Providing high-quality nutrition for dogs is crucial, with an emphasis on healthy, digestible ingredients. A comprehensive evaluation by ÖKO-TEST reviewed 25 dry dog foods, revealing that six earned ‘very good’ ratings. The top choice, 4Paws Sunny Hills Premium Softbrocken Chicken, had no significant harmful substances, though traces of heavy metals were found. Some products failed to meet standards, with issues in nutrient levels. The testing process included detailed analysis against FEDIAF guidelines, ensuring nutritional adequacy and safety.
When it comes to your beloved canine companion, providing them with top-notch nourishment is essential. The ideal dog food should be healthy, easily digestible, and devoid of harmful substances. Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the nutritional profile of the food.
A specialist from a university animal nutrition institute has meticulously analyzed various data points, including protein, vitamins, minerals, and more. In a comprehensive evaluation by ÖKO-TEST, a total of 25 dry dog foods for adults were tested, including two organic options, for the November 2024 issue.
Important Note: During the selection process, testers leaned towards products labeled as vegan or vegetarian. In the absence of plant-based options, they opted for those flavored with chicken or poultry. Furthermore, the experts favored traditional formulas over grain-free varieties and preferred standard over premium options whenever feasible. All tested products are classified as complete food, which means they are designed to fulfill a dog’s energy and nutritional requirements without the need for additional food.
For an in-depth review of the test results, a fee-based access is available through ÖKO-TEST.
Top Dry Dog Foods: The Champions of the Test
Out of the tested products, six dry dog foods received a ‘very good’ rating, while eleven achieved a ‘good’ score, including the two organic varieties. Four received a ‘satisfactory’ rating, and one barely passed with an ‘adequate’ score.
The top performers excel in nutritional value, with no significant concerns regarding harmful substances. However, some nutrient levels were found to slightly differ from the stated amounts. It is worth noting that traces of heavy metals were detected across all tested products.
Besides the minor presence of heavy metals, one product stood out: the 4Paws Sunny Hills Premium Softbrocken Chicken emerged as the best food in the test. This winner is available at various retailers, including Budni and Edeka.
Other high-performing options can be found at Kaufland, Lidl, Rewe, Penny, and Zoo Royal.
Scrutinizing Dog Food Quality
Unfortunately, three foods did not meet the standards, receiving an ‘insufficient’ rating (grade 6). Two of these had excessively high selenium levels, while one exceeded the allowable zinc limit. In two instances, the actual vitamin D3 content differed significantly from what was declared. The same discrepancy was found regarding crude fat content in two products.
One of the underperformers belongs to Mars. The company has indicated that adjustments have been made to the recipe and packaging. The updated product can be identified by its new design and EAN 5900951315930, which has been on shelves since April. This pertains to the Frolic Complete, featuring poultry, vegetables, and rice. The original packaging was red, adorned with colorful lettering, and featured a Dalmatian on the right side. The new design has repositioned the Dalmatian to the left-center.
Understanding the Dry Food Testing Process at ÖKO-TEST
A specialized laboratory conducted a thorough analysis of the dog food’s composition, measuring a range of minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamin D₃. They also checked for heavy metal contamination, including lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury, finding no significant amounts.
An expert from a university animal nutrition institute evaluated the comprehensive data. They assessed whether the food adequately supplies essential nutrients without exceeding safe levels. This evaluation involved comparing laboratory results against the minimum and maximum requirements established by the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). The expert also ensured compliance with the legally mandated maximum levels and consulted scientific literature for potential risks associated with nutrient overdoses or deficiencies. Furthermore, they reviewed whether the feeding guidelines on the packaging align with FEDIAF recommendations, ensuring that the suggested portions are neither excessive nor insufficient.
Additionally, the nutrient levels determined in the laboratory were compared to the amounts stated on the packaging to check for compliance with legal tolerance limits. ÖKO-TEST also assessed the environmental claims made on the packaging, ensuring that all essential information regarding the food’s use is provided in accordance with FEDIAF guidelines.