One of the most important factors for your dog’s optimal health is its diet. With so many options of dog food to choose from, walking down the pet food aisle can be overwhelming. Every dog is different, but there are some suggested dog food ingredients that are better than others. Here are some ingredients in dog food that we recommend to keep your dog happy and healthy.
Protein, Fat and Fiber
When choosing a dog food brand, it’s important to read the labels. Be on the lookout for the ‘complete and balanced’ label, as the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has requirements that dog food contain a sufficient amount of crude protein, fat and fiber. Also make sure that the protein is labeled more specifically than just ‘meat,’ as these types of dog food are low quality. The label should specifically define the type of meat such as chicken, beef or lamb to indicate that it is top notch.
Vegetables, Fruits and Grains
Just like a human diet, it’s important to supplement protein in a dog’s diet with vegetables, fruits and grains. Also, like human dieting, there are warnings and fads that can cause concern for pet owners. In September 2018, the FDA issued a warning that some grains and vegetables found in dog food could cause dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), which caused a spike in grain-free diets. But there was no evidence to prove that grain-free dog food was the cause. It’s better for your dog to have a well-balanced diet rather than pay attention to dietary fads.
Trusted Brands
For dogs with medical conditions, the rules don’t always apply to what constitutes as a well-rounded diet. Your dog may need to switch to a vegetarian diet, and going with a trusted brand like Hills Prescription Diet is a safe bet. It’s the brand we carry at PetWow. If you have any questions about your dog’s specific dietary needs for medical conditions, consult a PetWow vet to discuss your concerns.
PetWow and Your Dog
While we can suggest the best ingredients in dog food to give to your pet, there will be times when your dog needs veterinary care. We offer a full range of services at our PetWow Care Services Centers or in the comfort of your own home with our at-home pet care option in Florence or Highland Heights, Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati areas.
To learn more about what dog food ingredients are best for your specific dog, ask a veterinarian, contact us or give us a call at 513-738-9691. Our experienced staff of 50+ veterinarians and veterinary surgeons and technicians are here to help.
