What’s Really In Your Dog Food?

Do you know what you’re feeding your dog? Dog foods and their ingredients have been a hot topic lately, but do the ingredients in your dog food really matter?

Reviews.com recently published an article, “It’s All About Quality Ingredients: Best Food for a Safe and Healthy Dog,” which contains some great information on this topic. According to their survey, 70% of dog owners have no idea what ingredients are in the dog food they feed their pets. Because there are few regulations on pet food, it can be extremely difficult to know what brands are truly “natural” or “premium.” Reviews.com decided to dive into the hundreds of dog food brands out there and take a closer look at what’s really inside the food bag.

After 1,400 hours of research, it was clear that not all dog food brands are created the same. Many of the popular brands include ingredients from rendering facilities like “meat” or “dry rendered tankage.” They don’t sound very appetizing, do they? The scary part of rendered products is that pet parents will never know for sure where the ingredients are coming from.

How Do Ingredients Contribute To My Dog’s Health?

Happy, healthy dogs are generally on a diet that includes a nice balance of protein, fiber, fat, and nutrients. Unsafe and processed ingredients can lead to mental and physical issues in pets. If you notice your furry best friend is suffering from digestive issues, obesity, hyperactivity, or poor temperament, it might be time to take a closer look at your dog food brand. For optimal health, experts often recommend that your dog’s food includes ingredients like chicken, fish, beef, eggs, oats, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, vitamin E, and sweet potatoes. Overall, you want to look for a food that includes whole proteins and oats, natural preservatives, and fruits and veggies.

What Brand is Right For My Dog?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple answer for this. While it’s important for your dog to consume wholesome ingredients, the kind of food they will respond best to depends on their age, size, and overall health. The nutritional needs of puppies varies greatly from seniors, just as the needs of an active dog will differ from a more sedentary dog. If you are unsure of which brand to feed your dog, a trusted vet will be your greatest resource. Due to allergies and other health issues, it’s best to speak with a professional about your dog’s nutritional needs.

Click here to read the complete findings and dog food recommendations from Reviews.com.