If you’re tired of run-of-the-mill commercial dog foods and want something with genuine nutritional credentials, Pero might be worth your consideration. This family-run Welsh company has been quietly revolutionizing canine nutrition since the 1980s, focusing on natural ingredients and ethical practices that set them apart from mass-market competitors.
The Pero story
Founded in 1982 in the picturesque setting of Snowdonia, Wales, Pero began with a simple premise – to create wholesome dog food using natural ingredients. The founder, a local farmer, was frustrated by his dogs’ refusal to eat commercially available products, which led him to develop his own recipes using locally sourced ingredients.
What started as a small enterprise has evolved into an award-winning brand that maintains its commitment to quality and ethical standards. Their dedication has earned them prestigious accolades, including Brand of the Year in 2023 and Best Dry Dog Food in 2017.
Ethical commitments and philosophy
Pero stands out in the pet food industry because of its unwavering ethical stance. The company proudly holds PETA certification as a cruelty-free brand, explicitly opposing animal testing – a position that remains rare among dog food manufacturers.
Their commitment to British agriculture is evident in their sourcing practices, with over 80% of ingredients coming from UK farms. This approach not only supports local economies but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with international shipping.
The brand’s philosophy centers around transparency and simplicity. They avoid artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and unnecessary additives, adhering to a “what you see is what you get” approach that resonates with health-conscious pet owners.
Nutritional excellence and product range
Pero offers an extensive range of products designed to meet various dietary needs and preferences. Their formulations fall into several key categories:
Grain-free and hypoallergenic options
For dogs with sensitive stomachs or specific allergies, Pero’s Super Sensitive range includes options like their Ocean Fish & Tapioca formula. This recipe uses highly digestible tapioca rather than traditional grains, making it suitable for dogs with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) or other digestive sensitivities.
The high content of white fish (over 30%) provides quality protein while delivering omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Not sure whether Pero is right for your sensitive dog? Read our Lukullus review for another option that caters to sensitive digestion.
High-protein formulations
Active dogs and those requiring substantial muscle maintenance benefit from Pero’s High Meat range. Their Lamb and Rice and Turkey & Sweet Potato recipes contain an impressive 40% meat content, providing ample protein without common allergens like wheat or gluten.
These formulas support lean muscle development while delivering essential amino acids for overall health. The balanced fat content ensures sustained energy release without unnecessary weight gain.
Breed-specific diets
Pero demonstrates nutritional sophistication through its breed-specific formulations. Their Staffordshire Bull Terrier recipe includes L-Carnitine for weight management and glucosamine/chondroitin for joint support – addressing common health concerns in this popular breed.
Similarly, their Working Dog Active Formula incorporates specific ingredients like linseed oil and pasta for gradual energy release, catering to the demands of highly active working dogs. This attention to breed-specific requirements reflects Pero’s comprehensive understanding of canine nutrition.
Ingredient quality and manufacturing standards
Pero maintains rigorous quality control throughout their production process. They use human-grade meats sourced from British farms, ensuring traceability and adherence to animal welfare standards.
Their manufacturing facility in Snowdonia employs strict testing protocols, with recipes developed alongside veterinary nutritionists to meet or exceed European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) guidelines.
The company’s approach to ingredient selection prioritizes functional benefits over marketing appeal. For example, they include joint supplements like glucosamine in formulas intended for breeds prone to mobility issues, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and krill for inflammatory conditions.
Unique customer approach
Unlike many competitors who rely primarily on retail distribution, Pero employs a network of nutritional advisers who provide personalized consultations to pet owners. These trained professionals offer tailored dietary recommendations based on individual dogs’ life stages, health conditions and specific needs.
This direct-to-consumer model fosters stronger customer relationships and ensures pet owners receive appropriate guidance. The advisers typically offer home delivery services and ongoing support, creating a comprehensive care system rather than a simple product purchase.
The company website complements this approach with extensive educational resources covering topics from basic nutrition to addressing specific health concerns. This commitment to customer education aligns with their broader mission of improving canine wellbeing through proper nutrition.
Price point and value proposition
Pero positions itself in the premium segment of the market, with prices reflecting the quality of ingredients and ethical standards. Smaller 2kg bags typically retail for £9-£12, while larger 12kg bags range from £57-£65, depending on the specific formula.
While these prices exceed those of mainstream supermarket brands, they compare favorably with other premium and super-premium options. Regular promotions, including multi-buy discounts, help mitigate cost concerns for budget-conscious consumers.
The value proposition extends beyond mere ingredients to encompass the ethical production, personalized nutritional guidance and targeted health benefits that characterize the Pero experience.
What kind of dogs is this food suitable for?
Pero offers formulations that address the nutritional needs of dogs across various life stages and activity levels. Their diverse product range makes them suitable for most canines, with specific formulas tailored to particular requirements:
For puppies, Pero provides growth-focused recipes with appropriate calcium-phosphorus ratios to support bone development and higher protein content for muscle formation. Their puppy formulas typically include DHA for cognitive development and immune system support.
Adult dogs benefit from their maintenance formulas, which balance protein, fat and carbohydrates for optimal weight and energy levels. The standard adult recipes provide approximately 24-26% protein, suitable for moderately active household pets.
Active and working dogs are particularly well-served by Pero’s high-protein options. The Working Dog Active Formula and High Meat ranges deliver elevated protein (up to 40%) and fat content, supporting intense physical activity and muscle recovery. These formulas include additional joint supplements to protect against exercise-related wear and tear.
Senior dogs can thrive on Pero’s specialized formulations that feature reduced phosphorus to support kidney function, moderate protein levels to maintain muscle mass without taxing organs, and additional joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin for mobility support.
Dogs with specific health concerns also find suitable options in Pero’s range. Their hypoallergenic and grain-free recipes address food sensitivities, while specialized formulas support weight management, joint health and digestive function.
Is this dog food good? A specialist’s conclusion
As a canine nutrition specialist, I consider Pero to be a solid premium option that delivers on most of its promises. The company’s ethical stance, ingredient quality and nutritional expertise place it comfortably above average in the competitive dog food market.
The brand’s strengths lie in its commitment to natural ingredients, local sourcing and specialized formulations that address specific health concerns. Their cruelty-free certification and opposition to animal testing represent important ethical standards that conscious consumers will appreciate.
However, Pero isn’t without limitations. Some of their standard recipes contain protein levels (around 19% in their Gold with Pasta formula) that fall below what I would consider optimal for certain dogs, particularly active breeds. While their High Meat lines address this with 40% protein content, not all of their products reach this benchmark.
The reliance on nutritional advisers, while beneficial for personalized guidance, can also limit accessibility in regions where these professionals aren’t readily available. This distribution model may not suit everyone’s shopping preferences.
Overall, I would rate Pero as very good but not exceptional when compared to the absolute top tier of canine nutrition. It represents a significant upgrade from grocery store brands and many mid-range options, offering genuine nutritional benefits and ethical production practices that justify its premium price point.
For dogs with specific health concerns or owners prioritizing ethical standards and natural ingredients, Pero represents a worthwhile investment. However, those seeking the absolute pinnacle of canine nutrition might want to explore additional options alongside Pero.
If you’re looking for the ultimate in dog nutrition, you should know that Butternut Box consistently ranks as number one in our comparison of best dog food options available in the UK. Their fresh, human-grade ingredients and tailored portion control have set new standards in the industry. Want to see if Butternut might be right for your four-legged friend? Check out our comprehensive Butternut Box review to learn how this innovative approach to dog nutrition could transform your pet’s health and wellbeing.
