Dog Food for Active Dogs

FAQs About Active Dog Food

What are the dietary needs of an active dog? If you’re a pet owner that’s trying to find the best food for your active dog, it’s important to read these frequently asked questions about ingredients, diet requirements, and what is guaranteed on your pet food label. In order to choose the best food for your active dog, you have to know what factors go into their health and how to compare different products on the market.

• What qualifies a dog as “active”?

  An active dog is one that gets significantly more physical activity than the average pet. This includes dogs that:

  • Participate in regular running, hiking, or agility training
  • Work as service, herding, hunting, or police dogs
  • Have naturally high energy levels due to breed (like Border Collies, Huskies, or Belgian Malinois)

   

  If your dog is on the move for more than an hour a day or has a job to do, they likely fall into the “active” category.

• How are the nutritional needs of active dogs different from less active dogs?

  Active dogs burn more calories and put more stress on their muscles, joints, and metabolism. As a result, they need:

  • Higher calorie intake to fuel their energy
  • More protein to support muscle repair and growth
  • Healthy fats for sustained energy

   

  Feeding them a diet tailored to their activity level helps maintain performance, stamina, and overall health.

• Do active dogs need more protein or fat in their diet?

  Yes, both. Active dogs benefit from:

  • Higher protein (typically 25–30% or more) to support muscle maintenance and recovery
  • Increased fat (around 15–20%) as a dense energy source that fuels endurance

   

  Fat is especially important for dogs that engage in long-duration activities, while protein helps with strength and recovery.

• Are there specific ingredients I should look for in food for active dogs?

  Yes! Look for these key ingredients:

  • Animal-based proteins as the first ingredient
  • Healthy fats such as chicken fat or fish oil
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
  • Omega-3 fatty acids for anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Vitamins and minerals to support immune function and recovery

• How do I know if my dog’s food is supporting their performance and recovery?

  Watch for these positive signs:

  • Sustained energy during activity
  • Quick recovery after exercise
  • Healthy weight and muscle tone
  • Shiny coat and healthy skin
  • Normal digestion and stool quality

   

  If your dog seems sluggish, loses weight, or shows signs of joint discomfort, it may be time to reassess their diet or consult your vet.