What is the best Ziwi Peak flavour to feed my dog?

By Dr Linda Simon, MVB

So, you’ve read about the Ziwi Peak dog food range and are impressed by what this ethical, award-winning New Zealand pet food company has to offer? Now though, the issue is which flavour you should choose; the options are vast. You can rest assured that whatever you plump for, you’re making a great decision for your four-legged friend.

When it comes to deciding on a recipe, there are a few things to consider:

Wet or Dry Dog Food?

Ziwi Peak’s wet food range is packed full of protein. It is made up of meat, bone and offal and has a high moisture content. There are six ‘Classic’ recipes and three from the new, exciting ‘Provenance Range’ (more on that later!)

• Wet dog foods are especially beneficial for those animals who do not drink much or who suffer with bladder issues. A wet food diet can decrease the risk of crystals and stones forming in the bladder.
• Wet foods are often preferred by picky eaters. If you find you are always throwing away bowls full of kibble, consider giving a wet food a go. Toy dog breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus are notoriously fussy and may demand a wet diet!

  

The dry dog food diets on offer from Ziwi Peak have been expertly air-dried to lock in nutrition. As is true of the wet food, there are nine choices: Six ‘Classic’ and three ‘Provenance’.

• With either one or two protein sources, these are a great option for those with sensitive stomachs.
• Dry food is also beneficial for those dog breeds prone to dental disease, such as Greyhounds, Shelties and Pugs. The kibble helps to keep teeth clean and doesn’t cake on to the surface.
• Those who live in hotter climates may find it easier to feed dry food as it will last longer before going off.

Of course, you may decide you want to have the best of both worlds and feed both. This is known as mixed feeding and is a popular option. Some may choose to mix both in the same bowl. Other owners offer wet food in the morning and dry in the evening. It is possible to feed wet food at meal times and leave dry food down all day. However, this can lead to over-eating in some greedy individuals so isn’t right for everyone. Whichever way you choose to feed your furry friend, Ziwi Peak has the right food for you.

What age is your Dog?

Importantly, all Ziwi Peak wet and dry recipes are suitable for all life stages. You read that right; dogs of any age over 6 weeks can befed each recipe safely. This is especially useful in multi-dog households where one may snaffle another’s food.

Some very young or very old dogs may find dry kibble tricky to contend with. In these scenarios, a wet option might suit best. However, even elderly dogs with no teeth can happily eat dry biscuits. For those who prefer dry, consider adding a little warm water to soften the food if needed.

If you’ve just got a new puppy and are interested in feeding them the best food on the market, click here for more information on feeding your puppy Ziwi Peak.

Does your dog have any health issues?

Feeding the diet that is right for your dog is of paramount importance. Many medical issues such as atopic skin disease and inflammatory bowel disease can improve when the right diet is fed. A high-quality, digestible food such as Ziwi Peak can prove very useful indeed. Of course, it is always best to discuss your dog’s dietary needs with their vet.

One key feature of all of the Ziwi Peak recipes is that they have a limited number of protein sources. This can help those with dietary sensitivities and allergies. Dogs can be sensitive to any ingredient, from a grain to a meat. Due to this, consider having your dog allergy tested if showing signs of a food allergy. If this isn’t possible, monitor them closely when changing to a new diet. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea or itchy skin may indicate an intolerance.

Which Ziwi Peak flavour tastes the best?

Each of the delicious Ziwi Peak recipes has its own unique aroma and taste profile. While this may not be overly apparent to us, your dog is one discerning individual. Each has their own preference and will be quick to let you know which food is a hit with them.

Some dogs, for example, are real fish fanatics. They would appreciate the Mackerel & Lamb recipe which is available in both wet and dry varieties. Mackerel, an oily fish that is a rich source of Omega 3 fatty acids, is the very first ingredient. This mackerel is wild-caught in New Zealand.

Other dogs, just cannot get enough meat. With grass-fed lamb, free-range chicken and protein-rich venison on the menu, they won’t know which way to turn!

For the really picky eater, the Ziwi Peak Lamb & Tripe recipe is often a hit. The high tripe content has a strong meaty taste and smell that most dogs will absolutely love.

For those pets who appreciate the finer tastes in life, let’s talk Ziwi Peak Provenance. This standout range includes recipes that contain five varieties of both meat and fish. For the real food connoisseurs, here is something different that will tickle their taste buds. Inspired by the beautiful country of New Zealand itself, there is nothing else like this on the market today.

With delectable recipes inspired by the beautiful East Cape, Otago Valley, Hauraki Plains, your dog is simply spoiled for choice. The Provenance foods can be fed as complete meals. They are also useful as toppers to add texture and flavour to other diets.

Which Ziwi Peak Protein is the best for your dog?

Ultimately, all of the Ziwi Peak dog food options are nutritionally complete and highly palatable. They provide everything your dog needs for optimal health. Not only that, but the meat is ethically raised and the fish is sustainably sourced; ensuring Mother Earth is put first. If you want some help deciding on which recipe to opt for, have a read about each primary ingredient:

Chicken

There is a reason that chicken is one of the most popular dog food flavours; it’s a real winner. Dogs typically love the flavour of chicken and it is rare to find one that would turn its nose up. Chicken is well recognised as being highly digestible and most tolerate it well. It is hard to find a pet food company that uses free-range birds. This just proves Ziwi Peak’s true commitment to the ethical treatment of all animals. Not only do free-range chickens enjoy a good quality of life, their meat is often more tender and juicier.

Lamb

New Zealand, of course, is famous for its lamb. Enjoyed by humans worldwide, why shouldn’t our pampered pooches chow down on the same, top-quality fare? The lambs are free-range and grass-fed, ensuring a premium meat. Lamb is naturally high in fat which makes it a sound choice for working dogs or those who are very active. Dogs who are trying to lose weight or are prone to packing on the pounds may be better opting for an alternate protein source.

Venison

Venison is the meat from deer and is becoming increasingly popular in the pet food world. With a meatier taste, your dog’s mouth will be watering as soon as you fill their bowl. A low-fat, low-cholesterol meat source, this is one healthy offering. The wet venison recipe contains just 4% fat; ideal for those watching their waistlines! Low fat diets are also generally recommended by vets for certain health conditions, such as chronic pancreatitis and diabetes. Remember though, always discuss with your vet which diet would best suit your dog.

Beef

With both wet and dry diets containing beef meat, offal and bone, you are getting a lot of bang for your buck. In the wild, dogs would naturally feed on the whole carcass and really benefit from being fed in this manner. The cattle used are raised respectfully and are finished on pasture, never feedlots. They are 100% free from growth hormones and antibiotics, so your dog can eat as well as you do.

Tripe

Tripe is one of the least-appreciated ‘super foods’ out there. Technically the stomach of a ruminant (such as a cow or sheep – sheep in this case), tripe is packed with protein and extremely nutritious. A rich source of vitamins and minerals, have a read of our article on tripe to find out more.

Mackerel

Originating from the pristine waters surrounding New Zealand, the mackerel is sustainably farmed. Mackerel is a rich source of essential fatty acids which have a strong anti-inflammatory effect within the body. Omega 3 fatty acids contributes to skin, coat and joint health. Those who suffer from joint disease, such as seniors with arthritis, would benefit most from this offering.

No matter which Ziwi Peak flavour you decide to feed, you’ll be offering your dog a protein-rich, nutritious diet. For those who like routine, there’s nothing wrong with finding a winner and sticking to it. Or, why not try changing it up every now and then? Your dog will likely thank you for it!

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