What Should I Feed My Dog? A Complete Guide to Canine Nutrition

Choosing dog food shouldn’t feel confusing, but for many pet parents, it does. Faced with endless options and big promises from brands like Royal Canin, Orijen, and Hill’s Science Plan, it’s easy to feel unsure. All you want is to do the right thing for your dog.

Here in the UAE, feeding your dog takes a little extra care. The scorching summer heat, less outdoor time, and apartment living in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi can affect their energy, health, and comfort.

This guide is here to help you make things simple. No complicated science. No confusing jargon. Just clear practical advice to help you choose the best food for your dog.

What is Canine Nutrition? 

Canine nutrition is simply about giving your dog the right balance of nutrients so they can live a healthy, happy life. It's not just about feeding meat or vegetables; it's about what those foods give your dog's body.

A good dog food follows trusted global standards like AAFCO or FEDIAF, which ensure the food is complete and balanced.

 

Here's what that really means for your dog:

Protein:

It helps your dog stay strong. It builds muscles, keeps the skin healthy, and gives the coat its shine. Ingredients like chicken, lamb, salmon, and beef provide essential amino acids such as taurine, which support heart health.

Fats:

Fats are your dog's main source of energy. Healthy fats, especially Omega-3 and Omega-6, support brain function, reduce inflammation, and keep the coat soft and glossy. These usually come from fish oil or plant sources like flaxseed.

Carbohydrates:

Carbs give steady energy and help with digestion. When they come from good sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats, they support gut health and keep your dog feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins & Minerals:

Think of these as tiny helpers inside your dog's body. Calcium and phosphorus keep bones strong, while vitamins like A, D, and E boost immunity and overall health.

Water:

Water is the most important nutrient of all. In the UAE’s hot climate, proper hydration protects your dog from heat stress and kidney problems. Fresh water should always be available.

How Much Should I Feed? A Feeding Schedule

Just like people, every dog is different. Age, size, activity level, and health all play a big role in what your dog truly needs. The food that's perfect for one dog may not be right for another.

Here's the simple table of how nutrition changes through your dog's life:

Every dog food is different, but a simple rule to remember is this: Most dogs need about 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day.

What matters just as much as what you feed is how much you feed. Guessing portions often leads to overfeeding, and it’s one of the biggest reasons apartment dogs struggle with weight gain.

Why Do Your Dogs Eat Less in Summer?

During the UAE summer, it’s completely normal for dogs to eat less. Just like us, the heat makes them feel tired and less active. When they move less, their bodies naturally don’t ask for as much food.

Instead of worrying, focus on keeping them comfortable.

- Feed during cooler hours like early morning or late at night, when your dog feels more relaxed and willing to eat.

- Add a little water or low-sodium bone broth to their kibble. It makes meals more tempting and helps keep them hydrated in the heat.

Tap Water or Filtered Water: Which is Better for Dogs?

One of the most common questions we hear at our stores is, “Can I give my dog tap water?”

In the UAE, tap water is usually safe, but its quality can change depending on how clean the storage tank is in your building or villa.

- Recommendation: For peace of mind, offer your dog filtered water or the same bottled water you drink.

- Why this matters: Tap water can sometimes carry a strong chlorine taste or higher mineral levels. This may cause some dogs to drink less than they should. In the UAE heat, even slight dehydration can affect your dog’s comfort and kidney health.

When Should You Use Different Food Formats?

The "Kibble vs. Wet vs. Raw" debate is common. The answer depends on your dog's health and your lifestyle.

There's no “best” food format for every dog. The right choice depends on your dog's health, age, lifestyle, and, in the UAE heat, hydration always matters.

Can I Add “Human Food” to My Dog’s Bowl? (Safe Fridge Snacks)

Yes, you can. Feeding your dog doesn’t always have to come only from the bag. Many pet parents love adding small, fresh “toppers” to make meals more exciting and nourishing. When used gently, these foods add variety, hydration, and a little extra love to your dog’s bowl.

Here are some safe, simple fridge snacks your dog can enjoy:

- Carrots

Perfect for teething puppies and dogs who love to crunch. They’re low in calories and rich in fiber and natural vitamins.

- Cucumber

A true UAE summer hero 
With 96% water, cucumbers help keep your dog cool and hydrated without adding extra fat.

- Blueberries

Small but powerful. These are packed with antioxidants and make a wonderful, bite-sized training treat.

- Plain Yogurt

A spoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt (Greek yogurt works well) can support digestion and gut health with natural probiotics.

Where to Find and Place Dog Food?

In the UAE, where you store your food is just as important as what you buy.

Heat and humidity are the enemies of pet food. Fats can spoil, and vitamins can degrade if exposed to high temperatures.

Do: 

Store kibble in a cool, air-conditioned room.

Don't: 

Leave food bags in the garage, on balconies, or under direct sunlight. The heat there can damage the food without you noticing.

Storage Tip: 

Transfers kibble into an airtight food-grade container (like Trixie containers). This helps lock in freshness and keeps ants (very common in UAE homes) away from your dog's meals.

Creating a Clean & Calm Feeding Space

Clean Bowls Matter:

• Wash your dog's bowls every day.

• Choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls instead of plastic, which can holdbacteria and sometimes cause skin irritation around the chin.

For Fast Eaters:

• If your dog eats too quickly, use a slow-feeder bowl.

• It helps your dog eat calmly and reduces the risk of bloating, a serious and dangerous condition. 

Browse our kibble dog collections. Our foods are stored and transported in temperature-controlled conditions, so brands like Orijen, Pro Nutrition, and Royal Canin reach your home fresh, safe, and full of nutrition.

How Dog Food Really Works (And How to Feed It with Care)

Buying the bag is the first step. Feeding it correctly is the second.

1. Learn to read the label

The label tells you what youre truly feeding your dog.

- First ingredient matters:

Look for a clear animal protein like “deboned chicken” or “Lamb” at the top. Your dog deserves real meat, not vague fillers.

- Watch for ingredient tricks:

If you see peas listed multiple times (peas, pea flour, pea protein), it may mean there's less meat than it seems.

2. Feeding the right amount

In the UAE, many dogs spend more time indoors, especially during summer. That makes portion control very important.

- Bag guidelines are a starting point:

Begin with the lower recommended amount and adjust based on your dog's body shape and energy.

- Treats count too:

Treats should be no more than 10% of daily food. If you give extra treats, reduce the main meal slightly.

3. Change food slowly (The 7-day rule)

A sudden food change can upset your dog's stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhea. Be gentle, just like their body needs.

- Days 1-2: 75% old food + 25% new

- Days 3-4: 50% old+ 50% new

- Days 5-6: 25% old + 75% new

- Day 7: 100% new food

4. Food that must stay away

Some everyday foods can seriously harm dogs. Make sure everyone at home knows these are never safe:

a) Chocolate - darker chocolate is especially dangerous

b) Xylitol - found in gum and some peanut butters

c) Grapes & raisins - can damage kidneys

d) Onion & garlic - toxic even in small amounts

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I mix wet and dry dog food?

Yes! This is called "mixed feeding." It adds variety and hydration to the diet while keeping the cost lower than a full wet diet. Just ensure you adjust the calorie amounts so you don't overfeed.

2. Are grain-free diets better for dogs?

Not necessarily. Unless your dog has a specific grain allergy diagnosed by a vet, high-quality grains provide excellent energy. However, for dogs with sensitive skin, grain-free options can sometimes help reduce itching.

3. What human foods are toxic to dogs?

You must avoid Chocolate, Grapes/Raisins, Onions, Garlic, and Xylitol (found in gum and some peanut butters). These can be fatal.

4. How do I know if the food is high quality?

Look at the ingredients list. The first ingredient should be a named meat source (e.g., "Deboned Chicken"). Avoid foods with artificial colors or excessive fillers like corn syrup.

5. Is UAE Tap Water Safe for Dogs?

While tap water in the UAE is usually safe, many pet parents choose filtered or bottled water for extra peace of mind. Sometimes, the chlorine in tap water can upset sensitive stomachs or cause tear stains in white-coated dogs like Malteses or Bichons.

Conclusion: Feeding with Care

Feeding your dog is never “just another task.” its a small, loving choice you make every day that shapes their health, comfort, and happiness. 

Living in the UAE means we need to be extra thoughtful. Keep your dog well-hydrated during the hot months, store food safely in air-conditioned spaces, and choose trusted brands that clearly show what's inside the bag. These simple habits make a big difference.

Looking for the Best Dog Food in the UAE?

- Royal Canin
- Schesir
- Orijen
- Pro-Nutrition