch & Mutt - Calm & Relaxed, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Turkey and Sweet Potato, 2kg
£11.00
Features
- Designed to help anxious dogs stay calm and relaxed
- Premium, grain free complete dry dog food
- Includes chamomile, l-tryptophan, prebiotics and brewers yeast
- Single source protein with 45% lean turkey
- Free from grain, cereal , gluten, GM produce, artificial flavours, colours and preservatives
Wellness CORE Lamb Dog Food Dry Grain Free - Lamb, 1.8 kg
Features
- HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: Our Wellness CORE adult 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: The dry dog food contains fresh lamb, which supports food sensitive dogs. 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 dog.
- HEALTHY HEART: Our dry dog food for adult dogs contains supplemental taurine to support a healthy heart. To keep your furry friend happy and healthy!
- NATURAL HYPOALLERGENIC DOG FOOD: This product does not contain cereals, wheat, gluten, corn, soy, dairy, eggs, artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
Wellness CORE Small Breed Ocean Dog Food Dry - Salmon with tuna recipe, 1.5 kg
Features
- HEALTHY SKIN AND SHINY COAT: Our CORE Small Breed Adult Ocean perfectly supports a healthy skin and shiny coat for your small breed dog thanks to the omega-3 fatty acids from salmon.
- FRESH FISH AS MAIN INGREDIENT: Our dry dog food contains a pure fish formula to support your small breed dog’s sensitive stomach.
- HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: Our Wellness CORE Small Breed Adult Ocean for smaller dogs is easy to digest and contains prebiotic fibre and probiotics, providing your furry friend with a healthy digestive system!
- LOW CARBS AND NO FILLERS: Our recipes are grain-free, supporting a high-protein and a meat-rich nutrition for your small breed dog.
- ORAL HYGIENE: Our CORE Small Breed Adult Ocean crunchy kibbles are smaller than the original kibbles making them perfect for smaller mouths. These kibbles help reduce the plaque build-up of your dog’s teeth. For a healthy oral hygiene!
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Light with Fresh Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for adult dogs that are overweight or prone to weight gain
- Lower in calories and fat than our standard adult diets with the addition of L-carnitine may help to increase the conversion of fat to energy and maintain lean body mass
- 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
Arden Grange Adult Mini Dry Dog Food Chicken & Rice, 2 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for normally active adult dogs; Containing fresh chicken which is a highly digestible protein source
- Free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your dog
- Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- A naturally hypoallergenic product - free from wheat, gluten, beef soya or diary products
- This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Arden Grange Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken and Rice, 12 kg
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for normally active adult dogs; Containing fresh chicken which is a highly digestible protein source
- Free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives; Containing a unique blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your dog
- Including prebiotics to aid digestion, joint supplements, essential fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, cranberries for urinary tract health, antioxidants and added vitamins and minerals to help support immune system and dental health
- Naturally hypoallergenic so you won't find any wheat gluten, beef soya or dairy products
- This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Adult Small Breed Dog Food Turkey and Rice, 1.5 kg
Features
- Hypoallergenic dog food for pets with sensitivities, selected natural ingredients, no added artificial flavours, colours, or antioxidants
- Adult small breed dog food with a single source animal protein recipe excludes common allergens beef, pork, soya, eggs, dairy and wheat with natural prebiotics for mature dogs' healthy digestion
- Dog food dry with vitamin E and minerals to support mature dogs' immune system, with essential amino acids to help maintain healthy hearts
- Turkey meal - A delicious protein from sustainable sources, brown and white rice a highly digestible carbohydrate, alfalfa a natural source of fibre and the antioxidant beta carotene
- Chicory extract – A source of prebiotic inulin helping to maintain the gut flora, yucca a natural deodoriser for less smelly poos, smaller kibble for small breed dogs' smaller mouths
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
Only the best for the dog – regarding to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but most importantly, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable at which age? Is dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be provided? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and explain how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot put up with and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food quickly
Just as every person has their own own dietary needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should come in according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age 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 carbs, fats, oils, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Consequently, they require less energy, i. e. calories from fat. However , the dog food should be easy to process and include a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in words of composition, way of creation and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrition the dog needs every day. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins varies according to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A complete food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the crucial nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and grocery stores usually comes from commercial production. This is the most typical type of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one pan is sufficient for one portion. On the other hand, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. By conditions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time 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 should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. However , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In conditions of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dried out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover variations between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable substances have been processed. With the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per cent organic. If this states “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per cent natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This dog food would not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , vegan 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 stands for “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually more healthy is debatable. Because the meals are assembled individually, barfing is more suitable for experienced dog owners who have studied 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 statement that ought to 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 give the food a much better smell and preference. Some dog enthusiasts 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 blending them. A painting tool presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other aspect. Throughout the dog food production process, temperature ranges of approximately 90 degrees Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the term cold hitting. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These have to be artificially added to the food after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is communicated through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells substantially when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food consists of more natural elements. In the event 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. However, the manufacturing process is only a secondary factor in identifying the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – damp food or dried out food?
There exists moist and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food consists of almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and thus coach their teeth. Consuming dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can be considered a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less costly than cast food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating during production
- Even more eco-friendly than refined food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to your dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight faster if it is not a food items for deiting
- 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. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. A large number of dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for puppies – once exposed – can only be kept for a few days. It should be used up within 2 days of opening. Under we have summarised the benefits and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy portions
- Mainly because 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
- Good sized dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
It is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is ideal for your dog. Your canine finally decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Several dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following pertains 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 meat and exactly how many carbs and nutrients belong in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The right composition of your canine 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 originated from wolves – that is why their digestive system is similar to that of predators. So first and foremost, the supply of meat is important. However , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, and its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical are now able to break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest herb food in smaller quantities.
First and foremost, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are not as energetic as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only various meats to 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 sugars in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty stomach acids from healthy herbal oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal contents of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay are often added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are normally 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 foodstuff should contain these substances only moderately. How much should maintain the dog food will depend on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated fatty acids. They are stored in the body as emergency ration and are meant as a book for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain over loaded omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should be in 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 per cent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as vitamin h or iron. Very good quality oils such as salmon oil or linseed fat improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat and healthy pores and skin.
How can I recognise top quality dog food?
Dog food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Address and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Name of the food
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient teams. 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 gives the formula in per cent and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term grain into individual groupings. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meals, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but really should not be included in too large amounts.
2. The substances in the supply are listed in descending order regarding to their amount. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. On the other hand, this means: Only a small proportion of an ingredient that is listed far over the list is contained 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 taste 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 nutrition in a dog food is outlined under the definition of “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and pet by-products indicates the meat content in your canine food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is involved. It could 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, our bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and oil fruits. They can be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acid regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be within the right structure, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to influence the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are utilized to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies 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 may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. At times the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give dogs the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs is determined by various factors. In addition to the breed, the next 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: Younger dogs continue to be growing and are often more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It really is a good idea to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced 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 around 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. Once dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can surge 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 food content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the next rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about 2 to 3 % of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that techniques a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 pct of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 per cent of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
How can I recognize a food allergic reaction?
The most common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of an allergy are, for instance , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the difference between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity response by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain substance. A genuine food allergic reaction rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. That they can even be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause solved by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to handle an exemption 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 supply of protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. Following the food change, your canine is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no more 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 allergic reactions. 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 pet owners can do themselves. However, it is advisable to talk to a professional or speak with the vet in advance.
Consistent action is vital during an different diet. The dog must not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If it turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it takes some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often includes grains. These include wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains 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 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 suitable for more sensitive dogs. However , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. Some types of grain are also specifically easy to process. These include maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event you want to give your pet a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not way too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that canines can’t tolerate. Some of them are actually poisonous for dogs. These include, for example, onions, natural cabbage and natural pork. Onions can be fatal, according to the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky computer virus, which causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that dogs should never eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is advised in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues are available in them. Ashtrays should be put in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous because of it, you should contact the vet or maybe the veterinary emergency service directly. Meanwhile, keep your dog in a secure environment. Nevertheless, 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 can occur with poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off the side of the street.
The best choice is the HiLife FEED ME! – Complete Dry Dog Food – Turkey Chicken Bacon Vegetables – Soft Moist & Meaty, 8kg.
HiLife FEED ME! - Complete Dry Dog Food - Turkey Chicken Bacon Vegetables - Soft Moist & Meaty, 8kg
- A nutritionally balanced ready-to-serve meal for your dog
- Soft moist and meaty
- Made with real meat
- Made with fresh vegetables
- Proudly made in the UK
Video about best soft kibble dog food
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often asked questions about dog food.
What should I look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies desire a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 8 weeks. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially created for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone fragments, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the pup food must contain certain essential minerals and vitamins. So that the puppy’s gastrointestinal system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions several times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends on the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are viewed as grown ups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small puppies, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to age group, the dog’s state 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 foolproof container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the meals can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed unprocessed food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, compound and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform yourself well or check with with experts.
What do We have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive puppies in particular can easily suffer from digestive problems, some of which can be considerable. A period of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get accustomed to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as 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. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
In the event that the dog acts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the foodstuff change, you should extend the adaptation 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 case, you should look for an option.
What should I actually do if my dog will not like dry food?
After that it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier so they can become overweight and feel full. In case the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is simpler to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with soaked dry food.
How fast do dogs digest dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the standard of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The amount of food is important too. Tiny portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also brings about faster digestion. In addition , the more liquefied the food is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
There are 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 list 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 example , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When is i able to start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this period, the mother continues to nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it feels right to moisten or dilute it which includes liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer given with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a solution until the puppy is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, mix in more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does it seem sensible?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it really does have some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the food to these and the dog’s taste.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it can be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before planning the meals, you should study the several elements. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes a good idea to talk to a vet in advance. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Some foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially well suited for dogs with allergy symptoms. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by the dog. There is hypoallergenic dry food and allergies wet food on the market. That contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Consequently, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your dog will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will occur.
Usually there is only one way to obtain 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. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergy symptoms. This kind of happens when we have a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a very sensitive gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can provide prevention of digestive problems.
