Joybuy Insights

Choosing dog food without falling for marketing claims: how to find the right food for your dog

There’s a huge choice of dog food, from dry food and wet food to puppy food, senior dog food and formulas for small or large dogs. Packaging often promises natural ingredients, extra meat or support for a particular part of the body. But an eye-catching claim doesn’t automatically mean the food is right for your dog.

Focus on information you can check: your dog’s life stage and size, the ingredients, the nutritional values and whether the food is described as complete and balanced dog food.

Common pitfalls when choosing dog food

1. Assuming grain-free means more suitable

Grain-free dog food may suit a dog whose diet needs to avoid grains, but grain-free doesn’t automatically mean the overall food is a better fit. These recipes often contain peas, chickpeas or sweet potato instead of grains. So check the full ingredients list, not just the front of the pack.

If you suspect a food intolerance, it’s best not to keep switching recipes on your own. Speak to a vet about any persistent symptoms.

2. A flavour name doesn’t tell you how much of an ingredient is included

“Chicken dog food” or “lamb dog food” may sound appealing, but check how much of that ingredient is actually in the recipe. Some products state a specific percentage of meat, while others use broad categories such as “meat and animal derivatives”.

That makes it difficult to compare products fairly. Use the ingredients list and analytical constituents as your starting point.

3. A large bag isn’t always better value

An 11.4 or 15 kg bag can be practical if you have a large dog or several dogs, but only if the food is stored properly and used before its best-before date. For a small dog, a smaller pack may help prevent waste. Compare the price per kilogram as well as the recommended daily amount.

What to look for on the label

1. Life stage and size

Puppy food is designed for growth and has different nutritional guidelines from food for adult dogs. There are also options such as senior dog food for older pets. Check whether the product is intended for small, medium or large breeds too.

A few examples:

  • Puppy food: check the age range and expected adult weight.
  • Adult dogs: compare the feeding guide for your dog’s weight and activity level.
  • Senior dog food: check the age from which the food is described as suitable.
  • Dog food for large dogs: check that the kibble size and feeding guide are suitable for a large breed.
  • Dog food for small dogs: smaller kibble may be easier for small jaws to manage.

2. Complete or complementary food

The packaging should clearly state whether the food is complete. Complete dog food is intended to be fed daily when you follow the instructions on the pack. A complementary product, treat or separate topping isn’t a substitute for a complete meal.

According to the product information, Bonzo meal pouches are described as complete food for adult dogs. They can be fed on their own or combined with dry food. Be sure to check the exact feeding proportions on the pack.

3. Ingredients, analytical constituents and portions

Look at:

  • the first ingredients listed;
  • the stated protein and fat content;
  • the amount of fibre and ash;
  • the recommended portion for your dog’s body weight;
  • the nutritional additives and any allergen information.

Brands can describe the features of their recipes, but don’t treat those claims as guarantees. For example, EUKANUBA lists fibre blends, omega fatty acids and specific kibble shapes among the features of various recipes. These are product specifications; individual dogs may respond differently.

Make any change of food gradually, usually over around seven to ten days. Always provide fresh drinking water, and store dry food in a cool, dry place in a sealed container.

Recommended dog food for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Pedigree Adult Small Dog Dry Food Beef and Vegetables

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

Why it suits this type of buyer: The 1.4 kg pack is a manageable size for owners who want to try a smaller quantity first. The product is intended for adult small dogs weighing up to 10 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its suitability for small adult dogs and the daily amounts for different weights are clearly stated. This helps you avoid choosing based on the flavour name alone.

Key benefit and highlights

Dry food with small kibble, a 1.4 kg pack and stated analytical values of 22% protein and 13% fat.

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

Orijen Original Prey Dog Food – 11.4 kg

Why it suits this type of buyer: This large bag is aimed at buyers looking for a varied recipe with chicken, turkey, fish and egg, and who are happy to compare the ingredients carefully.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list specific ingredients and analytical values, including 38% crude protein, 18% fat and an 11.4 kg pack size.

Key benefit and highlights

Complete food for dogs at all life stages, according to the product information, with chicken, turkey, herring, cod and egg.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent users
Eukanuba Life Care dog adult large chicken 15kg

Eukanuba Life Care dog adult large chicken 15kg

Why it suits this type of buyer: This large pack is for adult large dogs, with a nutritional profile described in the product information as suitable for dogs aged 18 months and over.

How this product avoids the pitfall

This variety isn’t described in general terms: it’s specifically for adult large dogs. That makes it easier to choose than a universal formula.

Key benefit and highlights

15 kg pack, chicken listed as an ingredient and a formula described as complete and balanced in the product description.

Suitable for: Dogs that prefer wet food
Bonzo MP 12P Round chicken and lamb in sauce

Bonzo MP 12P Round chicken/lamb in sauce

Why it suits this type of buyer: Meal pouches are handy if you want to serve wet dog food in portions or add it to dry food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information describes it as complete food for adult dogs. This makes it clearer how to use than a non-complete topping.

Key benefit and highlights

Chicken and lamb in gravy, suitable for serving on its own or with dry food; store in a cool, dry place.

Looking for more options?

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

Practical tips for everyday use

  • Start by choosing food for your dog’s life stage and expected adult weight.
  • Compare the daily portion, not just the price of the bag.
  • Store dry dog food in an airtight container in a dry place; seal wet food after opening and follow the storage instructions.
  • Introduce new food gradually.
  • Check the best-before date on the packaging.
  • Keep an eye on your dog’s weight and body condition, and adjust portions to match their activity level.
  • Ask a vet for advice if your dog has persistent symptoms or specific dietary needs.

Frequently asked questions about dog food

What is complete and balanced dog food?

This is food described in the product information as providing a complete daily diet for the stated group of animals, such as adult dogs or puppies. Always follow the feeding guide and check that the life stage is right for your dog.

Is wet dog food better than dry dog food?

Not necessarily. Wet food contains more moisture and can be handy for portion-controlled feeding. Dry food is often easier to store and weigh out. The right choice depends on your dog’s preferences, the ingredients and their overall daily diet.

How long can you keep dog food?

Store unopened dog food in a cool, dry place, as instructed on the label. Different storage times apply once it’s opened, especially for wet food. Follow the instructions on the packaging, and keep leftovers covered in the fridge if advised.