To choose the best ready-made food for their pet, many people look for dog food ratings. Nowadays there are a lot of such ratings on websites about pets, but many of them are absolutely far from reality or are purely advertising. For example, in such ratings, premium food is often higher than holistic food. Which, in principle, cannot happen.
Why can't it? Yes, because dry food is divided into classes based on the quality of its composition. Therefore, a truly holistic food cannot be worse than a premium food. Let us remind you that I divide dry food into:
- Holistics;
- Super premium class;
- Premium class;
- Economy class.
This list is formed in descending order of quality. That is, at the beginning the best, and at the end the worst. Thus, holistic food is in first place, and premium is only third out of four.
Types of feed
Proper nutrition is the basis for the full development and good health of a dog throughout its life. Therefore, the issue should be carefully examined. There are two types of dog food based on consistency: dry and canned. Each of them has pros and cons.
Concentration
The main difference between the species is the water content. In wet food, the amount of liquid is 70-80%, in dry food – 10. This means that the content of solids in granules is much higher than in canned food.
This is interesting: The best wet food for dogs
Compound
Both types of dog food include meat (or fish) and herbal supplements, mineral and vitamin complexes. The higher the class, the more natural and beneficial substances there are in the mass. The approximate nutritional value of the products is shown in the table:
| Average content in feed (in%) | Dry | Wet |
| Fats | 18-32 | 25-50 |
| Squirrels | 8-22 | 20-32 |
| Carbohydrates | 46-74 | 18-57 |
Digestibility by the body
The ingredients in wet food are contained in a form that is more natural for digestion than in dry food. And the dogs themselves prefer canned food. Studies of expensive brands have shown that liquid food is absorbed by the body by 75-95%, dry food by 65-85.
Benefit for health
It is believed that hard granules are good at cleaning dogs' teeth from plaque. In fact, this only applies to their contacting surface, and from the sides you will still have to remove dirt with a brush.
Expert opinion
Anna Abramenko
An avid dog lover. Experience in veterinary medicine since 2009.
Ask a Question
For elderly animals or those suffering from gastrointestinal problems, it is better to buy canned food, as they are easier to digest and do not cause constipation. And with diseases of the teeth and oral cavity, chewing granules will be problematic for dogs.
Harmful additives
Wet food contains much less preservatives, flavors and synthetic dyes.
Storage
In this regard, dry food has a clear advantage. An open package lasts a long time (if you follow the rules indicated on the package), and the granules can remain in the bowl for several days. And an opened can of canned food will not last long even in the refrigerator. In the cup, in a matter of hours, harmful microorganisms will begin to develop in the mass, and the pet will be poisoned.
Benefit
Canned food is more expensive and costs more per serving. The difference is not significant if the dog is small, but providing expensive food to a large breed is problematic.
Summary
The purpose of this article is to focus the reader's attention on good dog foods. There is no need to be afraid of 2 or 3 places on the list - we chose from the top candidates. The bottom line is that you go to the store, see any of these brands and feel free to buy it. You really can't go wrong! All that remains is to focus on the price and observation of the animal - there is no friend according to taste and color. One dog may lack the elements in life that are found in fish, while another dog may lack the elements found in poultry or spinach.
Remember that when switching to a new food, your pet may begin to be capricious - this is normal. We people often do not immediately give up things that are already outdated and less good than the market offers, but then we try them and are happy. Therefore, there is no need to be afraid to buy new ones. Good purchases and a happy life with your four-legged friend.
Feed classes
Dog food of different brands differs markedly in price. This variation is explained by differences in composition, production technology, and compliance with quality standards. The table shows brief characteristics of the three types of feed.
| Index | Economy class | Premium class | Super premium class, holistic |
| Price | low | average | high |
| Compound | Waste from slaughterhouses or industrial production, bone meal. Substitutes are often used instead of herbal ingredients. Vitamins are present in the form of useless chemical additives | Meat or fish (30%), waste, natural plant ingredients, low proportion of waste or chemical ingredients | Maximum energy value and balance. Contains only real meat, fish, grains and plant ingredients |
| Benefit | Virtually absent | Small | High |
| Energy value, kcal per 100 g | Up to 350 | Above 350 | 450 |
If you compare the composition, the difference is obvious. Eating economy class food will only satisfy your dog's hunger. Premium will not harm an adult, but it is not advisable to give it to puppies. Elite super-premium products will satisfy most of the needs of the animal’s body, and holistic products are so natural that their composition will be beneficial even for humans.
The higher the quality of the food, the higher its calorie content. So, a large dog will need half a kilo of cheap food or 300 g of expensive food to keep it full.
Feeding recommendations
When feeding dry kibble, it is important to strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Overfeeding and underfeeding can be harmful to the health of the animal. It is not recommended to mix feeding dry food and natural products. Because of this, many animals have digestive problems. You cannot feed your cat from the table. It is allowed to soften the granules using clean water at room temperature.
How to place an order
You can buy dry cat food in the Pavik online store. To do this, just add the required product to the cart and pay for the order. Delivery is carried out throughout Moscow and the region. The cost depends on the distance of the destination and the amount of the order. When purchasing over 5,000 rubles, delivery within Moscow will be free. If you have any questions, you can call our consultant managers and clarify the order details. Make a purchase for delicious and healthy dry food for your cat today!
Types of feed
Dog food is not just a nutritious mass sealed in a package, but a healthy and completely balanced food. There are 3 types of product:
- Standard. These are foods for everyday consumption that owners choose based on the age, size or breed of the dog.
- Specialized. They are intended for feeding sterilized animals or those prone to allergies, weight gain, etc.
- Medicinal (super premium class). They are used when a disease occurs or is threatened, for prevention. These foods are given to dogs in courses and only on the recommendation of a veterinarian.
Manufacturers always indicate the type of nutrition on the packaging, along with tips for use, which means you need to carefully read the label before purchasing. This is especially true for medicinal products.
On what basis was the TOP created?
Fortunately, the author of this article is himself an avid dog breeder, and therefore is well acquainted with the peculiarities of feeding four-legged friends, small and large. To rank the best dog foods, we did the following:
- We collected reviews from forums where pet owners correspond. Don’t worry, we understand the Internet space, so we don’t read paid messages that fill the modern network;
- We scanned popular items in stores - the stores always have the best-selling products. Most often they are bought because of the positive result in the form of a satisfied animal.
By combining all this data, we have compiled the most accurate top. Look at him.
Dry food rating 2022
The most popular group is granulated (dry) dog food. The top 10 titles include:
- .
- Acana is a holistic provider from Canada. The uniqueness of the brand is that production is carried out using steam at low temperatures, which allows preserving the valuable qualities of the products. All of the company's products contain a lot of protein (up to 85%) and various additives. The range includes a series of foods, taking into account the dogs’ age, size and allergies. The price of an economical package for 11.4 kg ranges from 4,800 to 6,500 rubles, depending on the type.
- Piccolo are English-made holistic products designed for small breeds of dogs. These are hypoallergenic products that are as healthy and safe as possible for pets. They do not contain grain; its alternatives are vegetables, herbs, and algae. Protein content – from 60 to 75%. The price is quite high - about 3 thousand 500 rubles. for 4 kg.
- Orijen is a Canadian holistic product produced based on the principle of matching diet and animal species. The food contains no more than 15% carbohydrates (after all, dogs are predators); there is practically no grain. The freshest products are used, without freezing or long-term storage. There are several types in the line: for different ages and breeds of dogs. The price of a package for 11.4 kg is 6,200 rubles.
- Wolfsblut is a super-premium English food. Grain-free, hypoallergenic granules contain a lot of meat, as well as vegetables and other healthy additives. This brand has a wide range and a large selection. The average price of a 15 kg package is 7 thousand rubles.
- Farmina (Italy) – a range of feeds of any class (from economy to holistic). Each of them occupies one of the leading positions in its segment. Manufacturers strive to bring the nutritional composition as close as possible to the natural, natural one, so it contains about 70% protein. The company develops many varieties for all dogs. The price for holistic treatments ranges from 5,500 to 8 thousand rubles. for 12 kg (depending on the type).
- Pronature Holistic is a Canadian holistic provider of very high quality. It contains healthy meats, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. The ingredients are thoroughly tested and the most modern equipment is used. The main varieties are intended for all ages, but there are also universal ones. A package (13.6 kg) will cost 6,200-8,300 rubles.
- Applaws is a UK based holistic specialist. Contains up to 75% meat and fish and several types of vegetables. A special feature is the high content of spices and plant extracts. The entire line includes probiotics. There are no grain crops at all. The price is relatively low - 3,400-3,800 for 7.5 kg.
- Duke's Farm is an English super premium dog food. The main component of the product is meat, followed by easily digestible carbohydrates (cereals, vegetables, berries). Price for 12 kg is about 6 thousand rubles.
- Savarra is an English holistic and super premium food. The company's assortment is modest, but the quality of production is at the highest level. Meat content – from 63 to 80%. Cereals predominate among plant components. Price – 5,200-8,200 rubles.
- Now Fresh is a holistic provider from Canada. These are grain-free foods with a high protein content. The brand is popular, you can buy it in any specialized store. The line is very extensive. The product is relatively inexpensive and very high quality. The price for a pack of 11.3 kg starts from 4,400 rubles.
Interesting article: Wolfsblut dog food
When eating dry food, you need to provide your pet with 24-hour access to water.
Hypoallergenic
The purpose of such food is to rid the dog’s body of the influence of the allergen and keep its digestion, coat and skin healthy.
1ST CHOICE
The Canadian manufacturer offers two types of hypoallergenic food - for small breeds and universal.
Lamb meat and herring were chosen as the main ingredient.
Grains are replaced by rice, potatoes, oatmeal and barley.
The proportion of protein is reduced to 25%.
Price - from 400 rubles per 1 kg.
1st choice dog food - full review of the line
Brit
Country: Czech Republic.
The line includes a variety of products for different types of animals.
The Sensitive series is based on animal protein: venison, lamb, fish.
Grains are replaced with brown rice and potatoes.
Price - from 200 rubles per 1 kg.
Brit dog food - expert reviews and detailed analysis of the composition
Eukanuba
Country: Netherlands.
High-quality food for dogs with allergies.
It is especially recommended for those animals that have a skin reaction to food.
In Dermatosis food, the meat component is replaced with fish.
Contains potatoes, dried beets.
There are no options in the food line, only one type.
Price - from 500 rubles per 1 kg.
Eukanuba dog food - reviews and composition analysis
Grandorf
Country: Belgium.
There is only one type of holistic food in the line - Duck & Potato Adult All Breeds.
The food contains poultry and sweet potatoes.
Sea krill meat is responsible for joints, and a complex of medicinal herbs is responsible for digestion.
Price - from 650 rubles per 1 kg.
Grandorf dog food - full review of the line and reviews from experts
GO!
Canadian food (Daily Defense Lamb Meal Recipe) has a composition with a reduced protein content - about 22%.
Lamb meat with a low allergenic index is used instead of oatmeal grain.
Low cost - from 500 rubles per 1 kg.
Dog food GO!: analysis of ingredients, reviews from owners and veterinary specialists
Rating of wet dog food
Many dog owners prefer canned food. They consider them the most delicious, since pets eat such food much more readily than dry foods in granules.
Best wet food:
- Belcando is holistic, mainly made from chicken meat (up to 80%). The composition includes other varieties, offal, vegetables, berries, rice, pasta. The main advantages are hypoallergenicity and variety of tastes. Price – 300 rub. for 800 g.
- BarkingHeads is holistic and contains 75% fish or meat. The remaining components are algae, vegetables and herbs. The brand produces a wide range of food of all categories. Price – 120 rub. for 100 g.
- Hill's idealbalance – premium food for adult dogs. The proportion of protein and fat is relatively small. The series includes only 2 types of product (with chicken and turkey, for dogs with allergies). Price for a 360 g jar – 230 rubles.
- Eagle Pack holistic - holistic products with a predominance of fresh meat. The manufacturer was the first in the world to produce soy-free food. A unique dietary supplement consisting of plant extracts is added to the products. Cost for 374 g – 160 rubles.
- Innova EVO is an American made holistic product. The company produces food according to ancient recipes using the latest technologies. There are both universal lines and ones designed for different breeds, as well as curative ones for a wide range of diseases. The content of meat and fish of several types is from 50% and above. Price for 374 g – 220 rub.
Expert opinion
Anna Abramenko
An avid dog lover. Experience in veterinary medicine since 2009.
Ask a Question
Wet food can be conveniently mixed with other foods or given to your pet as a separate dish.
Good to know: How to stop your dog from eating cat food
Holistic food
This group includes the highest quality and balanced products. Natural meat (fish) is present in them from 50 to 85% of the total weight; by-products are completely absent. In addition to excellent quality ingredients, many holistic products contain probiotics, which improve digestion in dogs.
Feeds that are ideally balanced in quality and composition deserve a separate brief review:
| Name | Country of origin | Price in rubles/package weight in kg |
| Akana | Canada | 6 450/11,4 |
| Canidae | USA | 5 700/10,8 |
| Go! | Canada | 3 950/11,35 |
| Innova | USA | 8 600/20 |
| Orijen | Canada | 6 200/11,4 |
| Pronature | Canada | 8 300/13,6 |
| Grandorf | Belgium, Italy | 5 300/12 |
| Now Fresh | USA | 5350/11,35 |
Expert opinion
Anna Abramenko
An avid dog lover. Experience in veterinary medicine since 2009.
Ask a Question
Holistics are suitable for feeding dogs of any age and breed. According to most veterinarians, food in this class is the best for a complete diet.
Food for dogs of different ages
At each life stage, animals have different nutritional needs due to physiological changes. Therefore, it is important to give preference to products specially developed by the best manufacturers.
For puppies
List of foods intended for growing canine bodies.
This is interesting: How much water should you give a puppy eating dry food?
| Name | Country of origin | Price in rubles/package weight in kg |
| Acana Heritage Pappy | Canada | 5 300/11,4 |
| Orijen PUPPY | Canada | 6 300/11,4 |
| Belcando PUPPY | Germany | 6 550/15 |
For adults
Between the ages of 1 and 6 years, dogs are in their prime. However, taking care of your health is important at any time, so nutrition should remain nutritious.
| Name | Country of origin | Price in rub. For 11.4 kg |
| Acana Grass-Fed Lamb Dog All Breeds, holistic | Canada | 5 800 |
| Orijen Original Dog, holistic | Canada | 6 200 |
| Now Fresh ADULT DOG ALL BREEDS, super premium | USA | 4 500 |
Food for adult dogs can be selected from products of absolutely any brand, class and type.
For the elderly
In old age, dogs are especially sensitive to diseases and need easily digestible, nutritious food.
Table with names and average cost of feed:
| Name | Country of origin | Price in rubles/package weight in kg |
| Acana Senior Dog | Canada | 4 900/11,4 |
| Orijen Senior | Canada | 6 400/11,4 |
| Arden Grange Senior | Great Britain | 5 500/12 |
The final choice is made only after comparing the body's response to different types of nutrition.
Dangerous ingredients in feed
Manufacturers are required to indicate on the packaging a detailed list of components included in the product. Unfortunately, not all substances listed on the label are safe for pets.
Description of the most harmful additives:
- Butylated hydroanisole (BHA, BHA, Butylated Hydroxyanisole, E 320). Synthetic antioxidant, feed preservative. Dangerous for the kidneys and liver, causes allergies.
- Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, Butylated Hydroxytolune). Causes the same harm as BHA.
- Digest. This flavoring additive is made by hydrolysis from inedible parts of animals (feathers, wool, hooves, etc.). The ingredient is produced from any remains, including those of animals that died for an unknown reason.
- Yeast. They are used in cheap feeds to enhance taste and add volume, but have no nutritional value and are an allergen.
- Bird or animal fat (tallow). Its quality is not controlled.
- Corn flour. Its composition is poorly digested by the gastrointestinal tract of dogs.
- Metabisulfite sodium is a harmful preservative. Negatively affects the dog's nervous system.
- Milk serum. Strong allergen. Contains poorly digestible lactose.
- Sodium monoglutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer for dog food.
- Monosodium phosphate, E339. Often causes diarrhea.
- Propylene glycol. Harmful for animals prone to diabetes. Fish and its by-products, unless the label states that it is not intended for human food. Otherwise, the product contains the dangerous preservative Ethoxyquin (ethoxyquin).
- Carbohydrate sucrose. It causes diarrhea, and with regular consumption, the development of diabetes.
- Beet cake, pulp and other sugar varieties.
- Soy and soy products. This protein is poorly digested and even causes bloating in the dog’s gastrointestinal tract, which means its content should be minimal.
- Meat by-products (animal meal, bones, offal, giblets, etc.) These leftovers are often poorly cleaned of contaminants, chemicals, hormones, and even barbiturates.
- Plant by-products (starch, grain flour, etc.) are not always well digested by dogs and may contain toxins.
- Potassium chloride (Potassium chloride, E 508). Leads to gastrointestinal disorders.
- Ethylene glycol, preservative and sweetener. A source of unnecessary calories leading to excess weight. Lethal in large doses.
- Ethoxyquin. It is carcinogenic and therefore prohibited in the food industry.
Unscrupulous manufacturers do not always write the full composition of food ingredients, which means it is necessary to monitor the dog’s body’s reaction.
The benefits and harms of industrial feed
Any ready-made food from stores is made under the influence of temperature and pressure, so the lion's share of natural ingredients loses their original benefits. Some proteins, carbohydrates, and fats take on an indigestible form. Therefore, it is advisable to include home-cooked food in a dog’s healthy diet. Causes:
- Finished products contain a high content of nutrients, but are far from a complete complex of vitamins and microelements that the body needs. Synthetic minerals are added to them, and they are absorbed worse than natural ones.
- Any industrial feed includes at least a small proportion of undesirable ingredients (chemical additives and fillers, waste, sugar, inedible components, etc.).
Super premium class and holistic specialists are the best in this regard, but in other cases it is necessary to diversify your pet’s diet with natural products and self-prepared food.
Buyers judge the composition by the labels on the packaging, so we can only hope for the integrity of the manufacturer. You shouldn’t choose food solely based on reviews from other owners, but it’s still worth listening to the opinions of experienced people.
Reviews from veterinarians
Canine health professionals advise owners on what food is best for their dog based on their personal experience.
Veterinarian Olga Ivanchenko: “Of course, cheap brands do not meet any requirements regarding a complete composition. I recommend at least premium and holistic food. American Artemis and Canadian Pronature Holistic are good options. On a budget, you can choose food from the Chappi range.”
Veterinary dermatologist Sergei Rudenko: “The cheaper the food, the more likely it is that the dog’s body will react poorly to it. This is especially true for animals prone to allergies and gastrointestinal diseases. If you decide to feed your pet with ready-made products from the store, then choose holistic or super premium class. Among them there are both medicinal and specialized types. Good brands are Piccolo, Canidae, etc.”
When choosing food, it is important to focus on a number of indicators: characteristics of the breed, the size and age of the dog, and the financial capabilities of the owner. But it is advisable to remember that there are special conditions of animals (illness, pregnancy, nutrition of puppies) when their body will require a special diet. Attentive attention to the diet is the key to the health and longevity of your pet.
Briefly about the main thing
- Dry food is divided into 4 classes.
- For dog nutrition, it is better to choose super-premium and holistic class.
- Holistic food contains several meat ingredients and components that are suitable for humans.
- When choosing, you need to take into account the expiration date and characteristics of a particular pet.
- Many manufacturers have food lines for different ages and needs.
- Food ratings are in the nature of recommendations; the owner’s task is to choose the one that is suitable and appealing to the dog.
What class of food do you use? Which brand of food comes first for you? Why? Tell us about the characteristics of your four-legged friend and his dietary preferences, please. What does he like more: dry food or wet canned food? Share your experience in the comments, your experience is very important to us and other readers.
