Proper Selection of Dog Food
Written and verified by the lawyer Francisco María García
Many people make the selection of dog food based on its price. But price isn’t always the best indicator. Wholesomeness is the most thing important for canines to obtain all of the nutritional requirements they need.
Many other factors such as age, physical activity, size, and personality should also be taken into account.
Types of dog food
There are three types of dog food: economical, premium and super premium.
The quality of the raw ingredients used in its production is decisive when it comes to the total nutritional content of the food. Legally, the ingredient that provides most of the nutrients must be the first on the list. Subsequently, the rest of the ingredients.
It’s very important to look at the percentages in the list of raw ingredients in order to make a good selection of dog food.
Purchased, but natural
Some brands that advertise “natural” food for dogs, use melamine and other composites and list them under the characteristics of wholesome ingredients. Many don’t necessarily contain corn, animal protein, vegetables; in many instances, the food has no grain whatsoever.
If you’re looking for your dog to eat a portion of food that’s truly designed for them, then 100% natural foods are recommended. By making this change in your dog’s diet you’ll soon notice that their hair becomes shinier and that their overall appearance improves considerably.
You’ll also notice that the volume of their feces decreases because they’ll now be eating more digestible protein.
For a proper selection of dog food, it’s best to analyze the food that your furry friend digests well because they could be allergic to some of it.
Canned food
Seemingly appetizing canned food isn’t recommended, save it for rewards or as special treats. For the most demanding dogs, it may be mixed to vary the taste of their usual meals.
The ingredients contained in these cans have a much higher amount of fat than regular dog food. For this reason, in order to maintain your pet at their optimal weight and health, you must limit their consumption of canned food.
You may add canned food to your dog’s diet if their meals aren’t filling enough or if they’re underweight. Furthermore, you could also use it as an alternative meal now and then. However, you shouldn’t ever mix it with regular food.
Dog age
Adult dogs
The age of the animal is an important factor to consider in your selection of dog food. Adult dogs must maintain optimal, overall health so they can avoid age-related problems. Some of the necessary nutrients and energy they need can only be obtained from a diet rich in taurine, chelated minerals, and protein from meat and calcium.
As you can see, it’s very important to read the labels of the products and review their ingredients and nutritional value.
Young dogs
Puppies, on the other hand, require high energy, balanced diets. There are many commercial foods available to suit their needs throughout the first months of their life. Some of these foods are easy to digest and nutritionally complete.
In addition, some brands contain ingredients that protect and stimulate the natural defenses of puppies. Some foods for newly born animals include natural fibers. Consequently, the antibodies contained in fibers not only reinforce the structure of the mucous membranes, but also strengthen young animals’ immune systems.
For the proper development of a puppy, natural antioxidants are also required as they not only improve their cell membrane but also protect them against germs.
Dietary changes
Keep in mind that dogs have a low tolerance for sudden changes in their diet. Modify it gradually as they grow, so as not to affect their bacterial flora. Hence the importance of selecting dog food that’s suitable for your specific pet.
In conclusion, the health of your pet is in your hands.
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.