Savvy pet caregivers must read between the lines, so to speak, to really know what's in there. One thing is certain – the first ingredient listed in any high-quality dog food will be protein. And not just any protein, but one that comes from meat is likely best.
Focus on the first ingredients.
The main protein should be first and an actual meat source like chicken, duck or lamb. The second ingredient should be another meat source, generally a clearly labeled meal such as lamb meal or duck meal.
Generally, you want to choose a dog food with whole meats and meals in the first ingredients to ensure your dog is eating the right amount of protein.
Some pet food manufacturers like to point out that corn is a better source of energy – especially for working animals – than meat. However, science proves this to be yet another myth. Consumers shouldn't favor a dog food because “protein” is the first ingredient.
Quick Tip: Look at the basic four: protein, fat, fiber, and water. Many states have regulations requiring the minimum amount of nutrients a pet food must contain, as well as the maximum amount of moisture and crude fiber. Dog food labels must display the percentage of crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and water.
Whole-food ingredients are minimally processed so they deliver the nutrients, vitamins, and fiber that pack the most value. The best diet for your dog is composed of whole-food ingredients – including fresh and raw meats, fruits, and vegetables — as opposed to powdered or synthetic ingredients.
Fresh, plant-based ingredients are great for your dog's gut health. Non-starchy, fibrous vegetables—like broccoli, green beans, carrots, cauliflower, asparagus, and leafy greens (like spinach, kale, or collards)—contain the kinds of prebiotic fiber that beneficial gut bacteria like to eat.
The top five ingredients in dog food should consist of a balance of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats and fatty acids, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. First of all, a high-quality source of animal protein, such as fish, beef, or deboned chicken, should be the main ingredient.
All pet food products must have a section of the label containing a list of the ingredients in the product. All ingredients should be listed by their common or usual name, and in descending order of predominance by their weight in the product. All ingredients should be listed in the same size letters or type.
Yes. Like many other fruits and vegetables, dogs get health benefits from carrots. In fact, every part of this vegetable, from the carrot itself to the leafy green tops, is safe for dogs to eat. They're a good, natural treat, and most dogs seem to like the flavor, too.
A good recommendation is 40% protein, 50% vegetables and 10% starch. Some dogs cannot handle high amounts of protein, though, so it is important to visit your vet to determine the best ratio to suit their dietary needs.
The food that makes up a dog's main meals should have a statement on the label from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) that the product “provides complete and balanced nutrition,” or that the product “is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient ...
corn is the #1 ingredient used in dry dog foods, more than twice as much corn is used than any other ingredient. Meat and bone meal – the rendered ingredient that can include any type of mammal, or diseased/non-slaughtered animals – is the second most commonly used dry dog food ingredient.
Sweet potato is a safe, healthy, and natural treat for dogs, offering a range of health benefits (and a sweet flavor they'll likely love). For example, sweet potatoes support a healthy digestive system thanks to their high dietary fiber content. They're also low in fat and contain essential vitamins like B6, C, and A.
Wet food is more nutritious than dry food
Dry kibble is what most people serve their pooches, namely because it's convenient and may be cheaper upfront. Yet canned wet food is more appropriate. “You get higher protein and moisture content so it's more specific to what dogs need,” according to Dr.
Most Homemade Diets Are NOT Complete & Balanced
So when you speak to your veterinarian in the clinic they know that there is a low chance that the homemade recipe that you are feeding your pup is actually complete and balanced to both AAFCO and NRC standards.
BHA, BHT and Ethoxyquin
These are artificial preservatives found in some traditional dog foods and treats, used to extend their shelf life. “There are concerns that these chemicals can be harmful with long-term exposure and ingestion,” says Richter, who recommends avoiding any artificial ingredients in food or treats.
Is Chicken Meal Good for Dogs? Yes! There are plenty of nutritional benefits of chicken meal, which is why you'll often find it in dog food. For starters, chicken meal is packed with protein, an essential nutrient that plays a role in everything from muscle growth to immune functions.
Ingredient list. Nutritional adequacy statement. Feeding instructions. Contact information for the manufacturer or distributor.