In this article we'll decipher dog food labels and ingredients, helping you make informed choices about what’s best for your dog’s diet
Why check out this article?
Our Top 10 tips for understanding dog food labels
Primary Components: Examine the ingredient list to identify high-quality components. Look for named meat sources like “chicken” or “beef” as the first ingredient, which indicates a primary protein source.
Nutritional Breakdown: Check the guaranteed analysis to understand the nutritional content of the food. This includes percentages of protein, fat, fibre, and moisture, helping you gauge the balance of nutrients.
Nutritional Breakdown: Check the guaranteed analysis to understand the nutritional content of the food. This includes percentages of protein, fat, fibre, and moisture, helping you gauge the balance of nutrients.
Ingredient Quality: Be cautious of foods with “by-products” listed as ingredients. While not necessarily harmful, they are less specific and may include less desirable parts of the animal.
Safe Additives: Check for preservatives and additives that are safe for dogs. Avoid artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives like BHA/BHT, which can be harmful over time.
Health Needs: Consider special formulas for specific health needs, such as weight management, joint health, or sensitive stomachs. These are tailored to address particular dietary requirements.
Company Trust: Research the brand’s reputation for quality and safety. Established brands with positive reviews and transparency in their sourcing and manufacturing processes are often more reliable.
Portion Control: Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the label to ensure proper portion sizes. Adjust based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level to maintain a healthy weight.
Professional Advice: Consult your veterinarian for personalised advice on choosing the best food for your dog’s specific needs. They can help you select a diet that supports your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Observe Effects: Monitor your dog’s health and behaviour in response to their diet. Look for changes in energy levels, coat condition, and overall well-being to assess the suitability of their food.
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Summary of this article
Use high quality primary components, and be cautious of by-products. Check nutritional breakdowns carefully
From the experts: If you're in the United States, ensure the food meets the standards set by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). Look for a statement indicating that the food is complete and balanced for your dog’s life stage. Other countries may have their own pet food associations: we recommend checking them out and familiarising yourself with which dog foods meet their standards.
est. Aug 2024 by a dog lover in London
