The label is a contract. Learn to read the fine print.
US dog food labels follow real rules: the product name sets a legal minimum for the named ingredient, ingredients are listed by weight, and the guaranteed protein number only compares on equal terms after one small conversion - FDA's own worked example (on adult cat foods) turns a can guaranteeing 12% protein into 54.5% on a dry matter basis, above the 42% for a dry food guaranteeing 37% in the same example. These guides teach the rules in plain language, from regulatory sources, with no brand rankings and no scare tactics.
Guaranteed analysisCrude protein (min)12%
Moisture (max)78%
Dry matter protein54.5%
US FDA worked example, adult cat foods - 「Complete and Balanced Pet Food」 The guides
G01Reading ingredient listsWeight order, water weight, and the splitting trick.G02Product name rules95% vs dinner vs with vs flavor - one word, 30x the beef.G03Guaranteed analysisProtein, fat, fiber, moisture - and the dry matter conversion.G04Complete and balancedThe adequacy statement: profiles, feeding trials, life stages.G05Grain-free & DCMWhat the FDA investigation actually found, in numbers.G06Claims & red flagsRegulated claims vs marketing words, and the xylitol rule.G07Label decoderDecode a product name and convert protein in seconds.G08About & sourcesWho writes this and what it is built on.
Wondering whether this food fits your dog?PawLine gives research-based answers tailored to your dog's breed, age, size and history - including label questions, ingredients and how much to feed.Ask PawLine How to use this site
Start with the ingredient list guide, learn the naming ladder, then run your own bag through the label decoder. Every claim traces to a listed source - FDA rules, state feed-control guidance, and the published DCM investigation - so you can check anything we say.
