Choosing the right food is an important part of supporting your dog’s health and wellbeing. The most suitable option depends on your dog’s age, size, activity level, body condition and individual nutritional requirements.
Rather than choosing a product based on price or ingredients alone, consider whether it provides complete nutrition and is appropriate for your dog’s life stage and daily routine.
Begin with life stage
- Puppies need complete growth nutrition. Large-breed puppies may require formulas designed to support steady development.
- Adult dogs need maintenance nutrition matched to their activity level and body condition.
- Senior dogs may benefit from recipes that support their changing energy, digestion and mobility needs.
Consider size and lifestyle
Small dogs may prefer smaller kibble and energy-dense portions. Large dogs may need appropriately sized kibble and carefully controlled nutrition during growth.
A highly active dog may require more energy than a dog with a quiet indoor lifestyle, even when both dogs weigh the same.
Choose a suitable feeding format
| Format | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Dry food | Convenient, measurable and easy to store | Fresh water must always be available |
| Wet food | Provides additional moisture and strong flavour | Opened food requires prompt refrigeration |
| Mixed feeding | Offers variety and convenience | Both portions must be adjusted to avoid overfeeding |
| Veterinary diet | Designed for specific diagnosed nutritional needs | Should be used under veterinary guidance |
Dog food options to explore
These products represent different life stages and feeding formats. Always check the product label and feeding guide before making a final choice.
Arden Grange Puppy with Chicken and Rice
Complete dry food developed for small and medium-breed puppies and adolescent dogs.
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Harringtons Adult Lamb and Rice
Complete dry food suitable for adult dogs, with portions adjusted for weight and activity.
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ZIWI Peak Steam and Dried Beef Recipe
A nutrient-dense dry feeding option. Follow the product feeding guide when calculating portions.
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Applaws Chicken in Broth Taste Topper
Complementary food that can add flavour, texture and moisture to a suitable complete diet.
View productCheck the label for useful information
- The species and life stage the food is designed for
- Whether the product is complete or complementary
- The recommended feeding guide
- The guaranteed or typical nutritional analysis
- Ingredients listed in descending order by weight
- Manufacturer or distributor contact information
- Storage instructions and expiry information
Look beyond the ingredient list
Ingredient lists identify what is used and list ingredients by weight, but they do not show the full quality of the formulation, digestibility or manufacturer expertise.
Consider the company’s quality-control practices, nutritional knowledge and ability to provide additional product and nutrient information.
Monitor how your dog responds
- Stable and healthy body weight
- Appropriate energy for their lifestyle
- Comfortable digestion and regular stools
- Healthy skin and coat
- Normal appetite
- No recurring vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained itching
Persistent symptoms or unexpected weight changes should be discussed with a veterinarian rather than managed through repeated food changes.
Transition gradually
Introduce a new food gradually according to the manufacturer’s guidance. A slower transition may be needed for dogs with sensitive digestion.
If vomiting, diarrhoea or appetite loss continues, stop the transition and contact your veterinarian.
Shop dog food at Pet’s Delight
Explore puppy, adult, senior, wet, dry and specialised dog food at Pet’s Delight. Use the website filters to narrow your selection by life stage, food type and your dog’s individual needs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best dog food?
The best option is one that provides complete nutrition and suits your dog’s age, size, activity level, body condition and health.
Is wet or dry food better?
Both formats can provide suitable nutrition. Choose according to your dog’s needs, preferences and your feeding routine.
Should I choose food based on the first ingredient?
No single ingredient can explain the overall quality or suitability of a complete formula.
When should I ask a veterinarian?
Seek veterinary advice for diagnosed conditions, persistent digestive or skin problems, appetite changes or unexpected weight gain or loss.
