No dog owner wants their faithful companion to suffer from an upset digestion. Here’s an introductory guide on how to make sure your dog is getting the right diet.
Dry food is very popular. Is it better for my dog than wet food?
No. Neither type is “better” and there are pros and cons to both. Read the ingredients and make sure whatever you’re feeding your dog it has the right combination of nutrients for your pet.
How do I tell if a product has all the nutrients my dog needs?
“Look for the words “balanced” or “complete” on the label – this means your dog is getting the right combination of protein, fat, carbohydrate, minerals and vitamins,” says Pets at Home’s Dr Maeve Moorcroft.
Many top recipes come with a high percentage of protein, such as lamb, turkey, or salmon, and some recipes include ingredients with special benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids that may help support a shiny coat, and glucosamine to help support flexible joints.
So how do I choose between wet and dry?
Both wet and dry foods have their own benefits. Wet food can be easier to eat for newly weaned puppies and fussy eaters may find wet food more tempting because it smells so tasty. But it can be bulky to store and needs to be served fresh, and if you do choose wet food, you need to ensure you brush your pet’s teeth daily to prevent dental disease.
Dry food generally has a longer shelf life and can be measured in precise portions to keep your dog at a healthy weight. The pieces of kibble may also help to keep your dog’s teeth clean. “There are also wet and dry recipes that can be mixed to suit your dog at key stages of its life” explains Maeve; “these include protein-rich recipes for growing puppies, and lower-calorie varieties for less active senior dogs.”
If I choose dry food, can I serve my dog bigger portions?
No. All complete or balanced dog food recipes should be served in specific portion sizes to match your dog’s weight. Check the label carefully for guidance on how much food your size of dog needs, and what a typical portion volume or weight should be.
Can I change my dog’s feed if I find a brand that sounds better?
Yes, but be careful about making any rapid changes or your dog could have an upset digestion. “Make any changes gradually over a week to 10 days by serving the new food as a small part of your dog’s daily allowance,” recommends Maeve, “then, gradually, increase the proportion of new food to old every day.”
There’s so much choice. Where can I go for advice?
You will find lots of different dog foods at your local Pets at Home store. Nutrition advisers can explain what the feeding guides on dog food packaging mean, and each store also has its own set of scales for an instant canine weigh-in. Once you know your dog’s weight, you can put together the perfect diet for your pet.
Advice for happy, healthy pets
Pets at Home is the UK's largest pet supplies store. From toys and bedding to tailored food and in-store veterinary clinics, it's the first place to go for any pet need.
Book a free nutrition consultation available at your nearest Pets at Home store – visit petsathome.com for more details or ask in store.
