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Choosing dog care products: a practical buying guide to teeth, coat and nutrition

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:

  • Treating a snack as a substitute for brushing your dog’s teeth, when it is actually complementary pet food.
  • Buying a shampoo or spray without checking which animal, age group or skin type it is intended for.
  • Choosing a supplement or food based on marketing claims without checking the dosage, energy content and ingredients.

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.

What should you look for when choosing dog care products?

1. Check the species, age and size

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:

  • whether the product is for dogs, cats or both;
  • whether it is for a puppy, adult dog or senior;
  • the recommended breed or body size;
  • the recommended daily amount;
  • whether it is complementary or complete pet food.

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.

2. Look beyond general claims about how a product works

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:

  • a special toothbrush and toothpaste for pets;
  • dental chews such as Dentastix;
  • a complementary seaweed-based powder;
  • a combination of daily checks and suitable treats.

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.

3. Check the ingredients, dosage and energy content

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.

Choosing products to suit different dog owners

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Medium Dogs

Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Medium Dogs

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.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The size, minimum age of 4 months and daily amount are clearly stated. It remains complementary food, not a complete meal.

Main benefit & highlights

One chew a day according to the product information, with no added sugar and a stated shelf life after opening.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Excellent Pets Norwegian Salmon Oil 250 ml

Excellent Pets Norwegian Salmon Oil 250 ml

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.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The bottle has a squeeze cap, and the product specification lists the EPA and DHA content and the dosage for each weight category.

Main benefit & highlights

250 ml, 15.8% omega 3 according to the product information, and suitable for mixing into food.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use
Excellent Pets Soft Silicone Brush Long Hair

Excellent Pets Soft Silicone Brush Long Hair

Why it suits this profile: A sensible choice for long-haired dogs and households where regular brushing is needed.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

The instructions recommend brushing slowly in the direction of hair growth and working in sections to reduce tugging on the coat.

Main benefit & highlights

100% silicone, suitable for long hair and, according to the product information, dishwasher- or washing-machine-safe.

Suitable for: New puppy owners
Animology Puppy Love Puppy Shampoo 250 ml

Animology Puppy Love Puppy Shampoo 250 ml

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.

How this product helps avoid the pitfall

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.

Main benefit & highlights

250 ml, built-in conditioner and, according to the product information, free from parabens, sulphates, silicones and SLS/SLES.

A practical routine without unnecessary purchases

A simple routine can help you shop with purpose:

  1. Teeth: Check your dog’s teeth regularly and use a suitable toothbrush, chew or complementary food. A snack is no substitute for a professional check-up.
  2. Coat: Brush long hair gently and check for tangles. Choose a shampoo suited to your dog’s age and species.
  3. Bathing: Follow the recommended leave-in time and rinse shampoo out thoroughly. Use a deodorising dog spray on the coat only, not on the eyes, nose, ears or damaged skin.
  4. Nutrition: Weigh out portions and include treats, oil and supplements in your dog’s daily energy intake.
  5. Storage: Seal packaging properly, store products in a cool, dry place and check the best-before information on the label.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.

Frequently asked questions about dog care

How often should I groom my dog?

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.

Are dog dental chews enough for dental care?

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.

How long do grooming products stay usable?

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.