Joybuy Insights

Choosing dog food without falling into marketing traps: a practical guide for every dog

A bag of dog food may seem easy to compare at first glance. Yet packaging often contains terms that say little about how suitable the food really is for your dog. A high protein percentage, a prominent image of meat or a “grain-free” label does not automatically mean the food is right for every dog.

The right choice therefore starts not with the brand, but with your dog’s life stage, size, activity level and tolerance.

Three common pitfalls when choosing dog food

1. An ingredient on the front does not tell you how much it contains

“With chicken”, “with beef” or “with lamb” can create an appealing impression. Always check the full composition. Some products contain only a limited amount of the ingredient mentioned. For example, Felix Double the Tasty mentions beef and chicken in the product description as flavour varieties, with 2% beef and 2% chicken listed in certain kibbles. This makes the product suitable as cat food for adult cats, but not as dog food.

So check:

  • the full ingredients list;
  • the percentage of the named animal ingredients;
  • the analytical constituents, such as protein, fat, fibre and ash;
  • the animal species the product is intended for.

2. Grain-free dog food is not a universal solution

Grain-free dog food usually contains alternative sources of carbohydrates, such as peas, lentils or sweet potato. This may suit a dog whose diet deliberately avoids grains, but “grain-free” is not, in itself, proof of a better composition.

If you suspect a food intolerance, it is sensible not to change several ingredients at the same time without guidance. Discuss persistent symptoms with a vet. Claims made by brands about suitability for sensitive dogs should be treated as manufacturer’s product information, not as a medical guarantee.

3. A larger pack is not always better value

An 11.4 or 12 kg bag can reduce the price per kilogram, but only if your dog tolerates the food well and the packaging keeps it fresh after opening. Therefore, check:

  • whether your dog will eat the food within its best-before period;
  • whether the bag can be resealed;
  • whether you can store the food somewhere cool and dry;
  • whether the daily portion is suitable for your dog’s weight and activity level.

For a small dog, a 3 kg pack may be more practical than a large bag. For several dogs or an active large dog, a bigger bag may be the sensible choice.

Important points to check

1. Life stage and size

Puppy food is formulated for growth and is not automatically suitable for adult dogs. Look for descriptions such as puppy, adult or senior dog food. Breed size also matters. A medium-sized puppy has different portion guidance from a small senior dog.

Also check whether the product is a complete food. Complete food is intended to be given as a daily meal according to the instructions on the packaging. Complementary food must be used differently and combined with other food.

2. Nutritional values and portions

Do not compare protein percentage alone. An active dog may have different energy requirements from a calm household pet. Look at:

  • crude protein for the amount of protein in the product;
  • crude fat as an indication of energy density;
  • crude fibre for its fibre contribution;
  • moisture content, particularly in wet dog food;
  • the recommended daily amount.

The feeding guide on the packaging is a starting point. Adjust the portion according to body condition, exercise and any advice from your vet. Always provide fresh drinking water.

3. Dry or wet dog food

Dry dog food is easy to portion, clean to store and often suitable for everyday use. Wet dog food contains plenty of moisture and may appeal to dogs that are less enthusiastic about eating. Once opened, wet food should be refrigerated and the instructions on the label followed.

Combining dry and wet dog food can be practical, provided you adjust the total amount. Do not simply add the full recommended portion of both products together.

Recommendations by type 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: This large pack of dry dog food is practical for an adult dog and for households that like to buy supplies regularly. The product description states that it provides a complete meal for adult dogs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The target group and format are clearly stated: adult and dry food. However, always check the current composition and daily portion on the packaging.

Main benefit & advantages

12 kg pack; specially shaped kibble according to the product description; intended for adult dogs.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Orijen Whole Prey Healthy Coat with Red Meat Adult Dog Food 11.4 kg

Orijen Whole Prey Healthy Coat with Red Meat Adult Dog Food 11.4 kg

Why it suits this profile: The formula contains several animal ingredients, including beef, wild boar, bison, lamb and pork. The product lists 38% crude protein and 18% crude fat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients and analytical values are listed in detail. Because it contains many protein sources, it is not the first choice for a strict elimination diet.

Main benefit & advantages

11.4 kg pack; 38% crude protein; contains omega-3, glucosamine and chondroitin, among other ingredients, according to the product specification.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive users
Orijen Puppy Formula High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food 11.4 kg

Orijen Puppy Formula High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food 11.4 kg

Why it suits this profile: This puppy food is intended for puppies of all breeds and, according to the product information, contains 38% crude protein and 18% crude fat. The 11.4 kg pack is suitable for large puppies or households with several dogs.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The life stage is clearly stated. Introduce new food according to the recommended transition period of 7 to 10 days and monitor the portion.

Main benefit & advantages

Grain-free formula; 11.4 kg pack; feeding guidelines for puppies, pregnant dogs and nursing bitches.

Suitable for: Sensitive adult dogs
Eukanuba Life Care Dog Adult Small Medium Lamb and Rice 3 kg

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

Why it suits this profile: This lamb and rice food is intended for adult dogs of small and medium-sized breeds. According to the product description, the formula contains prebiotics and beet pulp.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The target group is clearly defined by age and size. In the case of a genuine food allergy, always check the full composition, as chicken is listed as an additional protein source.

Main benefit & advantages

3 kg pack; lamb and rice as key ingredients; formulated for small and medium-sized adult dogs.

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

Is dry dog food cheaper than wet dog food?

That depends on the daily portion, moisture content and energy value. Dry food often has a lower price per kilogram and is easier to store. Wet food contains more moisture, so you may sometimes need a larger amount per meal. Therefore, compare the price per day, not just the price of the pack.

How often should I feed my dog?

First, follow the feeding guide on the packaging. Many adult dogs receive their daily amount divided between two meals. Puppies generally need several smaller meals. Adjust the quantity according to weight, activity and body condition. If you are unsure about growth, excess weight or a special diet, ask your vet for advice.

How long does dog food stay fresh after opening?

Store dry food sealed in a cool, dry place and use it according to the best-before information on the packaging. Once opened, wet dog food should be refrigerated and used within the period stated on the label; RENO Dog Chunks Sauce Beef, for example, specifies a maximum of 48 hours. Always check the product packaging, as storage periods vary by product.