Commercial Dog Food Carbohydrate Calculator

The more information provided on the label of your pet's food or given by contacting the manufacturer, the more accurate results you will get using this calculator.

The less information you have, the more of a rough guide it will be.

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You will receive 2 values, one “Carbohydrate As Fed” meaning the % of carbohydrate of the food exactly as the food is. And another “Carbohydrate Dry Matter” which takes the moisture levels out. Understanding the dry matter values of your pet's food is handy if you’re trying to compare the carbohydrate levels in 2 different types of food (i.e. a raw food diet vs. a tinned pet food product).

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This calculator is a guide only and is as accurate as the detail of the information input. If you are concerned about the exact levels and type of carbohydrates in your pets food, we’d encourage you to get in touch with the manufacturer for more information.

Transparency in the pet food industry and in pet food labelling, for the health of pets, is something we’re really passionate about so feel free to get in touch with us anytime for more information at customercare@bigdogpetfoods.com

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FAQs

Why is calculating carbohydrate needs important for dogs?

While not essential to their diet, it’s important to calculate carbohydrate needs for dogs to ensure their overall nutrition and energy requirements are upheld. While dogs are primarily carnivorous animals, they have metabolic adaptations to help them digest and utilise carbohydrates effectively. 

There is a huge difference between the various types of dietary carbohydrates — and with some dogs consuming excessive amounts in their kibble-rich diet, obesity is on the rise. As some carbs are broken down into sugar, excessive consumption has also been linked to cancer, allergies and infections.  As a result, it’s beneficial to calculate the carbohydrate needs of your pup to ensure the following:

• Sufficient energy — Fat is a key energy source for dogs, providing readily available glucose to fuel their bodily functions. Fresh fruits and aboveground vegetables contain non-starchy carbs rich in phytonutrients and fibre. Research suggests these phytonutrients help keep your dog happy and healthy, defending against chronic diseases, obesity, diabetes, stress, inflammation and metabolic dysregulations. Phytonutrients also enhance your pup’s immunity, boost their mood and balance their hormone metabolism. 

• Balanced diet — Dogs require a balanced diet with appropriate amounts of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. The correct proportion of carbohydrates ensures their nutritional needs are met, supporting their overall health and well-being.

• Fibre content — Carbohydrates from fibre-rich sources like fruits, and vegetables contribute to a dog's dietary fibre intake to maintain healthy digestion, regulate bowel movements and help prevent certain gastrointestinal issues like constipation.

• Weight management — Calculate carbohydrate needs for your dog to manage their body weight healthily. All dogs need a low-carb diet, especially those with weight issues. The lower carbohydrate content will help control calorie intake and fat absorption, as per the advice of your veterinarian.

• Blood sugar regulation — A dog food carbohydrate calculator is a must-have for dogs with certain health conditions like diabetes to help manage their blood sugar levels and ensure stable energy throughout the day.

Not all dogs have the same carbohydrate needs. When determining appropriate carbohydrate intake, you should consider your pup’s breed, age, activity level and underlying health conditions. Consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist for tailored dietary recommendations for your dog's needs.

How does the carbohydrate calculator work?

To use our carbohydrate calculator, simply enter the percentage of protein, fat, moisture and ash via the information on your pet food label or by contacting the manufacturer. The more information you provide, the more accurate your dog food carbohydrate calculator results will be. 

You will receive two values, one being “Carbohydrate As Fed,” referring to the percentage of carbohydrates in the food as is. “Carbohydrate Dry Matter,” however, will remove the moisture content. Understanding the content of dry matter in your furry friend’s food is helpful in comparing the carbohydrate levels between a raw food diet and a tinned pet food diet. 

Find your nearest store to purchase our raw dog food products and probiotics. And if you have any questions, contact our team, who will be happy to assist.

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