Selecting the right dry food for your adult dog is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet parent. Adult dogs have specific nutritional requirements that differ from those of puppies and senior dogs. Whether you're feeding a working dog, a couch-loving lap dog, or something in between, the right dry dog food can support long-term health, energy levels, and even mood.
In this guide, we will break down the key factors to consider when choosing dry dog food, explain how to tailor nutrition based on your dog’s breed and size, and explore top-rated dry foods available here at Fetch.
- What Makes an Adult Dry Dog Food Brand Stand Out?
Here’s what to look for when choosing dry adult dog food
- What is the Difference Between Puppy and Adult Food?
Discover the key differences between specialist puppy food and adult food
- What Key Ingredients do Adult Dogs Require?
When choosing dry dog food, consider brands with these key ingredients
- Should Small Breeds Be Fed Differently to Large Breeds?
Small and large breeds have different nutritional needs which should be adhered to
- Dry Adult Dog Food at Fetch
Here’s how we can assist
What Makes an Adult Dry Dog Food Brand Stand Out?
Not all dog food is created equal. Some brands go the extra mile to create thoughtfully crafted recipes using high-quality ingredients, rigorous safety standards, and tailored formulas.
Key Qualities of Top Dog Food Brands:
- Named Protein Sources: Look for real meat like chicken, lamb, or salmon as the first ingredient, not ambiguous “meat meal” or “animal derivatives.”
- Transparent Labelling: Good brands clearly list their ingredients and avoid vague terms.
- Free from Fillers: Avoid foods bulked out with corn, wheat, soy, or artificial colours and preservatives.
- Tailored Nutrition: Premium brands cater to dogs of different sizes, breeds, or sensitivities.
- Sustainability and Ethics: Many emerging brands now prioritise ethical sourcing and eco-friendly packaging.
At Fetch, we stock a wide variety of healthy, premium adult dog food options perfect for dogs of all shapes and sizes. You can browse our full collection of adult dry dog food here.
What is the Difference Between Puppy and Adult Food?
Dogs grow rapidly during the first year of life, and puppy food reflects that with calorie-dense, nutrient-rich formulations. Once a dog reaches maturity (usually around 12 months, though this varies by breed), they should be transitioned to adult food.
Key differences include:
- Protein & Fat Levels: Puppy food has more of both to support growth.
- Calcium & Phosphorus: Higher levels in puppy food support bone development but can cause issues in adults if fed long-term.
- Dry Food Size: Puppy kibble tends to be smaller and easier to chew.
Feeding adult dogs puppy food for too long can lead to weight gain and joint problems. Transition slowly over 7–10 days to avoid stomach upset.
To ensure your puppy or adult dog gets the most out of their diet, consider a wellbeing consultation from one of our canine nutrition specialists for a tailored diet plan suited to your dog and your lifestyle.
What Key Ingredients do Adult Dogs Require?
A well-balanced adult dog food should supply all the nutrients your dog needs for a healthy, active life. Essential nutrients include:
- Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and is a huge part of a dog’s natural diet. Premium brands such as Orygo contain high levels of protein; their turkey option, for example, contains a minimum of 85% meat, such as muscle, heart and liver.
- Healthy Fats: Essential for skin, coat, and energy. Look for omega-3-rich ingredients like salmon oil or flaxseed.
- Fibre: Helps digestion. Beet pulp, carrots, and sweet potatoes are good sources.
- Carbohydrates: Offer slow-burning energy. Brown rice, oats, and sweet potato are better than wheat or corn.
- Vitamins & Minerals: From natural sources like vegetables, berries, and seaweed.
Should Small Breeds Be Fed Differently to Large Breeds?
Nutritional needs differ significantly based on a dog’s size and metabolism. Small dogs tend to burn energy more easily than larger breeds, so often need more food with extra calories. The same rules apply to working dogs, who are much more active and therefore need more specialised diets.
Small Breeds:
- Have a Higher Metabolism: Smaller dogs require more calories per pound than larger breeds.
- Have Tiny Tummies: Smaller dry dog food and calorie-dense options ensure they get enough nutrition in small servings.
- Should Protect Their Dental Health: Crunchy kibble can help prevent tartar build-up.
For a healthy option that wont break the bank, consider Nourish Rite Grain Free Small Breed Adult Dog Food for perfectly sized bites and highly digestible ingredients.
For Large Breeds:
- Joint Support is Key: Larger breeds such as Rottweilers are prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis.
- Slower Metabolism: Less calorie-dense food helps prevent weight gain in larger, less mobile breeds.
- Larger Kibble: Encourages proper chewing and slows eating.
DARF cold pressed dog food is gentle on joints with anti-inflammatory properties from certain meats and natural oils. This food is also pellet-shaped to aid digestion and ensure a healthier diet.
Dry Adult Dog Food at Fetch
Choosing the right dry dog food is about understanding your dog's needs, reading labels, and investing in quality. Whether you're after something grain-free, breed-specific, or simply nutritious and affordable, Fetch has you covered with expertly curated options. We also provide expert wellbeing consultations to ensure your dog thrives on their diet.
Get in touch with our canine nutrition experts today.