How to read a pet product label before you buy

Pet products come with a lot of small print. A few minutes with the label or the product page before you buy can save you returning the wrong size or choosing something that does not suit your home. Here is a simple order in which to read it.

1. Who is it for?

Check the species and, where given, the age or life stage. A bed or toy made for a large dog may not suit a small one, and equipment for one species may not be suitable for another. If the label does not say who the product is for, ask the seller before ordering.

2. Size and weight range

Look for actual measurements in centimetres or millimetres and a recommended weight range, not just a size letter. Compare them with your pet’s measurements, and if your pet is between sizes, think about whether room to grow or a snug fit is more useful for that product.

3. Materials

Look for the materials listed for the outer fabric, filling, and any hard parts. Think about how you use the product: a bowl for daily use needs to be easy to wash, a toy needs to stand up to play, and a bed needs a cover you can remove and clean. Avoid guessing from photos alone; colours and textures can look different on screen.

4. Ingredients on food and treat packs

In the UK, ingredients are normally listed in descending order of weight, so the first items make up the largest part of the recipe. You may also see the terms complete and complementary: a complete food is designed to provide everything a pet needs when fed in the right amounts, while a complementary product is not meant to be the only food. Check the feeding guidelines, which are normally given by weight, and the best-before date. If your pet has specific dietary needs, ask your vet before changing food.

5. Care and cleaning

Look for the recommended washing temperature, whether the item is dishwasher or tumble-dryer safe, and any warnings about direct heat. These details affect how long a product lasts and how easy it is to keep clean.

6. Safety markings and warnings

Read any warnings about supervision, small parts or age. Toys and accessories are not indestructible, so check them regularly and replace anything that is damaged.

7. Return and contact details

Finally, check the seller’s delivery and returns terms. At BathPetSupplies, UK delivery is free and unused items can be returned free within 30 days; the details are in our returns policy.

A quick checklist

• Right species and life stage
• Measurements and weight range compared with your pet
• Materials suit how you will use it
• Ingredients and feeding guidelines read, where relevant
• Care instructions check out
• Warnings read

If a label or product page leaves a question unanswered, email us and we will do our best to help. You may also like our guide to choosing a dog bed, or browse the departments.