Joybuy Insights

Dog food: how to choose the right diet without being swayed by marketing

Choosing dog food is not simply a matter of comparing the price or the flavour shown on the pack. Between dry food, wet dog food, grain-free formulas and recipes marketed as being rich in meat, some essential information can easily be overlooked.

To avoid buying something unsuitable, three common pitfalls are worth keeping in mind:

  • Treating a marketing promise as a nutritional guarantee: “natural”, “premium” or “grain-free” does not, on its own, show whether the food is genuinely suitable for your dog.
  • Forgetting your dog’s size: food for small dogs does not necessarily have the same kibble size or recommendations as food intended for medium and large dogs.
  • Underestimating the portion actually served: a more concentrated formula or a water-rich wet food can affect both the amount given and the daily cost.

Criteria to check before buying

1. The “complete food” statement and life stage

When choosing food for an adult dog, look for a clear statement on the label such as “complete food for adult dogs”. This means the product is designed to meet the animal’s nutritional needs when given according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Also check the relevant category:

  • small-breed adult dog or adult dog weighing less than 10 kg;
  • medium- or large-breed adult dog;
  • puppy, if your dog has not yet reached adulthood;
  • specific formula, for example one intended for weight management.

Wet food sold in individual portions can be very convenient, but it should not automatically be treated as a simple complementary food. Some products, such as CESAR terrines or ULTIMA pouches, are clearly declared as complete foods for adult dogs. However, always check the daily feeding guide and composition for each product.

2. The ingredients and the percentages actually stated

The words “with chicken”, “with fish” or “with beef” do not necessarily mean that this meat makes up the entire recipe. For example, one ULTIMA product states 35% meat and animal derivatives, including 4% of the highlighted source in each variety. Looking at the full composition therefore allows you to compare products on a more meaningful basis.

In grain-free dry foods, grains are generally replaced with peas, chickpeas, potato or sweet potato. The absence of grains is not, by itself, proof that a food is better suited to your dog. You should assess the recipe as a whole, including its protein and fat content, as well as your dog’s individual tolerance.

Farmina N&D Pumpkin recipes with chicken or lamb include fresh and dehydrated meat, fish, pumpkin, peas and chickpeas. The Ocean range, meanwhile, is based on ingredients such as cod, herring and salmon. This information can help you choose according to known preferences and dietary requirements, without turning any particular ingredient into a promise of health benefits.

3. Portions, kibble size and storage

The daily amount depends on the animal’s weight, activity level, age and body condition. For a Farmina N&D Pumpkin product intended for small dogs, the recommendations range from 30 to 45 g for a dog weighing 1 to 2 kg, then increase in stages. For a ULTIMA Medium-Maxi Light formula, the guidance applies to dogs weighing more than 10 kg, and the manufacturer states a fat content of 11.5%.

A diet for an overweight dog should be introduced with regular monitoring of weight and portions. The chosen formula does not replace veterinary advice, particularly if the weight gain is significant or sudden.

For practical storage, keep dry food in a dry place, in its bag with the opening securely closed. Once opened, wet food and terrine should generally be kept in the fridge and consumed within 48 hours, according to the label instructions. Serve it at room temperature and always make sure fresh water is available.

Our selection based on your dog’s profile

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
PURINA FIDO Adult Dog Food Beef Vegetable 3kg

PURINA FIDO Adult Dog Food Beef Vegetable 3 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : This dry food recipe for adult dogs comes in a 3 kg bag – a practical size for trying a beef-based diet without having to store a large quantity.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition clearly states 4% beef, while the analytical constituents show 20% protein and 10% fat.

Main benefit and key features

A complete food for adult dogs, with cereals, dehydrated vegetables and feeding transition recommendations over 10 days.

Recommended for : Premium food enthusiasts
Orijen Original Prey Dog Food 11.4 kg

Orijen Original Prey Dog Food – 11.4 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : Its large pack size suits households looking for a recipe rich in animal-based ingredients and with enough storage space.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details list the analytical constituents, including 38% protein, 18% fat and 12% moisture.

Main benefit and key features

The composition includes chicken, turkey, fish and egg, together with a feeding guide based on weight range.

Recommended for : Specific needs and intensive use
Farmina N&D Quinoa Weight Management Adult Medium to Large Dog Food 2.5 kg

Farmina N&D Quinoa Weight Management Adult Medium to Large Dog Food 2.5 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : This formula is presented as being intended for weight management in medium- and large-breed adult dogs. Its product details describe a low-fat, high-fibre recipe.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The weight guidance and “weight management” positioning are clearly displayed, making it easier to control portions and monitor your dog.

Main benefit and key features

20% lamb, 20% dehydrated lamb protein, 8% quinoa, pea fibre and psyllium.

Recommended for : Small dogs and wet meals
ULTIMA Wet Dog Food Small Breed Adult Chicken and Beef

ULTIMA Wet Dog Food Small Breed Adult, chicken and beef

Why this choice suits this profile : The small chunks in gravy and individual pouches suit adult dogs weighing less than 10 kg, as well as households wanting to alternate wet food and dry food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify portions for wet-only and mixed feeding, rather than leaving you to estimate the amount yourself.

Main benefit and key features

Two recipes, stated at 35% meat and animal derivatives, small chunks and fridge storage after opening.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about dog food

How much food should you give an adult dog ?

Start by checking the table on the packaging, then adjust the portion according to your dog’s weight, activity level and changes in body condition. Weigh dry food using kitchen scales rather than an approximate measuring cup. For mixed feeding, reduce the amount of dry food to account for the wet food added.

Is grain-free dry food necessary ?

Not necessarily. A grain-free recipe may suit certain preferences or dietary requirements, but it should be assessed based on its full composition and how well it suits your dog. A complete and balanced diet is about more than simply excluding one ingredient.

How can you change your dog’s food without wasting a bag ?

Make the change gradually over around five to ten days by mixing the old and new foods. Monitor your dog’s appetite, stools and weight. If an unusual reaction persists, ask your vet for advice before continuing with the change.