Joybuy Insights

Buying dog and cat food online: how to choose without falling for marketing

Buying dog and cat food online seems straightforward, but product pages often use terms that promise more than they explain. A striking flavour, a high percentage of meat or the word “grain-free” doesn’t tell you by itself whether the food is right for your pet. Nor is a large pack automatically good value if your pet doesn’t take to the food or the recipe isn’t suited to their life stage.

As Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter the most important information using verifiable details from the label and product page. This helps you compare dry food, wet food and treats in a practical way.

Common pitfalls when buying pet food online

1. Assuming “grain-free” is right for every pet

Grain-free food contains no grains, but it may include other sources of carbohydrates, such as peas, lentils or sweet potato. So grain-free dog food isn’t automatically necessary or suitable. Always check the full ingredients list and the intended life stage or category: puppy, adult, senior or a particular breed size.

If you suspect a food sensitivity, it’s best not to rely on the marketing copy alone. A product containing fish, duck or another protein source may be worth considering, but speak to a vet about persistent symptoms.

2. Mistaking a treat for a complete meal

Not every product is a complete pet food. Cat treats, dog treats and soups are often complementary foods. They’re intended as treats or additions to a meal and shouldn’t simply replace your pet’s main food.

INABA Churu is a clear example: according to the product information, it contains 91% moisture and is labelled as complementary food for cats. Felix Soup is also described as complementary food for adult cats. Give these products alongside a complete main food, and take your pet’s total daily intake into account.

3. Looking only at the price per pack

A 12 kg bag may seem attractively priced, but the actual cost depends on the daily portion. Compare:

  • Net quantity in grams or kilograms.
  • Feeding guidelines for your pet’s weight and activity level.
  • Life stage and breed size.
  • Shelf life and storage instructions.
  • Whether the product is complete or complementary food.

A smaller pack can also be useful for trying a product first. This helps limit waste if your dog or cat doesn’t like the flavour or texture.

Which specifications should you always check?

1. Life stage, size and animal type

Puppy food is formulated for growth, while senior dog food is intended for older dogs. Kibble size matters too. For example, Eukanuba Grain Free puppy small/medium is aimed at puppies of small and medium breeds. The product description states that it is suitable from 1 to 12 months.

There are also varieties for adult dogs of different sizes and ages. Check that the packaging covers your pet’s needs. Don’t feed dog food to cats or cat food to dogs unless your vet advises you to.

2. Ingredients and analytical constituents

Check the ingredients in the order shown on the label and compare the analytical constituents:

  • Crude protein: a figure that helps you compare recipes, but doesn’t show the full nutritional picture.
  • Fat content: relevant to energy density.
  • Crude fibre: gives you an indication of the fibre content.
  • Moisture content: wet food contains much more moisture than dry food.
  • Vitamins and minerals: check whether these are listed as nutritional additives.

Look for specific protein sources too. Products include dog food with chicken, dog food with fish, dog food with duck or game. A recipe with an alternative protein source isn’t automatically hypoallergenic dog food; “hypoallergenic” doesn’t guarantee that every sensitive pet will tolerate it without problems.

3. Food status and feeding guidelines

Look for the label complete food or complementary food. According to the product information, Beneful Grain-Free Rich in Chicken with Vegetables is complete food for adult dogs. Its recipe lists 25.5% crude protein and 13.5% fat, as well as feeding guidelines by body weight.

When changing food, follow the instructions on the packaging. Portions can vary considerably for puppy food, senior dog food or food for a dog with specific needs. Always provide fresh drinking water.

Recommended products for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
BENEFIL Grain-Free Rich in Chicken with Vegetables Dog Food 1.2 kg

BENEFIL Grain-Free Rich in Chicken with Vegetables Dog Food 1.2 kg

Why it suits this profile: The 1.2 kg pack is a manageable size if you’re trying dry food for the first time or would rather not buy a large supply.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information identifies this as complete food for adult dogs and gives specific feeding guidelines for different weight ranges.

Key benefits and features

Grain-free recipe, chicken as the stated protein source and 25.5% crude protein according to the product details.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Orijen Puppy Formula High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Orijen Puppy Formula High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 11.4 kg

Why it suits this profile: A large pack for puppy owners who have established a feeding routine and want a longer-lasting supply.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description clearly states who it’s for: puppies of all breeds, from weaning until around 12–18 months, depending on the breed.

Key benefits and features

According to the product information, the recipe contains at least 38% crude protein and is grain-free. For young puppies, feed in three to four meals according to the label.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent users
Eukanuba Grain Free dog adult all sizes venison 3kg

Eukanuba Grain Free dog adult all sizes venison 3 kg

Why it suits this profile: Suitable for owners looking for a recipe for adult dogs of different breeds, particularly if they’re considering an alternative to fish or a game-based option.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page specifies adult dogs aged 1 year and over, all breeds, and a grain-free recipe. This makes the intended audience clearer than the “grain-free” claim alone.

Key benefits and features

Venison as the stated animal protein source, sweet potato as an alternative source of carbohydrates and a 3 kg bag.

Suitable for: Cat owners who like to vary mealtimes
Felix Every Day Party Mix Selection in Jelly Wet Cat Food

Felix Every Day Party Mix Selection in Jelly Wet Cat Food 44x85 g

Why it suits this profile: The individual pouches are handy for serving daily portions and offering adult cats a choice of flavours.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this is complete food for adult cats, with a guideline of up to three pouches a day for a cat weighing around 4 kg.

Key benefits and features

44 portion pouches of 85 g, several listed flavours and instructions to refrigerate any opened portions.

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 regulations.

Practical tips for ordering and storage

  • Before you check out, make sure the life stage and weight of your pet match the label.
  • Compare the daily portion, not just the price of the bag or box.
  • Store dry food in a cool, dry place and seal the packaging securely.
  • Refrigerate opened wet food and follow the time limit on the packaging.
  • Give treats in moderation. Dog treats and cat treats count towards your pet’s total daily energy intake.
  • Introduce new food gradually so you can monitor how your pet responds.
  • Consult a vet about persistent digestive problems, itching or other symptoms. An online product description is no substitute for tailored feeding advice.

Frequently asked questions about ordering dog and cat food online

Is buying pet food online cheaper than buying it in a shop?

It depends on the product, pack size and delivery costs. Online, it can be easier to compare larger packs and prices per kilogram. Always work out the cost based on the recommended daily portion, and check the shelf life before buying in bulk.

What’s the difference between dry food and wet food?

Dry dog food contains little moisture and is usually easy to store and measure. Wet cat food contains considerably more moisture and is often sold in portions. The right choice depends on your pet’s preferences, whether the product is complete or complementary food, and your daily routine. For both types, check whether the product is complete or complementary food.

How long does pet food keep once opened?

Always follow the label. Once opened, dry food generally keeps for longer when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Opened wet food should be refrigerated and used within the stated time. If you’re unsure about the smell, colour, packaging or shelf life, it’s better not to feed it to your pet.