When it comes to dog food, some dog owners shop by price or ingredients or perhaps just by the size of the bag, tub, or box. But when your fur baby’s health is part of the equation, the stakes are much higher. With so many options available today, it can be tough to cut through the clutter and find the right option for your canine.
Here are five things to look for when you buy dog food:
- Balanced nutrition. Just like people, dogs need a complete and balanced nutritional profile to be at their best. While going for the cheapest option is tempting, those savings won’t add up in the long run if your precious pup suffers from a poor diet.
- Targeted formula. The nutritional needs of an aging German Shepherd will vary greatly from a young Yorkie. Your dog’s breed, size, and age all matter when selecting dog food. When you buy dog food, look for the type of dog a particular product is formulated for.
- Customer reviews. Thankfully, we live in an age where we can get others’ opinions of a product with the click of a button. Do a little research before you head to the store to get an idea of which brands and formulations agree with dogs like yours. This step alone can save you time and money to narrow your search before you buy dog food.
- Sourcing and manufacturing. Because you are trusting someone else to prepare your dog’s food, it’s worth looking into how they source their ingredients and how they process their product before you buy dog food.
- Premium ingredients. Quality ingredients are not a guarantee when it comes to pet food. The more organic, locally sourced, filler-free food we can feed our furry friends, the better. Stick to simple, easy-to-understand ingredient lists and, when possible, research a little about the brand to learn about its values and practices.