The Pros And Cons Of Commercial Dog Food

Dog food is dog food specifically designed and prepared for consumption by loving canines and other related canine breeds. Dogs are often considered to be omnivorous with a carnivore lean emphasis. Basically, they have 10 genetic traits that are unique to canines and are best suited for the consumption of flesh as opposed to that of vegetable matter. The most notable trait of these behavioral traits is their powerful jaws and their tendency to “nip.” The sheer power of these biting capabilities has led to many a scratched or bitten canine over the years.

There are many varieties of dog foods and not all are equal. Humans, too, have developed a strong inclination toward certain types of foods over others. Although we typically associate “tasty” with food, dogs have their own individual taste preferences as well. Some like hot and spicy foods; others prefer a lesser amount of spice in their food. Dogs of all ages and breeds can have different preferences for their food, depending on their individual characteristics. Some will prefer beef, while others will eat chicken or fish.

Because of the dietary differences among different breeds of dog, each dog food manufacturer must utilize specific diets in order to meet the nutritional needs of his product. The food that a dog eats will affect his energy density, his activity level and his general health. A manufacturer that fails to consider these factors when developing his dog food will likely be wise to do so at the expense of his pet’s health.

In terms of diet, commercially manufactured dog food generally uses two major categories: dry or wet food. Both can be used but it is important to select a type that provides the best balance between protein and fat. Dry food tends to provide a more complete nutrition with fewer calories. Wet food tends to provide less total protein with more calories and should not be fed to a dog that is not actively engaged. Feed grade ingredients are an important factor in determining which type of dog food is best suited to your pet.

The types of ingredients that make up dry dog foods vary according to the manufacturer. In recent years, however, more pet owners have been choosing kibble over dry. The reason for this is because kibble contains all the necessary ingredients for optimal nutrition while also being easier to digest. Therefore, kibble has become the preferred diet for many dogs.

Many veterinarians agree that a well-balanced diet is important for the health of your dog. The most common element in most commercial foods, meat, is lacking in essential vitamins and minerals. Dogs that have no meat in their diet have a far lower chance of living a long and healthy life. In addition to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, dogs that eat too much meat can be vulnerable to infectious diseases.

Because dogs are carnivores they need an ample amount of protein. Some commercially prepared dog foods contain large quantities of meat, which may increase the risk of developing diseases linked to eating too much meat. Therefore, ingredients such as chicken, lamb, turkey or bison are better alternatives than beef. Although some veterinarians recommend a mix of four to six different meat products for a balanced nutrition, most canine experts believe that dogs gain the most nutrients from a diet consisting of raw foods. Raw foods provide a variety of nutrients including vitamins, minerals and fats that are difficult for carnivores to obtain in their diet.

Properly feeding a dog means providing him with the necessary elements that make up his natural diet. Dogs were meant to hunt, so their primary source of nourishment is meat. Feeding dogs commercial brand foods or a mix of commercially prepared foods can confuse the dog and prevent proper nutrition. Instead, give your dog foods that are made for his species. Puppies especially need the right nutrients to help them grow and develop properly. Give him the best dog food you can afford, because what you feed your dog will determine its health for a long time.