Dry Dog Food

Whilst we supply plenty of amazing dry dog food brands to keep your pet happy and healthy, here are some favourites:

• • • Royal Canin: a vast range of nutritionally balanced dry dog food. Their options include breed-specific formulas, kibble tailored to medical conditions, and various shapes. They are also a natural choice for sensitive tummies, developed by a vet focusing on holistic health. Ingredients are UK-sourced, and it’s beloved for its honest, pet-first philosophy.
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  • • James Wellbeloved: known for its natural, tasty recipes with no fillers, this food brand offers options for puppies to seniors and caters to different sizes and dietary needs. It’s been a trusted choice for over 25 years.
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  • • Purina Pro Plan: renowned for its nutritional range, Purina includes everyday kibble and veterinary diets for specific health concerns. A go-to for maintaining your dog’s health.
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  • • IAMS: Respected by vets for over 50 years, IAMS offers affordable, high-quality kibble, including options for smaller breeds. It’s a great choice for balanced nutrition on a budget.
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  • • Hill’s Science Plan: Backed by extensive research, Hill’s provides a wide variety of dry food tailored to your dog’s needs. Their science-based approach gives pet owners peace of mind.

Nutritionally, dry dog food is no better or worse than wet dog food. The main difference is water content. Many owners prefer dry food for its convenience, long shelf life, and cost-effectiveness. The choice between dry, wet, or a mix depends on your dog's preference and your own unless your vet advises otherwise. If you choose a high-quality, vet-recommended food, your dog will get all the nutrition they need.

If you would like more advice, check out our How to Choose the Best Dog Food guide to answer your general questions or look at our Wet vs Dry Dog Food comparison guide to help you decide which is best for your furry friend.  

Dry dog food, or kibble, is made by mixing ingredients like meats, grains, vitamins and minerals into a dough. This mixture is then cooked and shaped into small, bite-sized pieces. The food is dried to reduce moisture content, which preserves it and gives it a longer shelf life.

The best dried dog food will be complete and balanced, while meeting any specific nutritional requirements for your dog.

Dried dog food offers several benefits for you and your pup:

• • Longer-lasting: dry dog food has a longer shelf life than wet food because of how it’s made. As long as the sack or container is kept sealed, it can stay good for weeks.
• • Affordability: Dry food is generally less expensive than wet food and can be bought in bulk, making it easier on the wallet. 
• • Better for weight loss: dried food has less carbohydrates and fat than wet food, making it the better choice for dogs who struggle with weight gain or an overactive appetite (like Labradors).
• • Dental hygiene: the small pieces of kibble are hard enough to help combat plague build-up and lower the risk of gingivitis. 

Dry food can be a great option for both senior dogs and puppies, supporting their unique nutritional needs. Puppy-specific dry food is designed for growth, offering higher levels of protein and fat to fuel their development. For seniors, dry food often comes in smaller kibble sizes that are easier to chew and feature easy-to-digest formulas. Many also include joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine to promote mobility and overall well-being.

Most unopened dry dog food has a shelf life of 12-18 months. After opening, it’s best to use it within 4-6 weeks to maintain freshness. Store the food in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prolong its quality. Always check the expiration date on the package.

Grain-free diets can be helpful for dogs with specific grain allergies or sensitivities, but they’re not necessarily healthier for all dogs. It’s important to watch out for grain substitutes like lentils, peas, white potato, or quinoa, as diets high in these ingredients can still lead to excess starch in the body. If you’re considering a grain-free or hypoallergenic dog food option, consult your vet to ensure it’s the right choice for your dog’s specific needs and allergies.

Just like us, dogs can get tired of eating the same thing every day. If your pup seems bored with their usual kibble and you’ve ruled out any health problems, it might be time to try something new. Sometimes, a vet may also suggest switching foods to address specific health needs.

When making the change, it’s best to do it gradually to avoid upsetting their stomach. Start with 25% new food mixed with 75% old food for a couple of days. Then, go 50/50 for a few more days, and after about a week, switch to 75% new food. If your dog adjusts well, with no upset tummy or refusing to eat, you can fully transition to the new food.