We all want our dogs to live long and healthy lives, but choosing a quality dog food can be a frustrating experience. With so many pet supplies in Folsom CA, it can be confusing to know which kibble will provide the best nutrition for your canine companion. But deciphering dog food labels isn’t as difficult as it seems. When choosing a food for your pet, you’re on the right track if the foods listed below are featured on the ingredients list. Keep reading to learn about the ingredients you should always find on the label of a high-quality dog food.
Real Protein
Protein is the most important nutritional requirement of a dog, and it should be the first ingredient listed on a bag of dog food. As for the type of protein you should look for, seek out foods with real protein sources–specific terms like beef, lamb and turkey are all good indicators a food is nutritious.. Non-meat ingredients like beans and eggs are also healthy sources of protein for dogs. Avoid vague-sounding ingredients like meat by-products or chicken meal. These are often sourced from dead or diseased animals and aren’t considered fit for human consumption.
Healthy Fats
A premium dog food should contain a high percentage of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential energy-building nutrients for dogs. What ingredients contain them? Look for ingredients like salmon or fish oils, or plant oils like canola. Fat from other animals like duck or chicken is also a good source of omegas for dogs. Fats to avoid include lard, olive oil and beef tallow.
Good Carbohydrates
There is an ongoing debate as to whether carbohydrates are necessary for a dog’s health or not. In any case, the right kinds of carbohydrates can provide nutritional benefits even if they aren’t necessary to your dog’s survival. Look for oatmeal, whole grains, sweet potatoes and carrots. As for what to avoid, steer clear of any type of cheap grain by-products that come from corn or soy. These cheap fillers will do nothing for the health of your dog, and some dogs may experience irritations and allergies when they consume them in large quantities.
Choosing a top-notch food for your dog can be a difficult decision, but if the brand you’re considering has these ingredients on the list you’re on the right track. A quality dog food will help your pooch live a long, healthy life.