Years of experience have taught us that adding wheat to dog food only causes problems. It's becoming increasingly common for dogs to develop a wheat gluten allergy and/or develop one (or worse). To combat this, we don't use wheat in our food because we believe that—besides the potential health risks—it doesn't belong in a healthy, natural dog food!

We normally always recommend Healthy Dog Regular to all dogs, “unless”…

Sometimes a dog needs something different (perhaps temporarily), or we, as owners, want to switch things up. Healthy Dog Regular is complete, natural, and therefore suitable for all types of dogs. All breeds, genders, and sizes. This is because—just like nature—it contains all the natural ingredients necessary for a healthy dog ​​and is completely complete. When we look at nature and compare it to dogs and their ancestors, the wolves, we don't have puppy rabbits, senior deer, or light wild boars! However, we humans have created some problems and/or differences. That's why Healthy Dog has developed several varieties.

Healthy Dog Puppy has exactly the same ingredients as Healthy Dog Regular. The difference is that the fats and proteins have been slightly increased (the priority food) and the calcium (and phosphorus) have been slightly reduced to prevent muscle cramps. This is especially suitable for large, fast-growing breeds. The kibble is also compressed into smaller pieces in the 5 kg package, making it easier for smaller breeds to eat. So, nothing different, just a different way of processing.

The Healthy Dog Sport variant also has the same ingredients as the Regular. The fats and proteins have been significantly increased, so you get more energy with less food. This is especially for dogs who need more but you don't want them to eat more. This can be because they're involved in a lot of sports. It's also suitable for dogs that aren't eating well, are pregnant or lactating, or are recovering from surgery, for example. In other words, for all dogs who might need a little extra support temporarily.

Healthy Dog Chicken & Rice has been specially developed for dogs that have been tested for a beef protein problem or for owners who would like to change flavors.

The Healthy Dog Probiotics variant, in addition to the prebiotics found in all varieties, is supplemented with probiotics. These are living, natural bacteria that promote intestinal flora and immunity. Ideal when your dog needs extra immunity, has completed a course of antibiotics, or for additional support with stomach and/or intestinal problems. Also highly recommended when switching from extruded kibble to Healthy Dog's pressed kibble!

The newest Wild Menu variant is completely grain-, gluten-, and potato-free, making it ideal for dogs with allergies! With a high percentage of wild boar as the sole animal protein source, along with healthy vegetables, fruits, and herbs, it mimics the diet of wild game. Prebiotics and probiotics boost immunity and gastrointestinal flora, and glucosamine and chondroitin promote strong, supple muscles and joints. Salmon oil provides omega-3 and 6 fatty acids.

No, I'd rather not. Mixing food is usually recommended when switching, but this almost always refers to switching from one extruded brand to another. Extruding often involves adding a fat at the end of the process to give the kibble a palatable smell/taste. (You can feel this when you run your hand through the bag.) When you switch kibble, you're switching fats. That's why mixing is often recommended, so the manufacturer can be sure the dog will like the new kibble. Healthy Dog dog food is pressed and therefore has a very high acceptance rate. Moreover, the ingredients are so natural that the dog can even smell them separately. So, we don't need any fat to make the kibble palatable, and the dog will happily eat it as is. As you can read on the website, the digestion of extruded kibble is very different (high in the stomach) than that of pressed kibble and (frozen) meat (low in the stomach). When you mix these two different digestion methods, you make it more difficult for the dog.

Healthy Dog also contains no preservatives or synthetic fragrances, colors, or flavors that many foods do. The beauty of Healthy Dog is that the food is so natural that it cleanses the body of accumulated waste. This is most effective when you don't mix Healthy Dog or feed it with (frozen) fresh meat. The Probiotics variant can be used in addition if your dog needs extra help transitioning. The addition of probiotics boosts immunity and promotes healthy gut flora!

See also the question “Can you mix Healthy Dog and (frozen) fresh meat food?”

The philosophy of Francken Food, the producer and distributor of the Healthy Dog brand, is to help as many dogs and dog owners as possible access healthy and affordable dog food.

We keep prices affordable for consumers and quality high. After all, satisfied customers are the best advertising. By sharing your Healthy Dog experience with friends, neighbors, and family, Healthy Dog's reach will naturally expand.

Francken Food is a small family business. We leverage our industry experience and rely on a loyal network. This also saves on marketing costs; we limit advertising, and we often choose charities for sponsorships. These short lines also allow us to operate very efficiently. Because we are both a producer and distributor, consumers don't pay the wholesale costs. This allows us to offer excellent quality food without having to charge exorbitant prices!