Chapter 4: Reading labels and guaranteed analysis

The guaranteed analysis lists protein, fat, fibre and moisture as minimums or maximums, not what your dog actually digests. Compare foods on a dry matter basis, since a wet food at 78 percent moisture looks lower in protein than it really is. Look for a named meat or meat meal near the top of the ingredient list rather than vague terms like animal by-products.

When you switch brands, transition over seven to ten days and watch stool quality, coat shine and energy. Keep the bag until it is finished so you can check the batch and expiry date if anything seems off.