How do you choose the best dry food for your dog?
Nutrition has a significant impact on health: by providing the right food, you ensure your dog is as healthy as possible. Healthy dog food not only reduces the risk of illnesses but can even eliminate minor issues entirely. Are you unsure or looking for personalized advice? We are always here to draw on our expertise and experience to offer you the best advice.
Different types of dry food
There are various types of dry food, including crunchy kibble, freeze-dried kibble, and cold-pressed kibble. In general, all types of dry food are easy to store and serve. Our most important advice when choosing dry food (or any type of food) is this: regardless of the type you choose, the quality of the ingredients—and therefore the quality of the food—is what matters most, as well as ensuring it meets the specific needs of your dog.
There are many types of dry food, but how do you identify a good kibble?
A good kibble contains:
Primarily meat: The quantity and quality of meat are both important. A combination of fresh meat and dried meat is optimal. Meat is a primary source of high-quality proteins, essential for your dog’s health. Proteins are needed for muscle building and repair, supporting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin and fur.
Adequate animal fats: For a healthy adult dog, at least 16% fat is very beneficial. The quality of the fats is also critical. Animal fats are an important energy source and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, as well as supporting a healthy coat and skin. However, the exact percentage may vary depending on your dog’s specific nutritional needs, such as age, activity level, and overall health.
Meat and fat from healthy animals: Healthy animals are those given space to move and the opportunity to exhibit natural behaviors. Organic and free-range sources are preferable to intensive farming practices.
Natural minerals and vitamins:Instead of adding synthetic vitamins and minerals, it’s healthier to derive them directly from food sources. For example, sodium from sea salt rather than sodium chloride, and iodine from kelp rather than iodine sulfate.
Natural antioxidants: Examples include vitamin E/tocopherols (E306–E309), vitamin C (E300–E302), rosemary extract, and selenium.
Additional tips:
- Feed your dog at least two meals per day. This is particularly important for medium to large dogs to prevent serving portions that are too large, which can cause the stomach to expand excessively and produce large amounts of stomach acid. By feeding multiple smaller portions, the stomach requires less acid for digestion.
- Once you’ve opened a bag of food, use it within 28 days to maintain its freshness.
Discover the different types of food:
Crunchy Dog Kibble
In the category of crunchy dog kibble, you’ll find the classic extruded kibble as well as oven-baked kibble.
Extruded Dog Kibble
Extruded kibble is made by mixing all the raw ingredients with water to create a dough. This mixing takes place in an extruder, a type of pressurized tube that heats the dough to as much as 140 degrees Celsius. The extruder cuts the dough into bite-sized pieces, which are then baked to a crispy texture. Finally, the kibble is coated with flavorings and preservatives before being packaged.
Oven-Baked Dog Kibble
Oven-baked kibble is gently baked at lower temperatures in hot-air ovens, preserving the natural properties of the ingredients and their nutritional value. This process creates a uniquely crunchy kibble with a delicious flavor, free from artificial flavorings or preservatives. It’s an ideal choice for dogs with allergies and/or digestive issues.
Freeze-Dried Dog Kibble
Freeze-dried food is made by removing moisture from raw (or gently steamed) meat and all other ingredients at very low temperatures. This process combines the benefits of raw meat diets with the convenience of dry food. The meat/proteins retain the quality and enzymes of raw meat.
It’s an excellent choice for dogs that prefer a softer alternative to traditional crunchy kibble. Freeze-dried kibble has a long shelf life without the need for preservatives, while its aroma and flavor remain well-preserved.
Because freeze-drying is an expensive process, this type of kibble tends to be pricier. However, due to the high concentration of essential nutrients, only small portions are needed to feed your dog.
Cold-Pressed Dog Kibble
Cold-pressed dog kibble is gently prepared at a temperature of 70 to 75 degrees Celsius and pressed through a mold. This cold preparation method creates a compact kibble, with all the ingredients and nutrients pressed together without air. The kibble breaks apart in your dog’s stomach, releasing its nutrients, making it easy to digest and ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Thanks to the low-temperature preparation, the ingredients retain their original quality and nutritional value better. Additionally, the kibble is highly concentrated and smaller in size, meaning your dog needs only a smaller portion to be satisfied.
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Premium pet food stands out for its high-quality ingredients and carefully balanced composition, contributing to your pet's health and well-being.
Easily compare different types of food
Would you like more information about the food you’re currently giving your pet? Or do you want to compare it with other options? Be sure to visit the Pet Food Expert website.
