Dry dog food does expire. Unopened, a bag of dry dog food can last up to two years, says Chavez. Once the bag is opened, it is only good for a few weeks. “Kibble is ultra-processed pet food and contains preservatives designed to give it a longer shelf life,” Chavez says.
How long does dry kibble last?
An average dry kibble product will have a shelf life of about a year. But once you open the bag, you only have approximately 2 weeks to finish it before the oils in the kibble food turn rancid. Oils become rancid by being exposed to oxygen and becoming 'oxidized'.
How can you tell if dry dog food is bad?
How to tell if your dog food is spoiled
- There is a noticeable sour or rancid odor.
- You see signs of moisture, mold, or bugs.
- The bag is past its expiration date.
- The food has been exposed to heat or humidity.
- Your dog refuses to eat, or shows signs of illness/discomfort after eating.
