Selecting the Best Dog Food for Your Pet

1. Introduction

They say you are what you eat, and the same goes for pets. Your faithful dog is your shadow and one of the most reliable companions you will ever have, which is why it is important to ensure they receive proper nutrition. Good nutrition isn’t just important for your dog to have shiny fur but is, in fact, the hallmark of a long and healthy life. The best dog food can help to keep your pet’s heart, muscles, and joints strong. It can ensure that their bones stay sturdy through old age and that they can get about without getting out of breath. Basically, the right food is nothing short of a wonder. Given that your dog depends on the nutrients gathered from their daily meals to have energy, it is vital to cater to their nutritional needs to maintain a good quality of life. Like humans, not all dogs have the same dietary needs. A growing pup needs a different diet from an adult dog. What your pet needs also depends on factors like the breed, size, activity level, and pre-existing medical conditions. Pet owners are encouraged to explore the science of dog food to ensure proper care for their pets. (McKenzie et al.2022)(Pan, 2021)(Tanprasertsuk et al.2022)(McKenzie, 2022)(McKenzie & Chen, 2022)(Hoffman et al.2021)

1.1. The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Dogs

Proper nutrition is crucial for dogs to grow into healthy and thriving pets. Not only does it promote good development, but a balanced diet can help curb multiple health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and malnutrition. Furthermore, a balanced meal is a likely stand-in for supplements and other medications. As a dog ages, its nutritional needs will change as well. Puppies need all the essential nutrients to promote optimal development, growth, and immunity; as dogs grow, physical activity levels will determine caloric needs and protein requirements. Most dogs can thrive on a balanced diet that targets the average active dog, but working dogs or dogs engaged in competition and sports need a diet catering to their specific physical requirements. As dogs become seniors, their necessities change yet again; providing meals that can help minimize the risk of arthritis, dental disease, and obesity is important.

Dogs need essential nutrients to thrive as well as nonessential nutrients. Essential nutrients consist of protein, fats, some vitamins, and some minerals; in many cases, a pet food with by-products contains these nutrients, if not more, because processing by-products does not deactivate nutrient particle integrity. Nonessential nutrients include carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins, and while they can contribute to some health and wellness goals held by pet owners, they may cause consequences when taken to excess, such as obesity. Multiple health problems can manifest as a result of malnutrition and undernourishment alike. For example, constant overfeeding of dogs may lead to obesity, which has been linked to shortened lifespan, heart disease, hypothyroidism, and urinary tract diseases. Given the lowered activity and metabolism rate in spayed and neutered dogs, they need fewer calories than intact dogs, making obesity a common health risk in sterilized dogs.

1.2. Understanding Dog Food Labels

When selecting dog food, the place to start is by looking at the label. Dog food labels contain more than a long list of components: they tell an owner how sound the product is likely to be for their pet. At the top of the dog food label is the statement that reveals the name and intended purpose of the pet food product. However, in order to humanely evaluate this basic information, a pet owner first needs to understand what is in the can, bag, or pouch. This means having some information regarding such categories as the ingredients list, including source and quality at the most basic of labels; nutritional adequacy statement; guaranteed analysis; feeding guidelines; and manufacturer information.

Dog food labels have two basic parts: the principal display panel and the information panel. Both are governed by law, and both provide important information. The information panel of the label features the ingredients list for the products contained in the package, as well as some nutritional details to describe the guaranteed analysis of the product. The ingredients list itself appears in descending order, showing which components the product contains most and least of based on its weight. Ideally, this reflects the percent composition of the product. Knowing what is in the box is definitely enough to determine which pet food a consumer might select. They would need to sort through these options and filter out those with undesirable components based on these considerations. As such, a savvy consumer might disqualify a food simply because by-products could appear at the very top of the ingredients list. Likewise, some dogs have food sensitivities or allergies to items like soy or beef. Anyone feeding one of these pets should rule out any foods containing such components. Thus, savvy dog food shoppers must first consider the maker. After that, they can assess the package. In that context, define the five categories of information needed to decide how good a pet food is, and understand the ingredient quality as portrayed in the ingredients list. Know some of the basics in today’s market that influence a package, and how to focus on some nutrients as much as possible when choosing a pet food.

2. Types of Dog Food

In the global pet food market, dog food accounts for about 75% of the total annual pet food retail sales. Premium dog food is gaining immense popularity, as pet owners increasingly seek specialty, safe, and nutritious dog food products at various price points. The three main types of dog food are dry kibble, wet food, and raw dog food. Each type of dog food has its own set of unique characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks.

Before delving into the specifics, it's worth noting that each type of dog food usually has different grades based on the pet food ingredient list as a whole and the prevailing dog food formulations in the global pet food industry. However, a common approach to pet food grading lies in individualizing the pet's nutrition, grooming, age, taste, diet history, and possible pet health problems with the veterinarian's guidance. Dog owners must be aware of pet food labels as marketing tools to sell safe, quality pet food. Each type of dog food can be broken down, based on the labeled ingredients, into ingredient qualities and processing methods, which can then be fed to pets based on pet owners' lifestyles, companions, and other requisite filters.

The benefits of each type of pet food include ingredients with high water content in the formulation that can serve as a source of hydration for the pet, more moisture in the diet for pets prone to urinary or kidney problems, palatability of the jiggly and flavorful food, beneficial nutrients for developing puppies and geriatric dogs or cats, and minimal processing to preserve nutrients. Power in the preparation of animal meat, superior shelf life, and more convenience for large dogs, as well as preventive oral health care such as plaque and tartar removal. It should be noted that each type of dog food has drawbacks associated with pets, money, preparation, texture, flavor, risk of molds, and bacterial contamination from raw dog food, equipment required, and storage constraints.

2.1. Dry Dog Food

Dry dog food comes in the kibble form and is perhaps known for its convenience. Besides, due to a strict sterilization process using extrusion heat before packaging, this type of food has a long shelf life. It is also the most relatively cheap dog food available. The nutritional value of dry dog food is indeed in balance. A company produces a formulated and balanced recipe that contains fat, carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. Moreover, dry dog food contains low moisture levels. The natural teeth of a wild dog help it consume hard, raw bones while chewing. Thus, chewing can control gum-line infections, plaque buildup, and inhibit tooth loss. This is called the “mechanical preventive dental method” that is also found in dry food.

The multiple options of different dog food examples may make it difficult for pet owners to find the best one for their pets. The low moisture level is indeed a weak point to be considered in dry dog food. Products with low moisture content cannot replace the role of water in the hydration process, particularly for active and service dogs. The question is, is it appropriate to consume dry dog food for every pet dog? The answer is, “Based on which brands provide a certain percentage of moisture, some dry dog foods seem to be more appropriate for specific breeds of dogs and health conditions.” Some dry dog food products are specifically available for puppies and the elderly; some of them are appropriate for active dogs or those dogs that have health problems.

2.2. Wet Dog Food

Many dog owners consider wet food the most appealing among pet dogs. Wet dog food often comes in cans, but there are also servings in pouches. The main characteristic of this type of pet food is its high moisture content. Dry matter from these products contains 60-80% moisture. Because of their tastiness and highly palatable nature, the pets genuinely enjoy this type. Since wet dog food comprises 70 to 80% water, dogs, particularly those who are not used to drinking a lot, have a good water source. There are also various high-quality dog food brands on the market. Wet dog food is a perfect way to guarantee that dogs are hydrated, though it does not include all the vital health nutrients that dogs need. Wet food is ideal for mixing with dry food. In contrast to dry products that contain meat and grain by-products, the lowest price brands of wet dog food contain top-quality ingredients, virtually all of which are meat. Even large commercial retailers have tinned dog food with a certain amount of meat as their key ingredient. Wet food, on the other hand, has nutritional limitations, and dogs who are solely fed wet food do not chew because wet food does not clean the teeth. Wet food has a higher content of water. A dog with dental issues or a strong prey drive might not eat wet pet food. A whole carnivore has minimal worries about defective pet food. Lethargy, euphoria, weight gain, oily coat, and regular life-threatening allergic responses are among the side effects of low-quality pet food. Managing what breeders can do for pet stores is a legal quagmire. Puppies, seniors, and pets with certain health issues may eat wet pet food. Even puppies enjoy a soft texture. Reputable or not, puppy pet shop food is divided into two categories: high-quality and common.

2.3. Raw Dog Food

The raw dog food diet has been a hot topic in recent years, as it is gaining popularity among dog owners. The theory behind the raw food movement is that dogs are carnivorous animals and should eat a diet most closely related to that of their ancestors. Supporters of the movement have reported benefits such as improved coat condition, smaller and firmer stools, longer-lasting daily energy, healthier skin, cleaner teeth, and reduction of systemic infections, illnesses, and inflammatory diseases. The drawbacks and risks of feeding raw to your pets are potential bacterial contamination, the risk of developing a poorly balanced diet, pets cracking teeth on bones, and less convenience – raw feeders prepare their pets' meals on a weekly or daily basis.

There are different types of raw diets that dogs are fed. The most common two are referred to as BARF, which includes a mixture of raw meat, cereals, and/or vegetables, and organs, and prey model diet, which does not include grains or vegetables. You may also choose to feed your pet 'Whole Prey,' where you feed your dog an entire animal as found in the wild, including bones, muscles, and organs. 'Whole Prey' is the most advocated but less common choice of feeding raw. If you decide or would like to try raw feeding for your pet, it is recommended that you reach out to your veterinarian. They will be an excellent resource for guiding you about the necessary components of a balanced raw diet and any needed supplements. A professional can also help guide you away from pet-specific risks, such as the risk of bone splinters and chipped teeth. Moreover, it is essential that raw dog food is prepared in a sanitary environment to reduce contamination and consider animal requirements, needs, and natural habits.

3. Key Nutrients for Dogs

Every dog food label reads “complete and balanced.” So all commercial dog foods must provide an animal’s diet that contains specific nutrients in specific amounts for optimal health. Just as in humans, nutrients need to work in synergy with one another. In other words, nutrients should work together rather than individually. Using all these different dog nutrients at the proper levels will help to keep the dog healthy. Here is a list of essential nutrients that need to be in the dog food you feed to your pet. 1. Protein Function: Proteins are important as a source of energy and for growth and tissue repair. Sources: Good sources of protein include fish, meat, and eggs. Some grains and vegetables can be used in smaller amounts. RDA: 2 grams of high-quality protein per kg of body weight for adult dogs. Puppies need about twice as much protein as their adult body weight. Different stages of a female dog need different levels of protein. Pregnant females also need a little more protein than non-pregnant females. 2. Carbohydrates Function: Carbohydrates are a good source of energy. Sources: Good sources of carbohydrates include whole grains, vegetables, and beans. RDA: At least 2.5 grams of carbohydrates per kg of body weight in adult pet dogs. Besides growth, fiber is a type of carbohydrate that adds few or no calories to your canine’s meal, regulates the use of sugars in the body, and keeps the intestinal tract healthy and clean. Most fibers are members of the carbohydrate family. Some dogs are allergic to grains and are well-adjusted for a grain-free diet. Dogs differ in their carbohydrate needs, and weight is not the only factor that determines the amount of carbohydrate a dog needs.

3.1. Protein

Protein is considered one of the most important nutrients for dogs. It is also often the most expensive ingredient. This is quite logical when you consider that protein is essential for muscle development, growth, and the proper function of just about every cell in the body. Protein can come from a variety of sources, including meat, fish, and plant-based ingredients. Animal-based protein is most easily digested for most dogs. However, many dog foods now feature plant-based proteins, such as peas and chickpeas, to help free up more animal protein. Also, high-quality dog foods use higher quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, turkey, and salmon. These proteins have a higher biological value and are more appropriate for the carnivorous needs of a dog.

The recommended minimum amount of protein is 18% for adult dogs and 22% for puppies. These guidelines are a bit too vague for our tastes. We agree with many dog food experts who suggest that 30% protein for active adult dogs and 20% protein for adult dogs that are less active. Reputable dog food companies will also include minerals and vitamins in amounts that should already be proportionate to the amount of protein and fat that are included in the recipe. Not getting enough protein can result in a variety of health problems for dogs. A diet low in protein can cause skin problems, hair loss, and muscle wasting. Inadequate protein levels can also affect your dog’s immune function. Do be aware that excess protein is not necessarily wise. The excess will simply lead to weight gain. Make sure that the protein you use in your pet’s food is healthy, and watch the fat content. It shouldn’t be more than 15% of the food. Let’s take a closer look at what protein means for your dog.

3.2. Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are not one of the nutritional values that get quite as much attention as protein and fat, but they actually form an important part of a dog's diet. Essentially, carbohydrates act as a primary energy source to fuel a dog's daily activities. The two types of sugar that are found in dog foods are simple sugars and complex carbohydrates. Simple sugars are processed quickly by the body, while complex carbohydrates take longer to break down. Some examples of simple sugars include glucose, dextrose, and sucrose, and some examples of complex carbohydrates include barley, peas, and sweet potatoes. One way to gauge how digestible carbohydrates are is their glycemic index. This scale measures how quickly a carbohydrate is absorbed into a dog's bloodstream.

Carbohydrates exist in a variety of dog food sources such as grains, fruits, and vegetables. Cooked grains are actually one of the most digestible food sources for dogs, like rice, oatmeal, and barley. They can be broken down during digestion about 1-4 hours after eating. Fruits and vegetables are made up of a higher fiber content, which takes much longer for a dog's digestive system to break down the cell walls than grains do. Dogs are also able to exist on a carbohydrate-free diet due to their lack of a requirement for metabolic glucose. For most, the balance of carbohydrate ingredients is integral, but the food is too much of an overreliance on fillers, and not enough of a nutritional value can be detrimental in a dog's diet. The kind and energy requirements of your dog may also play a part in their dietary carbohydrate needs. Highly active dogs require higher amounts of nutrients, and the final nutrient profile should meet requirements for the individual needs of the animals. Lower activity levels generally require less energy, in which the carbohydrate inclusion may not be significantly different in terms of overall health. Carbohydrates aid in completing an overall healthy and balanced diet, which helps improve a dog's physical fitness.

3.3. Fats and Oils

Fats and oils are much more than a concentrated source of calories. Fats have a wide range of physiologic effects in the body. There are three broad categories of fats: saturated, polyunsaturated, and monounsaturated. The type of fat and the amount in the diet are associated with certain health effects.

Fats not only give your dog a shiny coat, but they also maintain healthy skin and serve as fuel for the body and brain. The essential fatty acids are linoleic and arachidonic acid – both omega-6 fats. A generous inclusion of poultry and fish can keep these essential fats present in the food, and all the other omega-6s needed by your dog could easily come from added dietary oils. Omega-3 fats are also essential to dogs and serve as important anti-inflammatory agents. This is important not only for sporting dogs to maintain high performance but also for pets to aid in the prevention of kidney disease, heart disease, arthritis, and brain health. Fats in the diet also provide the pet with much-needed energy and improve the taste and palatability of dog food.

Excessive fat may accumulate to form fatty deposits, especially in overweight animals. It may also cause a wide range of long-term or chronic hormone imbalances in the body that can contribute to diseases, including diabetes and adrenal imbalance. In addition, some forms of gastrointestinal upset or unformed pigmented stools may be caused by excessive fat in the diet. Avoid adding more fat to your dog’s diet, as it will unbalance their diet and provide too many calories, thus contributing to obesity. Some fat is needed, as fat-soluble vitamins cannot be absorbed or utilized by the body without some fat. As pathogens can potentially grow in fats, though not likely, fat should be stored properly and kept fresh. Select fresh fats if you mix your diet using the go-slow method. Additionally, ensure dietary fats are not rancid by checking for a peroxide value and smell. On dog food labels, look for healthy fat sources rather than lard or generic, non-descript fats.

4. Special Dietary Considerations

golden years, their dietary needs change as well. Senior dogs typically require a diet lower in calories to prevent obesity, as their activity levels may decrease. They also benefit from higher fiber content to aid digestion and maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, senior dog food often includes joint-supporting ingredients to help with mobility and overall health.

Small breeds have unique dietary needs due to their higher metabolism. They often require more calorie-dense food to meet their energy needs. Small breed dog food is usually formulated with smaller kibble sizes to accommodate their smaller mouths and teeth. It's important to choose a food that supports their dental health as well.

In summary, understanding the specific dietary needs of puppies, senior dogs, and small breeds is essential for providing the best nutrition for your dog. Tailoring their diet to their life stage and breed can help ensure they remain healthy and active throughout their lives.

4.1. Puppy Food

During the first year of life, puppies are at the peak of growth and development, making nutrition and care at this stage crucial to a dog's overall health. Commercially available dog foods formulated specifically for puppies are balanced to provide these young pets with the nutrients they need to grow into healthy adults. Puppies have an immediate demand for certain nutrients, like protein and fat, to build strong bones and muscles. Protein is composed of amino acids, and it is the primary building block for the body to develop a strong immune system. Puppies also need higher amounts of vitamins and minerals than adult dogs for many reasons related to growth, like a developing nervous system and a healthy coat. A good-quality puppy food will be formulated to meet the specific needs of growing pups. To do so, these diets are typically more calorie-dense than adult foods. Adult dog food will not provide the appropriate levels of nutrients needed by growing puppies. Ingredients are always listed by pre-cooked weight, so it is important to consider the overall moisture content when comparing ingredients on the dog food label. An age-appropriate pet food has the potential to support a healthy immune system, promote a glossy coat, develop efficient cognitive processes, establish a solid musculoskeletal system, and support a competent digestive system. A generic brand of puppy food with non-specific methods for determining the nutritional content is unlikely to achieve these various health-related goals. A puppy’s food schedule can also be adjusted to meet the pup’s individual needs. For instance, working dog breeds may require a higher calorie intake. Young puppies, such as those arriving at their forever home at six to eight weeks of age, will often require more frequent feeding to avoid low blood sugar levels. Typically, this means feeding a puppy four to six small meals throughout the day. Then, gradually, the number of feedings should decrease as the puppy grows.

4.2. Senior Dog Food

Senior dogs have different dietary needs than their younger counterparts. As a dog ages, their metabolism slows down, which means that they don't need as many daily calories as they used to. Senior dogs actually need fewer calories than adults to prevent obesity, age-related health complications, and to help keep them at a healthy weight. Many senior dog foods also contain higher amounts of fiber, which can help with digestive issues, high antioxidant levels to help support immune function, and higher levels of glucosamine to support joint health. When it comes to selecting a good dog food for your senior pet, look for high levels of important nutrients that offer support, including antioxidants for immune health and increased fiber for digestive health. Senior dog food should also be slightly lower in calories to address their changing metabolism. Many brands also have foods specifically formulated for senior dogs, which is easy to identify based on the packaging. Talk to your veterinarian if you aren't sure if you should switch to a senior food just yet. As dogs age, it's also a good idea to start proactively feeding foods that support any medical conditions, such as kidney disease or diabetes. Your veterinarian may also have suggestions on how to better support your aging pet, including changes in nutritional intake and feeding habits.

4.3. Small Breed Dog Food

Small breeds have unique needs when it comes to food. Some, especially working dog breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier and the Border Terrier, often require a high degree of quality nutrition dedicated to keeping their energy levels consistently high. On the market, you will find specialized food that can be taken regularly for small breed dogs, which have a high nutrient density and are digestible. They are also deliberately formulated to provide the right minerals and vitamins to meet the nutritional demands of small breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas. In terms of larger kibble pieces for small dogs, these are also a concern as small mouths have difficulty fitting food in, making it difficult to chew and swallow. It has been shown that small dogs can be at risk of obesity since owners sometimes overfeed them, thinking they are less active, which is not always the case. This can also be used in large breed dogs to help fill them up if they are constantly hungry.

The best option with most pet foods is to consult your veterinarian. They can tell you what kind of food will best benefit your individual pet and also help with portion size and create a diet plan. If you do not seek help from your vet, you should check for high-quality protein as the main ingredient, as well as a lower percentage of carbs. A good idea with small breeds is to buy smaller bags, as we will find that once the bag is half empty, we will take the same amount of time to finish it. This will help ensure the dog always has fresh food. Always remember that dogs eat differently, and although any amount of weight gain in a small dog is important, some treat foods come higher in fat. Always look at the labels of your treat foods and monitor the amount you give your dog.

5. Common Dog Food Allergens

Some ingredients in dog food commonly lead to adverse reactions that veterinarians classify as food allergies. Monospecific ingredients in commercial products are used less frequently, but the use of mixed ingredients in complex diets is more problematic because they are time-consuming and expensive to diagnose. Common signs of food allergy in dogs include itchy skin or ears, vomiting and diarrhea, and hives or red skin in regions such as the ears, feet, and groin. Because the symptoms of a food allergy can be diverse, many dog owners wonder how to find out if their pet has a food allergy and modify their diet if necessary. Here we review some common causes that lead to dog food allergies.

Proteins from cow's milk, beef, and chicken as well as eggs and fish are the cause of 20% of food allergies. Plant allergens are less common but include soy, corn, wheat, and rice. The most common sensitizing additives are chemicals such as artificial colors, artificial preservatives, and flavor enhancers. Diagnosis of food allergies typically requires the use of elimination diets using a different protein and carbohydrate source than the ingredients tested in the diet, followed by oral challenge tests. Hypoallergenic dog foods are available in many different flavors to help pet owners identify which ingredient is making the dog sick. There are several commercial diets that are available through veterinarians which include novel or new diets to minimize any need for these tests through an elimination diet.

6. How to Transition Your Dog to a New Food

Dogs often rely on a consistent diet to maintain a healthy gut. Sudden dietary changes can cause numerous gastrointestinal problems. To avoid these complications, change your dog's food with this method: Days 1-2: Feed 75% of the old food mixed with 25% new food. Days 3-4: Feed 50% of the old food mixed with 50% new food. Days 5-6: Feed 25% of the old food mixed with 75% new food. Days 7-10: Feed 100% of the new food. If your dog refuses to eat the new food, mix 50% old food with 50% new food, and flavor the food with a scent your dog loves. If your dog experiences diarrhea, vomiting, or other stomach upsets, temporarily stop the transition and feed 100% of the old food. Let your dog have some time to adjust to the old food and then reattempt transitioning the diet, but do it even more slowly. Do not switch the food instantly and make gradual changes in the diet over 7-10 days. Prepare for initial difficulties and use flavoring agents to make the food more appealing. Determine your dog's digestive response and hold at a new food percentage for several days before continuing. Refusal to eat the new food could be solved by making it appear more appetizing. Avoid topping the food with unhealthy items like table scraps. Sometimes adding just a drizzle of water, low-sodium broth, or olive oil can help the food appear more appealing and transform the flavor. Ease gradual transitions by having the old food reduce from 75% to 50% about the same time as the new food increases from 25% to 50%. Monitor your dog's response to the diet change, as there may be complications or your dog may refuse to eat the new food.

7. Homemade Dog Food: Pros and Cons

A growing pet health trend in recent years has been preparing dog food at home. Although it can seem time-consuming, making dog food at home allows you to have complete control over the ingredients and cater to your dog’s specific dietary needs, especially if you have chosen to avoid grains or your dog has allergies to ingredients found in many commercial diets. The meals you prepare are also going to be the freshest possible option for your dog. However, a homemade diet for dogs has potential downsides. It’s important to remember that dogs have different nutritional requirements than humans, and pet owners who are preparing dog food at home in order to save money are usually disappointed. Preparing dog food at home can actually cost more than commercial pet food if you're buying a number of ingredients to form a complete diet.

If you have considered all the advantages and disadvantages and are interested in preparing food for your pet at home, it's important to make an appointment with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to ensure the food you're feeding your pet has all the nutrients it needs. You should prepare and store the food in clean, sanitized containers, and wash all surfaces, bowls, and utensils that come into contact with the food, as you would for food consumed by people. Use this homemade dog food recipe as a guideline, and consult with your veterinarian so you can understand what your pet's needs are. In general, the pet owner who is considering preparing food for their pet at home should be aware that it is, in fact, very difficult to create a balanced diet on their own and should consult a veterinary professional. A licensed nutritionist is best suited to guide you in this process. You should also consider the time commitment of actually preparing these recipes and managing a pet's diet in this way.

8. Top Brands in the Dog Food Market

Regardless of the brand or company, it is important to look into the manufacturer if utilizing a commercial diet. This may require contacting the pet food manufacturer as needed to seek out the information. Protection and transparency are essential components of pet food selection, and several premium brands have built reputations around the quality of their ingredients and preparation methods. While a widely recognized brand or company does not guarantee high-quality foods, such recognition can be viewed as an indicator of general brand credibility.

Well-reputed brands include several premium options. These offerings are not typical grocery store selections and substantially stand apart from standard items. Many of these products supply clinical benefits and care over standard nutrition while prioritizing research. One recognizable face introduced a line of dog and cat food in 2008 known for its quality. This product is available in specialty pet stores and most grocery store chains and maintains a heavy celebrity endorsement. Consumer opinions are divided, but it is important to exercise skepticism when considering the value of many retail or celebrity-endorsed products. Some brands have set high benchmarks for the quality of their foods and the nutritional needs of each pet. Part of a feed or meal may include some foods identified in the above brands and a cheaper food found in a wilderness or traditional line. Specialty lines are also known for the executives of multiple lines trying to reach the nutritional requirements of one. Many foods are designed for pets with allergies or nutritional needs, including gluten-free and mostly grain-free foods.

9. FAQs About Dog Food

Does grain-free mean everything else I see is a real grain? How am I supposed to know if a particular ingredient is good for my dog or not? Should there be a certain amount of meat in my pet's food? Why is there such a wide range in feeding guidelines for my dog's size? How can I make sure I'm not feeding too much, and what about feeding too little? How long is transitioning from one food to another supposed to take? How long can I keep using one food? I've heard I should change every so often. I know it's important to pay attention to the statement. But what's an animal feeding test, and is it really that much preferred over the other testing methods? I've heard people talk about feeding a "natural" food or a "holistic" food. If a food isn't natural or holistic, is it just a bunch of artificial, junky stuff? You called something a by-product. I've heard that's something to avoid; a sign of a low-quality product. If an ingredient is on the label, is there some minimum quantity it has to be included in the food? I like to feed my dog table scraps. She's really healthy and seems to enjoy it. Why not just rely on that, if she's doing so well on it? No. Grain-free pet foods are exactly what the name implies - free from grain - not free of other ingredients. All dog food that contains some type or types of carbohydrates is doing so by using ingredients that are, in one way or another, some type of grain. No food made with any type of carbohydrate can ever be free of grain. If you look at any carbohydrate profile that classifies carbohydrates, you'll find things like sugars, fiber, and fats. Some grain allergies may be related to specific protein types that can be found in specific grains, but that isn't the same as having an allergy to "grain" in general.

References:

McKenzie, B.A., Chen, F. and LaCroix-Fralish, M.L., 2022. The phenotype of aging in the dog: how aging impacts the health and well-being of dogs and their caregivers. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 260(9), pp.963-970. researchgate.net

Pan, Y., 2021. Nutrients, cognitive function, and brain aging: What we have learned from dogs. Medical Sciences. mdpi.com

Tanprasertsuk, J., Tate, D.E. and Shmalberg, J., 2022. Roles of plant‐based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and health. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 106(3), pp.586-613. wiley.com

McKenzie, B. A., 2022. Comparative veterinary geroscience: mechanism of molecular, cellular, and tissue aging in humans, laboratory animal models, and companion dogs and cats. American Journal of Veterinary Research. avma.org

McKenzie, B. A. & Chen, F. L., 2022. Assessment and management of declining physical function in aging dogs. Topics in companion animal medicine. sciencedirect.com

Hoffman, J.M., Kiklevich, J.V., Klavins, K., Valencak, T.G. and Austad, S.N., 2021. Alterations of lipid metabolism with age and weight in companion dogs. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, 76(3), pp.400-405. nih.gov