Only the best for the dog – regarding to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but especially, of course, food. The foodstuff 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 simple to find the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and what quantity? Which usually food is appropriate from which age? Is usually dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best supplements to add to dog food, we present 10 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot tolerate and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best supplements to add to dog food:
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Vet's Kitchen - Healthy Digestion Supplement - Gravy with Prebiotics and Aloe...
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£6.93
£8.00 -
Pawsome Products® Dog Calming Hemp Oil | Stress & Anxiety Relief Supplement...
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£10.99
£12.99 -
Protexin Veterinary Pro-Fibre for Dogs and Cats, 500g
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£11.94
£17.33 - Pets Purest Scottish Salmon Oil For Dogs, Cats, Horse, Ferret & Pet - Pure... — £12.99
- MediPaws® Dog Supplement | Scottish Salmon Oil For Dogs 500ml | Supports Dog... — £14.99
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Lintbells | YuDERM Itching Dog Formerly YuMEGA | Itchy or Sensitive Skin...
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£21.60
£24.25 - GWF Nutrition Joint Aid for Dogs Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs to Support... — £22.60
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Buddy & Lola Dog Weight Gainer Supplement - Great for Fussy Eaters, Helps...
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£29.97
£39.99 - MediPaws® Dog Calming Hemp Oil Drops | Dog Calming Supplement | For Dog...
- MediPaws® Plaque Off Remover Dogs 175g For Dog Teeth & Bad Breath | Just Add...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best supplements to add to dog food of 2024. We would recommend using MediPaws® Dog Calming Hemp Oil Drops | Dog Calming Supplement | For Dog Emotions, Dog Barking & Dog Joints | Omega 3,6,9 For Dogs | Supports & Maintains Healthy Joints | Add To Food Or Chew’s | 50ml as it is available at a resonable price.
Top 10 Best supplements to add to dog food
Best supplements to add to dog food
MediPaws® Dog Calming Hemp Oil Drops | Dog Calming Supplement | For Dog Emotions, Dog Barking & Dog Joints | Omega 3,6,9 For Dogs | Supports & Maintains Healthy Joints | Add To Food Or Chew's | 50ml
Features
| Part Number | DOG-HEMP-OIL-DROPS |
| Size | 50 ml (Pack of 1) |
MediPaws® Plaque Off Remover Dogs 175g For Dog Teeth & Bad Breath | Just Add To Dog Food - No Need For Dog Toothbrush or Dog Toothpaste | Remove Dog Bad Breath & Plaque Remover For Dogs, Cats & Pets
Features
- Say Goodbye To Dog Plaque & Tartar – 100% Pure Seaweed Powder For Dogs Is An All-Natural Supplement To Fight Bacteria-Ladened Plaque & TarTar Build Up In Pets (No Need For Dog Toothbrush or Dog Breath Freshener Spray)
- 100% Natural & Cruelty Free – Committed To Provisioning All-Natural Sustainable Ingredients Which Are Safe For Your Pet, Our Dog Plaque Remover Is Free Of Artificial Colours, Dyes, Chemicals, Synthetic Ingredients
- Freshens Your Dogs Bad Breath – Rich In Powerful Vitamins & Minerals Which Act Together To Soften Plaque On Dogs Teeth (Works Well With Dog Toothpaste & Dog Dental Sticks & Other Dog Teeth Cleaning Products)
- Infused Anti Tartar Blend - Our BioActive+ Blend Of Ingredients Which Can Assist With Teeth, Gas & Digestion. Plaque Off Dogs Teeth Support+ BioActive Ingredients Support Your Pets Oral Hygiene
- Quick, Simple, Easy To Use & Mess Free – Sprinkle Onto Your Dog’s Food or Natural Dog Treats, The Mess Free & Easy To Use Scoop Keeps Things Simple (No Fuss Or Mess From Dog Toothpaste and Brush)
Vet's Kitchen - Healthy Digestion Supplement - Gravy with Prebiotics and Aloe - Advanced Nutrition for your Adult Dog - 300ml, transparent
£6.93
Features
- HEALTHY BACTERIA - Artichoke extract to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut and L-Glutamine to maintain the gut wall
- AIDS DIGESTION - expertly formulated to improve your dog's digestion with added Aloe Vera for a healthy balance in the digestive system
- LIQUID SUPPLEMENT - easy to administer, daily supplements of gravy added to your dogs food in an easy to use squeezy bottle
- NATURALLY TASTY - chicken flavour, hypoallergenic sauce, free-from beef, soya, dairy and wheat
- INDEPENDENT - British company with your pet's health at the heart of what we do. Recipes inspired by Vets and built on research and expertise
MediPaws® Dog Supplement | Scottish Salmon Oil For Dogs 500ml | Supports Dog Skin And Coat, Dog Itchy Skin & A Moulting Dog | Omega 3 Fish Oil | Perfect For Dog Grooming & Dog Food
Features
- No More Itchy, Dry Skin & Scratching – 100% Pure Scottish Salmon Oil For Dog Is An All-Natural Fish Oil Support Proven To Help Pets Of All Sizes Support Scratching, Itchy Skin, Ears, Paws & Hydrate Healthy Skin (No Need For Sprays)
- Soft Glossy Silky Shiny Coat – Powerful & Proven Omega 3-6-9 Fatty Acids Which Helps Maintain A Soft Glossy Silky Shiny Dog Coat While Supporting Overall Health & Wellbeing. Helps Moulting & Shedding Hair (Works Well With Dog Cool Coat)
- Supports Dog Joints & Immune System – Rich In Fatty Acids Which Support Joint Health & Function. Keeping The Heart & Immune System Healthy (Works Well with Dog Joint Supplements For Dog Agility)
- Quick, Simple, Easy To Use & Mess Free – Drizzled Over The Top or Mixed Directly Into The Food, The Mess Free & Easy To Use Leak-Proof Pump Dispenser Means You Can Forget Using Salmon Oil Capsules & Pump Directly Into Your Dog’s Food, Quick & Easy!
- 100% Natural & Cruelty Free – Dog Salmon Oil Is Ethically Sourced, GMO Free, All-Natural Sustainable Ingredients To Maintain Your Dog’s Overall Health & Wellbeing Safely With No Added Colours or Artificial Flavouring
Lintbells | YuDERM Itching Dog Formerly YuMEGA | Itchy or Sensitive Skin Supplement for Dogs Prone to Scratching, All Ages and Breeds | 500 ml Bottle
£21.60
Features
- Natural oil supplement, enriched with cold-pressed salmon oil which provides a high level of Omega-3 to calm and soothe sensitive skin
- Contains Omega-6 from Borage oil to reduce itching and scratching
- Contains scientifically proven ingredients
- From the UK’s no.1 veterinary joint supplement brand
- Helping over 1.7 million dogs globally per year*
Pets Purest Scottish Salmon Oil For Dogs, Cats, Horse, Ferret & Pet - Pure Omega 3, 6 & 9 Fish Oil Food Treats Supplement for Natural Coat, Immune Support, Itchy Skin, Joint & Brain Health (500ml)
Features
- NO MORE ITCHY / DRY SKIN: Our ALL-NATURAL Scottish salmon oil formula is a liquid fish oil supplement designed to support any pets health, keeping them looking and feeling great. It is proven to reduce itching, dandruff and dry skin.
- PACKED WITH OMEGA-3, 6, & 9 ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS: Our premium formula contains Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids derived from EPA and DHA, known as triple omega. These nutrients help keep animal coats soft and support overall pet health.
- HEALTHY PET BENEFITS: Simply add our salmon oil to any cat food, dog food, or pet food daily to help support brain and heart health. It also assists cell membrane formation and weight management.
- JOINT SUPPLEMENT: Scottish salmon fish oil is widely recommended by vets as a pet assisted health aid for joint support, flaky skin, itch and hair loss.
- DOGS, CATS & PETS LOVE IT: Hiding capsules and medication in your pets food can be very frustrating. Instead, simply pump the delicious liquid gel treat over your pets meal or medication and watch them devour every last drop. No mess, no fuss. Yum!
Buddy & Lola Dog Weight Gainer Supplement - Great for Fussy Eaters, Helps Build Muscle, Aids Recovery From Injury - A Must Have For Rescue And Re-homed Dogs Who Need to Put on Weight
£29.97
Features
- THE ULTIMATE DOG FOOD SUPPLEMENT: Our yummy chicken flavoured powered supplement is formulated with essential nutrients and high calorie proteins to help your dog gain healthy mass and weight. Highly recommended for PICKY EATERS, UNDERWEIGHT DOGS, RESCUE DOGS, BULLY BREEDS. Simply add the powder to your dog's food and monitor the results over the next few weeks.
- MAXIMIZE ENERGY: We understand how important energy and proteins are for building your dog's muscle mass and weight. Proteins are also essential for the ongoing development of lean muscles in dogs and that's why we have developed this awesome weight gainer dog supplement that will maximize protein intake for the optimum health of your dog.
- A MUST HAVE FOR RESCUE AND RE-HOMED DOGS: Our weight gainer for dogs is formulated to help improve muscle endurance, muscle recovery, muscle performance, and muscle building. It is also formulated to provide essential nutrients to add healthy weight and promote overall muscle strength in dogs and to immensely reduce muscle fatigue. A must-have for RESCUE and RE-HOMED dogs that need to increase mass.
- PERFECT FOR PUPPIES & NURSING MOTHERS: Great for a nursing mother and puppies to promote growth and development of body tissue. Helps to support ATP levels, normalize blood glucose levels, promotes muscle recovery after a long walk or prolonged workout and contains healthy fats to support healthy skin and shiny coats.
- MADE IN UK: 100% WE CARE PASSIONATELY ABOUT your dog’s health and the wellbeing of dogs is our primary motivator. We use this product on our own re-homed dogs with great results. All the ingredients used in formulating this special powdered supplement for dogs are strictly subject to guidelines. We have consistent quality standards which we can stand by hand on heart.
Protexin Veterinary Pro-Fibre for Dogs and Cats, 500g
£11.94
Features
- Protexin Pro-Fibre is a high fibre probiotic and prebiotic pellet for dogs and cats.
- Containing natural sources of fibre (psyllium husk and sugar beet pulp), probiotics, and prebiotics.
- Artificial beef flavouring for palatability and pet compliance.
- Protexin Veterinary Pro-Fibre pellets can be added to your pet’s food to help promote efficient digestion.
- When used daily, Pro-Fibre for dogs and cats can help avoid the problems associated with insufficient dietary fibre.
GWF Nutrition Joint Aid for Dogs Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs to Support Active and Ageing Joints and Muscles All Ages and Breeds 500 g Pouch
Features
- HELPS MAINTAIN MOBILITY AND EASE OF MOVEMENT – Curcumin and high levels of Omega 3 support the natural anti-inflammatory actions of the body
- SUPPORTS ACTIVE AND AGEING JOINTS - Glucosamine and Chondroitin support joint structure. MSM, Manganese and Collagen Matrix support the formation of cartilage, tendons and ligaments
- SUPPORTS MUSCLE GROWTH AND RECOVERY – targeted Amino Acids aid the production of muscle tissue. Selenium, Manganese and Magnesium support resilience and replenishment
- HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE WHEAT FREE FORMULATION – our lipid delivery system Oatinol means a superior uptake of nutraceuticals into the gut and supports good digestive health. No loading period needed
- GIVE DAILY FOR OPTIMUM RESULTS – easy to feed micropellets can be sprinkled over food or given separately. Recommended amount: 2.5g-20g per day
Pawsome Products® Dog Calming Hemp Oil | Stress & Anxiety Relief Supplement for Dogs, Cats & Pets | Hip & Joint Support & Healthier Skins | Organic with Omega 3, 6, 9
£10.99
Features
- EFFECTIVE DOG CALMING OIL - Discover our anti-anxiety dog superhero for your nervous furry friends! Calms dog anxiety, separation woes, depression, excessive barking, travel stress, and even fear of fireworks. Peaceful pets, guaranteed!
- HAPPY HIPS AND JOINTS - Pawsome Hemp Oil is a 100% organic blend of Omega 3, 6, 9 fatty acids, vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and antioxidants. It gives hip, joints support and fosters higher energy, healthier immune system and pain relief for dogs.
- SHINY COAT & SKIN - Unlock the secret to healthier skin with our calming drops oral supplement. Say goodbye to dryness, irritation, and itching as this nourishing elixir, rich in essential nutrients, brings your pets' coats and skins to perfect condition.
- EASY APPLICATION FOR ALL PETS - Our calming hemp oil's marked dropper cap allows for accurate dosing for pets of all sizes & breeds. Shake, squeeze, and deliver the perfect dose directly or mix it with tasty treats. Easy and stress-free pet wellness!
- SUSTAINABLE COMMITMENT - Our UK-made Pawsome Hemp Oil is cruelty-free, free from additives, gluten, THC, and carrier oils. Crafted with care by pet parents for pet parents, our sustainable journey includes eco-friendly practices, GMO-free ingredients, and a dedication to safe, effective products.
The particular best for the dog – according to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but most importantly, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding 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. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which food is ideal from which age? Is usually dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? What causes deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot put up with and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food easily
Simply 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 be made 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 gastrointestinal system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. As a result, they need less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to digest and contain a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in phrases of composition, method of production and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed includes all the nutrients the dog needs on a regular basis. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals varies depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the important nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in pet shops and grocery stores usually comes from business production. This is the most typical form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often completed cans or small aluminium trays. With the latter, one pan is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of business dog food use genetically altered raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. With a few exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years without the loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or prepared. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In phrases of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in containers or as dry out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with tighter guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover differences between the various organic dog foods: “100 per penny organic” means that no undesirable substances have been processed. With all the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per cent organic. If it claims “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per dollar organic ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food would not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When ever barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Because the meals are put together individually, barfing much more suited to experienced dog owners who have analyzed the diet program of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that should be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade dog or cat food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These are supposed to provide the food the smell and taste. Some dog fans also avoid dog or cat food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is produced by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller presses this mass through the openings of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come away the other side. Through the dog food production process, temperatures of about 90 degrees Celsius are produced, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold depressing. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those used in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your canine food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These types of have to be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is communicated through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food obviously, little by little. 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 supplementary factor in identifying the tolerability and quality of the meals. The most important thing is the quality of the recycleables.
Which is better – moist 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 . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and therefore coach their teeth. Consuming dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry out food can become 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 huge benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- More affordable than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more green than processed food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight 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. Often one package of wet food compares to one meal. Various dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for canines – once opened up – can only be kept for a few times. It must be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Below we have summarised the benefits and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful helpings
- 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 well
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
That is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. Your dog ultimately chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try away both types.
Several dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following relates to both types of food: It should just be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your canine.
How much meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients belong in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food consists of healthy ingredients and nutrients – regardless of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Just how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to regarding predators. So first and foremost, the source of meat is important. Yet , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme are now able to break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest plant food in smaller quantities.
To start with, meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves and provide energy for its activities. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are not as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 pct meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meat with their four-legged friends, this could lead to digestive problems, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Nutritional vitamins, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also includes nutrients that are not seen in meat – for example , vitamins and mineral deposits found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty stomach acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged good friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal material of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from hemp, potatoes and cereals into energy and want it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay tend to be added to the feed. Superior quality carbohydrates are located 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 chemicals only moderately. Just how much should take the dog food is determined by how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated fatty acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency portion and are intended as a book for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 pct high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as biotin or iron. Very good quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat and healthy skin.
How do i recognise superior quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before day 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 types. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual uncooked materials, but not their percentage. The open up declaration gives 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 definition of feed into individual organizations. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed food, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but should not be included in too large volumes.
2. The ingredients in the feed are listed in descending order regarding to their amount. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Conversely, this means: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout the list is within 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 flavour enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is outlined under the term “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and animal by-products indicates the meat content in your canine food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is included. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, dried meats, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood and its by-products include fish fillets, bone fragments and fish heads.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They can be to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acid regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity of oil and water. Natural vitamin antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be included in the right structure, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are utilized to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight dogs suffer! Obesity is an increasing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It can also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also be involved. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. Sometimes the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event the four-legged friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give canines the necessary food. 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 good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs remain growing and in many cases are more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than more mature dogs. It is advisable to reduce the number of food a little every year. For older dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age group of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs around 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. When ever dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the food content of the dog food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the following rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with an ordinary activity level should be about 2 to 3 percent 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 recovering from 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 pct of the daily food requirement.
Any person 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 allergic reaction?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible causes of an allergy are, for instance , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can trigger allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and cause.
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity effect by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain material. A real food allergy or intolerance rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Feasible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, belly 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.
Nevertheless, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergy or intolerance or intolerance. They will can also be caused by another disease. If your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause cleared up 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 handle an exemption diet. However, this involves a lot of effort.
What is an exemption diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special supply of protein and carbohydrates. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend hasn’t eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. Following the food change, your dog is fed the new food for many weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no more occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, that could be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can put up with or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. However, it is highly recommended to consult a professional or speak with the vet beforehand.
Consistent action is crucial during an exemption diet. The dog must not be given chews, treats or leftovers 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 more eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it calls for a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer occur. Sometimes they only disappear completely months following the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often includes grains. These include whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it causes obesity and sometimes to digestive problems. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of grain, 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 well suited for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. A few types of grain are also particularly easy to digest. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if the 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 much 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 even poisonous for canines. 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. If a dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get abdomen cramps or unwanted gas. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fresh fruit pits
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch glucose and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as caffeine
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is advised in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should be located in such a way that your canine cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the doctor and also the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. In the mean time, keep your dog in a secure environment. On the other hand, 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:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is crucial to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat whatever from the side of the trail.
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FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should We look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies desire a different dog food than adult puppies. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation 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 build up.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Above all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions a couple of times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of depends upon the breed of dog: Promising 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 dogs, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered mature at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age group, the dog’s express of health is also an important criterion. It is recommended to discuss the change of food with the vet.
Precisely what is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be held in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the meals can become “sticky” and lose its preference and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed unprocessed food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, compound and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be purchased in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , you should advise yourself well or check with with experts.
What do I actually have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. In the event that the changeover is abrupt, sensitive puppies in particular can quickly suffer from digestive : problems, a few of which may be considerable. A time 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 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
In the event that the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the adaptation phase and raise the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food whatsoever, it is obviously not suited to him. In cases like this, you should look for an option.
What should I do if my dog will not like dry food?
In that case it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. If the food has already swollen in water, it fills the dog up faster and is much easier to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How fast do dogs break down 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 scale the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an older animal. The amount of food is important too. Small portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble muscles remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Less fat food also leads to faster digestion. In addition , the more liquid 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?
You will discover 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 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
Once can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is federal reserve breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continually feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it with a liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no longer provided with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a water until the pup is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does it sound right?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it will incorporate some advantages:
– If 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 instance , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it might be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the food, you should study the several ingredients. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is recommended to talk to a vet in advance. 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 eaten by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially well suited for dogs with allergies. It truly is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your canine. Presently there is hypoallergenic dried out 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 the dog will not tolerate it and that sensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is only one supply of protein in such a product. This is usually an exotic meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergies. This kind of happens when there exists a substance in the food that the four-legged friend cannot tolerate.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a delicate gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can offer protection against digestive problems.
