Choosing dog food can be very overwhelming, as there are so many commercial dog food brands available. All over-the-counter meals labeled with the AAFCO are considered “perfect and balanced” for dogs. This means that the diet is life-sustaining and meets the dog’s basic nutritional needs. However, not all dog foods are made the same. Many experts agree that the quality of the ingredients plays a major role in the health and well-being of dogs.
When choosing dog food, narrow down your priorities first:
- How important is it to you to feed the most natural and healthy ingredients? If very important, look for natural/whole foods or medicated veterinary diets. Better yet, consider a home-cooked diet (of course, under the guidance of a veterinarian).
- How much does cost affect your decision? Natural, grain-free, and holistic diets are usually in the higher price range. However, lean diets often contain lower-quality ingredients. If you’re on a tight budget, you may need mid-range food to feed her.
- How much time do you mind spending preparing meals? If you want to save money and spend time, a homemade diet may be the healthiest option.
Next, consider your dog
- Noisy dogs may work best with canning and home cooking.
- Overweight and healthy dogs may benefit from a special veterinary diet or a home-cooked diet.
Over-the-counter diet selection: To compare foods and determine the best one for your dog, first consult your veterinarian. Seek opinions from dog experts and even other dog owners. Do your research on sites for Australian pet food companies if in doubt, ask your veterinarian to refer you to a veterinary dietician? Keep in mind that opinions about dog nutrition tend to be very different.
Choosing a Homemade Meal: Some owners choose a homemade meal rather than a commercial meal. If you want to try this option, work with your veterinarian to create a complete and balanced diet that is customized to your dog’s needs. Check out BalanceIt.com and/or PetDiets.com to start developing a homemade diet for your dog. Failure to eat a complete and balanced diet can cause major health problems for your dog.
How much food should you feed your dog?
The amount of food you need to feed your dog depends on several factors:
- Age of your dog (puppy vs adult)
- The condition of your dog’s body
- Your dog’s activity level
Dietary calories and nutrient content