A good dog care routine involves more than the occasional bath. Dental care, coat care, suitable nutrition and using grooming products safely all play a part. However, it isn’t always easy to compare the options online. Attractive packaging tells you little about whether a product is right for your dog.
The most common buying mistakes tend to stem from three pitfalls:
According to brands’ own product information, certain products may help keep your dog’s coat cleaner, freshen their breath or support their daily care routine. These claims are no guarantee that every animal will benefit. Always check the label, and speak to a vet if your pet has a medical condition, takes medication or experiences persistent irritation.
A product for medium-sized dogs won’t necessarily suit a small or large dog. This is particularly important with dog dental chews. According to the product information, Pedigree Dentastix for medium-sized dogs are intended for dogs aged 4 months and over. The large-dog version is a different size and has a different nutritional value.
Check the following before you buy:
A chew remains a treat. According to Pedigree’s product information, treats should provide no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Always provide fresh drinking water, and supervise your dog while they chew.
Packaging sometimes features percentages or phrases such as “supports healthy teeth” and “for a shiny coat”. Check what the product actually offers. A chew, for example, works through the chewing action and its shape, while a powder is mixed into food.
For dog dental care, you can choose from:
According to the product description, Dental Care Seaweed products are complementary food for dogs and cats. The recommended amount varies according to body weight. Do not exceed the stated dosage, particularly if your pet takes medication or has a medical condition.
The dose matters when giving salmon oil to dogs, as oil is high in energy. According to the product specification, Excellent Pets Norwegian Salmon Oil contains 99.9% salmon oil and lists the amount to give by weight: 5 ml for animals under 10 kg, 10 ml for those weighing 10 to 25 kg and 15 ml for those weighing 25 kg or more. The product is suitable for dogs and cats, but you should follow the recommended amount.
When choosing weight-management dog food, the daily portion, activity level and body condition matter more than the words “low calorie” alone. According to the product information, Acana Weight & Wellness contains 3070 kcal per kilogram, at least 33% protein and at least 11% fat. Introduce new food gradually, over at least seven days, for example, and adjust the portion to suit your dog.
Why it suits this profile: A practical starting point for owners of medium-sized dogs who want to add a daily chew to their routine.
The size, minimum age of 4 months and daily amount are clearly stated. It remains complementary food, not a complete meal.
One chew a day according to the product information, with no added sugar and a stated shelf life after opening.
Why it suits this profile: A good choice for owners looking for a complementary product for dogs or cats that can be measured out precisely.
The bottle has a squeeze cap, and the product specification lists the EPA and DHA content and the dosage for each weight category.
250 ml, 15.8% omega 3 according to the product information, and suitable for mixing into food.
Why it suits this profile: A sensible choice for long-haired dogs and households where regular brushing is needed.
The instructions recommend brushing slowly in the direction of hair growth and working in sections to reduce tugging on the coat.
100% silicone, suitable for long hair and, according to the product information, dishwasher- or washing-machine-safe.
Why it suits this profile: Intended for puppies aged 6 weeks and over, and handy for owners looking for a product that rinses out easily.
The minimum age and external use are stated. Avoid the eyes and ears, test on a small area of skin first and stop using it if irritation occurs.
250 ml, built-in conditioner and, according to the product information, free from parabens, sulphates, silicones and SLS/SLES.
A simple routine can help you shop with purpose:
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.
It depends on your dog’s coat, activity level and the time of year. A long-haired dog will often need a dog brush for long hair more frequently than a short-haired dog. Check their ears, paws and skin too. Only bathe your dog when needed, and use a suitable dog shampoo.
No. Dental chews can be part of your dog’s daily dental care, but they don’t automatically replace toothbrushing or a check-up with the vet. Choose the right size, supervise your dog while they chew and follow the feeding guidelines.
It varies from product to product. Check the best-before date and storage instructions on the packaging. Some treats need to be used within a limited period after opening. Seal oil, powder, shampoo and spray properly, and stop using a product if it changes colour, develops an unusual smell or its packaging is damaged.