Shopping for dog food online can be super convenient—but it’s also easy to make mistakes that can affect your dog’s health and your wallet. With so many brands, confusing labels, and marketing gimmicks, even seasoned pet parents can slip up.
To help you make informed choices, here are 5 common mistakes to avoid when buying dog food online, plus expert tips to pick the best option for your furry friend.
1. Ignoring Your Dog’s Specific Breed, Age, and Size
Not all dogs are the same. A Chihuahua puppy has very different dietary needs compared to an adult German Shepherd.
Common Mistake:
Buying general-purpose or “all breed” formulas without checking if it’s suitable for your dog’s life stage or breed size.
What to Do Instead:
Look for dog food clearly labeled for your dog’s age and size:
- For large breed puppies: Pro Plan Chicken & Rice Large Breed Puppy – 18 lb
- For small breed pups: Eukanuba Puppy Small Breed Dog – 15 lb
Tip: Large breeds require controlled calcium levels to avoid joint issues, while small breeds benefit from higher calorie density.
2. Not Reading the Ingredient List Carefully
Some pet owners rely on flashy marketing terms like “natural” or “premium” without checking the actual ingredients or nutritional value.
Common Mistake:
Skipping the label and assuming all brands with high prices are high quality.
What to Do Instead:
Look for:
- Named proteins (e.g., chicken, beef) as the first ingredient
- Avoid fillers like corn, soy, and artificial preservatives (e.g., BHA, BHT)
- Research ingredient sources—some brands use human-grade ingredients
Try trusted options like Great Lakes Dog Food for real meat and zero fillers.
3. Overlooking Customer Reviews and Recall History
Dog food recalls happen more often than you’d think. Ignoring a brand’s track record could expose your dog to unsafe products.
Common Mistake:
Buying unfamiliar brands without checking for reviews, feedback, or past recalls.
What to Do Instead:
- Search for independent reviews
- Look up the brand’s recall history (FDA pet food recalls page)
- Buy from well-reviewed and reputable brands like Fromm, Royal Canin, or NutriSource
🐾 Recommended: NutriSource Large Breed Puppy Food – 5 lb
4. Buying Only Based on Price (Too Cheap or Too Expensive)
Yes, budget matters—but ultra-cheap food often means poor-quality ingredients. On the flip side, premium pricing doesn’t always guarantee premium nutrition.
Common Mistake:
Assuming the most expensive product is the best, or buying the cheapest to save money.
What to Do Instead:
- Compare cost per pound with ingredient quality
- Look for mid-range options with proven nutritional value
- Consider trial packs (like 5 lb bags) before committing to bulk orders
Budget tip: Joy Puppy Food – 5 lb is a great starter option for affordability and nutrition.
5. Not Checking the Expiration Date or Packaging Integrity
Online sellers sometimes ship old stock or poorly stored items that may affect freshness.
Common Mistake:
Receiving food that’s near its expiration or in damaged packaging and still feeding it to your dog.
What to Do Instead:
- Always check the expiration date on arrival
- Avoid buying from unknown third-party sellers—stick to trusted retailers
- Look for air-tight packaging and resealable bags to maintain freshness
Final Thoughts: Shop Smart, Feed Right
Your dog’s health starts with what’s in their bowl. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make smarter decisions when buying dog food online—ensuring your pup gets the nutrition they need.
Need a recommendation?
Explore curated products from top-rated brands on Luluspot’s Dog Food Collection — where quality meets convenience.