Complete Guide to Dog Food: Choosing the Right Nutrition

Complete Guide to Dog Food: Choosing the Right Nutrition | Ashario Pets

Whether you're a first-time dog owner or an experienced pet parent reassessing your dog's diet, this comprehensive dog food guide covers everything you need to make informed, confident choices about what goes in your dog's bowl. From dry kibble and raw diets to freeze-dried, wet food, and life-stage formulas, Ashario Pets in North York, Ontario is your trusted resource and one-stop shop for premium dog nutrition as of 2026.

Written by the team at Ashario Pets — North York's locally owned premium pet supply store, open 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 365 days a year, at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7.

Why Dog Food Matters: The Foundation of Canine Health

The food your dog eats every single day is the single most controllable factor in their long-term health and wellbeing. Unlike medications or supplements that address specific concerns, diet affects virtually every body system — from coat quality and energy levels to immune function, digestion, weight management, and joint health. As of 2026, the Canadian pet food market has grown significantly in both volume and variety, and the number of options available to dog owners can feel overwhelming without a reliable framework for decision-making.

Dogs are omnivores with specific nutritional requirements that vary by breed size, age, activity level, and individual health status. A working Border Collie has dramatically different caloric and protein needs than a senior Basset Hound. A teething Labrador puppy requires different mineral ratios than a middle-aged Poodle mix. Understanding these differences is the starting point of any good dog food guide.

At Ashario Pets, the philosophy centres on providing pet owners with genuine education alongside high-quality product selection. The store carries an extensive range of dog products across every major food format — dry, raw, wet, freeze-dried, air-dried, and dehydrated — ensuring that every dog owner in North York and across the Greater Toronto Area can find a formula that suits their dog's unique needs and their own lifestyle.

This guide draws on current nutritional science, real-world feeding experience, and the product knowledge of the Ashario Pets team to help you cut through the noise. We'll walk through food types, label reading, life-stage considerations, top brands, and practical transition tips so you can shop with confidence. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet, especially if your dog has a diagnosed medical condition.

Explore dog wellness needs and visit the dog blog at Ashario Pets for ongoing articles, brand spotlights, and nutrition tips.

Types of Dog Food: Kibble, Raw, Wet, Freeze-Dried and More

One of the most fundamental decisions a dog owner faces is choosing which food format to feed. Each format has distinct advantages, considerations, and ideal use cases. Most experienced dog owners and nutritionists agree that variety and quality are both important, and many dogs thrive on a combination of formats — a practice sometimes called "rotational feeding."

Dry Dog Food (Kibble)

Dry dog food remains the most widely used format in Canada. It is shelf-stable, convenient, cost-effective per serving, and widely available. Quality matters enormously with kibble — premium dry dog foods use named meat sources, limited fillers, and carefully balanced macronutrient profiles. Ashario Pets stocks an extensive selection of dry dog food from brands including Orijen, Acana, Open Farm, Farmina, Fromm, Go! Solutions, Zignature, SquarePet, Natural Balance, Canadian Naturals, Blue Buffalo, Hill's Science Diet, Royal Canin, Purina, and Nutro.

Raw Dog Food

Raw diets — whether commercially prepared or pre-portioned — consist of uncooked meat, organ, and bone. The category includes frozen raw patties, raw meal toppers, and raw mixes. Proponents cite benefits including improved coat shine, dental health, and digestive regularity. Ashario Pets carries raw dog food from brands like Big Country Raw, Raw Performance, Red Dog Blue Kat, Instinct Raw, Primal, Stella & Chewy's, and The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co.

Wet Dog Food

Canned and pouched wet foods offer high moisture content — typically 70–80% — making them an excellent choice for dogs with low water intake or those needing added hydration. They're also highly palatable, which makes them valuable for picky eaters or dogs recovering from illness. Browse wet dog food from brands such as Weruva, Caru, The Honest Kitchen, Tiki Dog, Merrick, Open Farm, Purina, Royal Canin, and Hill's Science Diet.

Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Freeze-drying removes moisture at very low temperatures, preserving nutrients, enzymes, and palatability while creating a shelf-stable product. Freeze-dried dog food can be fed as a complete meal (rehydrated or dry) or used as a topper or treat. Brands available at Ashario Pets include Stella & Chewy's, Primal, The Honest Kitchen, and Instinct Raw.

Air-Dried Dog Food

Air-drying uses gentle, low-temperature air circulation to remove moisture over time, resulting in a dense, nutrient-rich product that sits between kibble and raw in terms of processing. Air-dried dog food is available at Ashario Pets from premium brands including ZIWI, Orijen, and others.

Dehydrated Dog Food

Dehydrated food is cooked at low temperatures with moisture removed, then typically rehydrated before serving. The Honest Kitchen is one of the most recognized dehydrated dog food brands, and it is available in-store and online through Ashario Pets.

Dog Food Broth

Dog-safe broths are used as meal toppers, hydration boosters, or enrichment additions to dry food. They can be especially useful for seniors, recovering dogs, or those transitioning between foods. Ask the team at Ashario Pets about available broth options to complement your dog's current diet.

How to Read a Dog Food Label

Learning to decode a pet food label is one of the most empowering skills a dog owner can develop. Canadian pet food labelling is regulated under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), and labels must include specific information in a standardized format. Here is what to look for:

The Ingredient List

Ingredients are listed by weight before processing. In a high-quality dog food, you want to see a named protein source — such as deboned chicken, salmon, beef, or lamb — as the first ingredient. Be cautious of generic terms like "meat meal" or "animal by-product meal" without a named species. Premium foods list multiple named protein sources, healthy fat sources such as salmon oil or chicken fat, and identifiable fruits and vegetables like sweet potato, blueberries, or peas in reasonable proportions.

The Guaranteed Analysis

This panel lists minimum percentages of crude protein and fat, and maximum percentages of crude fibre and moisture. These numbers allow you to compare foods on a dry-matter basis — particularly important when comparing dry food to wet food, which contains significantly more moisture. A high-protein dry food may show 30% protein, while a high-quality wet food might show only 10% — but on a dry-matter basis, the wet food may actually be higher in protein.

AAFCO or Canadian Nutritional Standards Statement

Look for a statement confirming that the food meets nutritional standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) or equivalent Canadian standards. This statement also specifies the intended life stage: "All Life Stages," "Adult Maintenance," "Growth," or "Senior."

Named Fat and Carbohydrate Sources

Quality fats like chicken fat, salmon oil, or sunflower oil support coat health and provide essential fatty acids. Carbohydrate sources such as brown rice, oats, lentils, or sweet potato provide fiber and energy. Multiple grain or legume sources scattered throughout the ingredient list at lower quantities (a practice called "ingredient splitting") can artificially inflate the apparent protein content — watch for this in lower-quality products.

Visit the premium pet food selection at Ashario Pets or explore best pet food for specific needs for curated recommendations based on your dog's profile.

Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive Dog Food

Few topics in dog nutrition have generated as much discussion over the past several years as the grain-free debate. Understanding the nuances of this conversation is essential for making an informed choice for your dog.

What Is Grain-Free Dog Food?

Grain-free dog foods replace traditional grain ingredients — rice, oats, corn, barley, and wheat — with alternative carbohydrate sources such as peas, lentils, chickpeas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and tapioca. Many grain-free formulas were developed initially in response to the rise of the biologically appropriate or ancestral diet movement, which emphasizes high-protein, low-carbohydrate eating patterns similar to a dog's evolutionary diet.

Brands like Orijen and Acana — both produced by Champion Petfoods in Alberta, Canada — helped define the high-protein, low-carbohydrate, biologically appropriate category that many grain-free foods now occupy. For a detailed breakdown of how these two iconic Canadian brands compare, read our blog post: Acana vs Orijen Dog Food: Which Brand Is Right for Your Dog?

The FDA Investigation and Its Context

In 2018 and 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued alerts about a potential link between certain grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. As of 2026, the scientific picture remains complex and inconclusive. Research suggests that the issue may be related to specific ingredients — particularly high levels of peas, lentils, and legumes — rather than the absence of grains per se. Taurine metabolism, genetic predisposition in certain breeds, and overall dietary balance all appear to play roles.

The key takeaway is that both grain-free and grain-inclusive foods can be excellent choices depending on the individual dog. Dogs with diagnosed grain allergies or intolerances may genuinely benefit from grain-free formulas. Dogs without such sensitivities may do equally well on high-quality grain-inclusive foods. Consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance, especially for breeds with known cardiac predispositions.

Grain-Inclusive Premium Options

High-quality grain-inclusive dog foods use whole, identifiable grains like brown rice, oats, or barley as digestible energy sources. Brands such as Fromm, Canadian Naturals, Open Farm, Farmina, Royal Canin, and Hill's Science Diet all offer well-formulated grain-inclusive options available at Ashario Pets. See the top pet brands in Canada page for a full overview of what's available.

Puppy Food: Nutrition for Growing Dogs

Puppies have nutritional needs that differ substantially from adult dogs, and feeding a properly formulated puppy food during the growth phase is one of the most important decisions a new dog owner can make. The first year (or two years for large and giant breeds) is a period of rapid bone, muscle, and organ development that places specific demands on dietary composition.

Key Nutritional Requirements for Puppies

  • Higher protein and fat: Puppies need more protein to support muscle development and more fat for energy and brain development than adult dogs.
  • Calcium and phosphorus balance: The ratio of calcium to phosphorus is critical for bone development. Too much or too little of either can cause skeletal problems, particularly in large-breed puppies.
  • DHA: Docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, supports brain and vision development in puppies.
  • Appropriate calories: Puppy foods are calorie-dense to support growth, but overfeeding can lead to rapid weight gain that stresses developing joints.

Large-Breed Puppy Food

Large and giant breed puppies such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Great Danes require special large-breed puppy formulas with controlled calcium and phosphorus levels and moderate fat to prevent excessively rapid growth. Brands like Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Orijen, Acana, and Farmina all offer dedicated large-breed puppy formulas available at Ashario Pets.

When to Transition to Adult Food

Small and medium breeds typically transition to adult food around 12 months of age. Large breeds may remain on puppy or "all life stages" formulas until 18–24 months. Consult your veterinarian to determine the right transition timeline for your individual dog's breed and body condition.

Ashario Pets carries a wide selection of puppy dry food, puppy-formulated raw diets, and wet food options from brands including Orijen, Acana, Farmina, Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Open Farm, Go! Solutions, Canadian Naturals, and Purina. Browse the full range of dog products online or visit the store at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York.

Senior Dog Food: Feeding Your Aging Companion

As dogs age, their metabolism, mobility, organ function, and dental health change in ways that often require dietary adjustments. Most dogs are considered seniors at around 7 years of age, though this varies by size — giant breeds may be considered senior at 5–6 years, while small breeds may not show signs of aging until 10 or later.

Common Nutritional Shifts for Senior Dogs

  • Lower calorie needs: Reduced activity and slower metabolism mean many senior dogs need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Maintained or higher protein: Despite the common belief that senior dogs need less protein, many nutritionists now recommend maintaining or even increasing high-quality protein to preserve lean muscle mass.
  • Joint-supporting nutrients: Glucosamine and chondroitin, often added to senior formulas, can support joint health in aging dogs.
  • Increased fibre: To support digestive regularity, which can slow with age.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: To support cognitive function, coat health, and joint inflammation management.

Dental Considerations for Senior Dogs

Dental disease is prevalent in older dogs and can make eating hard kibble uncomfortable. Wet food, freeze-dried food, raw diets, or softened kibble can all be easier to eat for seniors with dental issues. Dental treats from brands like Greenies, available at Ashario Pets, can also help maintain oral hygiene as part of a broader care routine.

Recommended Senior Dog Food Brands

Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Purina, Blue Buffalo, Natural Balance, and Nutro all offer well-researched senior dog food formulas available at Ashario Pets. Brands like Orijen and Acana also offer "senior" or "all life stages" formulas with high-quality protein appropriate for older dogs. Additionally, dog health supplements such as joint support, omega-3s, and probiotics from brands like Canine Matrix, MOJO Pet Supplements, Wellytails, and Pawtanical can complement a senior dog's diet. Consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

Raw Dog Food: What You Need to Know

Raw feeding has evolved from a niche practice to a mainstream option embraced by a growing number of Canadian dog owners. As of 2026, the raw dog food category is one of the fastest-growing segments of the premium pet food market in Canada, and Ashario Pets has invested significantly in its raw food offering to meet this demand.

What Is a Raw Dog Food Diet?

A raw diet typically consists of uncooked muscle meat, organ meat (such as liver and kidney), raw meaty bones, and sometimes fruits and vegetables. Commercial raw diets simplify this by pre-portioning and balancing these ingredients into convenient patties, nuggets, chubs, or mixes. The BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) model and the Prey Model Raw (PMR) approach are the two most common frameworks, though commercial pre-made options make raw feeding accessible without requiring owners to source and balance ingredients themselves.

Potential Benefits of Raw Feeding

Advocates of raw feeding report improvements in coat condition, stool volume and consistency, energy levels, dental health, and skin issues. It is important to note that robust clinical research on raw diets is still evolving, and individual results vary. Always consult your veterinarian before switching to a raw diet, especially for dogs with compromised immune systems, seniors, puppies, or dogs in households with immunocompromised humans.

Top Raw Dog Food Brands in Canada

Ashario Pets carries an impressive selection of raw dog food from Canada's leading brands. For an in-depth analysis of the best options available, read our detailed review: Best Raw Dog Food in Canada: Top Brands Reviewed for 2026.

Brands available at Ashario Pets in the raw category include:

  • Big Country Raw — a Canadian-made brand offering a wide range of raw meal bases, organ blends, and complete patties
  • Raw Performance — high-quality Canadian raw food with varied protein options
  • Red Dog Blue Kat — Canadian raw food with a commitment to transparent ingredient sourcing
  • Instinct Raw — a widely respected brand offering raw patties, bites, and freeze-dried raw options
  • Primal — raw nuggets and mixes with a variety of protein options
  • Stella & Chewy's — freeze-dried raw meals and toppers known for high palatability
  • The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co — premium raw and freeze-dried options from New Zealand-sourced ingredients

Browse the full raw dog food collection at Ashario Pets online or in store.

Raw Safety Practices

Safe handling of raw pet food follows the same principles as handling raw meat for human consumption: keep it frozen until use, thaw in the refrigerator, wash hands and surfaces after handling, and use stainless steel or dishwasher-safe bowls. Never leave raw food out at room temperature for extended periods.

Premium Dog Food Brands at Ashario Pets

Ashario Pets is North York's premier destination for premium dog food, stocking an unmatched range of Canadian-made and internationally sourced brands across every food format. Here is a comprehensive overview of the leading brands you'll find on the shelves and online through Ashario Pets as of 2026.

Canadian-Made Premium Brands

  • Orijen — made by Champion Petfoods in Alberta; biologically appropriate, high-protein formulas featuring 85%+ animal ingredients
  • Acana — also by Champion Petfoods; regionally inspired, lower carbohydrate, high-protein dry food
  • Canadian Naturals — Canadian-made dry food with clean ingredients and no artificial additives
  • Carna4 — a Canadian brand using sprouted seeds and whole-food ingredients as an alternative to synthetic supplements
  • Big Country Raw — Canadian raw food brand with a wide protein variety
  • Raw Performance — Canadian raw meals with single and mixed protein options
  • Red Dog Blue Kat — Canadian raw food with a focus on ingredient quality
  • Lifetime — Canadian dry food brand with all-life-stages formulas
  • Fare Game — Canadian brand featuring novel proteins like bison and venison
  • Tilted Barn — Canadian premium brand focused on simple, quality ingredients
  • Healthy Paws — Canadian brand offering wholesome nutrition options

International Premium Brands

  • Open Farm — certified humane, transparently sourced ingredients with traceability built into every bag
  • The Honest Kitchen — human-grade dehydrated and air-dried food made in the USA with whole-food ingredients
  • Farmina — Italian-made, science-backed nutrition with grain-free and grain-inclusive lines
  • Fromm — Wisconsin family-owned brand with a multi-generational commitment to quality
  • ZIWI — New Zealand-made air-dried and canned food using 96% animal ingredients
  • Stella & Chewy's — USA-made raw and freeze-dried food known for palatability
  • Zignature — limited-ingredient formulas ideal for dogs with food sensitivities
  • Go! Solutions — accessible premium nutrition with targeted formulas
  • Instinct Raw — USA-made raw and freeze-dried with a strong scientific foundation

Vet-Recommended and Science-Based Brands

  • Royal Canin — breed-specific and health-specific formulas backed by decades of research
  • Hill's Science Diet — veterinarian-recommended formulas with extensive clinical backing
  • Purina — a broad range from Pro Plan (science-driven, vet-recommended) to accessible everyday nutrition
  • Natural Balance — limited-ingredient diets for sensitive dogs
  • Nutro — clean, simple ingredients with non-GMO commitments

For a side-by-side look at two of the most talked-about premium brands, explore our in-depth blog post: Open Farm vs The Honest Kitchen: Which Premium Pet Food Brand Wins?

Explore the full range of top pet product brands in Canada available at Ashario Pets, or browse the brand feature blog for detailed spotlights on individual brands.

Ashario Pets also carries a substantial selection of made in Canada pet products, reflecting the store's commitment to supporting Canadian pet food manufacturers who prioritize ingredient quality and local sourcing.

How to Transition Your Dog to a New Food

Switching your dog's food too quickly is one of the most common causes of digestive upset in dogs — loose stools, gas, vomiting, and decreased appetite can all result from abrupt dietary changes. A gradual transition allows your dog's gut microbiome and digestive enzymes to adjust to the new ingredient profile.

The Standard 7-10 Day Transition Plan

  • Days 1–2: 75% old food, 25% new food
  • Days 3–4: 50% old food, 50% new food
  • Days 5–6: 25% old food, 75% new food
  • Days 7–10: 100% new food

For dogs with sensitive stomachs, a 14-day or even 21-day transition using smaller incremental changes may be more appropriate. Adding a probiotic during the transition period can help support gut balance. Brands like Canine Matrix, MOJO Pet Supplements, and Pawtanical offer digestive support supplements available at Ashario Pets.

Transitioning to Raw Food

Transitioning from kibble to raw can be more complex because the two food types digest at different rates. Many raw feeding advocates recommend either a cold turkey switch (particularly for dogs with no history of digestive issues) or a more extended gradual transition. Feeding kibble and raw food at separate meals rather than mixing them in the same bowl is often recommended during the transition period. The team at Ashario Pets in North York is knowledgeable about raw feeding transitions and happy to provide guidance when you visit the store at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, or call at +1-647-564-4433.

Signs the Transition Is Going Well

  • Firm, well-formed stools
  • Consistent appetite and interest in meals
  • No vomiting or excessive gas
  • Normal energy levels
  • Gradual improvement in coat quality (when switching to a higher-quality food)

If your dog experiences prolonged digestive upset, persistent loose stools, or refuses to eat during a transition, consult your veterinarian for guidance tailored to your dog's specific health needs.

Enhancing Your Dog's Diet with Supplements and Treats

Even the highest-quality dog food may benefit from thoughtful supplementation in some cases, and treats are an important part of a dog's daily life that can be chosen strategically to complement overall nutrition.

Popular Dog Supplements at Ashario Pets

The dog health and wellness section at Ashario Pets includes a comprehensive range of pet supplements. Key categories include:

  • Joint support: Glucosamine, chondroitin, and green-lipped mussel supplements from brands like Canine Matrix, MOJO Pet Supplements, and Wellytails can support mobility in active, senior, or large-breed dogs.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish oil supplements support skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and support cognitive function.
  • Probiotics and digestive enzymes: Support gut health, particularly during food transitions or after antibiotic treatment.
  • CBD and hemp products: Available from select brands for owners exploring natural wellness options — consult your veterinarian before use.
  • Pet test kits: Brands like 5Strands offer at-home sensitivity and intolerance testing to help identify potential food sensitivities in your dog.
  • Multivitamins: Canine Life and Pawtanical offer comprehensive multivitamin options for dogs on homemade or supplemented diets.

Treats as Part of a Balanced Diet

Treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog's daily caloric intake. Choosing high-quality treats means fewer unnecessary additives entering your dog's diet. Ashario Pets carries a wide selection of dog treats including:

  • Freeze-dried treats: Single-ingredient, nutrient-dense options from Stella & Chewy's, Primal, and Crumps' Naturals
  • Dental treats: Greenies and other dental chews that support oral hygiene
  • Training treats: Small, low-calorie options for reward-based training
  • Dog chews: Long-lasting chews from brands like RedBarn, Benko, and Gunnis Pet for enrichment and dental benefit
  • Natural air-dried and dehydrated treats: From Crumps' Naturals, Kettle Craft, and Charmy

Visit the dog health supplements page for a full overview of what's in stock, and read more on the Ashario Pets blog for the latest guidance on canine wellness.

Shopping for Dog Food at Ashario Pets: In-Store, Online, and Delivery

Ashario Pets is North York's most comprehensive premium pet supply destination, located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7. The store is open every single day of the year from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM — including holidays — making it one of the most accessible pet supply stores in the Greater Toronto Area.

In-Store Shopping

The Ashario Pets North York location stocks hundreds of dog food products across every format — dry, raw, wet, freeze-dried, air-dried, and dehydrated — along with a full selection of treats, chews, supplements, toys, accessories, and grooming supplies. The knowledgeable staff can help you navigate the selection based on your dog's breed, age, size, activity level, and any health considerations. Call the store at +1-647-564-4433 to check product availability or get a product recommendation before your visit.

Online Shopping

Browse and order online at ashariopets.ca. The online store is organized by product category, making it easy to find exactly what you're looking for. Explore specific collections including dry dog food, raw dog food, wet dog food, freeze-dried dog food, air-dried dog food, dog treats, and dog health and wellness products.

Fast Local Delivery

Ashario Pets partners with multiple delivery platforms to bring premium dog food directly to your door. As of 2026, delivery is available through:

  • Uber Eats — on-demand delivery for urgent restocking needs
  • DoorDash — convenient delivery with flexible scheduling
  • SkipTheDishes — Canadian-focused delivery platform
  • Instacart — grocery-style delivery with same-day availability
  • Fantuan — serving the Greater Toronto Area community

Price Match Guarantee

Ashario Pets is committed to offering competitive pricing on all premium dog food and pet supplies. The store offers a price match guarantee — if you find an identical product at a lower price from a qualifying retailer, Ashario Pets will match it. This gives you the confidence to shop locally without worrying about overpaying.

Loyalty Program and Promotions

Regular shoppers at Ashario Pets benefit from a loyalty program that rewards repeat purchases. Combined with ongoing seasonal promotions, this means savings add up over time for customers who make Ashario Pets their primary pet supply destination. Check the pet product coupons and promotions page regularly for current deals, and visit customer reviews to read what North York pet owners are saying about the store.

Additional Resources

For more guidance on dog nutrition, explore the following resources available on the Ashario Pets website:

  • Dog blog — regularly updated articles on dog nutrition, health, and care
  • Pet store FAQ — answers to common questions about products, delivery, and store policies
  • Contact Ashario Pets — reach the team for personalized product recommendations
  • Dog accessories — collars, leashes, harnesses, bowls, feeders, travel gear, and more
  • Dog toys — enrichment and play products from brands like Kong, ZippyPaws, JW Pet, and BuD'z
  • Dog grooming — shampoos, conditioners, and grooming tools from TropiClean and Arm & Hammer

Ashario Pets also serves cat owners with an equally comprehensive selection of cat products including dry cat food, raw cat food, wet cat food, cat litter, and more from brands like Tiki Cat, Inaba, Weruva, Snappy Tom, and World's Best Cat Litter.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food

What is the best type of dog food?

There is no single "best" type of dog food that applies to every dog. The right food depends on your dog's age, breed size, activity level, health status, and individual tolerances. High-quality options exist across all formats — dry kibble, raw, wet, freeze-dried, and air-dried. Premium brands like Orijen, Acana, Open Farm, Farmina, Stella & Chewy's, ZIWI, and Big Country Raw all produce excellent foods in their respective categories. Consult your veterinarian to identify the most appropriate option for your specific dog, and speak with the knowledgeable staff at Ashario Pets in North York for product-specific guidance.

How much food should I feed my dog per day?

Daily feeding amounts depend on your dog's weight, age, activity level, and the caloric density of the food. Most premium dog foods provide a feeding guide on the packaging as a starting point. Monitor your dog's body condition score — you should be able to feel ribs without visible prominence, and your dog should have a visible waist when viewed from above. Adjust portion sizes up or down based on body condition, and consult your veterinarian for guidance on maintaining a healthy weight.

Is grain-free dog food safe for dogs?

As of 2026, grain-free dog food is generally considered safe for the majority of dogs, but research into a potential link between certain grain-free formulas (particularly those high in peas and legumes) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs is ongoing. Dogs with diagnosed grain allergies or intolerances may benefit from grain-free options. For dogs without specific sensitivities, high-quality grain-inclusive foods are an equally valid option. Consult your veterinarian — particularly if your dog is a breed with a known predisposition to cardiac issues.

What is raw dog food and is it right for my dog?

Raw dog food consists of uncooked meat, organ, and sometimes bone, prepared in commercial formats such as patties, nuggets, chubs, or mixes. Many dog owners report improvements in coat quality, stool consistency, and overall vitality after switching to raw. Commercial raw brands available at Ashario Pets — including Big Country Raw, Raw Performance, Red Dog Blue Kat, Instinct Raw, Primal, and Stella & Chewy's — make raw feeding accessible and nutritionally balanced. Raw feeding may not be appropriate for dogs with compromised immune systems or in households with immunocompromised individuals. Always consult your veterinarian before switching to a raw diet.

What should I look for in a puppy food?

A good puppy food should be labelled for "Growth" or "All Life Stages" according to AAFCO or Canadian nutritional standards. Look for a named protein source as the first ingredient, appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels (especially important for large-breed puppies), added DHA for brain and eye development, and a calorie level appropriate for your puppy's expected adult size. Brands like Orijen, Acana, Farmina, Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Open Farm, and Canadian Naturals all offer quality puppy formulas available at Ashario Pets in North York.

How do I transition my dog to a new food?

Transition gradually over 7–10 days by mixing increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old food. A standard schedule is 25% new food on days 1–2, 50% on days 3–4, 75% on days 5–6, and 100% new food from day 7 onward. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need 14–21 days. Adding a probiotic supplement during the transition can support gut health. Contact the team at Ashario Pets at +1-647-564-4433 or visit the store at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York for personalized guidance.

Does Ashario Pets offer price matching on dog food?

Yes. Ashario Pets offers a price match guarantee on identical products from qualifying retailers. If you find the same product at a lower price, Ashario Pets will match it. The store also has a loyalty program for regular shoppers and runs seasonal promotions. Visit the price match guarantee page or the promotions page for current details.

Can I get dog food delivered from Ashario Pets?

Yes. Ashario Pets offers fast local delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan. You can also shop online at ashariopets.ca and arrange shipping or pickup. The North York store at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, is open every day from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 365 days a year, for in-store shopping as well.

Visit Ashario Pets in North York

Ashario Pets — North York
1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7
Phone: +1-647-564-4433
Hours: Open 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily, 365 days a year

Ashario Pets is a premium pet supply store serving dog and cat owners throughout North York, the Greater Toronto Area, and across Ontario. The store carries an extensive selection of dog food, cat food, raw food, freeze-dried food, air-dried food, pet treats, supplements, toys, accessories, grooming supplies, and more from top Canadian and international brands including Orijen, Acana, Open Farm, The Honest Kitchen, Big Country Raw, Farmina, Stella & Chewy's, Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, ZIWI, Fromm, and dozens more.

Delivery available via Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan.

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