How to Choose the Right Dog Food

Pet owners understand that each dog has different nutritional needs. It is also important to understand that those nutritional needs will change over the lifetime of your dog. A major consideration of what dog food to choose, is knowing the condition of your dog's health. This is because the nutritional needs are different for puppies, sick dogs, nursing or pregnant dogs, and overweight dogs. However, with so many choices it can be difficult to make the right choice of dog food. Here is what you need to know about how to choose the right dog food-

• Know what you are buying. When you are shopping it is always crucial to read the ingredients that are listed on the bag or can. It is important to remember, that the ingredients are listed in order; the first ingredient listed is what makes up most of the dog food. Pet owners should understand that dogs do not need a lot of carbohydrates like flour, wheat, or corn and yet many dog foods have those ingredients listed first. Animal experts state that meat should be listed first, whether you are buying canned or dry dog food.


• Read the labels. You should always check the package or can to verify that the dog food is nutritionally complete. It is very important that your dog gets all of the vitamins and minerals that are necessary to maintain his good health. Do not allow yourself to be swayed to buy the cheapest dog food, as this might not be the one that is right for your dog.


• Always keep in mind the calories. Just like people, you should reduce the calories of the food if your dog is overweight. This has become easier to do because today, many dog food companies have dog food for overweight dogs. You can easily choose a dog food brand that your dog enjoys, while still reducing calories.


• Choose the right food for your dog's age. Animal experts stress that it is important to choose a senior dog food for older dogs. This is because senior dogs have less need for calories and energy and at the same time senior dogs have a need for more vitamins to maintain their good health. On the other end of the spectrum it is equally important to feed puppies only puppy style dog food. This is because puppies have a much greater need for calories and vitamins, because they are growing so fast. You will want to make sure you check the dog food labels, to verify that the food is nutritionally complete.


• Know what to feed if your dog is sick. You should always ask your veterinarian about feeding a sick dog. This is because all dogs need special nutrition during illness or stress. For example, some dogs will need to have less protein if they suffer from kidney disease. Many vets also recommend a lamb and rice dog food for sick dogs. Remember that your vet is there to help, if you have any concerns or questions about what to feed your dog.


• Take into account any other special issues. If your dog is overweight, there is a dog food that is right for him. Weight management food is generally higher in protein and fiber, and lower in calories and fat content, as compared to an adult maintenance food. The high protein levels can help dogs lose fat and not muscle, while high fiber levels help dogs feel satisfied while losing weight. Performance dog food is specifically formulated for hardworking and highly active dogs.


• Buy your dog food at the store. Many pet owners feel that they are treating their dogs extra special if they make them homemade dog food. The problem is that homemade dog food runs the risk of containing too much fat for most dogs' needs. This becomes a problem because diets that are high in fat could increase your dog's risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and an elevated heart rate.

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