Become a VIP customer!

Understanding Your Dog's Unique Nutritional Needs

Every dog is unique, and their nutritional needs vary depending on several factors. Understanding these factors is the first step towards choosing the right dog food and feed .

1. Age and Life Stage:

• **Puppies:** A puppy is growing rapidly and needs a diet high in protein and fat to support rapid growth, muscle and bone development, and a strong immune system. Puppy foods often contain a specific balance of calcium and phosphorus for optimal skeletal development. It is crucial that the puppy food is tailored to the breed's expected adult size, especially for large breeds that need slow and controlled growth to avoid joint problems.
• **Adult Dogs:** Active adult dogs need a balanced diet to maintain their energy, muscle mass and overall health. Less active dogs may need a diet with a lower calorie content to avoid overweight.
• **Senior Dogs:** Older dogs often have slower metabolisms and may need a lower calorie senior dog food to prevent weight gain. They may also benefit from additives like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and easily digestible ingredients for gastrointestinal health.

2. Size and Breed:

• **Small breeds:** Have a faster metabolism and higher energy requirements per kilogram of body weight. They therefore need a more energy-dense diet, often with smaller kibble that is easy for small mouths to handle.
• **Large breeds:** Grow more slowly and need a diet that supports controlled skeletal and joint development to prevent problems such as hip dysplasia. The diet may have a different mineral balance and lower energy density to avoid rapid growth that can put stress on the joints.

3. Activity level:

• A highly active dog, such as a working dog, a sporting dog or a dog involved in demanding sports, requires significantly more energy, protein and fat than a companion dog with a more sedate lifestyle. Adjust the energy density of the food to your dog's activity level to maintain a healthy weight and energy level.

4. Health Conditions and Special Needs:

Many dogs have specific health problems that can be managed or alleviated with a specially adapted diet.

• **Allergies/Sensitive Stomachs:** Dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs may need grain-free dog foods , Limited Ingredient Diets (LIDs), or hydrolyzed protein foods.
• **Weight control:** For overweight dogs, there are foods with lower calorie content but with enough fiber to create satiety.
• **Joint problems:** Food with additives such as glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health.
• **Skin and Coat Problems:** Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can improve skin and coat quality.
• **Diseases:** For specific diseases such as kidney disease, diabetes or urinary tract problems, there is veterinary food for dogs that should only be used on the recommendation of a veterinarian.

Types of Dog Food: Dry Food, Wet Food, and Veterinary Food

At Zoostar.se we offer different types of dog food to meet all needs:

1. Dry food (Kibble):

• Dry dog food is the most common type of dog food. It is convenient, has a long shelf life, and is often economical. Dry food comes in a variety of varieties for different ages, sizes, breeds, and health conditions.
• **Advantages:** Contributes to good dental health through mechanical cleaning, easy to dose, economical, long shelf life.
• **Disadvantages:** Lower water content, which requires the dog to drink enough water.

2. Wet food:

• Wet dog food is very palatable and has a high water content, which is beneficial for dogs that don't drink enough, or those with kidney and urinary tract problems. It comes in various forms such as pâté, chunks in sauce or jelly.
• **Benefits:** High fluid intake, very tasty, easy to digest for some dogs, can be good for weight loss as it satiates well.
• **Disadvantages:** More expensive per serving, shorter shelf life after opening, does not contribute to dental health.

3. Veterinary feed:

• Veterinary dog foods are specially formulated diets that are intended to be used under the supervision of a veterinarian to treat or manage specific medical conditions, such as allergies, kidney disease, diabetes, joint problems, or urinary tract problems. These foods are carefully balanced to support your dog's recovery and well-being.
• **Important:** Use only on recommendation from a veterinarian.

4. Dog Treats and Chews:

• In addition to main meals , dog treats and chews are important for training, rewarding and mental stimulation. Choose treats that are healthy and free of unnecessary additives. Many chews also contribute to dental health by reducing plaque and tartar.

The Importance of Quality and Ingredients in Dog Food

When choosing dog food , it's crucial to review the ingredient list. A high-quality food should have a named protein source (such as chicken, lamb, salmon, beef) as the first ingredient. Avoid foods that are listed with generic terms like "meat and animal by-products" without specification, as these can be of varying quality.

Make sure the food contains a balanced mix of:

• **Protein:** Essential for muscle building, tissue repair and a strong immune system. Choose foods with high-quality, easily digestible protein sources.
• **Fats:** Important sources of energy, help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and contribute to healthy skin and a shiny coat (especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids).
• **Carbohydrates:** Provides energy and fiber. Choose carbohydrate sources such as whole grains (rice, oats, barley), vegetables (potatoes, sweet potatoes), or legumes (peas, lentils). Avoid unnecessary fillers. For sensitive dogs , grain-free dog food can be a good option.
• **Vitamins and Minerals:** Crucial for all bodily functions, from bone health to the immune system. A complete food should be fortified with all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
• **Fiber:** Contributes to healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Avoid foods with artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Natural preservatives such as vitamin E (tocopherols) are preferable.

Switch Feed and Storage

If you need to change your dog's food, do it gradually over 7-10 days to avoid stomach upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old, and gradually increase the proportion of the new food each day.

Proper storage is also important to maintain the freshness and nutritional value of the food. Store dry food in its original packaging (which often has a protective barrier) and then place the entire bag in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Opened wet food should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.

When Should You Consult a Veterinarian?

If your dog has chronic health issues, suffers from allergies, is overweight, malnourished, or you are unsure about which dog food is best for them, it is always wise to consult your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog's specific situation and may recommend a veterinary diet .

Zoostar.se – Your Partner for Dog Food

At Zoostar.se we are dedicated to offering you and your dog the best conditions for a long and healthy life. Our range of dog food and feed is carefully selected from leading brands that prioritize quality, nutritional content and palatability. Whether you are looking for puppy food for your new family member, food for older dogs , grain-free dog food for a sensitive stomach, or specific veterinary food , you will find it with us. We also offer milk replacer and puppy porridge for the very little ones. Explore our range today and invest in your dog's future by providing the best possible nutrition. A healthy dog is a happy dog!

Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Food & Feed

Here we answer some of the most frequent questions we receive regarding dog food and feed.

How do I choose the right dog food for my dog?

Choosing the right dog food is crucial for your dog’s health and well-being. There are a variety of types and brands, and what works for one dog may not work for another. Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing dog food: 1. Age: The age of the dog is one of the most fundamental factors. Puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs have very different nutritional needs. - Puppies need puppy food that is rich in protein and fat to support rapid growth and development. - Adult dogs need a balanced diet that maintains their energy levels and health. - Senior dogs need a diet with a lower calorie content, often with extra joint support and easier digestibility. 2. Size and Breed: Large and small breeds have different metabolisms and development rates. - Large breeds: Need food that supports skeletal and joint development to prevent problems such as hip dysplasia. The food may have a different mineral balance and lower energy density. - Small breeds: Have a higher metabolism and need a more energy-dense diet, often in smaller pieces. 3. Activity level: A very active dog, such as a working dog or a sports dog, requires significantly more energy and protein than a companion dog with a calmer lifestyle. Adjust the energy density of the food to the dog's activity level to avoid being overweight or underweight. 4. Health conditions and special needs: Many dogs have specific health problems that can be managed with special food. - Allergies/Sensitive stomach: Some dogs are sensitive to grains, specific protein sources (such as chicken or beef) or have digestive problems. In this case, grain-free food, food with limited ingredients (limited ingredient diets, LID) or hydrolyzed protein food may be suitable. - Weight control: For overweight dogs, there are foods with a lower calorie content but with enough fiber to create satiety. - Joint problems: Food with additives such as glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health. - Skin and coat problems: Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can improve skin and coat quality. - Kidney disease, diabetes, urinary tract problems: For these conditions, there are specific veterinary foods that should only be used on the recommendation of a veterinarian. 5. Ingredient list and Quality: Always read the ingredient list carefully. Quality foods often have: - A named protein source as the first ingredient (e.g. chicken, lamb, salmon). Avoid generic terms such as 'meat and animal by-products'. - Balanced fats, carbohydrates (from whole grains, vegetables or potatoes) and vitamins/minerals. - Avoid foods with unnecessary fillers, artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. Choosing the right food can be a process that requires you to test your knowledge. Pay attention to your dog's energy level, coat quality, stools and general well-being as indicators of whether the food is right for you. Always consult your veterinarian if you are unsure or if your dog has specific health problems.

What is the difference between dry food and wet food and which is best?

Both dry and wet food have their unique advantages and disadvantages. There is no single 'best' food; the optimal choice depends on the dog's individual needs, health status and owner preferences. Many people choose to combine both types to benefit from the benefits of both. Dry food (kibble): Characteristics: - Low water content (about 5-10%). - High energy density per volume. - Comes in the form of small, hard pieces (kibble). Advantages: - Convenient and economical: Easy to store, has a long shelf life and is often cheaper per serving than wet food. - Dental health: Can help reduce plaque and tartar by mechanically scraping the teeth when the dog chews. - Portion control: Easy to measure exact portions, which is good for weight control. - Environmental aspect: Less packaging material per nutritional unit compared to wet food. Disadvantages: - Lower fluid intake: Since the water content is low, it is important that the dog drinks enough water. May be a disadvantage for dogs that do not drink enough, or those with kidney or urinary tract problems. - Less palatable: May be less appetizing for picky dogs compared to wet food. - Fillers: Some cheaper dry foods may contain a higher proportion of fillers. Wet food (canned, bag): Properties: - High water content (approx. 70-85%). - Available in various forms such as pâté, pieces in sauce/jelly, or minced meat. Benefits: - High fluid intake: Contributes significantly to the dog's daily fluid intake, which is good for urinary tract health and for dogs that do not drink enough. - Very appetizing: Generally more palatable and aromatic, making it popular with picky dogs. - Easy to digest: May be easier for some dogs, especially older ones or those with dental problems, to eat and digest. - Suitable for weight loss: High water content means it has a lower calorie content per volume, which can help dogs feel full on fewer calories. Cons: - More expensive: Generally more expensive per serving than dry food. - Shorter shelf life: Opened packages must be refrigerated and consumed within a short time. - Less good for dental health: Does not contribute to mechanical cleaning of teeth in the same way as dry food. - Packaging material: Generates more waste per nutritional unit. Hybrid feeding (mixture of dry food and wet food): Many dog owners choose to combine dry food with a smaller amount of wet food. This can be a great way to take advantage of the benefits of both types: - The palatability of wet food can entice picky dogs to eat dry food. - Wet food contributes to fluid intake. - Dry food contributes to dental health and is more economical. The best food is the one that your dog enjoys, feels good about, and meets all of its nutritional needs. Regular veterinary visits and observation of your dog's general health will help you evaluate whether you have found the right food.

What is veterinary feed and when should it be used?

Veterinary foods (also known as therapeutic foods or dietary foods) are specially formulated dog foods intended to be used as part of the treatment or management of specific medical conditions in dogs. Unlike regular dog foods, which are designed to meet the nutritional needs of healthy dogs, veterinary foods are developed to support or improve the health of dogs with various diseases or conditions. When should veterinary foods be used? Veterinary foods should always be used under the supervision and recommendation of a veterinarian. They are not intended for healthy dogs and may be inappropriate in some cases if given incorrectly. Here are some common conditions where veterinary foods may be indicated: 1. Allergies and food intolerances: - Hydrolyzed protein foods: Proteins have been broken down into molecules so small that the immune system does not react to them, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. - Limited Ingredient Diet (LID): Contains a single, often novel, protein source and a single carbohydrate source to minimize exposure to potential allergens. 2. Gastrointestinal Issues (GI): - Highly digestible diets: Formulated with highly digestible proteins, carbohydrates and fats, often with added prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy gut flora. Used for diarrhea, vomiting, pancreatitis (pancreatitis) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 3. Kidney Disease: - Kidney Diet: Has reduced protein and phosphorus content to reduce the burden on the kidneys and slow the progression of the disease. Often with added omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation. 4. Urinary Tract Problems (e.g. urinary stones): - Urinary Diet: Adjusts the pH and mineral content of the urine to dissolve existing urinary stones (e.g. struvite stones) or prevent the formation of new ones. 5. Joint problems: - Joint food: Contains higher levels of glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids (especially EPA and DHA) and antioxidants to support joint health, reduce inflammation and relieve pain in osteoarthritis. 6. Weight management: - Weight loss food: Lower calorie content, higher fiber content (for satiety) and often higher protein content to preserve muscle mass during weight loss. - Weight control food: For dogs that have reached their ideal weight and need a food that helps them maintain it. 7. Diabetes: - Diabetes food: Often has a higher fiber content and complex carbohydrates to help stabilize blood sugar levels. 8. Liver disease: - Liver food: Adjusted protein content and specially balanced nutrients to support liver function and reduce the burden on the organ. Important to remember: - Veterinary food is part of a medical treatment plan. Switching to such a food without veterinary advice can be harmful to your dog. - Always follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding type of food, amount and how long it should be given. - A veterinary food meets all the nutritional needs of the dog under its specific medical condition, but is not always suitable for long-term use for a healthy dog. At Zoostar.se you will find a selection of veterinary food, but remember that they may only be purchased and used in consultation with a veterinarian.

How do I store dog food correctly to keep it fresh?

Proper storage of dog food is essential to maintain its nutritional value, palatability, and to prevent it from going bad or contaminated. Whether it’s dry food, wet food, or treats, there are specific guidelines to follow to ensure your dog is getting fresh, safe food. Dry Food Storage: 1. Store in Original Packaging: The best place for dry food is in its original bag. These bags are often designed with a protective barrier (such as grease-resistant liner or special layers) that helps preserve the nutrients and prevent the fats from going rancid. Pouring the food directly into another container can expose it to more air and moisture. 2. Use an Airtight Container: Place the entire original bag (or at least one opened bag) inside an airtight, food-grade container. This will protect the food from air, moisture, insects, and rodents, and help maintain freshness. Metal, hard plastic, or glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal. 3. Store in a cool, dry place: Light, heat, and moisture can accelerate the breakdown of nutrients and cause food to go rancid. Store dry food in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as stoves or heaters. A pantry, basement (if dry), or laundry room are usually suitable locations. Avoid storing food in a garage or outdoors where temperatures can fluctuate greatly. 4. Keep clean: Make sure the container and scoop you use are clean. Wash the container regularly with hot water and dish soap, and let it dry completely before refilling with new food. This prevents the build-up of oily residue that can cause rancidity and bacteria. 5. Check the best-before date: Keep an eye on the best-before date on the packaging. Even if food is stored correctly, it will lose nutritional value and palatability after this date. Wet Food Storage: 1. Unopened Cans/Bags: Store unopened wet food cans or pouches in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, just like dry food. 2. Opened Cans/Bags: Once a can or bag of wet food has been opened, it must be stored in the refrigerator. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container (preferably glass or food-grade plastic) or cover the original can with plastic wrap or a tight lid. 3. Shelf Life in the Refrigerator: Opened wet food should be consumed within 3-5 days. If it smells or looks strange before then, throw it away. Dog Treats and Chews Storage: 1. Airtight Storage: Dog treats and chews (especially those with fat or animal content) do best in airtight containers to prevent them from drying out, going rancid, or becoming chewy. 2. Cool, dry place: As with food, store treats in a cool, dry place. 3. Check expiration dates: Be sure to use treats by their best-before date for optimal taste and quality. By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your dog’s food is always fresh, safe, and nutritious, contributing to their overall health and appetite.