Joybuy Insights

Buying dog food: how to choose the right food without falling into marketing traps

Buying dog food seems simple until you compare labels, flavours, kibble sizes and nutritional claims. Attractive packaging says little about whether the food is suitable for your dog. Age, size, activity level, preference for wet or dry food and any food sensitivities are more important than a striking slogan.

Pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

  • Mistaking a long ingredients list for a better recipe. A wide variety of meats, vegetables and herbs may sound appealing, but they make it harder to identify what your dog reacts to.
  • Automatically assuming grain-free dog food is more suitable. Grain-free does not automatically mean that a recipe is complete or suitable. Always check the full composition and analytical constituents.
  • Buying a large pack without calculating how much you will use. Large-pack dog food can offer good value, but only if your dog tolerates it well and you can store it properly sealed.

Which details should you check before buying?

1. Age, size and life stage

Puppy food is not the same as dog food for adult dogs. A growing puppy has different nutritional needs from an adult or senior dog. So check the information on the label:

  • Puppy food for the growth stage;
  • food for adult dogs;
  • food for all life stages, if this is explicitly stated;
  • the dog’s size, such as small, medium or large.

For large breeds, kibble size is also relevant. Very small kibble can be eaten quickly, while larger kibble may not be practical for every small dog. Also check the recommended daily amount and adjust it according to your dog’s weight, activity level and body condition.

2. Completeness and nutritional values

Look for the wording complete and balanced dog food or a similar legally recognised designation. Complete food is intended to be given as daily nutrition according to the instructions on the packaging. A complementary product is not intended for this purpose.

Among other things, compare the following on the label:

  • crude protein;
  • crude fat;
  • crude fibre;
  • moisture content;
  • calcium and phosphorus, where these values are provided;
  • additives and vitamins.

A higher protein percentage is not automatically suitable for every dog. A calm dog may have different energy needs from an active working dog. Brand product information may mention additional benefits. Treat such claims with caution: according to the brand’s own research or product information, certain fibres, fatty acids or kibble shapes may support particular functions. Do not regard this as a medical guarantee.

3. Ingredients, protein source and tolerance

With chicken dog food, lamb dog food, duck dog food or venison dog food, it is sensible to look beyond the flavour name. Check how much of the named ingredient is actually included in the recipe and whether other animal protein sources have also been added.

For dogs with a sensitive reaction to food, a straightforward recipe may be more practical. Dog food for sensitive dogs is not, however, a medical treatment. If symptoms such as itching, diarrhoea or weight loss persist, it is advisable to consult a vet.

Wet dog food generally contains a lot of moisture and has a soft texture. Dry dog food is easier to portion and store. You can combine both types, as long as you keep an eye on your dog’s total food and energy intake.

Recommendations for different types of dog owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Pedigree Dry Adult Chicken 12 kg

Pedigree Dry Adult Chicken 12 kg

Why it suits this profile: The 12 kg bag is practical for households with one or more adult dogs that eat dry food every day. The product information describes it as a complete dry meal for adult dogs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The nutritional information specifies an adult target group and a clear pack size, making it less likely that you will choose puppy food or a bag that is too small.

Main benefit & highlights

12 kg of dry food; intended for adult dogs; according to the product information, with fibre, vitamin E, zinc and B vitamins.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Orijen Original Prey Dog Food 11.4 kg

Orijen Original Prey Dog Food – 11.4 kg

Why it suits this profile: According to the product specification, this dry food contains 38% crude protein and 18% crude fat, with chicken, turkey, herring, cod and egg listed as ingredients.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The analysis data and ingredients are clearly listed. This allows you to assess the composition rather than relying solely on the term grain-free.

Main benefit & highlights

11.4 kg pack size; 38% crude protein; omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are listed in the product specification.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
BUDDY Free-range Duck Dog Food 12 kg

BUDDY Free-range Duck Dog Food 12 kg

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this food is aimed at large, active and working dogs. The listed ingredients include duck, sweet potato and salmon oil.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The target group and kibble size of approximately 1.2 to 1.6 cm are specified. However, check that this size is suitable for your dog.

Main benefit & highlights

12 kg pack; duck as the named primary ingredient; according to the product specification, free from grains and gluten.

Suitable for: Puppy owners
Eukanuba Life Care dog puppy medium chicken 3kg

Eukanuba Life Care Dog Puppy Medium Chicken 3 kg

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this dry food is intended for puppies of medium-sized breeds aged 1 to 12 months, with chicken listed as an important protein source.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age range and breed size are clearly specified. This reduces the risk of accidentally buying adult dog food for a puppy.

Main benefit & highlights

3 kg pack; intended for medium-sized puppies; according to the brand, the formula contains DHA, calcium and a fibre blend.

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.

Practical buying tips for home

  • Start with a small pack when trying a new recipe. This helps prevent waste if your dog does not accept the food.
  • Change over gradually over approximately seven to ten days, unless the packaging gives different instructions.
  • Store dry food in a cool, dry place and seal the bag securely.
  • Keep opened wet dog food covered in the fridge and follow the time limit stated on the label. For some products, this is a maximum of two days.
  • Always provide fresh drinking water.
  • Calculate the price per kilogram instead of looking only at the total price.

Frequently asked questions about buying dog food

Is dry or wet dog food more economical?

That depends on the moisture content, energy content and daily portion. Dry food is often easier to store in large packs. Wet food can be useful for dogs that prefer a soft texture. Compare the daily cost, not just the price per pack.

How long can you keep dog food?

Unopened dog food remains usable until the date shown on the packaging, provided it is stored correctly. Once opened, dry food must be sealed properly. Wet food should generally be kept in the fridge; always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions.

How do I know whether dog food is complete?

Check that the label states that it is complete food and specifies which life stage it is suitable for. Also look at the composition, analytical constituents, feeding guidelines and any restrictions relating to breed, age or activity level. If you suspect a food sensitivity, professional advice is recommended.