Joybuy Insights

Choosing dog food and dog supplies: practical buying tips for every dog

Buying dog food and dog supplies seems simple, until you have to choose between dozens of variations. Small kibble, senior food, grain-free dog food, dental chews and dog beds are often presented with eye-catching claims. However, a marketing term does not always tell you enough about whether a product is suitable for your dog.

With this guide, you can compare products based on verifiable factors: age, body weight, size, composition, use and maintenance. This helps you avoid a poor purchase and choose more purposefully when it comes to everyday food, prescription dog food, dental care or a comfortable place to rest.

Common pitfalls when choosing dog products

1. Confusing a suitable name with a suitable composition

Packaging labelled ‘senior’, ‘weight management’ or ‘skin and coat’ is no substitute for reading the analysis. Always check which life stage and breed size the product is intended for. Also pay attention to the levels of protein, fat, fibre, moisture and minerals.

With dog food for small dogs, kibble size and daily energy requirements are also relevant. Food for medium-sized or large dogs may be less practical for a small dog in terms of size and portion.

2. Seeing ‘grain-free’ as a universal solution

Grain-free dog food contains no grains, but that does not automatically mean it is necessary or suitable for every dog. The carbohydrate sources may include peas, potato, quinoa or sweet potato, for example. So look at the complete ingredients list rather than just the front of the packaging.

If you suspect a food allergy or digestive problem, consulting a vet is wiser than repeatedly trying a different food on your own.

3. Using a dental chew as complete dental care

Dental dog biscuits and Dentastix for dogs can be a useful addition, but they do not replace a dental check-up. Pay attention to the correct weight range, recommended quantity and calorie content. A treat should also be deducted from your dog’s daily food allowance.

Important specifications to check

Food: life stage, size and analysis

Check the following before buying:

  • Life stage: puppy, adult dog or senior.
  • Breed size: small, medium, large or giant.
  • Composition: look at the first ingredients and the stated sources of animal protein.
  • Analytical constituents: compare crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, crude ash and moisture, among other values.
  • Portion guidance: adjust the amount according to weight, activity level and body condition.

If you are looking for dog food with chicken, dog food with lamb or dog food with fish, it is worth checking that the ingredient actually appears in the composition and in what proportion. ‘With chicken’, for example, may mean something different from a recipe in which chicken is the main ingredient.

Introduce a new food gradually, usually over several days. Keep an eye on your dog’s stools, appetite and body weight. In the case of medical problems or a prescribed diet, your vet should guide the choice and use of the food.

Prescription food: use only for a specific purpose

Veterinary food, such as an oxalate formula, is intended for a specific dietary situation. According to the Farmina Vet Life Oxalate Formula product description, the formula is aimed at dogs with oxalate stones and certain kidney-related dietary needs, among other conditions. This is not a general dietary recommendation and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.

Therefore, do not choose prescription dog food solely on the basis of a product title. Check the indication, ask your vet for advice and follow the feeding instructions on the packaging.

Dog bed: measure the dog, not just the furniture

For a dog bed or donut dog bed, these points are particularly important:

  1. Measure your dog while lying down, from nose to the base of the tail, and add enough space for them to stretch out.
  2. Check both the external dimensions and the usable sleeping area. A high edge can reduce the available space.
  3. Look at the care instructions. A removable, washable cover is practical when dealing with muddy paws or shedding.
  4. Check the underside for non-slip material, especially if you have an older dog or smooth flooring.
  5. Inspect the seams, zips and filling regularly. Stop using the bed if the filling becomes accessible.

A dog bed for large dogs must not only be wide enough; it should also stay in place. Vacuum-packed beds should be shaken out and fully plumped up after delivery before you assess their size.

Recommended products for different user profiles

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

Pedigree Dog Dental Chews Small Dogs

Why it suits this profile: For small dogs weighing 5–10 kg, the weight guidance is clear and one stick per day is easy to incorporate into their routine.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states the target weight, recommended frequency of use and calorie content. According to Pedigree’s own research, daily use may help reduce tartar; this is not a guarantee for every dog.

Key benefit & advantages

110 g, less than 2% fat according to the product information, and free from artificial colourings, preservatives and flavourings.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Farmina N&D Ocean Series Cod and Pumpkin Adult Small Dog Food 2.5 kg

Farmina N&D Ocean Series Cod and Pumpkin Adult Small Dog Food 2.5 kg

Why it suits this profile: This complete food is intended for adult small dogs and contains cod as a clearly stated source of animal protein.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the composition, additives and feeding guidelines. This allows you to assess your choice rather than relying solely on terms such as ‘ocean’ or ‘premium’.

Key benefit & advantages

2.5 kg, with 25% cod and 25% dehydrated cod protein according to the stated composition.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Farmina Vet Life Oxalate Formula for Dogs 2 kg

Farmina Vet Life Oxalate Formula for Dogs 2 kg

Why it suits this profile: For dogs whose vet has recommended a specific dietary formula, this 2 kg pack can be a practical way to start in a controlled manner.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description refers to a specific dietary situation. Use this food only after consulting a vet, and do not base your choice on general health claims.

Key benefit & advantages

According to the product description, the formula contains reduced levels of calcium, vitamin D3, copper, phosphorus and protein, among other nutrients.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Ochama Donut Dog Crate Bed Plush Comfortable Grey 120 x 20 cm

Ochama Donut Dog Crate Bed, Plush, Grey, 120 x 20 cm

Why it suits this profile: The 120 cm diameter is designed for large dogs that like to lie stretched out or curl up.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states the dimensions, care instructions, removable filling and non-slip base. However, check that 120 cm will fit the space where you plan to use the bed.

Key benefit & advantages

Plush outer material, PP cotton filling, removable cover and rubber non-slip points on the underside.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about dog food and dog supplies

How do I switch to a different dog food?

Mix the new food gradually with the old food, usually over five to ten days. Increase the proportion of the new food each day. If diarrhoea, vomiting, itching or reduced appetite persists, contact a vet.

How often should I wash a dog bed?

This depends on use, shedding and dirt. You can clean a removable cover according to its care label as soon as it develops a dirty smell or becomes visibly soiled. Do not simply wash the entire bed if the manufacturer states that the inner filling is not machine washable.

Are Dentastix for dogs enough for dental care?

No. According to the product information, Dentastix are an additional treat that may help reduce tartar build-up when used daily. The effect varies from dog to dog, and a treat does not replace a dental check-up, brushing routine or treatment by a vet. Always take the size, chewing safety and additional calories into account.