Dog food. How do you choose the best?

The dog's diet

Whether dry, wet, bought ready-made or prepared yourself or even home-cooked

Whether dry, wet, bought ready-made or made yourself or even cooked yourself. Choosing the right dog food is a huge challenge for us as owners. We all love our dogs and are responsible for ensuring that they don't lack anything. Every dog is different. And the right food should be just as individual.

Extruded dry food

Most dry foods available on the market are made using the extrusion process. All ingredients are chopped up and mixed into a paste using steam. Steam and frictional forces create temperatures of up to 200°C, which cooks the food mass. The mass is pressed into the desired chunk shape in a special device (the extruder) under high pressure and high temperatures.

Finally, water is removed from the croquettes using heat. The result is ready-made dry food. In this manufacturing process, the high pressure and heat kill many of the natural vitamins and they have to be artificially added afterwards so that the food is a complete feed. The food also swells up significantly in the stomach.

Cold-pressed dry food

As with the extrusion process, the raw materials are mixed together and then pressed through a shaping template using pressure. This process does not use steam, so that the temperatures during production only reach around 40°C to 80°C. The food is therefore not cooked, but "cold-pressed", which means that a larger proportion of nutrients is retained and artificial addition is not necessary. The food does not swell up, but only disintegrates in the dog's stomach.

The long-running hit from cdVet: Fit-CROCK! Whether as Classic, Active or puppy food - all varieties are cold-pressed and free from artificial additives or preservatives.

Check out our additional information in our other articles.

Wet food (canned)

The raw materials are "boiled down" and heated to at least 138°C for a long time. This kills many of the natural nutrients and also damages the vital essential fatty acids in their function. In most cases, these are then added artificially. There are now also canned foods that are produced more gently. One advantage is the much higher liquid content, which plays a major role in animals that do not naturally take in enough water.

Pure meat cans

These cans contain pure meat that has been heated for a short time to make it last longer. As with BARF, vegetables, herbs and possibly carbohydrates must be added to ensure a balanced meal. Pure meat cans can be an alternative to BARF if raw meat is not desired. Just like with canned food, the liquid content in the food is significantly higher than with dry food.

Raw feeding (BARF)

BARF is the type of feeding that comes closest to the original diet of our dogs (namely that of the wolf). However, variety is important here. Deficiencies must be prevented through balance and variety. When BARFing, the individual food components are given raw.

Cooking

Cooking is comparable to wet feeding from cans. However, you are practically creating your own "canned food". At the same time, you have more freedom in choosing the ingredients. The time required is significantly higher here and the balance is also your own responsibility. The nutrients that are killed during cooking must then be replenished.

"All-purpose feeding"

This changes things up. Sometimes there is BARF, sometimes a can and if you are in a hurry, sometimes some dry food. This type of diet offers variety, but is not suitable for all dogs. Sensitive digestive systems can be overwhelmed by the different types and digestibility and digestive disorders can occur.

“The leftovers” diet

The dog gets what is left over from the owner’s dinner. Sometimes it’s a bit of stew, sometimes a bit of fish. Now and then maybe just whatever the fridge has to offer. The negative thing here is that the food we eat is not always suitable for dogs. Particularly sensitive dogs cannot digest everything equally well. You should also pay attention to the seasoning of the dishes. These can lead to stomach ache and digestive problems in the dog's stomach.

In order to remain balanced with this feeding option, cdVet has developed the Fit-Barf Safe complete.

Fit-BARF Bio-Amaranth flakes 400g

Feed material for dogsTo supplement the daily ration at raw feeding.Amaranth is one of the oldest agricultural crops of humankind.It is not among the sweet grasses, such as normal grain varieties.It is one of the fox tail plants.This makes it to one of the pseudo-cereals.Amaranth is gluten-free and thus an excellent alternative for dogs who are fed grain free.- easily digestible- As an addition to fresh or canned meatComposition: 100% Bio- Amaranth flakes inspection DE-ÖKO-001 EU AgricultureAnalytical constituents: Crude protein 13.5%, crude fiber 2.5%Feeding recommendation: Pour the Fit-Barf Bio- Amaranth flakes with hot water, let it swell for at least 15 minutes and then feed with fresh or canned meat.Up to 10% of the total amount of feed as soaked flake.For soaking, the ratio 1 part flakes and at least 2 parts water is recommended.From 10g dry flake about 30g ready to eat flake.

Content: 0.4 Kilogramm (€27.38* / 1 Kilogramm)

€10.95*

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Fit-BARF BM-Yeast 600 g

Complementary feed for dogs and cats.For the appropriate supply at raw feedingBM-yeast (brewer´s yeast bounded on malt rootlets) Brewer´s yeast contains biotin, folic acids, ferrous, zinc and trace elements which has a positive influence on the condition and resistence of skin and hair. Also the ability for regeneration of the single cells can be affected diet-related. Malt rootlets distinguish themselves by her content of slightly digestible carbohydrates, crude fiber and crude protein. Through their high content of crude fiber the seedling have a good dietary value.Composition: Malt rootlets, brewer´s yeast.Analytical constituents : Crude protein 30,0%, crude fat 2,0%, crude fiber 9,0%, crude ash 7,0%.Feeding recommendation: Daily cats/small dogs 1 measuring spoon, medium dogs 2 measuring spoons, large dogs 3 measuring spoons. 1 measuring spoon corresponds to about approx. 1,2g.

Content: 0.6 Kilogramm (€18.25* / 1 Kilogramm)

€10.95*

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Fit-BARF Bovine Fat 500 ml

Feed material for dogs and catsFor the appropriate supply at raw feedingThe proportion of animal fat should be 15-25% in the diet of the dog and the cat should be at about 10%. If your dog or cat is fed with lean meat, it uses proteins to produce energy. In this case, wastes will be generated that need to be digested by liver and kidneys. The strain on the metabolism increases. On the long term, this can lead to congestions of the excretory organs. In case of dogs or cats that are poorly using the feed or very underweight, special attention should be paid to the fat content of the meat.Composition: 100% pure bovine fat.Analytical constituents: 100% crude fat.Feeding recommendation: cats 2-5 g, small dogs approx. 10 g, medium-sized dogs approx. 10-40 g, large dogs approx. 40-80 g.Depending on activity and energy needs feeding can be adjusted.If fat is being fed for the first time, please note that the addition must be slowly increased to the desired amount. The cat or dog should be given enough time for this change and should be particularly monitored during this time. Only then you can decide, whether your pet can cope with the amount of fat being fed. It is important to consider each animal as an individual.

Content: 0.5 Liter (€29.90* / 1 Liter)

€14.95*

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Fit-BARF Brewers‘ Yeast 200 g

Feed material for dogs and catsFor the demand-oriented supply in raw feeding, powderBrewers‘ yeast, as the most balanced, natural source of vitamin B, whose vitamins are present in a broken down state and can be absorbed directly, is a valuable addition to the daily diet. In addition, brewers‘ yeast has a positive effect on the intestinal flora. Its content of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, and manganese, as well as the trace elements cobalt, molybdenum, chromium, and selenium, provide an important contribution to demand-oriented nutrition.Composition: 100% brewers‘ yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)Analytical constituents: crude protein 46%, moisture 6%Feeding recommendation: 1 g/10 kg body weight daily. 1 half tsp. corresponds to approx. ca. 1.5 g.

Content: 0.2 Kilogramm (€54.75* / 1 Kilogramm)

€10.95*

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Fit-BARF CerealMix 450 g

Complementary (flakes) feed for dogsTo supplement the daily ration when feeding raw or cooked meatIN BRIEF: Can my dog eat cereals? Yes, dogs are allowed to eat cereal! Most dogs find cereals super tasty.Fit-BARF CerealMix provides a healthy variety in your dog‘s bowl. It provides your dog with fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Dietary fiber aids digestion and can prevent constipation. rich in dietary fibersatiatingsuitable for dogs of all ages (young, adult, senior) and breedsComposition: oat flakes, corn flakes, millet flakes, puffed riceAnalystical constituents: crude protein 9.3%, crude fat 5.2%, crude fiber 2.1%, crude ash 1.1%Feeding recommendation: Up to 10% of the total feed quantity as soaked flakes. Soak cereal flakes with hot water (1 part flakes, 4 parts water) for approx. 30-60 min. and then mix into the feed. 10 g dry flakes are equivalent to approx. 30 g soaked flakes.

Content: 0.45 Kilogramm (€22.11* / 1 Kilogramm)

€9.95*

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Fit-BARF Cod Liver Oil 100 ml

Feed material for dogs and catsNatural source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin DFit-BARF Cod Liver Oil is a high-value supplier for omega-3-fatty acids and vitamin D. Omega-3-fatty acid (for example linolenic acid) are polyunsaturated fatty acids, which cannot be created itselves by the body. Thus they are called essential and must be fed to the organism with the nutrition. Vitamin D is important for the builing of the bones and the regulation of the calcium balance.Composition: 100% Cod liver oil.Feeding recommendation: 1-2 x per week. Small dogs, cats: 0,5 tsp. Midsize dogs: 1 tsp. Large dogs: 1.5 tsp. For daily feeding, we recommend a period of 4-6 weeks.After opening store in cool and dark place and use it within 6 weeks!

Content: 0.1 Liter (€109.50* / 1 Liter)

€10.95*

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Fit-BARF Eggshell Powder 300 g

Feed material for dogs and catsNatural source of calcium for the demand-oriented supply when feeding raw meat, powderCalcium intake, in particular, plays a major role in the feeding of raw meat. This can only be achieved by feeding sufficient bone. Not every dog can or wants to eat bones, and in the case of cats, feeding whole prey (mice or chicks) is not always problem-free either.Fit-BARF Eggshell Powder is a readily utilizable animal source of calcium for daily feeding. It provides balance when feeding raw meat by balancing the high phosphorus content of the meat with its natural calcium content. Due to the fine degree of grinding, the product has a high bioavailability.neutralization of phosphorus excess with predominant meat feedingfor bone-free feedingas an extra source of calcium in times of increased demand (growth, gestation, lactation)Expert tip: For a safe supply of all important micronutrients, such as minerals, trace elements, and vitamins, we recommend feeding Fit-BARF Mineral.Composition: eggshell powder 100%Analytical constituents: crude ash 95.9%, calcium 37.1%Feeding recommendation: Mix daily into the feed. Dogs: 1.5 g/10 kg body weight. Cats: 0.75 g/5 kg body weight. 1 quarter tsp. corresponds to approx. 1.5.1 g eggshell powder contains approx. 370 mg calcium. The daily requirement of calcium is about 50-90 mg Ca/kg body weight. Gestating and lactating bitches as well as growing puppies need up to 180 mg Ca/kg body weight. If you also feed bones, we recommend reducing the amount.

Content: 0.3 Kilogramm (€36.50* / 1 Kilogramm)

€10.95*

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Fit-BARF Feeding Oil 100 ml

Complementary feed for dogs and catsFit-Barf Feeding Oil is a purely natural basic oil and is generally intended as optimal energy carrier.Fit-BARF Feeding Oil is a mixture of high-grated cold-pressed vegetable oils. Cold-pressed, food-grade linseed oil forms the basis of this purely natural feeding oil. This admixed functional oils (evening primrose oil, wheat germ oil, pumpkin seed oil and argan oil) ensures the optimal, well-balanced maintenance with essential fatty acids. Through this combination of pure naturally ingredients Fit-BARF Feeding Oil is a high-concentrated energy source and similarly an origin of significant vital substances of selected oils in one product.Composition:Linseed oil, evening primrose oil, wheat germ oil, pumpkin seed oil, argan oil.Analytical constituents: Crude protein 0.1%, crude fat 99.6%, crude fiber 0.1%, crude ash 0.2.Feeding recommendation: Daily small dogs and cats 0.5 teaspoon, medium dogs 1 teaspoon, large dogs 1.5 teaspoons.After opening, keep cool and dark and use within 6 weeks!

Content: 0.1 Liter (€129.50* / 1 Liter)

€12.95*

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Fit-BARF Fruit 100 g

Complementary feed for dogs and catsFor supplementation of the daily ration with fruit, powderFit-BARF Fruit is made from selected ingredients to enable a well-balanced nourishment with feeding. It complements the requirement of vitamins (Niacin, Riboflavine (B2), folic acids, E, A, K, C), flavonoids (polyphenols) as well as fiber.Fit-BARF Fruit is free of grain and a healthy alternative to vegetables. It does not bring only variety, but also a balance in the BARF feeding plan. In combination with Fit-BARF MicroMineral, the basis is thus laid for healthy raw feeding.Composition: aronia pomace, apple pomace 20.5%, strawberry pomace, black currant pomace, rose hip husks, malt rootlets, brewers‘ yeastAnalytical constituents and levels: crude ash 3.4%, crude protein 11.0%, crude fat 6.1%, crude fiber 25.9%, calcium 0.33%, phosphorus 0.26%Feeding recommendation: Give 4 g/10 kg body weight 1-2 x a week onto the feed. 1 tsp. corresponds to approx. 2.4 g.

Content: 0.1 Kilogramm (€109.50* / 1 Kilogramm)

€10.95*

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Fit-BARF Greenshell Mussel 35 g

Feed material for dogs and catsNatural source for taurine and glycosaminoglycans - for the demand-oriented provision at feeding with raw meat, powderThe naturally very high taurine content of the greenshell mussel is a very pleasing aspect for cat owners. Cats in particular depend on a sufficient supply of this organic acid in their food, as they cannot produce taurine themselves and lose a large part of it through their excretions. Taurine is essential for cats. A deficiency can lead to severe impairments and physical damage.Fit-BARF Greenshell Mussel consists of New Zealand greenshell mussel powder (Perna canaliculus, freeze-dried, non-defatted mussel meat). In addition, the greenshell mussel provides important components of the body‘s own mucous membrane as a building block and can thus have a supportive effect on the functionality and elasticity of the urinary bladder and all other mucous membranes. Occasionally fed, the trace elements and vitamins contained in the greenshell mussel can have a positive effect on vitality, metabolism, nutritional imbalances and on stressed skin.Expert tip: Does your dog suffer from joint problems? Then take a look at ArthroGreen Classic. The herbal composition, proven for years, supports your beloved four-legged friend on his daily tours.Growing puppy? Here ArthroGreen Junior offers the nutrients for a safe step into the big, wide world.Composition: New Zealand greenshell mussel powder (Perna canaliculus, freeze-dried, non-defatted mussel meat) 100%Analytical constituents: crude protein 54,1%, crude fat 10,3%Feeding recommendation: Add daily to the feed. Cats: 0.5 g/5 kg body weight. Dogs: 0.5 g/10 kg body weight. 1 half tsp. corresponds to ca. 1.5 g.

Content: 0.035 Kilogramm (€455.71* / 1 Kilogramm)

€15.95*

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