CAN YOU FEED WORKING DOG FOOD? 🐕

When you hear the term “working dog food,” what comes to mind? Border Collies herding sheep across the moors? Gun dogs sprinting after pheasants in the countryside? 

While these images might have been accurate decades ago, the reality of working dog food in 2025 is quite different, and far more interesting.

Let’s dig into what “working dog food” really means today and why it might just be the savvy choice for your pup. 🐾

 

What Does “Working Dog Food” Actually Mean?

Years ago, working dog food was designed for dogs with high energy jobs.

Think farm dogs, police dogs, or search and rescue pups.

These dogs needed extra protein, fat and calories to fuel their demanding lifestyles. But today? The label “working dog food” doesn’t always mean what you might expect.

In fact, many manufacturers use the term simply because it makes the food VAT-free.

That’s right, by labelling a product as “for working dogs,” they can knock a whopping 20% off the retail price without cutting into their profits.

And it’s not just “working dog food” that gets this perk. Terms like “breeder bags,” “assistance dog foods,” and even foods for “resting working dogs” also qualify for VAT exemption. 🎉

 

Is Working Dog Food Really Different?

Here’s the kicker: there are no strict rules about what makes a dog food suitable for working dogs. This means any manufacturer can claim that virtually any of their products are for working dogs, even if the ingredients and nutritional values are identical to their standard formulas.

You might expect working dog foods to have higher protein and fat levels to support active lifestyles, but that’s not always the case. Many so called “working dog foods” have similar protein levels and calorie counts to regular dog foods.

So, what’s the difference? Often, it’s just the label, and the price tag. 💷

 

Why Don’t All Manufacturers Do This?

If VAT free working dog food is such a win for customers, why don’t all manufacturers label their products this way?

The answer lies in perception.

Many dog owners assume that “working dog food” is only suitable for high energy, working breeds, think Border Collies or German Shepherds, and worry it might be too rich or intense for their couch loving Labrador or pampered Pomeranian.

Because of this, some manufacturers play it safe, offering two identical versions of the same food: one for the mainstream market (with VAT) and one VAT free “working dog” variety for more savvy shoppers. Clever, right? 😉

But here’s the thing: this level of misconception can cost you.

While some working dog foods might indeed be tailored for highly active dogs, the vast majority are nutritionally identical, or even better, than their standard counterparts.

Yet, many dog owners unknowingly pay 20% more for the same product, simply because it doesn’t have the “working dog” label.

 

The Real Advantage of Working Dog Food

So, what’s the bottom line?

While working dog food might have once been tailored for high energy canines, today’s versions are often just as suitable for your average family pet.

The real advantage isn’t in the ingredients, it’s in the 20% VAT saving passed on to you, the dog owner.

By choosing a VAT free working dog food, you’re not just getting great nutrition for your pup; you’re also supporting manufacturers who clearly have your best interests at heart.

After all, who doesn’t love a good bargain, and who wants to pay 20% more for something others are paying 20% less, especially when it comes to keeping your furry friend happy and healthy? 🐶

 

The Smart Choice for Savvy Owners

At the end of the day, what really matters is that your dog is getting the:

 22 amino acids, 13 vitamins, and 14 minerals they need to thrive.

If a VAT free working dog food delivers all that, and saves you 20% in the process, choosing it isn’t just smart; it’s the next intelligent thing to do. 🐾