Joybuy Insights

Choosing dog food and dog treats: a practical guide for every dog

A bag of dry food, a tin of wet food and a few dog treats might seem simple enough to choose. Yet dog owners regularly pay over the odds for products that don't suit their dog's age, size or daily activity level. When it comes to dog food and dog treats, there are three main pitfalls to watch out for.

The first is an attractive front-of-pack label. A claim like "with chicken", "with beef" or "grain-free dog food" doesn't automatically tell you how much of that ingredient is actually in there. Always check the full ingredients list.

The second pitfall is confusing complete and complementary food. Dry dog food, wet dog food and puppy food labelled as complete pet food are intended as daily nutrition. Dog biscuits, dog treats, chews for dogs and liquid treats are usually complementary pet food. They don't replace a full meal.

The third pitfall is getting the size wrong. A chew for a small dog may be unsuitable for a large dog, while a large chew stick can be difficult for a small dog to manage. Always check the recommended weight, age and feeding instructions.

What to look for in dog food and dog treats

1. Check age, size and nutritional status

Choose food that suits your dog's life stage:

  • Puppy food contains nutritional information for growing dogs. The amount needed depends on age, breed and expected adult weight.
  • Adult dog food is designed for dogs that have finished growing.
  • Portions, kibble size and treats can differ for small and large dogs.
  • For pregnant dogs, overweight dogs, food allergies or ongoing health concerns, it's wise to consult a vet.

Look for the words complete pet food or complementary pet food on the packaging. A treat like INABA Churu, according to the product information, is intended as a treat, topping or training reward and not as a replacement for a complete meal.

2. Read the ingredients list rather than just the front

Ingredients are usually listed in descending order. "Dog food with chicken" may contain chicken, but that doesn't automatically mean chicken is the main ingredient. The same applies to products with beef, lamb or fish.

Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily a better choice. Some dog owners choose it because of a specific dietary preference, but the absence of grains alone says nothing about the overall nutritional value. Also look at:

  • the protein and fat content;
  • the crude fibre and ash;
  • the moisture content, especially with wet food;
  • added minerals and vitamins;
  • known allergens for your dog.

With treats, the quantity is especially important. A practical guideline on various product packs is that treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calorie intake. If necessary, reduce the main meal accordingly.

3. Assess texture, storage and supervision

Wet dog food contains a lot of moisture and is often soft, like pâté. Once opened, it usually needs to be kept in the fridge and used within the time stated on the pack. For the CESAR and g'woon products mentioned, for example, the use-by period is up to 48 hours after opening.

Dry food is easier to portion and store, but make sure you seal the bag properly after use. Supervision is needed with chews. Check that your dog eats the chew calmly and remove any small or broken pieces that could pose a choking risk. Claims about dental care should also be read in the context of the product information. According to Pedigree's own information, Dentastix can reduce tartar build-up by up to 80% with daily use; this is not a substitute for a vet check or professional dental care.

Our recommendations by type of dog owner

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 this fits the profile: A straightforward bag of dry food for adult dogs of various weights, with feeding guidelines per weight category.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the ingredients, analytical constituents and portions for dogs from 5 to 30 kg.

Key benefit & highlights

1.4 kg dry food, 15% protein and a beef and vegetable variety.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Orijen Puppy Formula High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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

Why this fits the profile: Aimed at puppy owners who want to compare the detailed ingredients list and high protein content.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page lists the ingredient percentages, analytical values and a gradual transition period of 7 to 10 days.

Key benefit & highlights

11.4 kg content, 38% crude protein and a recipe with chicken, turkey, egg and fish.

Suitable for: Specific use & frequent users
Pedigree Dentastix Medium Multipack 56-Pack

Pedigree Dentastix Medium Multipack 56-Pack 1.44 kg

Why this fits the profile: For owners of medium-sized dogs who want to give a daily complementary chew.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The multipack is clearly intended for medium-sized dogs from 10 to 25 kg; check the daily amount on the pack.

Key benefit & highlights

56 sticks, no added sugar and an X-shaped texture according to the product information.

Suitable for: Training rewards and fussy eaters
INABA Churu Dog Multipack Chicken Seafood

INABA Churu Dog Multipack 2 Chicken Seafood Varieties 20 pcs.

Why this fits the profile: Handy portions for training, as a topping or as a small reward alongside regular dog food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pack contains 20 tubes of 12 g and explicitly states that the product is complementary food, not a complete meal.

Key benefit & highlights

At least 90% moisture and two varieties with chicken, tuna and salmon; refrigerate after opening and use within 24 hours.

Looking for more options?

We've put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about dog food and dog treats

How many dog treats can a dog have per day?

That depends on the dog's weight, activity level and the calorie content of the treat. Follow the feeding guideline on the pack and keep treats preferably below about 10% of daily calorie intake. Adjust the main meal if you're giving lots of rewards.

Is wet dog food better than dry dog food?

Not automatically. Dry food is practical to portion and store. Wet food generally contains a lot of moisture and has a soft texture. The right choice depends on the overall nutritional value, your dog's preference and the feeding instructions. You can combine both as long as the total portion remains appropriate.

How do I choose Dentastix for dogs?

First, check the weight category on the pack: small, medium and large dogs have different varieties. Give the treat according to the recommended amount and supervise your dog while chewing. Dentastix is a complementary treat and not a substitute for daily checks or professional dental care for dogs.