What type of dog kibble should you choose?

Just like us humans, manufacturers have ventured into producing premium food for our canine companions, intended to be better for their health.

A Brief History of the Biscuit

While the history of kibble dates back to the 19th century, its modern form conquered America in the 1950s before arriving in Europe. Created—according to industry leaders—to make life easier for pet owners, kibble has faced significant criticism since the 1980s, particularly regarding food quality and the use of chemical preservatives.
Since then, manufacturers have been required to list the ingredients of kibble on their packaging.

What are the key ingredients?

At the turn of the 2000s, the dry pet food industry began introducing what are known as “premium” kibble to the market. Compared to standard varieties, their advantages include higher-quality meats and ingredients with superior traceability. Some brands have even gone as far as eliminating preservatives and additives, such as potato starch, which is sometimes used as a binding agent in certain kibble formulations.
By removing these ingredients and refining the recipes, this premium kibble serves as a superior source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats for our dogs.

Variants and Manufacturing

First, a choice must be made between dry and wet food (also known as canned food). While the premium nutritional characteristics mentioned above remain the same for both types, wet food is often more palatable for dogs and helps them stay well-hydrated. Conversely, dry kibble has a longer shelf life and is more convenient for travel.
However, there is a significant disparity in the production of dog kibble (classic and premium). It is worth noting that kibble from major brands is produced by subcontractors, who must adhere to the specific recipes provided by their clients.
Premium ranges do not all share the same ingredients; some brands focus specifically on producing grain-free kibble, a trend that has gained popularity in recent years, while others prioritize ingredient sourcing and balanced recipes.

Therefore, you must be very careful when purchasing kibble, making sure to carefully review the nutritional information on the packaging and ensuring that your dog can tolerate it before making a final choice.

What constitutes a high-quality dog food formula?

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change significantly. A senior dog’s diet should be lower in fat and higher in protein, with a rebalanced nutritional profile designed to ensure many more healthy, happy years. Regardless of your pet’s age, however, their diet should always include the following elements:

• High-quality protein intake.
• A low fat content.
• Easily absorbable carbohydrates.
• Minerals to strengthen joints.
• Vitamins C and E to boost your immune system.