It would be so much easier if all dog food was created equal. Instead, the dog owner is presented with a huge array of choices, all claiming to be the best dog food on the market. Pouring through these options to find a brand of dog food that is healthy, affordable, and attractive to your pet is often frustrating.
What Makes Dog Food “Good”?
A lot of owners feed their dogs using a combination of dry or wet canned food. Such processed foods may not appeal to humans, but they contain all the nutrients that dogs require to keep healthy. Popular commercial dog food is highly regulated and thoroughly tested by specialists in veterinary care and nutrition. So, what exactly is in this dog food?
Dogs are not strictly just carnivores. Meat does form the majority of a dog’s diet, however domestic dogs can also get nutrients from whole grains, veggies and fruit. Non-meat food is not just filler, but can be a valuable source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre. A good quality food for dogs will contain grains, vegetables, meat and fruits. Remember to choose good quality treats for your dog too. Consider Healthy Dog Treats, from a site like https://theinnocentpet.co.uk/collections/healthy-dog-treats
Dog Food Nutrition
The best dog food must meet nutritional requirements. Most brands of commercially available dog foods are specially created with at least, the very minimum of nutritional requirements, it is important to remember that not every dog has exactly the same nutritional needs.
Dogs will need a variety of nutrients in different amounts during their life. The nutritional needs differ between puppies and adult dogs, which is why it is a good idea to feed a puppy formula or “all stages of life” food for your young dog. If you are unsure about the difference between the nutritional needs of puppies and adults, speak to your vet about recommended nutrients for dogs, along with the recommended amount for their weight and age. Large breed dogs and puppies have different nutritional requirements to small breed dogs and puppies.
Best Dog Food for Puppies
Dog nutritional needs vary throughout their lives. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs and senior dogs who have their own nutritional considerations. Most companies offer dog food specially formulated for every stage of a dog’s life, making it easier to choose.
Your dog needs a different balance of nutrients to adult dogs. Other puppies do well on both puppy food and food labelled “for all stages of life.” The best food for your puppy depends on the size and breed of your dog. Always consult with your veterinarian for recommendations on eating for dogs, and advice on how to switch your puppy to adult dog food.
