When it comes to selecting the best dog food for their pet, dog owners are faced with an overwhelming array of options. So, our Jackson vets are here to assist you in narrowing down your options and finding healthy, affordable, and appealing dog food for your pet.
What's the best dog food?
The majority of dog owners feed their pets dry kibble or canned wet food. Commercial dog foods of high quality are strictly regulated and have undergone rigorous testing by veterinary specialists. The healthiest, vet-recommended dog foods will include meat, vegetables, grains, and fruits. These non-meat foods are not just fillers; they can also be a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Nutritional Needs
Most dog foods should meet your dog's nutritional requirements. The majority of commercial brands are specially formulated to meet at least the most basic nutritional requirements of dogs. However, not every dog has the same nutritional needs. When shopping for dog food, keep this in mind.
Dogs need a variety of nutrients in varying amounts throughout their lives. Because a puppy's nutritional needs, for example, differ from those of an adult dog, it is best to feed a puppy formula or an "all life stages" food.
How to Read a Dog Food Label
Reading the label is one way to tell the difference between good and bad dog food. The FDA requires dog food labels to include eight key pieces of information, and individual states may have their own labeling requirements:
- Product name
- Net weight of the product
- Name and address of the manufacturer
- Guaranteed Analysis
- List of ingredients
- Intended animal species (i.e. dog or cat)
- Statement of nutritional adequacy
- Feeding guidelines
Product Name
The product's name reveals a lot about what's inside the can or bag. The term "beef" implies that the product must contain at least 70% beef. In contrast, the terms "beef dinner," "beef entrée," and "beef platter" require only that beef account for at least 10% of the total product. "With beef" requires only 3% of the total product to be beef, while "beef flavor" simply means that the product contains enough beef to flavor it (less than 3%). This is also true for other named ingredients, such as "chicken."
Ingredients
The product's name reveals a lot about what's inside the can or bag. The term "beef" implies that the product must contain at least 70% beef. In contrast, the terms "beef dinner," "beef entrée," and "beef platter" require only that beef account for at least 10% of the total product. "With beef" requires only 3% of the total product to be beef, while "beef flavor" simply means that the product contains enough beef to flavor it (less than 3%). This is also true for other named ingredients, such as "chicken."
While the ingredient list does not provide information about the quality of the ingredients, it does provide information about what is in the food. This is especially important for dogs who have special dietary needs or allergies, and it is also useful for owners who want to feed their dogs specific fiber, protein, and carbohydrate sources.
Dog Food For Small and Large Breed Dogs
Dogs of different breed sizes require different diets. Large-breed dogs frequently need large-breed dog food because they are more likely to experience musculoskeletal problems. Small breed dogs have special nutritional needs and can suffocate on large kibble. Look into your dog's breed to see if there are any unique dietary needs you need to be aware of.
Dog Food For Puppies
Dogs' nutritional requirements change throughout their lives. Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, and senior dogs have unique nutritional requirements. Most dog food companies sell puppy foods that are specially formulated for each stage of a dog's life. Consult your veterinarian to determine what stage food is best for your dog.
Your puppy's size and breed will determine the best food for it. Both "puppy food" and "for all life stages" food work well for some puppies. Consult your veterinarian at all times for advice on feeding puppies.
Dog Food For Senior Dogs
Different dietary needs apply to senior dogs, typically those who are 7 years old and older. Many older dogs favor wet food, while others might need their food warmed to bring out the flavors. The ideal dog food for an elderly animal can be recommended by your veterinarian.
Dog Food For Dogs With Special Dietary Needs
Both dogs and humans are afflicted by allergies, sensitive stomachs, and dietary restrictions. Providing food for dogs with special dietary needs can be challenging. The best course of action is to consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best dog food to help with the problem.
Wet and Dry Dog Food
Ingredients such as meat and grains are combined and cooked to make dry dog food. The main advantage of dry dog food is that it does not need to be refrigerated. The best dry food for your dog is determined by his or her dietary requirements. Consult your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist about the healthiest option for your pet.
Wet dog food is a great alternative to dry dog food. Wet food contains more fresh meat, poultry, fish, and animal byproducts, as well as more grain-based textured proteins. Although canned dog food has a long shelf life, once opened, it must be refrigerated. Your dog's age, breed, and any special dietary needs or allergies will determine the best wet food for him.