k/d Chicken Dry Dog Food

Overview
Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Chicken Dry Dog Food is a clinically proven diet formulated to support kidney function and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease in dogs. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the bloodstream and regulating fluid balance, and when they begin to fail, the build-up of toxins can have serious consequences across the body. This formula reduces the workload on the kidneys by providing controlled levels of phosphorus and high-quality protein, helping to protect remaining kidney function for as long as possible.
Formulated by Hill's nutritionists and veterinarians, it is designed to improve appetite and quality of life in dogs with kidney disease, while providing complete and balanced nutrition tailored to their altered metabolic needs. Always consult your veterinarian before placing your dog on a kidney support diet.
Nutritional Analysis
A nutritional analysis shows how a dog food is made up of its main nutrients, such as protein, fat, fibre and other components. This helps you understand where the food’s nutrition and energy come from, and how the formula is balanced.
Ingredients
Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken, Dried Beet Pulp, Egg Product, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor, Corn Gluten Meal, Fish Oil, Pork Liver Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Lactic Acid, Soybean Oil, L-Lysine, Potassium Chloride, Betaine, Whole Grain Oats, DL-Methionine, Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Potassium Citrate, Choline Chloride, L-Threonine, Iodized Salt, Taurine, Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Tryptophan, L-Carnitine, Magnesium Oxide, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene.

Broken Rice, Rice Fragments, Rice Grits, Oryza Sativa
Brewers rice is a by-product of rice milling, consisting of small, broken rice grains derived from the Oryza sativa plant. It serves as a digestible carbohydrate source, providing energy for pets. Brewers rice is included in its natural, whole-food form, not as a processed extract or compound, ensuring a consistent and safe ingredient for pet food formulations.
Brewers rice is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides bulk and energy to pet food formulations. Its use helps optimise production costs while maintaining product texture and consistency.

Poultry Fat, Gallus Gallus Domesticus Fat, Rendered Chicken Fat, Chicken Oil
Chicken fat is an animal-derived ingredient obtained from rendering chicken tissue. It serves primarily as a concentrated source of energy and essential fatty acids, supporting skin and coat health in pets. Chicken fat is used in its natural rendered form, not as a raw or unprocessed fat, ensuring palatability and digestibility while providing a stable, high-quality lipid source in pet food formulations.
Chicken fat is included as a highly digestible source of animal fat, providing essential fatty acids and enhancing the palatability of the product. It also contributes to the energy content of the food in a cost-effective manner.

Whole Grain Rice, Unpolished Rice, Oryza Sativa, Cargo Rice
Brown rice is a whole grain derived from the rice plant (Oryza sativa) and retains its bran and germ layers, making it a plant-based ingredient. It is primarily included in pet food as a source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and essential nutrients. Brown rice is used in its natural, unrefined form, providing slow-release energy and supporting digestive health in pets.
Brown rice is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides energy and bulk to pet food formulations. It is also considered a label-friendly ingredient that appeals to consumers seeking whole grains in their pets’ diets.

Sorghum Bicolor, Whole Grain Sorghum, Sorghum Wholegrain, Sorghum Kernel
Wholegrain sorghum is a cereal grain derived from the sorghum plant, a member of the grass family. As a plant-based ingredient, it is primarily included in pet food for its complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and essential nutrients, supporting sustained energy and digestive health. Wholegrain sorghum is used in its natural, unrefined form, retaining its bran, germ, and endosperm for optimal nutritional value.
Wholegrain sorghum is included as a cost-effective, gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides energy and dietary fibre. Its use also supports label appeal by offering a wholegrain ingredient perceived as nutritious by consumers.

Gallus Gallus Domesticus, Poultry Meat, Domestic Fowl, Broiler Meat
Chicken is a high-quality animal protein sourced from poultry, commonly used in pet foods for its rich amino acid profile and palatability. It provides essential nutrients to support muscle maintenance and overall health. In premium pet foods, chicken is typically included in its natural, whole form, ensuring optimal nutrient availability and digestibility for pets.
Chicken is included as a primary animal protein source to meet nutritional requirements and enhance palatability for pets. Its recognisable presence on the label also appeals to consumers seeking high-quality, meat-based ingredients.

Beet Fibre, Beet Fiber, Beta Vulgaris Pulp, Beta Vulgaris Fibre
Dried beet pulp is a fibrous by-product derived from sugar beet plants after sugar extraction. As a plant-based ingredient, it serves primarily as a source of fermentable fibre, supporting digestive health and stool quality in pets. Dried beet pulp is used in its processed, dried form rather than as fresh beet, optimising its digestibility and functional benefits in pet food formulations.
Dried beet pulp is included as a cost-effective source of dietary fibre to promote digestive health and stool quality in pets. It also serves as a bulk-adding agent, helping to optimise the texture and consistency of the final product.

Dried Egg, Liquid Egg, Frozen Egg, Ovum Gallus Gallus
Egg product is a nutrient-rich ingredient derived from whole eggs, typically sourced from hens. It serves as a high-quality animal protein, providing essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to support overall pet health. In pet food, egg product is used in a processed, pasteurised form rather than raw, ensuring safety, digestibility, and consistent nutritional value for pets.
Egg product is included as a high-quality, highly digestible protein source to support essential amino acid requirements in pet food. It also enhances palatability and can improve the nutritional profile for marketing purposes.

Hydrolysed Chicken Extract, Hydrolysed Chicken Protein, Hydrolysed Gallus Gallus Domesticus Flavour, Hydrolysed Poultry Flavour
Hydrolysed chicken flavour is a functional ingredient derived from animal sources, specifically chicken proteins that have been broken down into smaller peptides through hydrolysis. Its primary purpose is to enhance palatability, making pet food more appealing. This ingredient is not used in its natural whole form; instead, it is utilised as a hydrolysed compound to optimise digestibility and reduce allergenic potential.
Hydrolysed chicken flavour is included as a palatability enhancer to improve the taste and aroma of the product, encouraging dogs to consume the food. It also allows manufacturers to label the product as containing chicken-derived ingredients without significantly increasing production costs.

Maize Gluten Meal, Zea Mays Gluten Meal, Maize Protein Concentrate, Zea Mays Protein Concentrate
Corn gluten meal is a plant-derived ingredient produced as a by-product of corn (maize) processing. It serves primarily as a concentrated protein source, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health in pets. Corn gluten meal is not used in its whole, natural form; instead, it is a refined fraction, optimised for digestibility and nutrient density in premium pet food formulations.
Corn gluten meal is included as a cost-effective protein source that also provides a concentrated supply of amino acids. It helps optimise product texture and binding while supporting a competitive price point.

Fish Liver Oil, Oleum Piscis, Oleum Jecoris, Oleum Piscarium
Fish oil is a nutrient-rich oil derived from the tissues of oily fish, making it an animal-based ingredient. It is primarily included in pet food for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin, coat, and joint health. Fish oil is utilised in a purified, liquid form rather than as whole fish, ensuring optimal absorption and safety for pets.
Fish oil is included as a source of omega-3 fatty acids to support skin, coat, and joint health, enhancing the nutritional profile of the product. Its presence also serves as a marketing point, appealing to consumers seeking functional health benefits for their pets.

Porcine Liver Flavour, Sus Scrofa Domesticus Liver Flavour, Porcine Hepatic Flavour, Pig Liver Flavour
Pork liver flavour is a palatant derived from animal sources, specifically pork liver, and is commonly used in pet foods to enhance taste and aroma, encouraging palatability. Its primary function is to improve the acceptance of the food rather than provide significant nutritional value. This ingredient is not used in its whole food form but is processed and utilised as a flavouring extract or concentrate.
Pork liver flavour is included as a palatability enhancer to increase the appeal of the product to pets. It provides a desirable taste and aroma without significantly impacting the nutritional profile or cost of the formulation.

Chalk, Limestone, E170, Marble Dust
Calcium carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral compound derived from sources such as limestone or marine shells. It is primarily included in pet food as a source of calcium, essential for healthy bones, teeth, and metabolic functions. Calcium carbonate is not used in its raw mineral state; instead, it is processed into a purified, food-grade compound to optimise safety and bioavailability for pets.
Calcium carbonate is included as a cost-effective mineral supplement to provide a bioavailable source of calcium, supporting bone health and proper nutritional balance. It also functions as a pH stabiliser, contributing to product consistency and shelf stability.

2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid, E270, DL-Lactic Acid, L(+)-Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is an organic compound of microbial origin, commonly produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates. It is primarily included in pet food as a preservative and acidifier, helping to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and maintain product freshness. Lactic acid is not used in its natural, raw state but is instead utilised in a purified, food-grade form to ensure safety and effective absorption.
Lactic acid is included as a preservative to inhibit microbial growth and extend the product’s shelf life. It may also be used to enhance palatability by providing a mildly tangy flavour that appeals to pets.

Glycine Max Oil, E322, Soya Oil, Soya Bean Oil
Soybean oil is a plant-derived oil extracted from the seeds of the soybean (Glycine max). It serves as a concentrated source of energy and provides essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, which supports skin and coat health in pets. Soybean oil is utilised in its refined liquid form, not as whole soybeans, to optimise digestibility and nutrient availability in pet food formulations.
Soybean oil is included as a cost-effective source of fat and essential fatty acids, supporting energy density and skin and coat health in pet food. It also contributes to product texture and palatability while helping to optimise manufacturing costs.

L-Lysine, 2,6-Diaminohexanoic Acid, E640, L-2,6-Diaminohexanoic Acid
Lysine is an essential amino acid derived from animal or plant protein sources. It plays a critical role in protein synthesis, supporting muscle development and immune function in pets. Lysine cannot be produced by the body and must be supplied through the diet. It is not used in its raw form but is typically included as a purified amino acid to optimise bioavailability and nutritional balance.
Lysine is included as an essential amino acid to ensure the pet food meets the complete nutritional requirements for dogs, supporting healthy growth and maintenance. Its addition allows manufacturers to optimise protein quality, especially when using plant-based or mixed protein sources.

E508, Muriate of Potash, Potassium Monochloride, KCl
Potassium chloride is a mineral compound derived from the element potassium, typically sourced from naturally occurring mineral deposits. It is utilised in pet food as a purified salt rather than in its raw metallic form, ensuring safety and optimal absorption. Its primary purpose is to provide essential potassium, which supports nerve function, muscle contraction, and fluid balance in companion animals.
Potassium chloride is included as a cost-effective mineral supplement to help meet pets’ dietary potassium requirements. It also functions as a salt substitute to optimise electrolyte balance in the formulation.

Trimethylglycine, Glycine Betaine, N,N,N-Trimethylglycine, E1001
Betaine is a naturally occurring compound derived from plants, most commonly sugar beet. It serves primarily as a methyl donor, supporting cellular function and aiding in liver health. In pet food, betaine is utilised in its purified, extracted form rather than as a whole food, ensuring optimal bioavailability and safety for companion animals. Its inclusion helps maintain hydration and supports metabolic processes.
Betaine is included as a functional ingredient to support cellular hydration and methylation processes, which can contribute to overall pet health. It may also be used to enhance feed efficiency and improve product stability during processing.

Avena Sativa, Oat Groats, Whole Oat Groats, Avena Sativa Grain
Wholegrain oats are a cereal grain derived from the oat plant (Avena sativa), classified as a plant-based ingredient. They are included in pet food primarily as a source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and sustained energy. Wholegrain oats are used in their natural, unrefined form, retaining the bran, germ, and endosperm for optimal nutritional value.
Wholegrain oats are included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides dietary fibre and energy. They also serve as a label-friendly ingredient, appealing to consumers seeking whole and recognisable grains in pet food.

L-Methionine, 2-Amino-4-(Methylthio)butyric Acid, E620, L-2-Amino-4-(Methylthio)butyric Acid
Methionine is an essential amino acid derived from animal or plant sources, crucial for protein synthesis and overall metabolic health in pets. It primarily supports healthy skin, coat, and liver function. Methionine is not used in its raw elemental form; instead, it is incorporated as a specific compound, such as DL-methionine, to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability in pet food formulations.
Methionine is included as an essential amino acid to support protein synthesis and overall health in pets, particularly when animal protein sources are limited or variable. It also serves as a cost-effective way to meet nutritional requirements and optimise the amino acid profile of the final product.

Oligofructose, FOS, Oligofructan, E968
Fructooligosaccharides are short-chain carbohydrates derived from plant sources such as chicory root. They serve primarily as prebiotics, supporting digestive health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Fructooligosaccharides are not used in their whole plant form but are extracted and purified for inclusion in pet food, ensuring optimal efficacy and digestibility for companion animals.
Fructooligosaccharides are included as a prebiotic fibre to support digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. They also serve as a label-friendly functional ingredient that can enhance the perceived nutritional value of the product.

Tocopherol, Alpha-Tocopherol, E307, D-Alpha-Tocopherol
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin derived from plant sources such as vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. It functions primarily as an antioxidant, helping to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage and supporting immune health. In pet food, Vitamin E is not used in its natural raw form but is typically utilised as a stabilised compound, such as tocopherol acetate, to optimise safety and absorption.
Vitamin E is included as a natural antioxidant to help preserve the freshness and stability of fats and oils in the product, thereby extending shelf life. It also serves as a label-friendly nutrient that appeals to consumers seeking added health benefits for their pets.

L-Ascorbyl Polyphosphate, Ascorbic Acid Polyphosphate, Polyphosphate Ester of Ascorbic Acid, E304
Ascorbyl polyphosphate is a synthesised compound derived from vitamin C (ascorbic acid), typically of plant origin. It serves as a stable source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and acting as an antioxidant in pet food. Ascorbyl polyphosphate is not used in its natural form; instead, it is utilised as a phosphate-bound compound to optimise stability and bioavailability.
Ascorbyl polyphosphate is included as a stable, cost-effective source of vitamin C that resists degradation during processing and storage. Its use helps manufacturers ensure consistent nutrient labelling and extend the shelf life of the finished product.

Nicotinic Acid, Vitamin B3, Pyridine-3-Carboxylic Acid, E375
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin of synthetic or natural origin, commonly derived from plant or animal sources. It plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and supports healthy skin, nerves, and digestion in pets. Niacin is not used in its raw form but is typically included as a safe, bioavailable compound such as niacinamide or nicotinic acid.
Niacin is included as an essential B vitamin to meet nutritional requirements and support metabolic health in pets. Its addition ensures compliance with regulatory standards for complete and balanced pet food labelling.

Vitamin B1 Mononitrate, Nitrate Salt of Thiamine, E101a, Thiamin Mononitrate
Thiamine mononitrate is a synthetic, water-soluble form of vitamin B1, derived from chemical synthesis rather than natural sources. It is added to pet food to support energy metabolism and proper nervous system function. Thiamine is not used in its natural state; instead, the mononitrate compound is utilised for stability, safety, and optimal absorption in formulated diets.
Thiamine mononitrate is included as a stable, cost-effective source of vitamin B1 to meet nutritional requirements and ensure product labelling compliance. Its synthetic form maintains potency during processing and storage, supporting both product stability and regulatory standards.

D-Calcium Pantothenate, E315, Pantothenic Acid Calcium Salt, Calcium D-Pantothenate
Calcium pantothenate is a synthetic compound derived from pantothenic acid, a water-soluble B vitamin (vitamin B5) of plant or animal origin. It is primarily included in pet food to support energy metabolism and maintain healthy skin and coat. Rather than using pantothenic acid in its natural form, calcium pantothenate is utilised for its stability, safety, and enhanced bioavailability in pet nutrition.
Calcium pantothenate is included as a stable, bioavailable source of vitamin B5 to meet nutritional requirements and support labelling claims of complete and balanced nutrition. Its use ensures consistent vitamin content throughout the product’s shelf life.

Vitamin B6, E300, Pyridoxine HCl, Pyridoxine Monohydrochloride
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a synthetic, water-soluble form of vitamin B6, derived from chemical synthesis rather than natural sources. It is added to pet foods to support protein metabolism, nervous system health, and immune function. Unlike naturally occurring vitamin B6 in foods, pyridoxine is utilised in its hydrochloride salt form to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption in companion animals.
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is included as a cost-effective, stable source of vitamin B6 to ensure nutritional adequacy and meet regulatory labelling requirements. Its addition helps manufacturers guarantee consistent vitamin content throughout the product’s shelf life.

Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, Retinyl Acetate, E160a
Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble nutrient derived from animal sources (as retinyl esters) or plant sources (as carotenoids). It supports vision, immune function, and skin health in pets. In pet food, Vitamin A is not used in its raw or natural state but is provided as stabilised compounds (such as retinyl acetate or retinyl palmitate) to ensure safety, stability, and optimal absorption.
Vitamin A is included as an essential nutrient to support vision, immune function, and overall health in pets, ensuring the product meets established nutritional standards. Its addition also allows manufacturers to optimise the nutritional profile and comply with regulatory labelling requirements.

Vitamin B2, E101, Lactoflavin, 7,8-Dimethyl-10-Ribityl Isoalloxazine
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin of synthetic origin commonly added to pet foods. It plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and supports healthy skin, eyes, and nervous system function. Riboflavin is not used in its natural form but is typically utilised as a synthesised compound to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption in pet diets.
Riboflavin is included as an essential vitamin to meet nutritional requirements and ensure regulatory compliance for complete and balanced pet food labelling. Its addition helps optimise the product’s nutrient profile without significantly impacting cost or palatability.

Vitamin B7, Vitamin H, D-Biotin, Coenzyme R
Biotin is a water-soluble B-vitamin (vitamin B7) of synthetic origin, commonly included in pet foods to support healthy skin, coat, and metabolic function. Its primary benefit is aiding in the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Biotin is not used in its natural, free form but is instead utilised as a stable, bioavailable compound to optimise absorption and efficacy in pets.
Biotin is included as an essential vitamin to support skin, coat, and metabolic health in pets, fulfilling nutritional requirements for complete and balanced diets. Its addition also allows manufacturers to highlight the inclusion of key micronutrients on product labelling, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Cobalamin, Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxocobalamin, Methylcobalamin
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin of animal origin, essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation in pets. It is primarily included in pet food to support energy metabolism and overall vitality. Vitamin B12 is not used in its natural, raw form but is instead utilised as a specific compound, such as cyanocobalamin, to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption.
Vitamin B12 is included as an essential nutrient to support metabolic and neurological functions in pets, ensuring the product meets established nutritional standards. Its addition helps manufacturers achieve complete and balanced labelling claims.

Pteroylmonoglutamic Acid, Pteroylglutamic Acid, Vitamin B9, E920
Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9, originally derived from plant sources but produced for pet food as a stable, bioavailable compound. Its primary purpose is to support cell division, DNA synthesis, and overall growth in pets. Folic acid is not used in its natural state; instead, it is utilised as a manufactured supplement to optimise absorption and efficacy.
Folic acid is included as a synthetic vitamin to ensure nutritional adequacy and meet regulatory requirements for B-vitamin content in pet food. Its addition helps standardise nutrient levels across batches, supporting consistent product labelling and animal health.

Cholecalciferol, Colecalciferol, Calciol, E671
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin of animal origin commonly derived from lanolin or fish oil. It plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism, supporting healthy bone development in pets. Vitamin D3 is not used in its natural form but is instead utilised as a stabilised compound to ensure safety, efficacy, and optimal absorption in pet food formulations.
Vitamin D3 is included to ensure the finished product meets established nutritional requirements for canine health, supporting bone development and calcium regulation. Its addition allows manufacturers to guarantee consistent vitamin content regardless of natural variation in raw materials.

Tripotassium Citrate, E332, Tripotassium Salt Of Citric Acid, Citric Acid Tripotassium Salt
Potassium citrate is a mineral-derived compound formed by combining potassium with citric acid. Sourced from mineral origins, it is utilised in pet food as a citrate salt rather than in its raw metallic state, ensuring safety and optimal absorption. Its primary function is to support urinary health by helping to regulate urine pH and reduce the risk of urinary stone formation.
Potassium citrate is included as a functional ingredient to help maintain urinary health by reducing the risk of stone formation in pets. It may also serve as a source of potassium, supporting overall electrolyte balance in the formulation.

Trimethylethanolamine Chloride, Choline Monochloride, E1001, 2-Hydroxy-N,N,N-Trimethylethanaminium Chloride
Choline chloride is a synthetic compound derived from choline, an essential nutrient typically sourced from plant or animal origins. It is primarily included in pet food to support healthy brain function, liver metabolism, and cellular structure. Choline is not used in its natural state; instead, it is utilised as choline chloride to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption in pet diets.
Choline chloride is included as an essential nutrient to support normal liver function and brain health in pets. It is a cost-effective way to meet regulatory requirements for choline content in complete and balanced pet foods.

L-Threonine, 2-Amino-3-Hydroxybutyric Acid, (2S,3R)-2-Amino-3-Hydroxybutanoic Acid, E641
Threonine is an essential amino acid derived from animal or plant protein sources. It plays a critical role in protein synthesis, immune function, and gut health in pets. Threonine is not used in its raw, isolated form; instead, it is incorporated as a purified amino acid compound to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability in premium pet food formulations.
Threonine is included as an essential amino acid to support protein synthesis and overall health in pets, ensuring the product meets established nutritional standards. Its addition allows manufacturers to optimise amino acid profiles, particularly in formulations where animal protein content may be lower.

Iodized Salt, Iodate Salt, Iodised Sodium Chloride, Iodised Table Salt
Iodised salt is a mineral-based ingredient produced by adding iodine, an essential trace element, to refined table salt. Sourced from mineral deposits, its primary purpose is to provide dietary sodium and ensure adequate iodine intake, supporting thyroid function and metabolic health. Iodised salt is not used in its natural raw form; instead, it is utilised as a fortified compound to optimise safety and bioavailability.
Iodised salt is included as a cost-effective source of essential sodium and iodine, supporting pet health and meeting nutritional requirements. It also acts as a flavour enhancer to improve palatability.

2-Aminoethanesulphonic Acid, L-Taurine, E107, 2-Aminoethane-1-Sulphonic Acid
Taurine is a naturally occurring amino sulfonic acid derived from animal sources, particularly meat and fish. It is added to pet food to support cardiovascular health, vision, and proper immune function, especially in cats who cannot synthesise it sufficiently. Taurine is not used in its raw form; instead, it is incorporated as a purified, synthesised compound to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption.
Taurine is included to ensure adequate levels of this essential amino acid, particularly in diets where animal protein content may be insufficient to meet canine or feline nutritional requirements. Its addition supports cardiovascular health and is often used to address consumer concerns about diet-associated heart issues.

Iron(II) Sulphate, Ferrous Iron Sulphate, E172, Green Vitriol
Ferrous sulphate is an inorganic compound derived from iron, an essential mineral for animal health. It is primarily included in pet food to support normal red blood cell formation and prevent iron deficiency anaemia. Ferrous sulphate is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a salt to optimise safety, stability, and absorption within the animal’s body.
Ferrous sulphate is included as a cost-effective source of dietary iron to meet nutritional requirements in pet food formulations. It helps ensure the product delivers essential minerals for pet health while maintaining compliance with labelling standards.

Zinc White, CI 77947, Calamine, Chinese White
Zinc oxide is an inorganic compound derived from the mineral zinc, commonly used in pet food as a supplemental source of the essential trace mineral zinc. Its primary benefit is to support immune function, skin health, and enzyme activity. Zinc is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as zinc oxide to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability in pet nutrition.
Zinc oxide is included as a cost-effective and stable source of essential zinc, supporting nutritional adequacy in pet food formulations. Its use ensures compliance with regulatory requirements for trace minerals while maintaining product shelf stability.

Cupric Sulphate, Blue Vitriol, Roman Vitriol, E519
Copper sulphate is an inorganic compound derived from copper, an essential trace mineral. It is primarily included in pet food to support vital physiological functions such as enzyme activity, immune health, and connective tissue formation. Copper sulphate is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a salt to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability for animal nutrition.
Copper sulphate is included as a cost-effective and reliable source of essential copper, a trace mineral necessary for canine health. Its use ensures precise nutrient formulation and supports compliance with nutritional labelling standards.

Manganese(II) Oxide, Manganese Monoxide, E172, Manganese Oxide
Manganous oxide is an inorganic compound derived from the mineral form of manganese, an essential trace element. It is included in pet food primarily as a source of manganese, which supports bone development, metabolism, and antioxidant function. Manganous oxide is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a safe, bioavailable compound to optimise absorption and nutritional benefit.
Manganous oxide is included as a cost-effective source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that supports metabolic and skeletal functions in pets. Its stable form allows for consistent nutrient delivery throughout the product’s shelf life.

Calcium Diiodate, E917, Ca(IO3)2, Calcium Iodate Anhydrous
Calcium iodate is a mineral-derived compound commonly included in pet foods as a source of iodine, an essential trace element. It is not used in its natural, raw mineral state; instead, it is utilised in the form of a stable, food-grade compound to ensure safety and optimal absorption. Its primary purpose is to support healthy thyroid function and metabolic processes.
Calcium iodate is included as a stable, bioavailable source of iodine to support thyroid function and overall metabolic health in pets. Its use ensures consistent iodine content throughout the product, optimising nutritional labelling and regulatory compliance.

Disodium Selenite, E901, Selenious Acid Disodium Salt, Disodium Selenious Acid
Sodium selenite is an inorganic compound derived from selenium, an essential trace mineral. It is included in pet food formulations to provide a bioavailable source of selenium, which supports antioxidant defence and immune function. Sodium selenite is not used in its natural elemental form; instead, it is utilised as a salt compound to ensure safety, stability, and optimal absorption in pets.
Sodium selenite is included as a cost-effective and stable source of the essential trace mineral selenium, which supports normal metabolic and immune functions in pets. Its use allows manufacturers to meet nutritional requirements efficiently and with consistent quality.

L-Tryptophan, L-α-Aminoindole-3-Propionic Acid, 2-Amino-3-(Indol-3-yl)Propanoic Acid, EAA 10
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid derived from animal or plant protein sources. It plays a crucial role in pet nutrition by supporting protein synthesis and serving as a precursor for serotonin, which influences mood and behaviour. Tryptophan is not used in its isolated, natural form but is instead incorporated as a purified amino acid to optimise dietary balance and bioavailability in pet food formulations.
Tryptophan is included as an essential amino acid to support complete and balanced nutrition, meeting regulatory requirements for canine dietary adequacy. Its addition ensures the product can be marketed as providing all necessary amino acids for dogs’ health.

L-Carnitine, Levocarnitine, Vitamin Bt, E306
Carnitine is a naturally occurring compound derived from animal sources, primarily meat and fish. It plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria for cellular energy production. In pet food, carnitine is utilised in a synthesised, bioavailable form rather than its raw state, ensuring optimal absorption and safety for companion animals.
Carnitine is included as a functional ingredient to support fat metabolism and energy production, particularly in formulas targeting active or senior pets. Its addition allows manufacturers to market the product as supporting heart health and weight management.

Magnesia, E530, Magnesium(II) Oxide, Calcined Magnesia
Magnesium oxide is an inorganic compound derived from the mineral magnesium, typically sourced from natural deposits. It is utilised in pet food as a supplemental source of magnesium, an essential mineral that supports nerve, muscle, and bone health. Rather than its raw metallic form, magnesium is provided as magnesium oxide to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability for pets.
Magnesium oxide is included as a cost-effective mineral supplement to ensure adequate magnesium levels in the diet, supporting essential metabolic functions. Its use allows manufacturers to meet nutritional requirements efficiently without significantly impacting product cost or palatability.

Tocopherols, E306, Natural Tocopherols Concentrate, D-Alpha Tocopherol Concentrate
Mixed tocopherols are a blend of compounds derived from plant oils, primarily functioning as a source of vitamin E. Their main purpose in pet food is to act as natural antioxidants, helping to preserve the freshness of fats and oils. Rather than being used in their isolated, pure form, mixed tocopherols are incorporated as stabilised extracts to optimise safety, efficacy, and nutrient retention.
Mixed tocopherols are included as a natural preservative to extend shelf life by slowing the oxidation of fats and oils in pet food. They are often used as a label-friendly alternative to synthetic preservatives to appeal to consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

Natural Flavouring, Flavouring Substance, Flavouring Preparation, Flavouring Complex
Natural flavour is a food additive derived from animal or plant sources, designed to enhance the palatability of pet food. Its primary purpose is to improve taste and encourage consistent consumption. Rather than being used in its original raw form, natural flavour is typically processed and concentrated to ensure safety, stability, and uniformity in pet food formulations, while maintaining its natural origin.
Natural flavour is included to enhance palatability, encouraging pets to consume the product. It also allows manufacturers to improve taste without specifying individual flavouring agents, supporting flexible formulation and label-friendly marketing.

Provitamin A, E160a, All-Trans-Beta-Carotene, CI 40800
Beta carotene is a plant-derived pigment and precursor to vitamin A, commonly sourced from carrots and other colourful vegetables. Its primary nutritional benefit is supporting vision, immune function, and antioxidant defence. In pet food, beta carotene is utilised in its extracted or purified form rather than as whole vegetables, ensuring consistent potency and bioavailability for optimal health outcomes.
Beta carotene is included as a natural source of vitamin A and as a colour-enhancing agent to improve the visual appeal of the product. Its presence also allows for label-friendly marketing, appealing to consumers seeking natural additives.
Score Card
Every product is assessed using the Dog Directory Integrity Framework, giving dog owners a clear and trustworthy way to compare products. This ensures each review reflects overall quality and formulation integrity, not just marketing claims.
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- /15
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As a pet owner, you naturally want the best for your dog. From regular vet visits to nutritious meals, ensuring your furry friend is healthy and happy is always top of mind. But beyond food and exercise, supplements are becoming an increasingly popular way to support your dog’s overall well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of dog supplements, explaining what they are, why they matter, and how to choose the right ones for your pup.
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Hills Prescription Diet
Hill's Prescription Diet is a veterinary-therapeutic food line from Hill's Pet Nutrition, originating in 1948. Formulas are designed to nutritionally manage specific clinical conditions such as kidney disease, allergies, and diabetes.
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