Buying or adopting a dog is a big commitment, both in terms of time and money. You should ensure you can commit to your new pet before you get one, as dogs deserve a long healthy life with plenty of time spent on them in order to thrive. However, you shouldn’t have to compromise on your dog’s food if you are on a budget. There are plenty of affordable dry dog food options that will still ensure that you dog gets the relevant nutrients, minerals and vitamins that they need to live a healthy life.
In our comprehensive guide, we will discuss how to feed your dog tasty and nutritious dry dog food on a budget, as well as the most affordable dry dog food brands to choose from. We will also look at the various, best dog food available for different breeds and sizes, and aim to ease your fears about dry dog food being both healthy and affordable.
Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean there aren’t cheap dog food options out there perfect for your pooch
Browse our full collection of affordable dry dog food brands on our website
Dogs with certain needs, as well as their size, may need a different diet to other dogs
Cheaper dog food options aren’t always a bad choice for your dog; there are plenty of affordable options full of nutrients
Browse our full collection here
How Do I Feed my Dog Good Dry Food on a Budget?
Cheaper dog food can be a good choice for your dog if you are on a budget, but it can depend on how cheap you go. If you look only for price and not for substance or ingredients, you can’t be entirely sure what you are feeding your dog. A lot of cheap dry dog food contains mainly filler ingredients, providing your dog with an unhealthy diet which can lead to health issues and trips to the vet. So, in the long run, cheaper dog food might actually end up costing you more.
However, you don’t have to pay through the nose to give your pet dry dog food that is both tasty and healthy. As well as paying attention to the price tag, take a look at the ingredients and serving guidelines before purchasing. Meat and protein should make up around 50% of your dog’s diet, with vegetables and assorted vitamins and minerals. Nourish Rite provide various grain free dry dog food options, available in different flavours for dogs of all sizes and ages. At Fetch, our Nourish Rite collection is reasonably priced and available in various sizes to suit your budget and preferences. You can view our full Nourish Rite collection here.
To browse our dry dog food selection, you can visit us here.
What are the Most Affordable Dog Food Brands?
If you want to provide your dog with a healthy, balanced diet without breaking the bank, here are our recommended suggestions:
- Nourish Rite Premium: as previously mentioned, Nourish Rite Premium is a great affordable dog food choice with a range of flavours to choose from. Nourish Rite dry dog food is hypoallergenic and has a higher meat content, perfect for dogs with sensitive skin and stomachs. No matter whether you have a puppy or senior dog, small or large, Nourish Rite has the perfect tailored dog food choice for you. Nourish Rite Premium is also cheaper per kilo when compared to their grain-free option.
- Whistlers: High in protein and packed with flavour, our Whistlers stock contains chicken and rice and beef, veg and oats, perfect for your dog’s taste buds. Whistlers also contains natural antioxidants and Omega 3 fatty acids from salmon oil, and is a great, affordable choice.
- Sana: an air dried option, Sana is minimally processed and packed tightly with various vitamins and minerals, and is the cheapest of the air dried food we stock. It also contains no filler ingredients, so you can rest assured that your dog is receiving the very best diet. It has all the benefits of raw dog food without the mess, promoting health and vitality.
- Canagan: Our Canagan stock is available in 2kg, 6kg and 12kg sizes, allowing you to choose the best option for your dog and their diet. Canagan contains 50% protein and no filler ingredients, and is suitable for both puppies and adults.
- Second to Whistlers, DARF Cold Pressed Regular 20kg is our most cost-effective dog food and works out at the lowest cost per kilo (3.75 per kg)
Our graph shows the cost per kilo for different brands. Please note that some prices may vary depending on the flavour and type of food, such as senior, puppy or light. For instance, the Canagan results are based on their dental option only. Please check out website for full prices.
Affordable Dog Food by Breed and Age
Not all dogs will require the same type and amount of food. Your dog’s breed and age will all play a role in what food you should buy, but fear not, there are affordable options out there. Adult dogs can eat just about anything, so long as they have no allergies or in tolerances, and their diet is balanced for a healthy lifestyle. Senior dogs may need supplements for their joints; Nourish Rite provide a light option for senior dogs, flavoured with trout and salmon, and complete with minerals for joint support.
Smaller breeds tend to need smaller portions than larger dogs due to their size; both Nourish Rite and Canagan provide dog food for smaller breeds and puppies by adding smaller kibble to their bags, making it easier for little dogs to digest.
Unsure of what affordable dry dog food is best for your pooch? Request a wellbeing consultation with us today.
Can Dog Food Be Healthy and Affordable?
Dry dog food can certainly be both healthy and affordable, but it is important to ensure that particular dog food choices are the best for your pooch. Things to look out for include:
- Ingredient Quality: Check for high-quality protein sources (like chicken, beef, or fish) as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with fillers like corn, soy, or by-products. Avoid food that uses ingredients such as “meat meal” or unspecified “meat ingredients”.
- Price per Serving: Calculate the cost per serving, not just the overall price, to determine affordability over time.
- Brand Reputation: Research the brand’s history, recalls, and customer reviews to ensure reliability and safety.
- Specific Needs: Consider any specific dietary needs or allergies your dog might have and choose a food that caters to these requirements.
- Life Stage and Breed: Select a formula appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and breed.
- Natural Preservatives: Opt for foods preserved with natural substances like vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) instead of chemical preservatives.
- Avoid Artificial Additives: Look for products free from artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives.
- Grain vs. Grain-Free: Decide whether you want grain-free options, based on your dog's dietary needs and potential allergies.
- Omega Fatty Acids: Check for the presence of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
Affordable Dog Food at Fetch
We have a wide range of affordable dog food brands here at Fetch perfect for all kinds of dogs. From fussy eaters to those with intolerances, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in our vast dry dog food collection.
To find out more, or to request a wellbeing consultation, you can visit us here.
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Premium Dry Dog Food | Choosing the Best Dry Dog Food for your Pooch