Joybuy Insights

Choosing dog food: how to find the right meal for every stage of life

Choosing the right dog food seems straightforward until you compare labels, flavours and nutritional claims. Are you looking for dry dog food, wet dog food or a combination of both? Does your dog need puppy food, or would adult dog food be more suitable? And is grain-free dog food really necessary?

The packaging does not always tell the whole story. That is why it is important to focus on the following points.

Common pitfalls when choosing dog food

1. A prominent ingredient does not tell you everything

A product featuring chicken, lamb or beef on the front may also contain other animal protein sources. For example, dog food with chicken does not automatically mean that chicken is the only meat ingredient. Check the full list of ingredients and see whether the product is intended as complete food or as a complementary feed.

2. Grain-free is sometimes presented as a universal solution

Grain-free dog food may suit certain dietary preferences or be appropriate when your vet recommends a specific feeding plan. However, grain-free does not automatically mean that the food is better suited to every dog. Check which alternative sources of carbohydrates, such as peas, chickpeas or sweet potato, have been added.

3. A large bag is not always better value

An 11 or 12 kg bag may appear attractively priced, but the right quantity depends on your dog’s weight, age and activity level. A small dog will also use a large pack slowly. As a result, freshness may be more important than a lower price per kilogram.

The most important points on the label

1. Life stage and size

Choose food that matches your dog’s stage of life:

  • Puppy food is formulated to support growth. Some products are intended for all breeds, while others are specifically designed for small, medium-sized or large puppies.
  • Adult dog food is suitable for dogs that have finished growing. Also check the recommended weight or breed size.
  • Senior dog food is developed for older dogs. The recommended age varies by brand and size.
  • When choosing dog food for small dogs, also pay attention to the size of the kibble. Smaller pieces may be more practical for a small jaw.
  • For dog food for medium-sized dogs and dog food for large dogs, portion guidelines and energy requirements are generally different.

According to the product description, Bonzo Mini Menu Adult Beef Lamb is intended as complete food for adult small dogs weighing up to 10 kg. The smaller kibble has been specifically developed for this size.

2. Complete or complementary

Look on the packaging for the wording complete and balanced dog food or a similar legal designation, such as ‘complete pet food’. Complete food is intended as a dog’s daily main meal. A snack, topping or complementary product does not replace that meal.

This is especially important with wet food. Some trays or pouches are complete meals, while others are intended to be mixed with dry food. According to the product information, Bonzo MP 12P Round/chicken/lamb in Sauce is described as complete food for adult dogs. RENO Dog Chunks Sauce Beef and the CESAR Classic varieties are also described as complete wet food for adult dogs.

3. Ingredients, analysis and feeding advice

Do not compare the protein percentage alone. Also look at:

  • the order and names of the ingredients;
  • the levels of crude protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture;
  • added vitamins and minerals;
  • the daily portion for each body weight;
  • the recommended age and activity level.

A high protein percentage is not automatically necessary for every dog. For example, Orijen Puppy Formula lists at least 38% crude protein and is intended for puppies. Orijen Original Prey also lists 38% crude protein, but is intended as complete food for dogs at all life stages, with a specific exception for Great Dane puppies under 14 weeks old according to the product information.

Brands may also describe functional properties. Phrase such claims carefully: according to Eukanuba’s own product description, certain recipes contain fibre blends, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids or L-carnitine to support specific nutritional goals, for example. This is not a substitute for personalised advice from a vet.

Our product picks for different types of dogs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Purina Beneful Adult Dog Food Beef & Garden Vegetable Formula 1.4kg

Purina Beneful Adult Dog Food Beef & Garden Vegetable Formula 1.4kg

Why it suits this profile: The 1.4 kg pack is a manageable choice for a first purchase or for a household with a small to medium-sized dog. According to the product information, the food is intended for adult dogs of all weights.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that it is a complete and balanced recipe and provides daily quantities for different weights.

Key benefit & highlights

Dry food with a beef flavour, whole grains and a stated analysis of protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture.

Suitable for: Shoppers 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: This large bag is aimed at dog owners looking for a recipe containing multiple animal ingredients and a detailed formulation.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page describes the food as complete and lists ingredient percentages and analytical constituents, allowing you to check the formulation.

Key benefit & highlights

According to the product description, the recipe contains chicken, turkey, herring, cod and egg; the stated protein content is 38%.

Suitable for: Specific needs & highly active dogs
BUDDY Free-range Duck Dog Food 12 kg

BUDDY Free-range Duck Dog Food 12 kg

Why it suits this profile: The product description focuses on large, active and working dogs. That makes it a logical option for dogs with a higher level of daily activity.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The formulation and kibble size are stated. However, check that the energy density and portion are suitable for your dog.

Key benefit & highlights

The recipe lists duck and sweet potato and contains 12 kg; according to the description, the food is free from grains and gluten.

Suitable for: Small senior dogs
Eukanuba Life Care dog senior small chicken 3kg

Eukanuba Life Care dog senior small chicken 3kg

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this dry food is intended for small senior dogs from 11 years of age and comes in a 3 kg bag.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age range and dog size are clearly defined. This helps you avoid choosing general adult food for an older small dog.

Key benefit & highlights

Small kibble, chicken listed as a key ingredient and a recipe that Eukanuba describes as complete and balanced.

Dry or wet dog food?

Dry food is easy to store, simple to weigh out and practical if you feed several meals a day. Once opened, make sure the packaging is properly sealed and store the bag in a cool, dry place.

Wet food contains plenty of moisture and may appeal to dogs that are less enthusiastic about eating. According to the product information, an opened tin or tray should be stored in the fridge and used within the stated period. If you mix wet food with dry food, adjust the total portion accordingly. This helps prevent you from accidentally overfeeding your dog.

When changing foods, a gradual transition over around seven to ten days is a practical guideline mentioned in several product descriptions. Keep an eye on your dog’s stools, appetite and body condition. If problems persist or you suspect an allergy, contact a vet.

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

Which dog food is suitable for a puppy?

Choose puppy food that is explicitly intended for your puppy’s age and size. A large-breed puppy may have different feeding guidelines from a small dog. Check the daily quantity on the packaging and divide the portion according to the feeding advice.

How long does dog food last after opening?

The best-before date on the packaging mainly applies to unopened products. Store dry food sealed, in a cool, dry place. Opened wet food should be kept in the fridge and used within the period stated on the label or in the product description. Always check the smell, colour and texture before serving it.

Is expensive dog food cheaper to use?

Not necessarily. Compare the price per kilogram with the recommended daily portion. A food with a higher energy density may recommend a smaller portion, but the actual cost depends on your dog’s weight, activity level and individual needs. Use the feeding guideline as a starting point and adjust the portion if your dog’s body condition requires it.