Chicken is a widely used flavour in pet food. Yet a picture of chicken on the packaging doesn’t always tell you how much chicken is actually in the product. Terms like “premium”, “natural” or “grain-free” can also distract from the information that matters most to you and your pet.
When buying dog and cat food with chicken, these are the main pitfalls to watch out for:
The packaging usually states whether the product is complete pet food or complementary pet food.
Complete food is intended as a daily meal for the relevant species and life stage, for example adult dogs, puppies or adult cats. Complementary food is typically a snack, topper or treat. For instance, the INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps are listed as a complementary food. The recommended amount is 1 to 2 sachets per day, depending on the size and condition of the dog. This product should therefore be given alongside the regular meal.
When comparing, look at:
The order of ingredients gives you a practical first impression of the recipe. If chicken, chicken meat or chicken broth appears near the top, it’s a significant part of the recipe. Also check whether the percentage is explicitly stated.
With CESAR Classic Wet Dog Food Chicken, the product information lists meat and animal derivatives, of which 4% chicken, alongside cereals, minerals and vegetable matter. The packaging states 10% protein, 5% fat and 81% moisture. This makes it a moist meal for adult dogs, but the chicken percentage is clearly more limited than the product name might suggest.
With wet food with chicken, the moisture content is often high. That can be practical for animals that don’t drink much, but it also means you shouldn’t compare the protein percentage per 100g directly with dry food. Dry food typically contains much less moisture, so the nutritional values are more concentrated.
For dry food with chicken, look at:
For puppy food, such as Orijen Puppy Formula High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, the product information states 38% crude protein and 18% fat, with chicken, turkey, egg and fish in the recipe. According to the description, this food is intended for puppies of various breeds. Always use the feeding table on the packaging for portion sizes, and transition gradually when switching foods.
A small dog needs different portions than a large dog. A kitten or adult cat also requires cat food with chicken that is specifically formulated for cats. Also consider the texture: pâté, pieces in jelly, kibble, broth or soft sticks suit different eating occasions.
Chicken broth for cats, for example, is mainly a complementary treat. The INABA Broth Chicken with Salmon Recipe contains 93% moisture according to the product information and is made from chicken broth, chicken and salmon. The product is intended to be given straight as a treat, not as a complete meal.
Pay attention to the storage time for opened wet products and broths. Several products in this selection advise storing an opened pack sealed in the fridge and using it within 24 hours. Always follow the date and instructions on the packaging.
Why this fits the profile: The 150g portion is manageable for adult dogs and handy when you want to try a smaller quantity first.
The product information lists both the recipe and the chicken percentage of 4%, so you don’t mistake the flavour for a recipe made entirely of chicken.
Complete wet food for adult dogs; 81% moisture according to the product specifications.
Why this fits the profile: Ideal for households looking for a large bag of dry food with chicken and wanting to compare the detailed recipe.
The ingredients and analytical constituents are listed in full. This allows you to verify the grain-free dog food claim against the recipe.
38% crude protein, 18% fat and an 11.4 kg pack according to the product data.
Why this fits the profile: Great for training, rewarding or as a topper when you regularly need small portions.
The packaging clearly states that it is a complementary food. This prevents a treat from accidentally replacing the main meal.
20 sticks, two chicken and seafood varieties and at least 90% moisture according to the product specifications.
Why this fits the profile: The soft, breakable texture is practical for portion control with dogs of different sizes.
The product lists one ingredient: chicken. At the same time, it clearly states that it is for complementary feeding only.
100g, 70% crude protein and a grain-free recipe according to the product description.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.
No. Always check the species, age, size and any dietary sensitivities. Chicken dog food is intended for dogs and chicken cat food for cats. If you’re unsure about a dietary choice or have ongoing concerns, consult a vet.
That depends on the animal, their preference and the feeding schedule. Wet food often contains more moisture and comes in portions or sachets. Dry food keeps longer after opening and is easy to weigh out. Compare the nutritional values not just per pack, but also per 100g and according to the feeding guide.
This varies by product. Many broths, sticks and soft treats should be stored sealed in the fridge after opening and used within 24 hours. For wet food, the period may be up to 48 hours, for example. The instructions on the label are the best guide. Don’t use a product if the smell, colour or texture has clearly changed.