How to choose the best dog diet

The best dog diet depends on their age, breed, activity and your own lifestyle.

It’s such a simple, twice-daily task but I find feeding Rufus a joy each and every time. Measuring out his dry food and supplement, mixing them with a splash of cold water and setting it down as he twirls with excitement is a pleasure not a chore.

Maybe it’s because I know it’s about building the foundations for a long, healthy life; supporting strong joints, sharp minds and primed immune systems. A lot of research went into what Rufus eats because if you’ve ever stood in the pet food aisle, you’ll know the choice can be overwhelming. Dry food or wet? Raw or cooked? Home-prepped or store-bought? And that’s before we get to the opinions; the blogs, the social media debates, the friend who swears their dog’s diet is the only one worth feeding.

The truth is, there’s no single “perfect” diet that works for every dog. Age, breed, health history, and lifestyle all influence what’s best for them. But there are some core principles, rooted in nutritional science, that can help you make informed, confident choices, whatever approach you take.

The foundations of a healthy dog diet

At its heart, feeding a dog well is about supplying the right balance of essential nutrients in forms their body can actually use every single day. Here’s what that means in practical terms:

Protein

Dogs need protein to build and repair tissues, maintain healthy skin and coats and support immune function. The source matters: animal-based proteins (like chicken, beef, fish, or eggs) tend to be more complete, containing all the essential amino acids dogs can’t make themselves. Plant-based proteins can play a role too, especially in combination, but they’re often less bioavailable, meaning the body can’t absorb and use them as efficiently.

Fats

Far from being the enemy, healthy fats are vital. They provide energy, help with fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and play a key role in brain function and cell health. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are anti-inflammatory powerhouses, supporting joint health, heart function, and cognitive sharpness especially in senior dogs. Sources like salmon oil, flaxseed and certain algae are rich in these beneficial fats.

Carbohydrates

While dogs don’t have a strict carbohydrate requirement, quality carbs can be a valuable energy source and provide dietary fibre for healthy digestion. Whole grains like brown rice and oats, or vegetables like sweet potato and pumpkin, offer more nutrients and fibre than highly processed fillers.

Vitamins and minerals

From calcium for bone strength to zinc for immune defence, micronutrients underpin almost every bodily process. Even subtle deficiencies can lead to long-term health issues, so diets should be “complete and balanced” according to recognised standards.

Water

It sounds obvious, but hydration is often overlooked, especially for dogs on a predominantly dry food diet. Water supports every metabolic function, from regulating temperature to transporting nutrients and removing waste.

Life-stage nutrition

Just like us, dogs’ nutritional needs change as they move through life. The needs of a gangly, sharp-toothed puppy aren’t the same as the one that will keep a senior’s joints supple and mind sharp. Understanding these shifts and adjusting what you feed accordingly is one of the simplest but most powerful ways to protect your dog’s long-term health.

Puppies

Puppies pack a huge amount of development into their first year (or even longer for large breeds). Their bodies are busy building muscle, bone, and connective tissue, while their brains are absorbing and processing the world around them. That means they need:

• More protein than adult dogs, to support rapid muscle and tissue growth.
• Higher fat content for concentrated energy and for the fatty acids that feed brain and eye development. DHA, an omega-3 found in fish oils and certain algae, is especially important for learning and vision.
• Precise calcium and phosphorus ratios, which are critical for strong bones without risking growth plate problems, particularly in large-breed puppies.
• Multiple meals a day (usually three to four until six months of age) to keep up with their energy demands and avoid blood sugar dips.

Feeding the right balance now can set the stage for fewer joint issues, stronger immunity and even a longer lifespan.

Adult dogs 

Once fully grown, the focus shifts from building to maintaining. This is the longest phase of a dog’s life, and diet plays a key role in preventing the slow creep of weight gain, muscle loss, and inflammation. Adult dogs thrive on:

• Moderate but high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle mass.
• Healthy fats, including omega-3s for anti-inflammatory support and coat health.
• Controlled calorie intake, matched to activity levels, to avoid obesity (a major risk factor for joint disease, diabetes and reduced lifespan).
• Adequate fibre from whole food sources to keep digestion regular and the gut microbiome balanced.

For working or highly active dogs, nutrient and calorie needs will be higher, while more sedentary dogs may require leaner formulations.

Senior dogs 

Usually classed as ‘Senior’ from the age of just seven, older dogs often face a double challenge: slower metabolisms but higher nutritional needs for certain systems. Diet for this stage should aim to preserve mobility, maintain cognitive health and keep weight in check without underfeeding. Seniors often benefit from:

• Highly digestible proteins that are easy on ageing digestive systems while still supporting muscle retention.
• Joint-support nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3s from fish oil to reduce stiffness and inflammation.
• Antioxidants (vitamins C and E, beta-carotene) to combat oxidative stress linked to age-related decline.
• Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) from sources like coconut oil, which may support brain function in dogs showing early signs of cognitive change.
• Lower calorie density if mobility is reduced but without sacrificing nutrient density.

By adjusting diet to match the needs of each life stage rather than sticking with the same formula for years you’re not just keeping your dog well-fed; you’re actively influencing their health trajectory.

Popular dog diet types

Ask ten people in the dog park what they feed, and you’ll get ten different answers, often passionately defended. Some swear by the convenience of complete dry food, others won’t feed anything that hasn’t been freshly cooked in their own kitchen, while raw feeders talk about recreating the “ancestral diet.” The truth is, there’s no single perfect choice for every dog. The key is understanding what each approach offers, where it might fall short and how it could impact your own dog’s long-term health.

Dry food (complete dry diets)

Dry food (sometimes called kibble) has been the staple diet for many dogs for decades. It’s easy to store, lasts for months and if you choose a high-quality, complete formulation, it can provide a well-balanced diet in every scoop. Its crunchy texture can even help reduce plaque, although it’s not a substitute for brushing.

The downside? Dry food has very little moisture, so it’s important your dog always has fresh water available. It’s also a highly processed product, and while that isn’t inherently bad, it can reduce the bioavailability of some nutrients. The good news is that if you select a reputable brand and feed the right portions, complete dry food can support a healthy, active life for many years.

Wet food

For dogs who turn their noses up at dry food, wet food can be a game-changer. Its soft, aromatic texture is hard for most dogs to resist, and the higher moisture content is a real benefit for hydration,  especially for older dogs or those with dental issues.

It does have its trade-offs. Wet food tends to cost more per portion and it’s not as convenient to store once opened. There’s also a greater risk of tartar build-up without regular dental care. That said, many owners find a combination of wet and dry food strikes a nice balance between palatability, hydration and cost.

Raw diets

Raw feeding has grown rapidly in popularity, with advocates arguing that it’s the most natural way to nourish a dog. At its best, a raw diet delivers high-quality protein, plenty of fresh nutrients and a taste dogs love. It can lead to gleaming coats, lean muscle and great energy.

But raw feeding is not without risks. Bacterial contamination can be a concern for both pets and us, especially children and the nutritional balance has to be spot-on. It’s also worth remembering that dogs are a domesticated species with no directly analogous truly feral population with a "wild diet". Without expert formulation, deficiencies or excesses can creep in, sometimes with long-term consequences. Done well, raw diets can support excellent health; done badly, they can shorten a dog’s life.

Home-cooked diets

Cooking for your dog offers the ultimate control. You know exactly what’s going into the bowl, and you can tailor every ingredient to your dog’s preferences and health needs. Many dogs thrive on carefully prepared, home-cooked meals and owners often enjoy the process as part of their bond.

The challenge is ensuring nutritional balance. Dogs need more than meat and vegetables; they require precise levels of vitamins, minerals, fats and amino acids. That’s why a veterinary nutritionist’s guidance is crucial if you go down this route.

Mixed feeding

For many owners, the most practical and enjoyable approach is a mix perhaps a complete dry food base topped with fresh meat or vegetables, or alternating between wet and dry meals. This can deliver variety and enrichment while still ensuring nutritional balance.

The only caution is to introduce changes gradually, giving your dog’s digestive system time to adjust. Done thoughtfully, mixed feeding can combine the strengths of multiple diet types, keeping both taste buds and nutritional needs satisfied.

Table scraps and leftovers

Many of us are guilty of slipping a morsel from our plate to an expectant snout under the table. In fact, research suggests that around a third of dog owners regularly share their meals and in moderation, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. Some evidence even points to benefits for your dog’s gut microbiome when they’re exposed to a wider variety of fresh foods, including small amounts of what we eat.

The key is knowing what’s safe and how to offer it. A bite of roast chicken (without skin or bones), steamed vegetables, or plain rice can be a wholesome addition. Foods rich in natural fibre, antioxidants, or omega-3s can subtly boost health over time. But not everything on our plates is dog-friendly; onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, and many artificial sweeteners are toxic and fatty, salty, or heavily seasoned dishes can cause stomach upset or worse.

Portion control matters, too. What looks like “just a little bit” to us adds up fast, especially for smaller dogs and too many extras can tip the calorie balance into weight gain. The safest approach is to think of table scraps as occasional toppers, replacing a small portion of their regular meal rather than adding on top and to choose whole, simple foods without sauces or seasoning.

Handled thoughtfully, sharing a little of your dinner isn’t just about the food. It can be a moment of connection; a way to involve your dog in family life while quietly boosting their nutrient intake. In this way, table scraps move from being a guilty indulgence to a purposeful (and safe) part of your dog’s diet.

How to read a dog food label

Dog food packaging can feel like a foreign language, full of bold claims, fine print, and ingredients you’d struggle to pronounce. But once you know what to look for, you can quickly separate the genuinely good options from the marketing fluff.

Look for “complete” and “balanced”

This isn’t just sales jargon, in the UK, “complete” means the food contains all the nutrients a dog needs in the right proportions, as defined by organisations like FEDIAF (the European Pet Food Industry Federation). “Balanced” means those nutrients are provided in the correct ratios. If a food doesn’t say it’s complete, it should only be fed alongside other foods to make up the difference.

Check the protein source

The first ingredient should ideally be a clearly named animal protein, such as “chicken,” “beef,” or “salmon,” rather than vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal derivatives.” Good-quality protein is essential for muscle maintenance, immune health, and energy.

Understand meat meal and by-products

“Meat meal” isn’t necessarily bad, it’s a concentrated protein source made from rendered meat. The key is transparency: “chicken meal” tells you what you’re getting; “meat meal” could mean anything. Avoid generic terms where possible.

Watch out for filler overload

Grains like rice, oats, or barley can be part of a healthy diet, but if the ingredient list is dominated by fillers (especially those without much nutritional value), the food may be cutting corners on protein quality.

Keep an eye on fat and moisture content

These are usually listed in the “analytical constituents” section. Fat is an important energy source but too much can cause weight gain or pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. Dry foods will have low moisture (around 8–12%), wet foods much higher (often over 70%).

Look for named fats and oils

Good fats like salmon oil, chicken fat or flaxseed oil provide essential fatty acids for coat and skin health. Vague terms like “animal fat” are less informative and can hide lower-quality sources.

Opt for functional extras

Added vitamins, minerals, and natural supplements (like glucosamine, probiotics, or omega-3 oils) can be beneficial especially if they’re in meaningful amounts. If they’re buried at the end of the list after salt or preservatives, they may just be for marketing.

Be aware of marketing buzzwords

Terms like “natural,” “gourmet,” or “premium” aren’t regulated and don’t guarantee better nutrition. Always check the ingredient list and nutritional breakdown to see if the quality matches the claim.

If you know how to decode a label, you can shop with confidence whether you’re buying dry food from the supermarket, wet food from a pet shop, or researching raw and home-cooked recipes. The goal is simple: choose the food that gives your dog the best possible nutrition for their age, activity level and individual or breed-specific health needs.

Dog supplements and superfoods

Even the best diet sometimes needs a little extra help. Just as many people take supplements to support joint health, digestion, or immunity, dogs can benefit from targeted additions to their meals especially if they have specific needs or are entering a new life stage.

Popular options

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in oily fish such as salmon and herring, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that support joint health, heart function and a shiny coat. They’re also linked to improved cognitive function in older dogs.
• Probiotics and prebiotics: These help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a surprisingly large role in immunity, digestion and even mood. Prebiotics like pumpkin or kelp feed the beneficial bacteria, while probiotics introduce more of them.
• Glucosamine and chondroitin: Often sourced from shellfish or plant extracts, these support cartilage repair and joint lubrication, making them especially valuable for senior or large-breed dogs.
• Medicinal mushrooms: Varieties such as lion’s mane and reishi are being explored for their potential to support immune health, reduce inflammation and improve resilience to stress.
• Bone broth: Rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals, bone broth is a soothing, nutrient-dense addition for dogs recovering from illness or simply in need of a gentle health boost.
• Brewer’s yeast (with selenium): As well as supporting skin and coat health, brewer’s yeast naturally contains selenium, a trace mineral linked to reduced production of IGF-1 — a growth hormone associated with shorter lifespans in larger breeds. Lower IGF-1 levels may contribute to healthier ageing and increased longevity.

The role of superfoods

While “superfood” is more of a marketing term than a scientific one, it’s a handy shorthand for ingredients naturally rich in nutrients. Foods like broccoli (packed with antioxidants), pumpkin (high in fibre and beta-carotene), and kelp (a source of essential minerals) can elevate an already balanced diet.

Superfoods aren’t magic bullets, but as part of a thoughtful feeding plan, they can help protect against disease, reduce inflammation, and keep your dog feeling and looking their best.

It’s worth remembering that supplements like ours are designed to supplement, not replace, a healthy base diet. No amount of fish oil can undo the effects of poor-quality food. But when used wisely, supplements and superfoods can tip the balance towards better mobility, sharper cognition, and greater resilience for more healthy, happy years with your dog.

Transitioning diets safely

Changing your dog’s diet isn’t something to rush. Dogs thrive on routine, and their digestive systems can be surprisingly sensitive to sudden shifts. Switch too quickly and you risk upset stomachs, diarrhoea or even a refusal to eat.

A gradual transition gives your dog’s gut microbiome time to adapt to the new nutrients and textures. Most vets recommend making the switch over 7–10 days:

• Days 1–3: About 75% of the old food, 25% of the new food
• Days 4–6: 50% old, 50% new
• Days 7–9: 25% old, 75% new
• Day 10 onwards: 100% new food

This method works whether you’re switching between brands, changing from dry to wet, or introducing raw or home-cooked meals. For dogs with particularly sensitive stomachs, stretching the process over two weeks (or longer) can be helpful.

Pay attention to your dog’s cues during the transition. A slightly softer poo is normal at first but persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, or a sudden loss of appetite means it’s time to slow down or speak to your vet to rule out an underlying issue.

And don’t forget: changes to diet aren’t always about the food itself. Switching feeding times, bowl types, or even the location of their meals can throw some dogs off. Keeping as many other elements of mealtime routine the same will help them settle into their new menu with confidence.

What you put in your dog’s bowl is one of the most powerful tools you have for supporting their health and happiness. From choosing a diet that suits their life stage, to adding the right supplements and safely transitioning them onto new foods, our choices shape their energy levels, immune strength and long-term wellbeing.

Feeding well isn’t about finding the single “perfect” food but knowing your dog’s needs and giving them variety, balance and quality. Sometimes that means sticking with a tried-and-true dry or wet food; other times it might mean introducing fresh foods, carefully chosen table scraps or functional extras like omega-3s, probiotics and superfoods.

The goal is the same for every dog, from bouncy puppies to slowing down seniors: more healthy years together, filled with the things you both love doing. When you feed with both your heart and your head you’re fuelling them for a healthier, happier life.

Our supplements are all-natural and made from whole food ingredients. Find out more here.