What Kind of Dog Food Should I Feed My Dog? | iPetCompanion

What Kind of Dog Food Should I Feed My Dog?

Do you give dog food to your pet? Are you a new parent and thinking whether to feed your pet with dog food?

Many owners feed their canine companion with dog food. But if it’s your first time to buy one, the process can be frustrating. You’ll find various choices and you’ll wonder which one is best suited for your four-legged best friend.

Giving Your Dog Complete Nutrition

How do you identify the best dog food if all claim to be the best? Start with the nutritional needs of your dog because they differ from one pet to another. The right dog food for your friend’s pet will not necessarily work for your dog.

Dogs will need various nutrients in every stage of their life. Puppies and adults require different nutrients. That said, you can consider starting with a food that’s fit for all dog’s life stages.

Look further into trusted sources like this that discuss the recommended amount of nutrients for dogs per weight and age. It’s okay to be extra skeptical when it comes to feeding your dog, especially if yours has specific dietary needs or allergies.

Should I Buy Expensive or Affordable Dog Food?

Rather than looking at the price first, look instead on the manufacturer’s quality control process. Check how the company formulates their products. Do they employ nutritionists?

When you’re in the market, don’t forget to check the product labels. Look out for the ingredient list that provides you with comprehensive information.

Just because the label mentions beef doesn’t mean there is actual beef content to it. If it says beef flavor, beef platter, or with beef, that means that the product contains beef ranging from less than 3 to 10 percent.

Though the labels will not tell the quality of the ingredients, you’ll be able to gather information what’s in the dog food.

Is it Okay to Give Dogs Grains and Human-Grade Meat?

Unless probably your dogs are allergic to grains, then you can feed them with grains. According to experts, whole grains can also provide dogs with valuable nutrients.

Cooked vegetables can be beneficial for dogs too. Grass can even be a source of nutrient for your dogs. Just be cautious of toxic plants or grasses treated with chemicals.

As for human-grade meat, you should talk to your vet first if this option is suitable for your dog. Also, refrain from giving your dog manufactured meat as they may contain preservatives that are harmful to your dog.

The Dog Food for Your Dog’s Size

Puppies have unique nutritional needs. To make it easier, you can search for dog food that’s specially formulated for puppies. However, you may also try a dog food for all life stages. In general, it will depend on your puppy’s breed and size. And again, your vet’s advice.

Be sure to monitor the growth and development of your puppy. Puppies grow very quickly and if your dogs are of a large breed descent, they will need food that strengthens their bones.

For adult dogs, meanwhile, you can also choose a product that’s labeled for all life stages. Small breeds may do well with smaller kibbles. Know more about your dog’s and their specific nutritional requirements.

If your dog has dietary restrictions, don’t take chances. Always consult with your veterinarian first.

Dry Vs. Wet Dog Food

Dry dog food doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Usually, it’s made of meat and grains. The starch content is converted to make it easy to digest and the rest of the ingredients are sterilized. The best dry dog food is the one that meets your dog’s needs.

Wet food tends to be more expensive than dry dog food as its taste is generally more appealing to dogs. Their ingredients are similar although they vary in quantity. Chances are you’ll find a higher amount of fresh ingredients in wet dog food. But, you need it refrigerated.

As the case with dry food, the best wet food will depend on your dog’s specific needs.

More Dog Feeding Tips

  • Talk to your vet first. Don’t go shopping unless you’ve already asked your veterinarian for recommendations. This is especially crucial if your dog has special needs.
  • Measure your dog’s food. Avoid overfeeding your furry family member. Know how much and when to give them food. Use tools to help you give them just the appropriate portion.
  • Look out for obesity issues. If your dog is obese as per your vet, you can look into specially-formulated food that is low in calorie and high in fiber.
  • See if the food is complete and balanced. Check if the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) says that the dog food is complete and balanced. This means that the food is complete and balanced for the particular needs of the dog on a specific life stage.
  • Observe your dog’s poop. If your dog is active, has a good appetite and firm stool, then chances are everything’s fine. But if his poop is runny, then you may need to check in with your vet.

Feeding a dog can be tricky as food available to him is as varied as food available to humans. If you’re going for a kibble diet, there’s nothing wrong with that. Long as you’ve done your research and aren’t overfeeding, your pet should be just fine.

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