Choosing Dog Supplies: A Practical Guide to Food, Treats and Comfort

Buying dog supplies seems straightforward – until you have to choose between dry food, wet food, reward treats, chew sticks and a dog bed. Packaging often emphasises flavour, natural ingredients or extra comfort. Yet a striking claim doesn't always mean a product is right for your dog.

Pay particular attention to three common pitfalls:

• Confusing a snack with a complete meal. Chew bones for dogs and dog treats are usually complementary food. They shouldn't unknowingly replace daily nutrition.
• Assuming grain-free is automatically necessary. Grain-free dog food can suit a dog with a specific sensitivity, but being grain-free in itself isn't proof that a product is suitable for every dog.
• Skipping size and maintenance. A dog bed that's too large takes up unnecessary space, while one that's too small offers little room to move. With treats, the wrong size can also make chewing more difficult.

The Key Points When Choosing Dog Supplies

1. Check Whether the Food is Complete or Complementary

When looking at dog food, first check the label on the packaging. Complete food is intended as daily nutrition when given according to the feeding guidelines. Complementary food is intended as a snack, topping or reward.

This difference is important for, among others:

• dry dog food;
• wet dog food;
• dog treats;
• chew bones for dogs;
• chew sticks for dogs;
• reward treats for dogs.

The g'woon Adult Dog Pâté Lamb Chicken is described in the product information as complete nutrition for adult dogs. INABA Churu Dog, on the other hand, is complementary food with a high moisture content and is intended as a treat, topping or reward. So don't use such products as a full meal.

2. Tailor the Composition and Portion to Your Dog

Age, weight, activity level and size all help determine which choice is practical. Dog food for small dogs often has smaller kibble and feeding advice per weight category. According to its product specification, the Pedigree Adult Small Dog dry food is intended for adult dogs up to 10 kg and states daily portions of 25 to 140 grams, depending on weight.

For larger or more active dogs, a higher-energy composition may be relevant. BUDDY Free-range Duck Dog Food states 80% animal ingredients and a kibble size of approximately 1.2 to 1.6 cm. With claims like these, always check the ingredients list and the feeding advice on the packaging.

When it comes to treats, pay attention to the total amount. The product information for several of the treats mentioned advises limiting treats to a maximum of 10% of daily calorie intake. Subtract those calories from the main meal if you reward your dog daily.

3. Assess Size, Material and Maintenance

For a dog bed, three specifications are practically important:

1. Dimensions: measure your dog lying down and add extra space for turning and stretching out. A bed with an 80 cm diameter is particularly suitable for medium to large adult dogs.
2. Stability: a non-slip base helps prevent the bed from sliding on a smooth floor. This is especially useful on laminate, tiles or vinyl.
3. Washability: a removable cover with a zip is easier to clean than a fully enclosed bed. Also check the recommended temperature and drying method.

The Ochama donut-shaped dog bed has a diameter of 80 cm, is 20 cm high and, according to the product information, features a removable cushion, a washable cover and rubber non-slip points on the underside. The bed is delivered vacuum-packed; shaking and fluffing it up helps restore the filling to shape.

Our Recommendations by User Profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Pedigree Adult Small Dog Dry Food Beef & Vegetables Flavour 1.4kg

Why this fits the profile: A straightforward bag of dry food for adult small dogs, with a kibble size that, according to the product description, is tailored to small breeds.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The feeding guidelines state portions by weight, so you're less likely to feed by eye. Check the actual packaging for the full composition.

Key benefit & highlights

1.4 kg pack; intended for adult small dogs; analytical values such as 22% protein and 13% fat are stated.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality

Eukanuba Grain Free dog adult all sizes venison 3kg

Why this fits the profile: An option for owners specifically looking for grain-free dog food for adult dogs of different sizes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists venison, peas and gluten-free sweet potato as ingredients. If your dog has sensitivities, always check the full label and consult a vet if necessary.

Key benefit & highlights

3 kg pack; intended for adult dogs of all breeds; states a fibre mix with prebiotic FOS and beet pulp.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users

Ochama Donut-shaped Dog Crate with removable and washable cover

Why this fits the profile: A practical choice for a medium to large adult dog that likes to lie on a soft, enclosed rim.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The cover is removable and washable. Do check beforehand whether the 80 cm diameter suits your dog and the available floor space.

Key benefit & highlights

80 cm diameter and 20 cm height; non-slip points on the underside; removable cushion with zip.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

g'woon Dog Chew Bones Box 500g

Why this fits the profile: A 500 gram pack for owners who want to offer a chew product to a dog of any breed from time to time.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states that this is a chew snack. Give between meals, supervise, and adjust the amount according to size, age and activity level.

Key benefit & highlights

500 g content; chicken flavour; according to the product information, no artificial colours or flavourings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Supplies

How many dog treats can my dog have per day?

Use the guideline on the packaging and generally keep treats to a maximum of 10% of daily calorie intake. Take into account size, age, activity level and body condition. When in doubt, give smaller portions and adjust the main meal accordingly.

Is wet dog food better than dry dog food?

Not automatically. Dry food is easy to store and weigh out, while wet food has a soft texture and higher moisture content. The choice depends on your dog's preference, the feeding goal and the composition. Always check whether the product is complete or complementary food.

How often should a dog bed be washed?

That depends on use, shedding and accidents. A washable dog bed or one with a removable cover makes regular cleaning easier. Follow the manufacturer's washing instructions and, while washing, also check for loose seams, tears or exposed filling.