Dog kibble is the main food source for many canines. For puppies, adult dogs, or elderly dogs, they are designed to meet the needs of each animal. Special versions are available for sterilized or ill animals.
Dog kibble varies according to the age of the animals they are intended for.
- Puppy or junior models are specifically formulated for puppies. They optimize the balanced growth of young dogs. Heavily supplemented with calcium, these puppy foods prevent growth delays.
- Products intended for adult dogs are designed to provide them with the necessary calories for their daily activities. The choice, therefore, depends on each animal's habits.
- Versions for elderly dogs are enriched with vitamins and minerals to help maintain the quality of their coat. They also help combat joint pain.
Some foods are for dogs on special diets.
- Products for neutered dogs or spayed females are lower in calories to prevent overweight. Indeed, the energy needs of sterilized animals decrease by 20% to 30%.
- Gluten-free kibble is available for dogs allergic to grains. They are made from proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
- Hypoallergenic foods are also developed for atopic dogs. Their recipe is free from any ingredients that could cause allergic reactions, including beef meat or fat and grains.
- Certain kibbles are intended for sick animals. Low-fat foods are available for dogs suffering from heart failure, while reduced-sugar versions are specially designed for diabetics.
The quality of dog kibble is measured by their ingredients:
- they must be specified on the label;
- they are listed in order of predominance;
- the percentage of proteins should be high;
- the percentage of grains should be limited;
- the amount of animal meal should also be limited;
- the ash content should be around 8%;
- supplements of vitamins and minerals are desirable.
Thus, the choice of dog kibble depends on the animal's age, caloric needs, and health condition. Moreover, for quality products, the ingredients used and their quantities are specified precisely. They are often more expensive due to the high cost of the ingredients.
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