How to read a dry food label

The dry food aisle in our store has more than 60 bags for dogs and cats, and customers often ask us to explain the labels. Here is what we look at first when choosing a food to stock, and what you can check yourself.

Start with the ingredient list. Ingredients are listed by weight before cooking, so the first three tell you most of the story. A named meat or fish, such as chicken or salmon, near the top is a good sign. Vague terms like meat by-products, cereal or animal fat tell you less about what is inside. Our own chicken and rice food lists chicken, rice and chicken fat first.

Next, the analysis panel, which shows the minimum protein and fat and the maximum fibre and moisture. Most adult dog foods sit at 22 to 28 per cent protein and 10 to 18 per cent fat. Puppies, active dogs and cats need more protein. Compare foods on these numbers, not on the photo on the front of the bag.

Then the feeding chart. A cheaper food that needs 350 g a day can cost more over a month than a pricier one that needs 250 g. Divide the bag price by the number of days it lasts. Finally, the dates. We never sell food within three months of its expiry, and you should not buy any that is close. If your pet has a health condition, ask your vet before changing food.