There is nothing better for your pooch than nourishing, healthy dog food. Just like their owners, one of the highlights of a dog's day is dinner, so it's important we feed our four-legged friends healthy, nutritious and tasty food so they can have the energy to play all day and make us laugh.
Good dog food is essential for keeping your pooch healthy and happy, so whether you are on the hunt for the best dog food for dogs with allergies and itchy skin or a sensitive tummy, food for a senior dog that is a little fussy, or a growing puppy dog, then getting them great-quality, satisfying meals is a top priority for any dog owner.
Best dog food at a glance:
• Best adult dry food overall: James Wellbeloved Adult Dry Dog Food – View on Viovet
• Best small dog dry food: Royal Canin Mini Adult – View on Amazon UK
• Best grain-free wet food: Lily's Kitchen Grain-Free Multipack Wet Dog Food – View on Lily’s Kitchen
• Best value wet food: Pedigree Mixed Wet Dog Food – View on Amazon UK
If you're wondering what is the best dog food for your pooch, you'll first want to think about the type of food you want to feed your pup. There are two main types to choose from: wet food and dry food. Plus, it doesn't have to be bland and boring for your pooch either. Who wants that? With so many flavours to choose from, your dog will be spoilt for choice and it'll keep food interesting for picky eaters, too.
We have picked out top dry and wet meals from varying brands of dog food that have the best health benefits and taste, so your dog's mouth will be watering as soon as they hear the food hit their dog bowl. We've included a wide range of dog foods to cater for all sizes and breeds of dogs at different price points so you can find a food that not only suits your pup, but your budget, too.
Good dog food UK: Dry dog food
Best adult dry dog food
www.viovet.co.uk
Using only simple and natural ingredients, this turkey and rice adult dog food from James Wellbeloved is a tasty combination for any canine. This dry dog food will help support your dog's gut health and maintain the shine in their coat as it's full of essential vitamins and minerals. It is also made with Yucca extract, which should prevent super-smelly poos.
Many reviews mention that dogs haven't had any tummy troubles since switching to this food, this could be because the recipe excludes common allergens such as beef, pork, soya, eggs, dairy and wheat. Some customers thought the kibble was a bit big so smaller dogs may struggle to get their mouth around it.
Pros
- Great for sensitive tummies as it excludes common allergens like beef, pork, soya, eggs, dairy and wheat
- Full of vitamins to support gut health and keep coat in good condition
- Contains Yucca extract to improve stool condition and odour
Cons
- Some customers thought the kibble size was a bit big so smaller dogs might struggle
Food weight: | 2kg, 7.5kg, 15kg |
Flavour: | Turkey and rice |
- Ingredients: Turkey meal (23.3%), brown rice (22.3%), white rice (22%), naked oats, whole linseed, sugar beet pulp, turkey fat (3%), turkey gravy (2.9%), alfalfa meal, pea fibre, seaweed, sodium chloride, fish oil, potassium chloride, chicory extract (0.1%), calcium carbonate, yucca extract (0.02%), green tea extract (0.003%), pomegranate extract (0.001%), rosemary extract (0.001%).
Best small dog dry food
Looking for food to give to a small dog? Why not give the Royal Canin Mini Dog Food a try? Royal Canin is one of our favourite dog food brands, known for their food that is tailored to the nutritional needs of different-sized dogs and a variety of breeds and this Mini food is no exception. The kibble is designed with an adapted energy release as well as being the right size for smaller dogs’ mouths. Not only that, but this food will make your dog’s good lovely and shiny, plus help reduce tartar build-up on their teeth, too. It is worth noting that with maize and wheat listed as main ingredients, this food won't be suitable for dogs with allergies to either one.
Reviewed by Senior Writer Rosie Floyd and Yorkshire Terrier cross, Gina: "My Yorkshire Terrier mix, Gina, has always been a bit of a picky eater. Despite this, she has been wolfing down Royal Canin Mini Adult kibble for over a year now. As she ages, her teeth have weakened, so she requires food that is easy to chew. The kibble size of Royal Canin Mini Adult is ideal for her, making it easy for her to break down. After switching from cheaper dog food brands, I've observed a remarkable enhancement in Gina's coat. It now has a beautiful sheen, and black and tan patches amongst her grey fur appear more vibrant."
Pros
- Adapted kibble size to be the right size for a small dog's mouth
- Helps to break down tartar build up on dog's teeth
- Improves appearance of your dog's coat to leave it healthy and shiny
Cons
- Wheat and maize listed as main ingredients so not suitable for dogs with allergies, intolerances or sensitivities to these
Food weight: | 4kg |
Flavour: | Poultry |
- Ingredients: Dehydrated poultry protein, maize, maize flour, animal fats, maize gluten, vegetable protein isolate*, wheat, hydrolysed animal proteins, rice, beet pulp, minerals, fish oil, soya oil, yeasts and parts thereof, fructo-oligo-saccharides
Best medium dog dry food
www.viovet.co.uk
This Purina PRO PLAN dry food is formulated for total dental hygiene and made with specifically modified nutrient concentrations to support the rapid metabolism of medium-sized dogs. The food comes in a chicken flavour and has all the nutrients a medium adult dog will need to be healthy and satisfied, ensuring they can lead an active lifestyle while keeping their joints in top condition.
Some reviewers say their fussy dog didn't like this food but many other pet owners who have reviewed this food have mentioned that they've fed their dogs this food for years and they still can't get enough. They also say this food gives their dog plenty of energy, has stopped their tummy problems and has their coat looking lovely and healthy.
Pros
- Contains high quality pieces of chicken
- Formulated to support dental care
- Support a dog's active lifestyle and keep their joints healthy
Cons
- Fussy dogs may turn their noses up
Food weight: | 14kg |
Flavour: | Chicken |
- Ingredients: Chicken (20%), Wheat, Dehydrated poultry protein, Maize, Rice (7%), Animal fat, Dried beet pulp, Soya meal, Digest, Maize gluten meal, Minerals, Dried egg, Fish oil
4.
tails.com
Best customisable dry food
tails.com
If your dog is a bit of a fussy eater or you think they need a more customised food plan, then tails.com is a great solution. With this meal deal, you will get unique recipes delivered to your home based on what you tell them about your pet. You can ask for recipes specially made with any health issue or dietary requirement in mind but all recipes are made with high quality ingredients with no added sugar or other nasties. A huge bonus is that you can also add wet food and treats to your order, so your pampered pooch can have the finest treatment. Just keep in mind that the price will vary based on the size and breed of your dog.
Reviewed by Jade Moscrop and her Alaskan Malamute, Frankie: "As Frankie is food driven, he'll eat almost anything, but it's clear that tails.com is on another level for him. Alaskan Malamutes are a vocal breed, so when they really love something, you'll know about it. Dinner time has now become an almighty song and dance. He leaps around the room, barking and howling at us until we're done dishing up, and he can dig in, wolfing it down in just a few minutes. He's never been this vocal about any previous food brands, so I know he loves it."
Want to know more? Read our full tails.com review.
Pros
- Tailored recipes for your dog based on their age, breed, lifestyle and more
- Great for dogs that have specific dietary requirements
- High quality ingredients with no added sugar or other nasties
Cons
- Price varies from dog to dog
Food weight: | Varies per subscription |
Flavour: | Tailored to your dog's age, breed and lifestyle |
- Ingredients: Varies per subscription
Best sensitive dog dry food
www.petsathome.com
This AVA Veterinary Approved food is ideal for dogs with sensitive skin and tummies. It has a hypoallergenic formula and is a great source of easily digested protein, so even super-sensitive dogs can fill their boots with yummy food. It also includes AVA's unique blend of vitamins and minerals called +Imuvita to help with their immune system and overall health, so your pooch will be thriving.
As you'd expect from a dry food that is made up of 42 per cent fish, it is a rich source of Omega 3 and 6, which is great for skin and coat condition, heart and kidney health and supporting brain function. Although because it is a fishy recipe, be prepared for a strong smell when you're dishing it up at meal times - you might not love it but your pooch definitely will!
Pros
- Vet recommended
- A source of easily digested protein to be easy on tummies
- Great for sensitive stomachs as it has a hypoallergenic formula
Cons
- As it's a fishy recipe, it may be more smelly compared to other foods
Food weight: | 15kg |
Flavour: | White fish |
- Ingredients: Fish (42%) (White Fishmeal 20.5%, Fresh White Fish 19%, Fish Stock 2.5%), Tapioca (20%), Sweet Potato (18.5%), Beet Pulp (6%), Chicken Fat, Brewers Yeast, Salmon Oil, Minerals, Pre-biotic Fructooligosaccharide (1600mg/kg), Beta-glucans, Pre-biotic Mannanoligosaccharides (400mg/kg), Yucca Extract (200mg/kg), Glucosamine (200mg/kg), Chondroitin (150mg/kg), Cranberry Extract, Green Tea Extract, Pomegranate Extract, Rosemary Extract
Best senior dry food
If your dog is entering their twilight years, then this Arden Grange senior dry dog food will go down a treat. Made with fresh chicken and rice, this delicious and tasty meal is naturally hypoallergenic and good for dogs' gut health as it contains prebiotics, krill and yucca extract, which also help with joint pain and boost their energy levels.
To ensure your senior pooch doesn't gain weight as they become less active when they get older, the recipe is lower in fat compared to standard adult foods which is why many reviews mention this food is great for weight management. Some customers reported that while their dog liked this food at first, they soon got bored of it so just keep that in mind if you've got a fussy hound.
Pros
- Higher levels of joint supplement compared to other adult foods so great for ageing bones
- Naturally hypoallergenic
- Lower in fat compared to adult foods to ensure your senior pooch doesn't gain weight now they're less active
Cons
- Some dogs liked it at first but could get tired of the taste
Food weight: | 12kg |
Flavour: | Chicken and rice |
- Ingredients: Chicken (Chicken Meat Meal 22%, Fresh Chicken 5%), Rice (22%), Maize, Beet Pulp, Refined Chicken Oil, Whole Linseed, Chicken Digest, Whole Dried Egg, Yeast, Krill, Minerals, Prebiotic FOS, Prebiotic MOS, Glucosamine (740mg/Kg), MSM (740mg/Kg), Chondroitin (520mg/Kg), Cranberries, Yucca Extract, Nucleotides. Nutritional Additives (Per Kg): Vitamins: Vitamin A 18,000 IU, Vitamin D3 1,350 IU, Vitamin E 240 IU. Trace Elements: Zinc (As Zinc Chelate Of Amino Acid Hydrate) 90mg, Copper (II) (As Copper Chelate Of Amino Acid Hydrate) 8mg, Manganese (As Manganese Chelate Of Amino Acid Hydrate) 6mg, Iodine (As Calcium Iodate Anhydrous) 1.5mg. Antioxidant (Natural Mixed Tocopherols)
Best dry dog food for puppies
www.viovet.co.uk
This dry food from Royal Canin is perfect for little puppies who are raring with energy. You can give them a good start in life by providing them with food to help support their immune and digestive system and be easily digested. It contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for supporting brain development that puppies need as they grow and learn about the world around them.
As well as being tailored to the early years life stage, it's also a breed-specific recipe for mini and small breeds to ensure the kibble is the right size for their tiny mouths. That does mean however that if you have a large breed puppy, you may want to look for an alternative as the kibble could be too small for them.
Pros
- Life-stage/breed size specific
- Contains omega-3 fatty acids which are great for brain development
- Adapted kibble size for small mouths
Cons
- Designed for mini breeds, so you may want to look for an alternative if you have a larger breed
Food weight: | 800g-8kg |
Flavour: | Meat |
- Ingredients: "Dehydrated poultry protein, rice, animal fats, vegetable protein isolate, maize, beet pulp, maize flour, hydrolysed animal proteins, maize gluten, minerals, fish oil, soya oil, fructo-oligo-saccharides (0,34%), hydrolysed yeast (source of manno-oligo-saccharides), yeasts extracts (source of betaglucans), marigold extract (source of lutein)"
Good dog food UK: Wet dog food
Best grain-free wet food
www.lilyskitchen.co.uk
If your dog has a grain sensitivity, then Lily's Kitchen offers grain-free meals that your pet will appreciate. The easily digestible recipes are made with freshly prepared meat, nutritious meat and botanical herbs to ensure your pooch is getting the very best each mealtime. There's also at least 60 per cent meat in each tin and the recipes don't contain any nasties or cheap fillers like wheat, corn or soya.
With multiple flavours, including Sunday Lunch, Wild Campfire Stew, Cottage Pie and Fishy Fish Pie, in this multipack, customers online appreciate the variety on offer to their dog. This variety means they shouldn't get bored of eating their foods, with comments in the reviews saying that their dogs always finish their bowl when they've got one of these Lily's Kitchen tins inside. It's worth noting that although these Lily's Kitchen tins are a grain-free recipe, they are made in a factory where grains are handled so traces are present.
Pros
- High meat content with 60 per cent meat per tin
- Made with freshly prepared meat, vegetables and herbs
- Four different recipes included in this multipack
Cons
- Although they are grain-free recipes, they are made in a factory where grains are handled so traces could be present
Food weight: | 12 x 400g |
Flavour: | 3 x Wild Campfire Stew, 3 x Fishy Fish Pie, 3 x Sunday Lunch, 3 x Cottage Pie |
- Ingredients:
- Sunday Lunch: Fresh Chicken (60%); Potatoes (4%); Sugar Snap Peas (2%); Carrots, Spinach, Apples, Vitamins and Chelated Minerals, Herbs, Safflower Oil, Herbs & botanicals: Golden Rod, Nettle, Aniseed, Celery Seed, Rosehips, Marigold Petals, Cleavers, Seaweed, Alfalfa, Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Burdock Root
- Wild Campfire Stew: Freshly Prepared Venison (40%); Pheasant (15%); Salmon (10%); Potatoes (3%), Butternut Squash, Green Beans (1%), Apples, Vitamins & Minerals, Hemp Oil (Source of Omega 3 & 6), Herbs & botanicals: Golden Rod, Nettle, Aniseed, Celery Seed, Rosehips, Marigold Petals, Cleavers, Seaweed, Alfalfa, Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Burdock Root
- Fishy Fish Pie: Freshly Prepared: Turkey (30%), Herring (15%), Salmon (15%); Potatoes (4%), Peas, Carrots, Spinach, Vitamins & Chelated Minerals, Hemp Oil, Herbs & botanicals: Golden Rod, Nettle, Aniseed, Celery Seed, Rosehips, Marigold Petals, Cleavers, Seaweed, Alfalfa, Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Burdock Root
- Cottage Pie: Fresh Beef (60%); Potatoes (3%); Carrots (3%); Apples, Broccoli, Green Beans, Vitamins & Chelated Minerals, Flaxseed (Source of Omega 3 & 6), Herbs & botanicals: Golden Rod, Nettle, Aniseed, Celery Seed, Rosehips, Marigold Petals, Cleavers, Seaweed, Alfalfa, Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Burdock Root
Best value wet food
These Pedigree Mixed Wet Dog Food pouches are easy to open and will provide your four-legged friend with a healthy meal. This value pack contains 40 pouches so it's great for those who like to bulk buy their dog food and should last a good while. Vets and nutritionists developed these pouches and there are four different recipes included in a succulent jelly which are sure to get tails wagging at mealtimes.
Customers love the value of this food and say the pouches are great for portion control to ensure their pooch isn't over or under-eating. We do think the ingredients could be of higher quality and it could contain a higher percentage of meat as meat and animal derivatives are listed as the main ingredient but only four per cent of that is named meat flavour.
Pros
- Great value as you get 40 pouches for the price
- Developed with vets and nutritionists
- Customers think they are great for portion control
Cons
- Could have a higher meat percentage and quality of ingredients in each pouch
Food weight: | 40 x 100g |
Flavour: | 10 x beef and liver, 10 x lamb and liver, 10 x chicken, 10 x poultry |
- Ingredients: With Beef Meat and Animal Derivatives (39%, including 4% Beef), Minerals, Derivatives of Vegetable Origin (including 0.5% Dried Beet Pulp), Oils and Fats (including 0.5% Sunflower Oil), Vegetable Protein Extracts With Chicken Meat and Animal Derivatives (39%, including 4% Chicken), Minerals, Derivatives of Vegetable Origin (including 0.5% Dried Beet Pulp), Oils and Fats (including 0.5% Sunflower Oil), Vegetable Protein Extracts With Lamb Meat and Animal Derivatives (39%, including 4% Lamb), Minerals, Derivatives of Vegetable Origin (including 0.5% Dried Beet Pulp), Oils and Fats (including 0.5% Sunflower Oil), Vegetable Protein Extracts With Poultry Meat and Animal Derivatives (39%, including 4% Poultry), Minerals, Derivatives of Vegetable Origin (including 0.5% Dried Beet Pulp), Oils and Fats (including 0.5% Sunflower Oil), Vegetable Protein Extracts
Best wet food multi-pack
Your dog will be spoiled for choice with this Cesar Classic Terrine multi-pack with a selection of yummy recipes such as Beef and Liver, Chicken and Turkey, Poultry, and Chicken and Beef. Cesar knows how to make food that our furry friends will absolutely love. There's no added sugar, artificial colours or flavours in these recipes, just tender meaty served in a tasty jelly that comes in recyclable packaging.
With over 4,800 reviews and an average star rating of 4.6 out of 5, these Cesar meals are a popular choice with Amazon customers. Customers say the food is great for smaller dogs and breeds as it's a good texture for them to eat and the trays make it easy to portion it out. However, customers did think that it would be harder to portion out for larger dogs and they may need multiple trays so the food won't last as long.
Pros
- Great choice of flavours with four different ones included
- No added sugar, artificial colours or flavours
- Packaging is recyclable
Cons
- Customers online thought that the portions were better for smaller dogs than large ones
Food weight: | 24 x 150g (three packs of 8 x 150g) |
Flavour: | 6 x beef and liver, 6 x chicken and turkey, 6 x poultry, 6 x chicken and beef |
- Ingredients: With Succulent Beef and Liver Meat and Animal Derivatives (55%, of which natural* 95%, including Beef 4%, including Chicken Liver 4%), Cereals, Minerals, Derivatives of Vegetable Origin, Vegetable Protein Extracts, *Natural ingredients With Tender Chicken and Turkey Meat and Animal Derivatives (55%, of which natural* 95%, including Chicken Liver 4%, including Turkey 4%), Cereals, Minerals, Derivatives of Vegetable Origin, Vegetable Protein Extracts, Herbs, *Natural ingredients With Tender Poultry Meat and Animal Derivatives (55%, of which natural* 95%, including Chicken Liver 4%), Cereals, Minerals, Derivatives of Vegetable Origin, Vegetable Protein Extracts, *Natural ingredients With Savoury Chicken and Beef Meat and Animal Derivatives (55%, of which Natural* 95%, including Chicken Liver 4%, including Beef 4%)
Best locally sourced wet dog food
www.petsathome.com
This Butcher's Puppy Perfect nourishing food is full of omega 3 and 6, which is great for brain development plus calcium and protein for strong muscles and bones, so you know your pooch will be getting all the nutritious food to keep them in good health. Each recipe is also packed with prebiotics that will build up their immune system and promote healthy gut bacteria. The ingredients are also sourced from British and Irish Farms.
With 55 per cent meat in each tray, it does have a high meat percentage for a puppy food and we also like that the recipes are grain and gluten-free so it's a great option for those pups with allergies. With each tray containing 150g of food, that's quite a lot for puppy food as many of the adult foods on our list contain the same or less. With this in mind, you'll want to make sure you've got somewhere to store it to keep it fresh as you'll probably be using each tray for multiple meals, making it great value for money.
Pros
- Grain and gluten-free with ingredients sourced from British and Irish farms
- High meat content with 55 per cent meat per tray
- Full of good stuff, like omega 3 and 6, protein, calcium and prebiotics to support your puppy while they grow
Cons
- Weighing 150g per tray, that's quite a lot for a puppy food so make sure you've got somewhere to properly store it to keep it fresh as you'll probably end up using one tray for multiple meals
Food weight: | 24 x 150g |
Flavour: | 8 x chicken, 8 x beef, 8 x turkey |
- Ingredients:
- Chicken: British and Irish Farmed (Chicken 45%, Beef 10%), Salmon Oil (1%), Prebiotic (Mannan-oligosaccharide 0.2%), Parsley, Rosehip, Chicory, Mint, Minerals.
- Beef: British and Irish Farmed (Chicken 35%, Beef 20%), Salmon Oil (1%), Prebiotic (Mannan-oligosaccharide 0.2%), Parsley, Rosehip, Chicory, Mint, Minerals.
- Turkey: British and Irish Farmed (Chicken 25%, Turkey 20%, Beef 10%), Salmon Oil (1%), Prebiotic (Mannan-oligosaccharide 0.2%), Parsley, Rosehip, Chicory, Mint, Minerals.
Best wet dog food for high meat percentage
For a high protein option, you can't go wrong with this Forthglade Wet Dog Food Variety Pack. All of the turkey, duck and lamb recipes in this multipack contain 75 per cent high-quality meat, which plays a part in building up your pup's immune system, coat health, muscle development and weight management. Each tray is just bursting with goodness as Forthglade recipes are made using natural ingredients with added vitamins, minerals and botanicals and as they're also grain-free and hypoallergenic, they're easy to digest and gentle on your doggo's tum as well.
Numerous reviews online comment on the quality of the food and that they like that Forthglade meals are made with all-natural ingredients. However, there are some negative comments that talk about the packaging being tricky to open as well as some pet owners mentioning they didn't like the consistency or smell of it but their dogs didn't seem to mind.
Pros
- Contains 75 per cent meat in each tray
- Made with all natural ingredients
- Easy to digest and gentle on a dog's stomach
Cons
- Some reviewers mention the packaging is tricky to open
Food weight: | 12 x 395g |
Flavour: | 4 x turkey, 4 x duck, 4 x lamb |
- Ingredients:
- Turkey with Sweet Potato & Vegetables Composition: Turkey (75%), Sweet Potato (4%), Carrots (2%), Peas (2%), Minerals, Linseed Oil (0.5%), Prebiotic - Fructooligosaccharide, Yucca, Glucosamine (50mg/kg), Chondroitin (50mg/kg), Camomile, Parsley, Rosemary, Nettle.
- Lamb with Butternut Squash & Vegetables Composition: Lamb (75%), Butternut Squash (4%), Carrots (2%), Peas (2%), Minerals, Linseed Oil (0.5%), Prebiotic - Fructooligosaccharide, Yucca, Glucosamine (50mg/kg), Chondroitin (50mg/kg), Camomile, Parsley, Rosemary, Nettle.
- Duck with Potato & Vegetables Composition: Duck (75%), Potato (4%), Carrots (2%), Peas (2%), Minerals, Linseed Oil (0.5%), Prebiotic - Fructooligosaccharide, Yucca, Glucosamine (50mg/kg), Chondroitin (50mg/kg), Camomile, Parsley, Rosemary, Nettle.
How we chose the best dog food
All of these dog foods have been hand-selected by our team of Take A Break Pets shopping experts. We carefully considered quality, nutritional value and taste in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching good dog food to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
With pets big and small on our team, where possible we'll share the best products that have been tried and tested by our own furry friends who have given their paw of approval. And, with help from veterinary experts, we share their knowledge to ensure everything we choose is paw-fect for your pet.
Best dog food UK: FAQs
Our verdict: What is the best dog food UK?
The best dog food in the UK will all depend on the needs of your dog, taking into consideration their breed, size, age and any dietary requirements they may have, such as allergies, intolerances and sensitivities. We think one of the best adult dry foods for your pooch is James Wellbeloved Turkey & Rice. It’s made with simple and natural ingredients, plus it will help support your dog’s gut health and maintain the shine in their coat.
If you’d prefer to feed your pup a wet food, Lily’s Kitchen is a winner in our eyes. All the recipes are made with freshly prepared, nutritious meat, vibrant vegetables and botanical herbs to create a healthy, balanced meal that will be irresistible for your dog. We particularly like the Lily’s Kitchen Grain-Free Multipack as it’s ideal for pups who have tummy troubles and grain sensitivities.
What are the types of dog food?
Most brands do wet and dry versions of their recipes, which is excellent for keeping a dog's diet consistent and gives them the best of both worlds.
Dry food normally comes in kibble form and will give them more nutritional content in a smaller form. Kibble comes in all different shapes and sizes, so it is good to know what your dog likes before you buy
Wet food has a higher water content, so it will get them salivating for dinner. Wet food is a good way to keep up your pooch's hydration levels. Wet food can be presented in pouches or trays and you can also get it as canned dog food, too.
Combining both wet and dry food keeps their diet balanced and varied.
Flavours are another factor to consider when buying food for your pooch. It is good to note what your dog's favourite ingredients are or ask your vet what they think your dog is missing from its diet. It's worth purchasing smaller sample sizes at first to see if your dog preference is, to begin with.
Age is another factor that categorises food for pooches. Brands typically have recipes for puppies, juniors, adults and senior dogs. It is good to check the labels before you buy to see which category your dog falls under for each brand.
Allergies and sensitivities are other aspects to consider. There is specially made dog food for allergies and dogs with certain conditions, like diabetic dog food. You can also get grain-free dog food for dogs with grain sensitivity.
What should you consider when buying dog food?
It is important to keep their age, breed and size in mind when purchasing food for your pup. It is good to keep their diet varied when possible but always have their favourites in stock at home, so your dog is guaranteed to empty its bowl.
Their preferences are important when purchasing the best canine food, but so are their health needs. As long as your vet is satisfied and your dog is healthy, all food is fuel.
How much food should you feed your dog?
All pooches are different, so it's important to keep track of how much food they require. The food packaging will have a recommendation for portion sizes, so it is good to follow the brand's suggestions. Ask your vet for the best option if you're unsure.
How long can a dog go without food?
Dogs should be eating twice a day unless your vet has told you otherwise. Puppies normally require three to four smaller meals daily. However, If your dog is refusing to eat and new foods aren't tempting them, then it's time to call your vet as it could be an underlying issue. Just like us, most dogs love food, so something is usually wrong if they're not eating their meals.
What human foods can dogs eat?
Our hounds can get everything they need from their own food, but some human foods are a yummy and safe treat for them ever so often.
Some examples of human foods that are good for them are chopped carrots, a slice of banana, a couple of blueberries or a piece of chicken without the bone, as bones can be dangerous for them. Also, a slice of watermelon from the fridge is a welcome treat in the summer.
However, certain human foods are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes and onions, so keep an eye on your dog to make sure they don't manage to sneak any.
How do you introduce a new food into your dog's diet?
Variety is the spice of life, and sometimes it's nice to change things up for your pet. However, it is good to note that dogs can become ill from drastic diet changes. So, if you are trying to introduce new foods to your pet's diet for whatever reason, mix small portions of their food with the old food for a couple of days and let the portions get gradually bigger to let them adjust. This will hopefully help you avoid any nasty surprises from a bad belly but if you're concerned about your pup after switching them over to a new food, your vet will be able to offer their advice.
What is the best dog food recommended by vets?
Many brands of dog food have been developed by nutritionists and vets, so they come highly recommended by experts. If you're wondering 'what do vets recommend as the best dog food?' Well, each vet will have their own favourite brand but usually, the best foods that come recommended by vets are ones that offer your pooch a complete and balanced diet. That means the food will have everything your pooch need to stay healthy. A good dog food has a high percentage of meat as a protein-rich diet will help build up their muscles and improve the condition of your pup’s skin and coat. This is due to the levels of amino acids found in meat sources, such as chicken, beef, salmon and duck.
What is the healthiest food to feed a dog?
As we’ve mentioned above, good dog foods are complete and balanced with plenty of protein, but there are a couple of other things to consider to ensure you’re giving your pooch the healthiest food possible. Recipes from healthy dog food brands contain whole grains and vegetables to aid with digestion and provide your pup with energy and fibre.
What to avoid in dog food?
You’ll also want to choose a dog food that has minimal to no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives and limited fillers, too. Dog food brands to avoid will contain high levels of fillers such as corn, wheat and soy. These don’t really have any nutritional value and can cause your pup to gain weight over time so it’s best to look for a food with low levels of these or you'll be looking for a weight loss dog food in no time!
Rosie Floyd is a Senior Home & Pets Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things dogs. She grew up always having at least one dog as part of the family and has experience in owning a variety of breeds, including Labradors, Cockapoos and Yorkshire Terriers.