Side-by-side comparison

Seven questions for comparing two dog foods

By Gary Tantanella, lifelong pet owner and founder of Label to Bowl · Reviewed August 8, 2026

Marketing language can make two packages feel impossible to compare. Put both labels beside the same seven questions and leave a field blank rather than guessing.

1. Are both products intended for dogs and the same relevant life stage?

If the species or life-stage purpose differs, stop and clarify the intended use before comparing other numbers.

2. What does each nutritional adequacy statement say?

Copy both statements completely. Do not treat a treat, topper, supplement, or intermittent-feeding product as equivalent to a food represented as complete and balanced.

3. What are the calories per kilogram and per familiar serving?

Record both units and the actual amount currently fed. Package serving sizes may differ, so comparing one “cup” without calorie context can be misleading.

4. How do moisture and the guaranteed analysis affect the comparison?

As-fed percentages are most directly comparable when moisture levels are similar. Use appropriate dry-matter context before comparing foods with large moisture differences.

5. Which ingredient questions need more context?

The ingredient list shows order by weight, not the exact amount of each ingredient or the complete performance of the finished food. Record specific questions for the manufacturer instead of turning the first ingredient into a score.

6. What do the feeding directions suggest?

Directions are a starting point. Compare them beside calorie information, the dog’s current amount, treats, activity, and body condition.

7. Does an individual factor require veterinary guidance?

Symptoms, medication, diagnosed conditions, therapeutic diets, suspected food reactions, pregnancy, or unusual weight changes call for individualized professional guidance.

Sources

• FDA: “Complete and Balanced” Pet Food
• AAFCO: How to Read a Dog or Cat Food Label
• WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee: Guidelines on Selecting Pet Foods

Use the five-part label review first if either package is unfamiliar.

Choose how you want to learn

A printable guide

Keep a reference beside you while you read a pet-food label. Requesting the guide does not enroll you in the email course.

Six short lessons by email

Build your label-reading skills over 14 days. The course includes Gary’s disclosed product recommendation. Unsubscribe at any time; no purchase required.