Choosing the right food for your furry friend is just as important as picking the right meals for your family. With so many brands and options out there, buying dog food in Singapore can feel a little overwhelming. But don’t worry — we’re here to make it easy for you! Here are 7 simple things to look out for when shopping for dog food in Singapore.

1. Read the Ingredients List First

Start reading the ingredients list, as we do with food in the supermarket. The same principles we use when reading the label in the supermarket apply to your dog's food.

Search for:

Specific proteins such as chicken, lamb, or salmon (not mysterious stuff like "meat by-products").

Whole grains or vegetables such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, or carrots.

Steer clear of foods containing artificial colors, preservatives, and excessive fillers such as corn or soy.

2. Choose the Right Food for Your Dog's Age

Puppies, adults, and older dogs have very different requirements. In Singapore, with hot and humid weather, puppies require more nutrients to grow, whereas older dogs might require food with joint supplements or lower calories.

Check labels for:

Puppy formula

Adult dog food

Senior dog food

Providing them with the appropriate food for their age keeps your dog healthy and active.

3. Think About Allergies or Food Sensitivities 

Some dogs have touchy stomachs or allergies. Chicken, beef, dairy, or grains often cause problems. If your dog itches a lot, has regular stomach issues, or skin problems, check with your vet. You might need to switch to grain-free, simple ingredient, or allergy-friendly dog food. The good news is that many pet stores in Singapore stock special foods for dogs with food sensitivities. 

4. Check for AAFCO Approval

The AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) creates nutrition rules for pet food. When you see "Complete and balanced nutrition" based on AAFCO guidelines on the package, it's a positive sign. This means the food meets basic health requirements for dogs. Even though Singapore doesn't require it, many trusted dog food brands still follow these guidelines.

5. Select Trusted Brands

Opt for recognized dog food brands with a strong reputation. Reputable brands tend to have:

Clear sourcing of ingredients

Checks on quality

Positive customer ratings

In Singapore, well-known international brands such as Royal Canin, Wellness, Hill's Science Diet, and Acana are all well-trusted by pet owners and veterinarians.

6. Consider Your Dog's Lifestyle

Is your dog extremely active or a couch potato? Active or working dogs might require high-protein, high-energy food, whereas smaller or less active dogs can thrive on light, low-calorie food to avoid weight gain. Also, in Singapore's hot weather, staying hydrated is important, so wet dog food can be a suitable option for finicky or elderly dogs that do not take enough water.

7. Ensure Expiry Date and Storage Info

Dog food, particularly in our hot weather, must be stored to keep it fresh.

Always check the expiration date before purchasing.

Store dry food in an airtight container after opening and place it in a dry area.

Refrigerate wet food after opening and consume within a few days.

Spoilt food will upset your dog's stomach — or worse, ill. So always store it correctly.

Conclusion

Getting dog food in Singapore doesn't need to puzzle you. Look for natural ingredients, consider what your dog needs, and choose trusted brands. If you're unsure, talk to your vet — they understand your pet better than anyone. Your dog means more to you than just a pet — they're part of your family. Feeding them the right food helps them stay healthy and happy as they share their life with you.