A dog needs more than just a food bowl and lead. From dog food and training treats to a well-fitting dog harness, grooming products and snacks for walks, there’s plenty to choose from. So it’s not always clear which features really matter.
Marketing copy can also give you the wrong impression. Watch out for these three common pitfalls:
Always measure your dog when choosing accessories. For a harness, the chest measurement, neck measurement and width of the straps are particularly important. A harness should fit securely without restricting your dog’s breathing or natural movement.
Also check:
For a dog coat or dog dressing gown, back length is important. The length in centimetres doesn’t tell you everything: the build of a small, medium-sized, large or senior dog can vary considerably.
When choosing dog food, first check whether it’s complete food or complementary food. For example, pâté can be served as a meal if the packaging says so, while chew bones, dental sticks and training treats are usually intended as extras.
Check:
According to Pedigree’s product information, some dental sticks contain less fat and no added sugar. The claim that they help reduce plaque or tartar is a brand claim, and should be considered alongside regular dental care and, if needed, advice from a vet.
A large pack isn’t automatically better value. Work out the price per meal, treat or use. Also check how long the product keeps after opening.
As a practical guideline, keep complementary foods to a limited amount. For example, the g’woon Dog Chew Bones Box advises that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Supervise your dog while they chew and always provide fresh drinking water.
Why it suits this profile: A 300g tin is a handy size if you want to try a dog food or work out portions for a small dog.
The net weight is shown on the packaging, making it easier to compare portions and the price per meal rather than judging by the front of the tin alone.
Beef pâté in a 300g tin; check the feeding instructions on the packaging for the right amount.
Why it suits this profile: This version is designed for large to extra-large dogs, with a chest measurement of 69 to 87 cm and a strap width of 2.5 cm.
The size and strap width are clearly specified. Still, measure your dog’s chest again and adjust the straps before heading out for a walk.
Extra-wide 2.5 cm straps; adjustable neck and girth straps; suitable for hand washing according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: A daily dental stick may suit owners who want to add dental care to a medium-sized dog’s regular routine.
The intended audience is clearly stated: medium-sized dogs aged 4 months and over. The brand’s claim about tartar reduction is no substitute for check-ups or brushing.
According to Pedigree’s own information, one stick a day is intended for medium-sized dogs; the composition lists 1.3% fat and no added sugar.
Why it suits this profile: Handy for medium-sized dogs that need drying off quickly after a wet walk or bath.
The 46 cm length is clearly stated. Measure from the neck to the base of the tail to avoid a dressing gown that’s too small or too loose.
Terry-cloth dressing gown with adjustable fastenings; machine washable according to the product information.
Dietary supplements for dogs aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution to every problem. A product such as Excellent Pets Dog Psyllium+ contains psyllium fibre and is classed as complementary food according to the product information. Follow the stated dosage, make sure your dog has plenty of water and consult a vet if your dog has difficulty swallowing, a possible blockage or persistent symptoms.
The same applies to calming treats for dogs. Excellent Pets No Stress Soft Chews and No Stress Paste are marketed for situations such as fireworks, thunderstorms or a visit to the vet. According to the manufacturer, they contain ingredients including L-tryptophan, magnesium and herbal extracts. These are not medicines. Don’t exceed the recommended dosage, and seek advice if your dog has a medical condition.
Dog grooming products, such as propolis and honey ointment, are also intended for external use. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes, and stop using the product if irritation occurs.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Start with complete dog food that suits your dog’s age and size, a well-fitting collar or dog harness, food and water bowls, a lead, a bed, poo bags and a few safe treats. Add grooming products to suit your dog’s coat and daily activities.
Follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging and keep complementary food to a suitable proportion of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Adjust their meals if you give them lots of dog treats. Always supervise your dog when they’re chewing.
Measure the chest at its widest point and the back from the neck to the base of the tail. Compare these measurements with the size chart for the specific product. Once it’s on, check that you can fit a few fingers between the material and your dog’s coat, while making sure the harness can’t shift or slip off.