Food & Nutrition for Dogs

What should a dog be fed?

It’s important that dogs are given food that provides them with everything their bodies need to grow and stay healthy. There are three main ways to feed a dog:

1. Tinned dog food, with dog ‘mixer’ biscuits

This type of diet has been specially designed for dogs and the manufacturers are legally obliged to ensure that it is properly balanced, with all of the ingredients your dog needs to stay healthy. Dogs usually enjoy eating tinned food and biscuits.

2. Dried ‘complete’ dog food

• Complete or kibble foods have also been designed specifically for dogs. They come either as biscuits, nuts or a mixture that looks like breakfast cereal. They contain meat and biscuit, which has been mixed together and dried out. Complete dry food of this type is generally very good for dogs.
• This type of food can be bought in a big bag that lasts for a long time.
• It’s cheaper and more convenient than tinned foods.
• Dogs don’t always like kibble or dry food as much as moist food because it smells less appetising.  
• Fresh water should always be available in a bowl beside the dried food.

Petfix Own Brand range of dog food is a complete food filled with vitamins and minerals to promote health and nutrition in dogs.

3. Home prepared food

Some dogs are given home prepared food, just like the humans in the house. This can sometimes work well, but it can be difficult to ensure the diet contains everything the dog needs if you are not preparing the food under the guidance of a professional veterinary nutritionist. Low grade malnutrition can take months or even years to develop and the signs can be vague and difficult to spot. For most people and dogs, it makes more sense to use a commercially produced food that’s guaranteed to be balanced.

How often should I feed my dog?

An adult dog can be fed once or twice a day and it’s important to make sure they get the right amount as two out of three pet dogs become overweight.

If your dog is becoming noticeably fat, you should cut down the amount of feed you are giving them and don’t feed them dog biscuits or scraps from the table, as they will add to the problem.

If you are worried about your pet's health, visit the Petfix DIY Triage Checker or Ask a Vet. If it is urgent take your pet to your vet immediately.