Tasty, Nutrition: Tips for Selecting Dog Food
If you walk down the dog food aisle of the market, you will see a myriad of choices when it comes to pet food. Selecting the right dog food can take some thought. How do you know you are selecting the right food for your pooch? Before grabbing a can or bag of dog food off the shelf, think about the characteristics of your dog, so you can find food tailored to his needs.
If you are not certain about your dog’s health or the dog is a new part of the family, the first step may be a visit to the vet. When the vet examines your dog, he will be able to recommend food based on your dog’s health issues, age, size, activity level and other factors.
Puppies need food that promotes growth, so they need more protein and amino acids. Pregnant and larger dogs require a lot of calcium. Active dogs and puppies burn up fat more quickly than older dogs. Therefore, energetic dogs and puppies can have dog food that contains more fat and carbohydrates to give them energy. On the other hand, neutered and older dogs are often less active and should have food that is lower in fat.
Humans often read labels when purchasing food for themselves. Reading pet food labels can help you decide on healthy food options for your dog. Ingredients posted near the top of the label are the main ingredients in the dog food. Check to make sure that the ingredients contain nutrients and do not appear to be fillers. For example, corn or wheat is not as nutritious as meat. Then examine whether you can identify exactly what is in the dog food. Some dog foods contain by-products that may include parts of animals that are not actually meat.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) created a chart indicating minimal requirements for dog food that is identified as “complete and balanced”. Compare the ingredients to the chart to determine how your dog food stacks up.
Whatever dog food is selected, pet owners need durable pet bowls that conveniently hold food without slipping or sliding. Essenti Enterprises, LLC offers a variety of pet bowls that are washable, sturdy and perfect for any size dog. We also offer travel pet bowls that fit in your back pocket of your pant. Purchase our pet bowls today.