Choosing the right food for your dog isn’t always simple. With shelves full of options—raw, dry, wet, organic, grain-free—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.But your dog’s diet plays a critical role in their overall health, energy levels, longevity, and even behaviour. Whether you're raising a puppy, managing an adult dog’s weight, or caring for a senior pet, making the right food choices can make all the difference.
In this UAE-localized guide, we’ll break down the differences between homemade vs. store-bought food, how to choose based on life stage, what to look for on labels, and how to avoid common feeding mistakes.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Dog Food
Pros and Cons of Homemade Food
Homemade diets are appealing for pet owners who want complete control over ingredients, freshness, and customisation for allergies or preferences. But they come with challenges:
Pros:
- Customisable ingredients
- Fresh and preservative-free
- Can address dietary sensitivities
Cons:
- Risk of nutritional imbalances
- Time consuming
- Required vet-approved recipes
Be cautious with raw diets, which carry risks of bacterial contamination, especially in hot UAE climates. Improper handling can affect both pets and humans.
Benefits of Store-Bought Dog Food
Store-bought food remains the safest and most practical option for most pet parents in the UAE.
When you choose a reputable brand, it’s:
- Convenient
- Complete and balanced
- Tested for safety and nutrition
Look for formulas that meet AAFCO standards and are appropriate for your dog’s life stage.
Understanding AAFCO Guidelines
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides the standards that define
a complete and balanced diet for pets.
What to Look For:
Check the dog food label for a nutritional adequacy statement like:
Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles…
Formulated to meet vs. Feeding trials:
- Formulated to meet = lab tested nutrient levels
- Feeding trials = tested on real dogs for digestibility and results
AAFCO Life Stages:
- Growth/Reproduction (puppies, pregnant/lactating dogs)
- Adult maintenance
- All life stages (safe for all, but often higher calorie better for puppies)
Choosing Food Based on Life Stage
Puppy Food
- Higher in protein, fats, and calcium for development
- Especially important for large breeds to prevent orthopaedic issues
- Transition to adult food around 12 months (large breeds: 18-24 months)
Adult Dog Food
- Balanced for maintenance, not growth
- Lower in fat and protein compared to puppy food
- Avoid all life stages food unless active or under vet supervision
Senior Dog Food
- No specific AAFCO standard formulas vary by brand
- Typically lower in calories, easier to digest
- Often includes glucosamine and chondroitin
How to Read Dog Food Labels
a. Guaranteed Analysis
This tells you the minimum or maximum percentage of nutrients.
Protein:
- Puppies: min 22.5%
- Adults: min 18%
Fat:
- Puppies: min 8.5%
- Adults: min 5.5%Moisture & Fiber: Also listed
To compare wet and dry foods, convert to dry matter basis for accuracy.
b. Ingredient List
Ingredients are listed by weight. Look for:
- Named meat sources like “chicken” or “chicken meal”
- Whole grains or complex carbs like brown rice, oats
- Vegetables & fruits like sweet potato, blueberries
Ignore marketing buzzwords like “holistic” or “premium” focus on the ingredient quality and balance.
Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Food
Choose something within your budget and widely available in the UAE
- Pay attention to your dog’s taste preferences and sensitivities
- Pick brands with transparent ingredient sourcing and AAFCO certification
- Avoid frequent switching—dogs thrive on consistency
How to Transition Between Dog Foods
Changing your dog’s food too quickly can lead to digestive upset. Here’s how to transition
safely:
Days 1–2: 75% old food, 25% new
Days 3–4: 50/50 mix
Days 5–6: 25% old, 75% new
Day 7: 100% new food
Watch for any signs of vomiting, loose stools, or food refusal.
How to Know If the Food Is Working
Signs your dog is thriving on their current diet:
- Healthy appetite
- Shiny coat with normal shedding
- Firm, regular stools
- Steady energy
- Ideal weight
If your dog has excessive itching, poor stool quality, or low energy, consult your veterinarian or try a new formulation.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
- Feeding puppy food too long (leads to obesity in adults)
- Switching brands too often (causes stomach upset)
- Choosing food based only on packaging claims
- Ignoring signs of allergies or sensitivities
- Not tailoring food for breed size or energy level
Final Thoughts & Vet Support
There is no single “perfect” dog food. Nutrition depends on your dog’s breed, age, activity level, health status, and taste preferences.
For dogs with special needs (allergies, medical conditions), always consult with a veterinarianfor a tailored dietary plan.
Nutrition is a long-term investment in your dog’s health—take the time to choose wisely, monitor progress, and adjust as needed.
Looking for the Best Dog Food in the UAE?
- Royal Canin
- Schesir
- Orijen
- Purina Pro Plan
(Fast delivery all over the UAE)
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