Glossary
Alfalfa
A nutrient-rich plant from the legume family, often ground into a powder or meal.
Why it’s used
It adds natural vitamins, minerals, and some plant protein—usually in small amounts as a supplement, not as a main ingredient.
What to watch for
No major concerns, but it’s not a key protein source. Too much could inflate the plant protein level without adding much value.
Algae Oil
An oil made from marine algae which is naturally rich in DHA.
Why it’s used
It’s a sustainable source of DHA, an important omega-3 fatty acid for brain and eye health.
What to watch for
It’s high quality but not always included in meaningful amounts. Check its position in the ingredient list to see if it’s just sprinkled in or actually doing some work.
Animal By-Product
The leftover parts of animals after meat has been removed—could include organs, heads, feet, or undeclared tissues.
Why it’s used
It’s a cheap way to add animal content and boost protein levels, especially in low-cost foods.
What to watch for
It’s extremely vague. You don’t know which animal it came from or what parts were used. Quality can range from decent to very poor.
Animal Digest
A flavouring made by chemically 'digesting' animal tissues (usually byproducts) using enzymes or heat.
Why it’s used
Adds smell and taste to make kibble more appealing to dogs.
What to watch for
Unless it’s named (like “chicken digest”), it’s extremely vague. “Animal digest” could come from any animal and any part—not great if you’re aiming for transparency or quality.
Beet Pulp
The fibrous material left over after sugar is extracted from sugar beets.
Why it’s used
It’s a low-cost source of soluble fibre that helps firm up stools and support gut health. Some dogs with sensitive stomachs do well with it.
What to watch for
It’s not harmful, but it’s not particularly nutritious either—used mostly for digestion, not nutrients. Not a “bad” ingredient, just one that’s often overused in cheaper foods.
Brewers Rice
A byproduct of white rice processing—the small fragments left behind when rice is milled for human food.
Why it’s used
It’s cheap, easy to digest, and adds bulk without triggering sensitivities in most dogs.
What to watch for
It has less nutritional value than whole brown or white rice. If it’s high on the ingredient list, it can be a sign the food is cutting corners.
Brewers Yeast
A type of dried, inactive fungus left over from beer brewing. It’s not the same as the live yeast used to make bread rise.
Why it’s used
It’s rich in B vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids that can support skin, coat, and immune health.
What to watch for
It’s generally safe, but dogs with yeast sensitivities may react. It's more of a functional add-on than a nutritional cornerstone.
Cereal Protein
A protein concentrate extracted from grains like wheat, corn, or rice.
Why it’s used
It’s a cheap way to boost protein levels on the label without adding more meat.
What to watch for
The term is too generic—you don’t know what grains were used or how digestible they are. It’s a red flag for plant-based protein padding.
Cereals
Umbrella term for grains like wheat, rice, corn, or barley—used when brands don’t want to name the exact grain sources.
Why it’s used
Typically as a cheap carb source. “Cereals” is often code for byproducts or leftover grain parts.
What to watch for
You don’t know which grains are used or what quality they are. That’s a problem for dogs with sensitivities, since different grains affect dogs differently.
Chamomile
A calming herb often used in teas, known for its soothing effects.
Why it’s used
Promotes relaxation and may help ease mild anxiety, stomach upset, or inflammation.
What to watch for
Usually included in very small amounts. Safe for most dogs, but shouldn’t be relied on for anxiety relief in place of actual behavioural support.
Chicken Digest
A flavouring made from enzymatically broken-down chicken tissue—basically a highly processed chicken broth concentrate.
Why it’s used
It adds a strong, meaty flavour and smell that makes kibble more appealing to dogs. It’s a common way to boost palatability without using fresh meat.
What to watch for
It’s better than generic “animal digest” because the source is named, but it’s still a heavily processed flavour enhancer, not a major nutrient source.
Chickpeas
A type of round, beige legume (also called garbanzo beans) commonly used in both human and pet foods.
Why it’s used
It helps bind kibble, adds bulk, and provides slow-release carbs and some nutrients.
What to watch for
Chickpeas aren’t harmful in moderation, but when used heavily, they can contribute too much plant protein and fibre, which some dogs don’t digest well.
Chicken Meal
A concentrated protein powder made from clean, rendered chicken parts—mostly muscle meat, sometimes including skin, but no feathers or offal.
Why it’s used
It’s much higher in protein than fresh chicken because the water’s removed—meaning more protein per gram of food. It’s a reliable, digestible source of animal protein when named clearly like “chicken meal.”
What to watch for
It’s only a quality ingredient if it’s named (e.g. “chicken meal,” not “meat meal” or “poultry meal”). Vague terms = vague sourcing.
Choline
An essential nutrient often grouped with B-vitamins—supports brain, liver, and nerve function.
Why it’s used
Plays a role in fat metabolism and cognitive health. Especially important in puppy and senior formulas.
What to watch for
A beneficial, science-backed inclusion. No concerns here—it’s a good sign when clearly listed.
Chicory Root
A fibrous root from the chicory plant, naturally high in inulin.
Why it’s used
Acts as a prebiotic to promote healthy digestion and feed beneficial gut bacteria.
What to watch for
Safe and well-tolerated in most dogs. Just be mindful of cumulative fibre when combined with other prebiotics.
Chondroitin
A natural substance found in connective tissue that helps cushion joints and retain moisture in cartilage.
Why it’s used
Commonly paired with glucosamine to support joint health and reduce wear-and-tear in working, ageing or large dogs.
What to watch for
Same as glucosamine—beneficial, but only if used in meaningful amounts. Look for it in combination with other joint-support nutrients.
Colostrum
The first form of milk produced by mammals after giving birth, rich in antibodies, enzymes, and immune-support compounds.
Why it’s used
Supports immune function, especially in puppies or dogs under stress. Also sometimes used in allergy-support diets.
What to watch for
High-quality when sourced and handled properly, but it’s a delicate ingredient that loses potency if overprocessed.
Dandelion
A leafy herb with natural diuretic and liver-support properties—roots and leaves are both used in supplements.
Why it’s used
Supports detoxification and urinary health. Sometimes used for mild digestive or anti-inflammatory support.
What to watch for
Safe in small amounts, but shouldn’t be overused—especially in dogs with kidney issues or on diuretics.
D-Glucosamine
The specific form of glucosamine most often used in supplements. It’s derived from shellfish or made synthetically.
Why it’s used
Supports cartilage health and helps manage joint pain or stiffness, especially in ageing dogs.
What to watch for
Like all joint supplements, the dose matters. If it’s low on the ingredient list, it may not be present in therapeutic amounts unless in a supportive mix.
Emu Oil
A fat extracted from the emu bird, native to Australia. It’s rich in omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids.
Why it’s used
Used for its anti-inflammatory benefits and skin support. Fairly common in Aussie-made foods.
What to watch for
Usually included in small amounts, so its impact depends on how much is actually used. A nice functional add-on, but not a replacement for more complete omega sources like fish oil.
Evening Primrose Oil
A plant-based oil extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant.
Why it’s used
Promotes skin and coat health, and can help with certain inflammatory conditions—used mostly in functional or skin-focused formulas.
What to watch for
A solid supportive ingredient, but usually only used in very small amounts. Shouldn’t be relied on as the primary fat source.
Faba Beans
A type of large, flat legume also known as broad beans.
Why it’s used
Adds protein, carbs, and fibre—often used as a filler or alternative to grains.
What to watch for
Can be hard for some dogs to digest and may add more plant protein than the label lets on. Best used in small amounts.
Field Peas
A variety of dried pea (different from green peas) that’s high in starch, fibre, and plant-based protein.
Why it’s used
Common in grain-free foods as a cost-effective carb and kibble binder.
What to watch for
When used in bulk, field peas can contribute to bloating or digestive issues, especially for sensitive dogs. Also inflates plant protein content.
Fish Meal
A high-protein powder made from whole fish or fish parts that have been cooked and dried.
Why it’s used
It’s a cheaper alternative to named fish meals while still being rich in omega-3s like EPA and DHA, which support skin, coat, joints, and brain health.
What to watch for
It’s often made from leftover or low-value fish (“trash fish”) not fit for human use. If the source isn’t named—like “salmon meal” or “whitefish meal”—you have no idea what species were used or their quality.
Flaxseed
A small plant seed packed with fibre, antioxidants, and a type of omega-3 called ALA (alpha-linolenic acid).
Why it’s used
Flaxseed supports digestion thanks to its fibre, and adds omega-3s that can help with skin and coat health. It’s also sometimes used as a natural binder in kibble.
What to watch for
The omega-3s in flaxseed are plant-based, which dogs don’t absorb as efficiently as fish-based ones like EPA and DHA. So while it’s a helpful add-on, it’s not a substitute for fish oil or other animal-based omegas.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
A type of prebiotic fibre made from plant sugars. Despite the long name, it’s basically a natural sugar that feeds good gut bacteria.
Why it’s used
Helps support gut health by promoting the growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
What to watch for
Beneficial in moderation, but like inulin, too much can lead to bloating or flatulence in sensitive dogs.
Glucosamine
A compound found in cartilage that supports joint health and mobility.
Why it’s used
Added to help reduce inflammation and protect joints—especially in senior, large breed, or active dog formulas.
What to watch for
Helpful in theory, but many foods don’t use enough to make a big difference on their own. Works best alongside other joint-support ingredients.
Green-Lipped Mussel Powder
A powdered extract from New Zealand green-lipped mussels, rich in omega-3s, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
Why it’s used
Supports joint health, reduces inflammation, and promotes mobility—often found in senior or large breed formulas.
What to watch for
A premium, evidence-backed ingredient. No concerns here—just note that small inclusions may not be therapeutic on their own.
Hydrolysed Chicken Protein
Chicken protein that’s been broken down into smaller pieces (amino acids and peptides) using enzymes—making it easier to digest.
Why it’s used
It’s gentle on sensitive stomachs and less likely to trigger allergies. It also smells and tastes great to dogs, so it's often used as a natural flavour enhancer—even in small amounts.
What to watch for
It’s a good sign when clearly named, but unless it’s a prescription or allergy-friendly food, it’s often in there for taste more than nutrition (which isn't a bad thing).
Inulin
A type of soluble fibre extracted from plants like chicory root or agave.
Why it’s used
Acts as a prebiotic to help feed beneficial gut bacteria and improve digestion.
What to watch for
Safe and useful in small amounts. Too much fibre, though, can cause gas or loose stools in some dogs.
Kelp
A type of seaweed naturally rich in iodine and trace minerals.
Why it’s used
Supports thyroid health, coat condition, and overall nutrient balance in small amounts.
What to watch for
Too much iodine can affect thyroid function. Fine in small doses, but avoid foods that use it heavily without disclosing the iodine content.
Krill Oil
An oil extracted from tiny crustaceans called krill, naturally rich in omega-3s (EPA and DHA) and antioxidants like astaxanthin.
Why it’s used
Provides highly bioavailable omega-3s that support joints, skin, brain, and heart health—often used in premium or functional formulas.
What to watch for
It’s a high-quality ingredient, but usually included in small amounts due to cost. Look for it near the middle of the ingredient list for real impact.
Lamb and/or Sheep Meal
A rendered, dried protein powder made from lamb and/or sheep meat and tissue.
Why it’s used
It’s a cost-cutting way for brands to market food as “lamb” without using 100% lamb.
What to watch for
Common in lamb recipe or sensitive recipes, but the mix of proteins isn’t ideal for dogs with allergies or intolerances. If your dog needs true lamb-only protein, look for “lamb meal” specifically.
L-Carnitine
A naturally occurring compound that helps the body convert fat into energy.
Why it’s used
Often added to weight management or active formulas to support fat metabolism and lean muscle.
What to watch for
It’s a functional, well-supported ingredient. No red flags—just check it’s part of a well-balanced formula, not used to make up for a poor base.
Maize
Another name for corn. It’s a cereal grain used in many commercial dog foods.
Why it’s used
It provides carbohydrates, some plant protein, and helps bind kibble. It’s cheap, widely available, and energy-dense.
What to watch for
Not harmful in small amounts, but it's low in nutritional value compared to whole food carbs. It can cause digestive upsets if in excess.
Maize Gluten
A concentrated plant protein extracted from corn (maize) during starch production.
Why it’s used
It's a cheap way to boost to the protein percentage on the label, and helps kibble hold its shape.
What to watch for
In high levels beyond being a binder, it is a plant protein with limited nutritional value for dogs which can dilute the quality of the overall protein in the food.
Meat and Bone Meal
A rendered product made from animal tissues and bones, but the source isn’t specified—could be beef, pork, lamb, or a mix.
Why it’s used
It’s a cheap, protein-rich ingredient that also adds calcium from the bone content.
What to watch for
The lack of source detail is a red flag. It’s one of the least transparent animal ingredients and can vary wildly in quality.
Natural Flavour
A catch-all term for flavour enhancers derived from animal or plant sources.
Why it’s used
To make kibble more appealing to dogs without using artificial chemicals.
What to watch for
The term is vague. It’s not necessarily harmful, but you have no way of knowing what it actually is—broth, organs, oils, etc. Transparent brands will say things like “chicken broth” or “hydrolysed chicken liver” instead.
Pea Protein
A highly concentrated protein powder extracted from yellow peas.
Why it’s used
It boosts protein content on the label without needing more meat—often used in grain-free formulas.
What to watch for
Too much can be a red flag. Plant proteins aren’t as easily digested or fully utilised by dogs compared to animal protein. If it’s high on the list, the food likely relies more on plants than meat for protein.
Poultry Meal
A rendered powder made from a mix of poultry parts—usually chicken and turkey, but not always specified.
Why it’s used
It’s a concentrated source of animal protein that’s cheaper than single-source muscle meat meals.
What to watch for
It’s vague. You don’t know which birds were used or what parts. The mix can vary between batches, which isn’t ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. Named meals like “chicken meal” are a safer, more consistent option.
Poultry (Chicken and/or Turkey Meal)
A rendered mix of chicken and/or turkey parts, cooked and dried into a concentrated protein powder.
Why it’s used
It offers flexibility for manufacturers while still being animal-based. Helps keep protein levels high at lower cost than single-source muscle meals.
What to watch for
It’s more transparent than generic “poultry meal,” but still a bit vague. The mix can change between batches, which isn’t ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols
A natural preservative made from vitamin E. It’s used to stop the fats in dog food from going off or smelling funky.
Why it’s used
Extends shelf life without needing synthetic chemicals like BHA or BHT—often used in foods marketed as more natural or premium.
What to watch for
Generally safe and well-tolerated. Just keep in mind that while tocopherols are a form of vitamin E, they’re used for preservation—not nutrition.
Preserved with Rosemary Oil
A natural preservative made from rosemary extract.
Why it’s used
Helps extend shelf life without using synthetic chemicals like BHA or BHT.
What to watch for
Generally safe, but some dogs with epilepsy may be sensitive to concentrated rosemary. If your dog has seizures, best to avoid.
Rice Flour
A finely ground powder made from white rice—essentially a processed version of rice with less fibre and fewer nutrients.
Why it’s used
It's a cheap carb in comparison to rice and also helps bind kibble.
What to watch for
It’s low in nutrition and often used as a cheap filler. When it shows up early on the ingredient list, it can mean the food is lower quality.
Sorghum
A gluten-free cereal used as a carbohydrate source in many dry dog foods.
Why it’s used
It’s slow-digesting, affordable, and less likely to spike blood sugar than some other cereals. Also used to help bind kibble.
What to watch for
Not a bad ingredient, but if it’s high on the list alongside other carbs, it can cause digestive issues.
Tapioca
A starchy extract from the cassava root, low in nutrients but high in digestible carbohydrates.
Why it’s used
Acts as a binder to hold kibble together and create texture—especially in grain-free recipes.
What to watch for
It doesn’t offer much nutritional value. Fine in small amounts as a binder, but shouldn’t be a major ingredient in a high quality food.
Tallow
A rendered fat from beef or mutton, typically sourced from suet (the fat around kidneys and organs).
Why it’s used
Adds animal-based fat for flavour and energy, especially in lower-cost foods.
What to watch for
It’s fine in moderation, but often a sign of low-cost formulation if used as the main fat source—especially if the source (like “beef tallow”) isn’t clearly named.
Tumeric
A bright yellow spice from the turmeric root, containing the active compound curcumin.
Why it’s used
Known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
What to watch for
Generally safe, but rarely used in large enough quantities to be therapeutic. Often more of a “feel-good” add-in without additional support ingredients.
Wheat
A common cereal grain used as a source of carbohydrates.
Why it’s used
It’s affordable, binds kibble well, and provides energy.
What to watch for
A known trigger for allergies or intolerances in some dogs. Not all dogs react, but if your dog has skin or gut issues, wheat is worth avoiding or limiting.
Yucca Schidigera Extract
A natural substance derived from the Yucca schidigera plant.
Why it’s used
Helps reduce stool odour, aid digestion and may offer mild anti-inflammatory benefits.
What to watch for
Safe in small amounts, but primarily a deodoriser—with mild functional benefits.