Affordable kibble doesn't require a luxury price tag
In a recent issue of its magazine (8/2025), the Consumer Foundation released a report on the quality of dry dog foods available in the market. The research focused on 24 complete dry dog food products, evaluating factors such as nutritional content, feeding recommendations, and the presence of harmful substances or unwanted ingredients.
One standout finding was the "Sunny Hills" brand by Edeka's "4Paws" line, which was the only dry dog food rated "very good" in the report, scoring 1.3. A daily ration for a medium-sized dog costs 0.70 euros.
Not all high-quality dry dog foods are expensive, as demonstrated by "Pablo Kraft Menu" from Netto Marken-Discount, which was rated "good" and costs 0.25 euros per day for a medium-sized dog.
However, the report highlighted some concerns about the variability in recipes and marketing claims for "sensitive food". The term does not have a legal definition or official guidelines, and some tested dry dog foods were criticized for lacking nutrients. Sugar, when present in dog food, can give the food an appealing brown colour, but its long-term effects are not entirely harmless.
It's important to note that the report does not specify which herbs and spices like rosemary, nettle, and ginger are unsuitable for every dog. If a dog has intolerances, digestive problems, or other illnesses, it's better to choose a diet food, which must be labelled as such.
The report also shed light on the importance of feeding recommendations, which are crucial for preventing overweight or underweight in pets. Some of the tested dry dog foods received criticism for inadequate feeding recommendations.
While the report provides valuable insights into the quality of dry dog foods, it does not directly provide a list of complete dry dog foods rated as "very good" and "good" by the Consumer Foundation, nor does it specify the prices for a medium-sized dog's daily ration from that source. For precise Consumer Foundation rated dry dog foods and prices for medium dogs, I recommend consulting the official Consumer Foundation website or pet food rating sites like Dog Food Advisor for their latest lists and feeding cost calculators.
In conclusion, the Consumer Foundation report offers a comprehensive overview of the current dry dog food market, highlighting the importance of making informed choices when selecting food for our pets. By choosing high-quality, nutritious, and appropriately priced dry dog food, we can ensure our pets remain healthy and happy.
The Consumer Foundation's report also suggested that pet owners might consider expanding their criteria beyond just dry dog foods, possibly incorporating 'home-and-garden' items that cater to pets' lifestyle needs. For instance, plants from reliable brands, such as catnip from 'Sunny Hills', could provide a natural, safe outlet for pets' behavior.
Additionally, homeowners might consider renovating certain areas of their homes to better accommodate their pets. For example, a well-designed 'lifestyle' space, possibly equipped with portable pet beds, could offer pets a comfortable area to relax and unwind, promoting their overall well-being and happiness.
