Ensure your dog enjoys a wonderful life by beginning with a healthy diet. Our Pet Vet Battlewood veterinarians will guide you through the essential considerations for choosing the perfect food for your furry friend.
What Does Your Dog Need in Their Diet
Every dog has unique health needs, and while they aren't strict carnivores, meat is crucial in their diet. Alongside meat, including some non-meat ingredients provides essential minerals and vitamins for dogs. However, it's important to note that a majority of their diet should consist of meat.
For those considering vegan options, it's wise to consult a vet to ensure its suitability for your dog's breed. Not all breeds can thrive on this diet.
Some opt for homemade diets with raw meat and vegetables of human-grade quality, though this requires careful consideration and a vet's advice.
More commonly, commercial wet or dry dog food is used. To choose the right one, examine the label. Ensure that meat is a primary ingredient.
To identify better options, look for AAFCO endorsement on the packaging. You'll find a statement like "(Product name) is formulated to meet AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles." While not a guarantee of being the best, this endorsement ensures meeting minimum nutritional requirements for most dogs
How Old is Your Dog?
The age of your dog affects the nutritional requirements of the dog.
A puppy should be given food that is a puppy formula. Some puppies will be fine with a food label 'for all a stage of life, but it is best to consult your veterinarian about your specific puppy.
Senior dogs are normally dogs that are 7+ years old. Often less active, their weight needs to be monitored more so does their diet.
How Big is Your Dog?
If your dog is a big breed, it requires a nutrient-rich diet to support its large bones and muscles.
For smaller breeds, the focus is on avoiding choking risks, as tiny dogs can choke on large kibbles.
Always choose food that matches your dog's size for their best health.
Dry Dog Food vs. Wet Dog Food
Dog owners want to know which is best for their dog, dry or wet. Sadly it is not that simple. Each food can be good or bad depending on the specific food.
The best way to pick is normally asking yourself, 'Which one will my dog eat'. Some dogs are picky, while others will eat whatever is in front of them. The second question is a lifestyle. Wet food requires refrigeration after opening it. Do you have the facilities to refrigerate the food, and will it spoil before your dog eats it?