A dog needs more than just a food bowl and a lead. Dog supplies include food, dog treats, chews, grooming products and practical accessories. There is plenty of choice, but product packaging does not always tell the whole story. An appealing claim or low price could lead you to buy something that is not suitable for your dog’s age, size or behaviour.
Not every product containing meat or making an appealing nutritional claim is suitable as daily food. Check whether the label states complete pet food or complementary pet food. INABA Fun Bites Dog Chicken Wraps, for example, are intended as a treat and not as a replacement for a complete meal. According to the product information, this snack contains 82% moisture, with one to two pouches per day recommended depending on the dog.
Puppies have different nutritional needs from adult dogs. Kibble size and energy content can also vary according to breed size and activity level. Puppy food is therefore not automatically suitable for an adult dog. Conversely, adult dog food may not provide everything a young dog needs during its growth phase.
Also check whether the food is intended for small, medium or large breeds. A small dog may struggle with large pieces of kibble, while a large, active dog may have different energy requirements.
Dog chew treats, dog chews and dental sticks can form part of your dog’s daily care routine. According to the product descriptions of some brands, chewing may help clean the teeth mechanically. This is a claim from the manufacturer’s product information and is not a guarantee of a particular result.
Always choose a size that is suitable for your dog, supervise them while they chew and replace the product as soon as it becomes damaged or small pieces start to come loose.
When comparing dog food, check at least the following:
Grain-free dog food is not automatically suitable for every dog. A grain-free formula may contain peas or sweet potato as a source of carbohydrates, for example. So check the full ingredients list rather than just the front of the packaging. If your dog has a known food allergy or persistent symptoms, it is sensible to consult a vet.
Dog treats should make up only a limited part of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Several products state that treats should provide no more than 10% of daily calories. Adjust the quantity if your dog is regularly rewarded during training.
Also consider the type of treat:
For a dog brush and clipper, adjustable lengths, accessories, battery life and cleaning are more important than an eye-catching design. A clipper with several attachment combs can be useful for trimming paws, the face and body hair. Check that your dog’s coat is suitable for the device and work carefully, especially around tangles.
With dog toys, the relationship between size and chewing strength is important. A toy that is too small could be swallowed. Check it regularly for cracks, deep grooves and loose parts. According to the product information for the zeze Bamboo Chew Toy, the toy should be replaced if it becomes seriously worn. The material includes nylon, wood shavings and Oxford fabric. The manufacturer recommends supervision during first use.
Why it suits this profile: A manageable 1.4 kg pack for an adult dog of various weight classes.
The product information provides feeding guidelines by weight and recommends changing over gradually over around ten days.
Dry food for adult dogs; the ingredients list includes grains, meat and animal derivatives, with 15% protein and 8% fat.
Why it suits this profile: For dog owners looking for a large bag and a detailed ingredients list containing several animal protein sources.
The product page clearly states that this is complete food and recommends a transition period of seven to ten days.
11.4 kg bag; according to the stated analysis, 38% crude protein, 18% fat and 12% moisture.
Why it suits this profile: Useful for anyone who regularly wants to trim a thick or heavy coat at home.
The specifications list five cutting lengths, ten guide combs and a ceramic cutting head, so you are not limited to just one length.
1200 mAh rechargeable battery; stated operating time of at least 120 minutes and an adjustment range of 0.5 to 3.5 mm.
Why it suits this profile: Designed for puppies of medium-sized breeds from one to twelve months old.
The age and breed-size information is clearly stated in the product details, making it less likely that you will choose adult food by mistake.
Dry food with chicken; according to the manufacturer, the formula contains DHA and calcium and is described as complete food.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Start with complete food suitable for your dog’s age and size, food and water bowls, poo bags, a brush, suitable toys and a safe chew treat. Add practical products according to your circumstances, such as dog nappies during toilet training or for incontinence. Check the size, ingredients and usage instructions with every purchase.
Their lifespan depends on the material, how often they are used and your dog’s chewing strength. Inspect toys regularly and replace them if you notice cracks, loose parts or deep damage. With a clipper, cleaning it, storing it in a dry place and following the instructions are important. A brush can last longer if you remove hairs after use and the pins are not bent.
This depends mainly on your dog’s weight, the food you choose, the amount of treats and how often grooming is needed. Consider more than just the purchase price: factor in the price per kilo, the amount of food required and replacement costs. A large bag of dog food may be cheaper per kilo, but it is only practical if you can store it properly sealed and in a dry place.