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Choosing dog food and dog treats: a practical guide for every dog

A full online shop packed with dog food and dog treats does not always make choosing easier. Packaging features terms such as “natural”, “grain-free” and “for a healthy dog”, but words like these say little on their own about whether a product is suitable for your pet. The right choice depends on your dog’s age, size, activity level, weight and any sensitivities.

Pay particular attention to these common pitfalls:

  • Mistaking a treat for complete food: dog biscuits, dog treats and chew snacks are usually complementary food. They do not replace a complete meal.
  • Looking only at the front of the packaging: always check the ingredients, analytical constituents, feeding guidelines and target group.
  • Interpreting a health claim as a guarantee: according to a brand’s own research or product information, a product may, for example, contribute to dental care or weight management. This is not a medical guarantee for every dog.

1. Check first whether it is complete dog food

For daily meals, look for a clear indication such as complete dog food or “complete pet food”. This means the product is intended to be given as the main food, in line with the guidelines on the packaging.

The situation is different for complementary products:

  • Dog biscuits: small rewards for training or between meals.
  • Wet dog food as a topper: can be added to dry food, but check whether the product is complete or complementary.
  • Dog chews: intended for chewing and not as a meal replacement.
  • Dental sticks for dogs: use according to the stated size, frequency and age guidance.

For example, according to the product information, the INABA Churu Dog Multipack is complementary food. The tubes contain at least 90% moisture and can be used as a reward, topping or training treat. Give them alongside a complete meal, not instead of one. Once opened, they should be sealed, stored in the fridge and used within 24 hours.

2. Match the kibble size and nutritional value to your dog

Small, adult and senior dogs

With food for small dogs, the size of the kibble is particularly important in practical terms. Kibble that is too large may be more difficult to eat, while a small dog also has different energy needs from a large breed. Ideally, divide the daily amount between at least two meals and adjust the portion according to activity level and body condition.

According to the product description, Pedigree Adult Small Dog Dry Food is intended for adult dogs weighing under 10 kg. The recommended amount ranges from 25 grams per day for a 1 kg dog to 140 grams for a 10 kg dog. Treat these figures as a guide; exercise, age and individual body condition remain decisive.

For food for adult dogs, also check the age range and protein and fat content. Senior dogs often need a different nutritional profile. According to the product information, Beneful Happy Adult 7+ is intended for dogs aged 7 years and over. The analytical values state 24% protein and 8% fat. The product description also mentions a lower fat content than the original Beneful formula; this is a brand comparison and not a guarantee of weight loss.

Grain-free dog food is not automatically necessary

Grain-free dog food may be relevant if you deliberately want to avoid grains or if a vet recommends a specific dietary plan. Grain-free does not automatically mean that the food is a better fit for every dog. Also look at the alternative sources of carbohydrates and the full ingredients list.

According to the product description, Eukanuba Grain Free Dog Adult All Sizes Venison contains venison, peas and gluten-free sweet potato, among other ingredients. The product is intended for adult dogs of all breeds. If you suspect an allergy, always check all the ingredients and consult a vet if symptoms persist.

3. Assess treats by size, ingredients and intended use

Treats can be useful during training, but they count towards your dog’s daily energy intake. A common practical guideline is that treats should provide no more than around 10% of the daily calorie intake. Reduce the main meal if necessary.

When choosing dog treats, consider:

  1. Size: a treat for a small dog is not automatically suitable for a medium-sized or large dog.
  2. Texture: soft treats are convenient during training; hard treats are intended for longer chewing.
  3. Supervision: keep an eye on your dog while it is chewing and watch out for choking or pieces that are too large.
  4. Allergens: check the ingredients if your dog is sensitive to, for example, beef, chicken, grains, soya or lupin.
  5. Storage: follow the best-before and storage instructions on the packaging.

For products that claim to support dental care, it is sensible to read the wording carefully. According to the product description for G'woon Dental Sticks Medium, these sticks contain sodium hexametaphosphate, among other ingredients, and are intended as a treat for medium-sized dogs. This makes them worth considering as part of a daily routine, but they do not replace a professional dental check-up.

Our recommendations for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Pedigree Adult Small Dog Dry Food Beef & Vegetables Flavour 1.4kg

Pedigree Adult Small Dog Dry Food Beef & Vegetables Flavour 1.4kg

Why it suits this profile: A straightforward bag of dry food for adult small dogs weighing up to 10 kg, with clear portion guidelines.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states the target group, kibble format, ingredients and daily quantities, so you do not have to base your choice solely on flavour or packaging.

Key benefit & advantages

1.4 kg of dry food; 22% protein and 13% fat according to the stated analytical values; kibble size suitable for small dogs.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Eukanuba Life Care Dog Adult Small Medium Lamb & Rice 3kg

Eukanuba Life Care Dog Adult Small/Medium Lamb & Rice 3kg

Why it suits this profile: For owners looking for a complete meal for active adult small or medium-sized dogs and wanting to compare the ingredients in more detail.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description explicitly states the life stage, breed size, protein sources and nutritional status as complete and balanced food.

Key benefit & advantages

3 kg pack; lamb and rice listed as ingredients; fibre blend with prebiotics and beet pulp according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
INABA Churu Dog Multipack 2 Chicken Seafood Varieties 20 pcs

INABA Churu Dog Multipack 2 Chicken Seafood Varieties 20 pcs.

Why it suits this profile: Useful for training, administering medication without making a medical claim, or as a small topping when you want to offer different flavours.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging clearly states that this is complementary food. This keeps the distinction from complete dog food clear.

Key benefit & advantages

20 tubes of 12 grams; at least 90% moisture; two varieties with chicken and fish according to the product information.

Suitable for: Small dogs needing an appropriately sized chew
Rosewood Dog Trio Sticks Small 10pcs

Rosewood Dog Trio Sticks Small 10pcs

Why it suits this profile: The small version is designed for smaller dogs and has a firm centre with dried chicken strips.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size and complementary nutritional status are stated in the product information. This helps prevent you from choosing a chew that is too large or using it as a meal.

Key benefit & advantages

10 pieces; small size; recipe without added grains and gluten according to the product description.

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 treats

How many dog biscuits can my dog have per day?

Ideally, keep treats to a maximum of around 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. The right amount varies according to weight, activity level and main food. Adjust the meal if you give your dog lots of treats every day, and follow the guidance on the packaging.

Is wet dog food better than dry dog food?

Not necessarily. Dry food is practical to portion and store; wet food generally contains more moisture and may appeal to dogs that prefer softer food. Check that wet food is complete if you want to give it as a main meal. Use a complementary product as a topping or reward.

How long do opened dog treats stay fresh?

This varies from product to product. INABA Churu states that it should be consumed within 24 hours of opening when refrigerated. Some Pedigree treats have a shelf life of 14 days. G'woon wet food recommends using unused portions within 48 hours when refrigerated. Always check the packaging and seal it properly.