How to Read A Dog Food Label

For outdoorsy dog parents, nutrition shouldn’t be an afterthought. Just like you wouldn’t hit the trail without thoughtfully planning protein-packed meals, your dog shouldn’t be stuck eating food full of fillers on your next outing together.

Between an often hard to understand ingredient list and nutrient guarantees, dog food labels can be hard to understand. Let’s talk about how to read a label with confidence so you know exactly how you’re fueling your pup.

Read the Guarantee
Words like “natural,” “premium,” or “high protein” don’t mean much unless the Guaranteed Analysis and ingredient list back it up. Specific guarantees also help you manage any health concerns your dog may have, including allergies and age, so you can choose the right kibble for where they are in their puppy, adult, or senior life.

The Guaranteed Analysis lists the minimum or maximum percentages of things like protein, fat, moisture, and fiber, which we’ll get into more below. Any food should meet the basic standards from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which sets nutritional standards and regulations.

Dig Into the Ingredients List
Just like human food, ingredients are listed by weight, so what’s listed first matters the most. If your dog is working, hiking, or hitting the trail regularly, the first five ingredients should tell you the food is built for performance, not just shelf life.

Here’s what to look for:

Animal proteins should be listed first, like chicken, beef, or salmon, so your best friend can maintain muscle
Whole grains like brown rice or oatmeal (good for slow release energy), which are not only an energy source, but also provide fiber to help your companion’s gut
Whole vegetables and fruits like sweet potatoes and blueberries to boost their immune system
Fats from beef or chicken; this can also be from oils, soybean, canola, or fish.

Here’s what to avoid:

Artificial colors and flavors like red 40 or yellow 5 (yes, these can sometimes be in dog food and treats)
Vague terms that you don’t quite understand like “meat meal” or “animal digest/digest,” especially when it doesn’t specify where it came from
Unnecessary fillers like corn meal and wheat; your dog could also be sensitive to these ingredients
Sweeteners like sugar and dextrose, which can contribute to canine diabetes

This applies to both dry kibble and wet food but should also be considered when looking for high reward treats after a long day on the trail.

Look for a Balanced Nutrient Panel
This is where the numbers live: protein, fat, fiber, and moisture. For active dogs, aim for:

Protein (26–30%) will help repair muscle and fuel your dog for the long trails ahead
Fats (15-20%) for energy and coat health which come from ingredients like flaxseed or fish oil
Moisture (10–12%), which is typical in dry kibble and helps support hydration and digestion
Fiber (3–5%) to also support digestion and add in healthy gut bacteria

Also, check for added nutrients like:

Glucosamine (joint health)
Omega-3 and Omega-6 (skin, coat, brain function)
Probiotics or prebiotics (gut health)

Black Gold Explorer includes performance-focused ingredients and added nutrients that support recovery and endurance in real-world conditions, not just a promise on our label.

What You Feed Your Dog Matters
For those who live to explore with their dogs, food is more than just fuel; it’s part of your system. Choosing the right nutrition means fewer stops, better recovery, and a happier trail partner.

What you feed your dog matters, especially when every step counts. Black Gold Explorer is built for those who ask more of their dogs and expect more from their food. No fluff, no filler, just nutrient-dense, adventure ready fuel.