The particular best for the dog – according to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but especially, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which food is suitable where age? Is definitely dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best wet dog food for westies, we present 10 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and make clear how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot tolerate and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best wet dog food for westies:
- HiLife Banquet - Wet Dog Food - Flaked Chicken Breast, Rice, Liver - 100%... — £12.75
-
James Wellbeloved Complete Wet Adult Dog Food Pouches Turkey in Gravy, 10 x...
—
£13.94
£15.84 -
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Organic Wet Dog Food, 11 x 150 g
—
£17.60
£19.25 -
Applaws 100% Natural Wet Dog Food, Chicken Breast with Salmon and Vegetables,...
—
£18.88
£22.68 -
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced,...
—
£19.34
£28.62 -
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Brown Rice Variety Pack (12 x 395...
—
£19.89
£22.20 - Cesar 10+ - Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Meaty Selection in Jelly, 16 Trays... — £23.99
- Pooch & Mutt - Wet Dog Food (Grain Free), Complete & Fresh, Turkey & Chicken... — £24.00
- CESAR Pouch Selection in Sauce, Fresh Adult Wet Dog Food Pouches in Delicious... — £32.14
- Cesar Deliciously Fresh - Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs 10+ Mixed Selection in... — £34.36
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best wet dog food for westies of 2024. We would recommend using Cesar Deliciously Fresh – Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs 10+ Mixed Selection in Sauce, 48 Pouches (6 x 8 x 100 g) as it is one of the best products currently available in market.
Top 10 Best wet dog food for westies
Best wet dog food for westies
Cesar Deliciously Fresh - Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs 10+ Mixed Selection in Sauce, 48 Pouches (6 x 8 x 100 g)
Features
- Delicious senior meal and sauce dog food range contains succulent recipes your dog will adore; they are specially crafted for his needs but gentle on the stomach for easy digestion; these dog food pouches with irresistible sauces will have your canine friend craving for more
- This gentle dog food has been lovingly created to be both delicious and well-balanced for everyday enjoyment; individual portions of Cesar wet food for dogs provide a moist, fresh meal each time
- Senior dog food pouches are high quality recipes made with carefully selected ingredients that you would expect from a luxury dog food
- At Cesar we understand how the experiences you share with your dog bring you closer together; convenient single pouches of succulent, mouth watering meals help keep your dog keen and interested
- Senior wet dog food pouches contain no added sugar, artificial flavours or artificial colours
Lily's Kitchen Puppy Recipe Organic Wet Dog Food, 11 x 150 g
£17.60
Features
- This tray of puppy dog food contains a wholesome recipe offering pups complete and balanced nutrition. It’s made with natural ingredients, including freshly prepared meat and offal. For puppies from 8-14 months depending on breed
- We’ve added the required vitamins and minerals your growing pooch needs into this wholesome dog food supper. Best of all, none of our recipes contain meat meal or rendered meat.
- Discover more dog food, from wet to dry, treats to dental chews, and organic all made with natural ingredients. We’ve got options to suit all lifestages and suitable for small, medium, large dogs
- As a B Corp company, we are committed to our target to be fully recyclable by 2025. To find out more about our sustainable initiatives, and how we use our business as a force for good! Visit our brand store
- Here at Lily’s Kitchen, we make proper dog food and cat food made with natural ingredients and freshly prepared meat and offal. Only the best for your furry family
Forthglade Complete Natural Wet Dog Food - Brown Rice Variety Pack (12 x 395 g) Trays - 4 x Turkey, 4 x Lamb and 4 x Chicken
£19.89
Features
- WET DOG FOOD VARIETY PACK: 12 X 395g trays of brown rice wet dog food in 3 flavours your dog will love: 4x Turkey, 4x Lamb and 4x Chicken with brown rice & vegetables
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Bursting with goodness and made using natural ingredients, with added vitamins, minerals & botanicals, gently steamed to retain as much natural flavour and goodness as possible
- FOOD FOR HAPPY DOGS: Brown rice is naturally nutrient-rich and a good source of dietary fibre. Hypoallergenic, which means it’s gentle on your dog’s tummy and made with 75% turkey, lamb or chicken
- COMPLETE DOG FOOD: A complete and balanced meal containing everything your dog needs to stay happy and healthy. Free from junk, fillers and artificial colours, flavours and preservatives
- VOTED BEST WET DOG FOOD 2024 YOUR DOG MAGAZINE: Award winning dog food for the fourth year in a row, proudly made at Forthglade's factory in the heart of Devon
Cesar 10+ - Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Meaty Selection in Jelly, 16 Trays (16 x 150 g)
Features
- Senior range is a high quality dog food made using succulent recipes your dog will love; this senior wet dog food is specially crafted for his needs, being gentle on the stomach for easy digestion; Cesar wet dog food in jelly will have your canine friend craving for more
- Lovingly created to be both delicious and well-balanced for everyday enjoyment, individual portions of this wet dog food provide a moist, fresh meal each time
- These trays of high quality wet food recipes are made with carefully selected ingredients that you would expect from a luxury dog food
- At Cesar we understand how the experiences you share with your dog bring you closer together; handy single dog food trays with a mouth-watering flavour help keep your dog keen and interested
- Cesar Senior in jelly contains no added sugar, artificial flavours or artificial colours
HiLife Banquet - Wet Dog Food - Flaked Chicken Breast, Rice, Liver - 100% Natural Ingredients, 15 Pouches x 100g
Features
- HILIFE BANQUET WET FOOD FOR DOGS: The HiLife Banquet wet dog food range has been created using only human-grade ingredients and absolutely no artificial additives. The range includes a choice of 4 delicious all-natural recipes in mouth-watering jelly that your dog is sure to love.
- A GREAT SOURCE OF PROTEIN & VITAMINS: Chicken Breast is a great source of protein, which is easy on the digestive system and rich in vitamins and minerals. Liver is packed with nutrients and a firm favourite for dogs, whilst being rich in essential vitamins and minerals including Iron and Vitamin A which promotes healthy muscle development.
- 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Only the very best quality ingredients go into our HiLife Dog and & Cat Recipes - our HiLife Banquet wet dog food pouches are made from 100% natural ingredients and absolutely no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
- A COMPLEMENTARY PET FOOD FOR ADULT DOGS: HiLife Banquet Pouches are a complementary pet food for adult dogs, and can be used every day as a treat or topping within a balanced diet. To ensure balanced nutrition, feed your dog a selection of products from the HiLife range but do remember to monitor total food intake.
- HILIFE - OUR STORY: HiLife is a British run business, and for over 30 years, we've been delighting the nation's pets with nutritious and delicious meals. As pet owners ourselves, we understand just how important our canine companions and feline friends can be. We're proud of our pet food because it matters.
CESAR Pouch Selection in Sauce, Fresh Adult Wet Dog Food Pouches in Delicious Sauce with Succulent Meats and Vegetables, 2 x (24 x 100g)
Features
- CESAR deliciously fresh 100% complete wet dog food pouches, filled with a tasty combination of either beef & carrots, chicken & vegetables, lamb & peas or turkey & carrots, in a tasty sauce
- Each meal consists of a tried and tested dog-friendly recipe with mouth-watering moist selected meats, tasty vegetables, vitamins and minerals, combined with a sauce that dogs just can't resist
- Wet food pouches lock in the freshness of our ingredients and we don't add any sugar, artificial colours or flavours, just great tasting, gently cooked, natural food that your dog will crave more of
- Happy dogs make happy homes and with CESAR pouches, your four-legged friend will look forward to mealtimes like never before, these succulent meals can be served on their own or with dry dog food
- Items delivered: 48 pouches of CESAR Pouch Selection in Sauce, 12 x Beef & Carrots, 12 x Chicken & Vegetables, 12 x Lamb & Peas and 12 x Turkey & Carrots, 100% complete tasty wet dog food
James Wellbeloved Complete Wet Adult Dog Food Pouches Turkey in Gravy, 10 x 150 g
£13.94
Features
- This product contains the following special ingredients and benefits to care for your dogs' health and wellbeing
- Turkey - made with 100 percent natural turkey
- Hypoallergenic - no beef, pork, soya, eggs, wheat or dairy
- Seaweed - Rich in iodine and other trace elements
- Omega 3 and 6 oils - With zinc, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and glossy coat
Applaws 100% Natural Wet Dog Food, Chicken Breast with Salmon and Vegetables, 12 x 156 g
£18.88
Features
- 69% Chicken breast and salmon with vegetables. High meat content, rich in natural taurine, promotes the development of lean muscle tissue.
- Additive and preservative free complementary dog food with no added sugar, promoting a healthy weight.
- Natural source of taurine essential for eye health and the heart.
- Highly digestible ingredients. Limited ingredients made from as little as 3 ingredients.
- Package may vary
Naturediet - Feel Good Wet Dog Food, Natural and Nutritionally Balanced, Chicken, 390g (Pack of 18)
£19.34
Features
- NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED - This complete and nutritionally balanced natural dog food contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs for a healthy diet. Made with freshly prepared Chicken and wholefoods.
- 100% NATURAL INGREDIENTS FOR GENTLE DIGESTION - Our recipes are simple, wholesome, and made with 100% natural ingredients to provide a gentle, nourishing diet that’s ideal for fussy eaters and dogs with sensitive tummies.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL BREEDS & SIZES - Our natural wet food meals provide a nourishing diet for adult dogs of all sizes and breeds. Conveniently packaged in eco-friendly cartons this healthy, super nutritious meal is packed with taste but with less packaging waste.
- BRITISH MADE - Naturediet foods are expertly made in Norfolk with British sourced ingredients, to keep food miles low and our carbon footprint small.
- ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING - Good for your dog and for the planet! Naturediet foods are packaged in fully recyclable plant-based cartons made from sustainably sourced, renewable materials.
Pooch & Mutt - Wet Dog Food (Grain Free), Complete & Fresh, Turkey & Chicken 12x375g
Features
- A 12 pack of turkey and chicken flavoured wet dog food
- Premium, grain free complete wet dog food
- Contains a new and improved recipe that includes local sourced fresh meat and vegetables from British farms
- With 100% recyclable packaging, cartons have an 80% lower global warming potential than cans
- Free from grain, cereal, gluten and GM produce
Only the best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so 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 in turn food is appropriate where age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And exactly how much should the dog be provided? What may cause 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. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot put up with and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Simply as every person has their own health needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should be produced according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Grow older also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their gastrointestinal system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Old dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. Consequently, they want less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to process and include a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food vary in conditions of composition, way of creation and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrients the dog needs every day. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals varies based on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary foods are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the essential nutrients. 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 industrial production. This is the most typical form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. Nevertheless, some manufacturers of professional dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. With a few exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from grow, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or highly processed. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In phrases of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to industrial food: natural dog food is packaged in containers or as dried out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding substances. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will find dissimilarities between the various natural dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable elements have been highly processed. Together with the claim “organic”, the constituents in the natural food are 95 per dollar organic. If this claims “made with organic”, the product includes 70 per cent natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is also available on the market. This dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , veggie and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can issues 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. Once barfing, the dog is fed natural fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually healthier is debatable. Since the meals are merged individually, barfing is more well suited for 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 pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These are supposed to supply the food a better smell and taste. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is produced by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and mixing them. A painting tool presses this mass through the openings of a carol wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other side. During the dog food production process, temperatures of about 90 certifications Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the term cold pressing. Yet , 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 kinds of need to be artificially added to the food after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been broken down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural elements. In the event the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal system and a disturbed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. Nevertheless, the manufacturing process is only a supplementary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the meals. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – moist food or dried out food?
There is certainly 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 – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and therefore train their teeth. Consuming dry food is almost like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can be 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 benefits 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 system during production
- More green than processed food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight quicker if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or paziente formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Frequently one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Various dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for dogs – once opened – can only be kept for a few times. It should be used up within 2 days of opening. Under we have summarised the advantages and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High approval by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy portions
- Since of the high water content in wet food, your dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, damp food cannot be stored very well
- Large dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to move and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more intense
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
It is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is well suited for your dog. The dog eventually chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try out both types.
A few dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious diet. It is important that the dog food includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The right composition of the dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive tract is similar to those of predators. Therefore to start with, the resource of meat is important. However , 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 digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical can now break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves and also to provide energy for its activities. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are no longer as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts declare dog food should contain between 50 and 70 pct meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meats with their four-legged friends, this could lead to a problem with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and carbs in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for instance , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs sugars. Wolves, for example, eat the abdomen and intestinal material of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from hemp, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. Nevertheless, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or straw tend to be added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are normally found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the foodstuff should contain these substances only less often. How much should take the dog food is determined by how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated fatty acids. They are stored in the body as emergency portion and are intended as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veg oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should contain 50 to 70 percent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 % high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary vitamins and minerals. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrition such as vitamin h or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed fat improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy skin area.
How do i recognise top quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of manufacture or best-before time of the dog food
– Brand of the foodstuff
– 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 prospect lists the individual raw materials, but not their percentage. The open up declaration gives the formula in percent and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the definition of materials into individual organizations. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large volumes.
2. The ingredients in the feed are listed in descending order regarding to their quantity. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the higher its proportion. Alternatively, what this means is: Only a small 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 substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Very little use of taste enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is detailed 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 animal by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Companies often do not declare exactly what is engaged. It can 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 instance , hair, bone fragments, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They may be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and level of acidity regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform uniformity of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be contained in the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to influence the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the digestive tract flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Physical additives are widely-used to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight dogs suffer! Obesity is an expanding 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 inflammation. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Nevertheless age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. Sometimes the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is vital to give canines the right amount of food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends upon 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. Accordingly, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs remain growing and in many cases are more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It truly is a good idea to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For more mature dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Several diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds 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 instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are pregnant or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the food content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a reduced amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the following guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about 2 to 3 % 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 recovering from an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 percent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 pct of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is not sure 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 common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of an allergy are, for example , stress, parasitic organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. That 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 irritation, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They can be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause solved by a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to carry out an exclusion diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an exclusion diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend have not eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. After the food change, your canine is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms will no longer occur, a provocation test is carried out. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergic reactions. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is advisable to talk to a professional or talk to the vet in advance.
Consistent action is crucial during an exclusion diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no 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 practically nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it calls for some time until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Dog food often contains grains. These include wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it causes obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and it is also suited to more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. A few types of grain are also specifically easy to process. Included in this are maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
If you want to give your dog a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that dogs can’t tolerate. Some of them are actually poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, natural cabbage and natural 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 the dog feeds on raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could retain the Aujeszky virus, that causes fatal illness. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs should not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw potatoes
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- 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 coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should be positioned 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 doctor or maybe the veterinary crisis service directly. In the mean time, keep the dog in a secure environment. However, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch out for signs of poisoning. It could be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that can occur with poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that relatives and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all from the side of the street.
The best choice is the Cesar Deliciously Fresh – Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs 10+ Mixed Selection in Sauce, 48 Pouches (6 x 8 x 100 g).
Cesar Deliciously Fresh - Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs 10+ Mixed Selection in Sauce, 48 Pouches (6 x 8...
- Delicious senior meal and sauce dog food range contains succulent recipes your dog will adore; they are specially crafted for his needs but gentle on the stomach for easy digestion; these dog food pouches with irresistible sauces will have your canine friend craving for more
Video about best wet dog food for westies
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and often asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies require a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the case after about 2 months. The components and substances of puppy dog food are specially suitable 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 minerals and vitamins. So that the puppy’s gastrointestinal system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided with small portions many times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of is determined by the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are considered older people from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for older persons?
For small canines, the change in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered mature at 7 to 8 years of age. In addition to era, the dog’s condition 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 held in an snug container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the food can become “sticky” and lose its preference and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is founded on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be found in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform yourself well or consult 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 dogs in particular can quickly suffer from intestinal problems, some of which is often considerable. An interval of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. On the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the changeover is complete.
If the dog responds sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the foodstuff 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 ideal for him. In this instance, you should look for an alternative.
What should I actually do if my dog will not like dry food?
In that case it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier to allow them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already enlarged in water, it fills the dog up faster and is easier to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How quickly do dogs break down dry food?
Canines usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an older animal. The number of food is important too. Small 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 leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more water the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
You will find 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 instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
Once is i able to start feeding a puppy?
During the 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 is constantly on the 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 with a 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 dog 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 indeed it seem sensible?
Making your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it does have some advantages:
– In case you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners can include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the preparing and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s preference.
– 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 foodstuff, you should study the several elements. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is often a good idea to talk to a vet beforehand. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suitable for dogs with allergy symptoms. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your canine. There is hypoallergenic dry out food and allergies wet food on the market. This contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Consequently, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will take place.
Usually there is only one supply of necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or drinking water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. Even so, 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 meals that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergic reactions, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a very sensitive digestive system. For these dogs, such a product can provide protection against digestive problems.
