Whether you have just brought home a new puppy, you are adopting an older dog, or you want to improve your current dog’s diet, you need to take time to consider the many options on the market. There is a lot of conflicting advice out there about the best diet for dogs, including some misleading claims, and even experts disagree about optimum nutrition for dogs. This is because there is not a one-size-fits-all answer – all dogs are unique in their physiology and personal preferences.
To make the best choice for your dog, you need to This guide outlines some key factors to keep in mind when choosing dog food for your canine companion.
Consider all the options
It is easy to become confused about dog food as there are many types and brands to choose from, including natural/holistic food, premium, cooked whole foods, veterinarian prescribed diets, or economy brands. You will need to consider your budget, and your veterinarian will be able to steer you in the right direction based on that. Commercial dog food is also developed for a certain age and activity level of the dog, and some might be more suitable for one breed than another.
Some dog owners steer clear of commercial dog food brands and make their meals from scratch using raw dog food. This can be a more complex option as you will need to ensure that you are feeding your dog the right quantities of nutrients and the right types of raw ingredients, as some can be harmful to dogs. However, many people report that raw food improves their dog’s energy levels and general health.
Ask for advice
When you have considered all the different options on the categories of food and brands, you can start to seek advice from people with experience. This should include your vet but also other professionals like trainers, breeders, and groomers. Ask some other dog owners about what they prefer to feed their dogs and why. When you have collated all their opinions, you can follow them up with your own research. Of course, it is unlikely that they will agree, but it may help you to rule out some options.
Let the dog try some samples
An increasing number of dog food brands offer free samples, low-cost trials, or money-back guarantees, enabling you to let your dog try the food before you buy any in a large quantity. This means you can give them a trial of a few different types of food (in small portions) to see which, if any, they prefer or even which they dislike. After all, there is no point in choosing a portion of food if they will not eat it, no matter how healthy it is. When you have decided on food that is nutritious but also appealing to your dog, you can gradually phase it into their regular diet over a few weeks. However, it is important not to rush their diet change as it may upset their stomach.
Vary their diet every few months
Some canine experts suggest varying and rotating a dog’s diet every 3 to 6 months if you choose commercial dog food. This ensures your dog gets a varied diet and prevents them from getting bored, and there is also a school of thought that eating too much of the same food can lead to allergies. Remember, whatever you change to, the food should always be complete and balanced.
