Joybuy Insights

Choosing dog food and treats: practical tips and popular choices

Finding the right combination of dog food and treats seems simple until you start comparing labels, nutritional claims and different pack sizes. A bag of dry food may be suitable as a complete meal, while a tube of wet treat may only be intended as a supplement. Even a chew that looks large enough may be impractical for a small dog.

This buying guide explains what to look out for in the UK. We cover the main pitfalls, technical details and products for different types of dogs and occasions.

Three common pitfalls when choosing dog products

1. Mistaking a treat for complete food

Not every product containing meat, fish or vegetables is a complete meal. Check whether the packaging states that it is complete pet food. If it says “complementary pet food”, it is intended as a reward, topping or snack.

For example, according to the product information, INABA Churu Dog Multipack is a complementary food. The tubes contain at least 90% moisture and can be given directly or mixed into your dog’s usual food. They do not replace a complete meal. Fresh drinking water should always be available.

2. Taking marketing claims at face value without checking the ingredients list

Words such as “natural”, “grain-free” or “high in meat” do not tell you enough on their own. Check the ingredients and analytical constituents. In grain-free dog food, grains are often replaced with ingredients such as peas, potato or sweet potato. That does not automatically make a product suitable for every dog.

A dog with a suspected grain or gluten intolerance may benefit from an adapted diet, but symptoms can have several causes. Discuss ongoing dietary problems with a vet and change food gradually.

3. Continuing to use chews and toys for too long

A chew, dental treat or tooth-cleaning dog toy should be suitable for your dog’s size and chewing strength. Check regularly for loose pieces, sharp edges or cracks. Stop using the product immediately if it becomes damaged.

According to the product description, chew sticks and dental toys can contribute to mechanical cleaning while your dog chews. They are not a replacement for regular dental care or professional advice.

Important specifications to check

Complete food or complementary treat

For daily meals, choose dog food that clearly states which life stage it is suitable for. Dog food for adult dogs usually includes feeding guidance based on body weight, activity level and body condition. An adult small-breed dog will often have different kibble-size and portion requirements from a large, active dog.

For rewards, look at:

  • the recommended daily amount;
  • the energy content;
  • the ingredients and possible allergens;
  • the shelf life after opening;
  • whether supervision is required while eating.

For some products, such as Rosewood Dog Bones Mix Chews, the guidance states that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. This is particularly important if you give several types of dog biscuits or treats throughout the day.

Moisture content and nutritional values

Wet dog food generally contains more moisture than dry food. INABA Churu lists a moisture content of at least 90%. According to the stated analysis, the product contains 9.5% crude protein and 0.6% crude fat, but it is a complementary pet food.

For dry dog food, protein, fat, fibre, ash and moisture are among the relevant values. Purina Beneful Adult Beef & Garden Vegetable lists 15% protein, 8% fat, 4% fibre and 12% moisture. The manufacturer recommends adjusting the portion according to factors including weight, activity level and body condition. According to the product information, any changeover should take place gradually over approximately ten days.

Size, material and care

When choosing chews and toys, check that the size is suitable for your dog. According to the description, the Blinkit Pet Teething Toy Set is intended for small, medium-sized and large dogs, but supervision is still required. Check the exact material specification on the packaging.

For comfort products, dimensions and washability are important. A donut dog bed with a diameter of 80 cm and a height of 20 cm is more suitable for medium to large adult dogs than for a small dog. A removable cover and non-slip underside make cleaning and everyday use more practical.

Product choices for different types of dog owners

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: A 1.4 kg bag is a manageable choice when you want to introduce a new food to an adult dog without buying a large pack straight away.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this is complete and balanced food for adult dogs, with feeding guidelines based on weight.

Key benefit & highlights

1.4 kg pack; 15% protein and 8% fat according to the stated analysis; suitable for adult dogs of different weights.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
HERRMANN'S MANUFAKTUR Pure Goat Meat Dog Food 400 g

HERRMANN'S MANUFAKTUR Pure Goat Meat Dog Food, 400 g

Why it suits this profile: A single-protein recipe with goat may suit owners who prefer to keep the ingredients straightforward.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients list states 100% goat, consisting of muscle meat, lung and heart. However, check whether this product is intended as complete or complementary food.

Key benefit & highlights

400 g pack; 10.4% crude protein; 5% crude fat; prepared in its own juices according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive users
Eukanuba Grain Free dog adult all sizes venison 3kg

Eukanuba Grain Free dog adult all sizes venison 3kg

Why it suits this profile: The 3 kg bag is designed for adult dogs of all breeds from one year old and suits households specifically looking for grain-free dog food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description explicitly mentions a grain-free formula with venison and alternative carbohydrate sources. If your dog has an intolerance, always check the full label.

Key benefit & highlights

3 kg pack; intended for adult dogs of all breeds; according to the description, contains ingredients including peas, sweet potato and venison.

Suitable for: Active dogs and training sessions
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: Convenient portions for training, use as a topping or a small reward, with two chicken and seafood flavours.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack contains 20 x 12 g tubes, and the product information clearly states that this is a treat, not a meal replacement.

Key benefit & highlights

240 g total weight; at least 90% moisture; two flavour varieties; refrigerate after opening and use within 24 hours.

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.

Combining treats, chews and dental products wisely

Use dog biscuits and treats as a supplement to a regular meal, while keeping your dog’s total calorie intake in mind. For small dogs, even a large treat can quickly make up a relatively substantial part of their daily food intake.

When choosing dog chews, these points are important:

  • choose a size that your dog cannot swallow whole;
  • stay nearby while your dog is chewing;
  • throw the product away as soon as it becomes small, sharp or damaged;
  • check the ingredients for chicken, beef, lamb, soya or lupin if your dog has sensitivities.

According to the product description, Rosewood Dog Trio Sticks Small contains ten rawhide sticks with dried chicken. The small variety is intended for smaller dogs and contains no added grains or gluten. The g’woon Dog Chew Bones Box contains grains and chicken, making it less suitable for dogs that need to avoid these ingredients.

A dental toy can encourage movement and chewing, but its effectiveness varies from dog to dog. Let your dog play under supervision and check the toy regularly.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between wet and dry dog food?

Wet food usually contains more moisture and has a softer texture. Dry food is easier to portion and store. The key thing to check is not just the format, but whether the product provides complete food and is suitable for your dog’s age, weight and activity level.

How many dog treats can a dog have per day?

This depends on the product, your dog’s size and the rest of their diet. A commonly used guideline on product packaging is that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Adjust the main meal if necessary and always provide fresh drinking water.

How long does dog food keep after opening?

Follow the date and storage instructions on the packaging. Store dry food in a cool, dry place and seal the bag securely. Opened wet treats, such as INABA Churu, should be refrigerated according to the product information and used within 24 hours.