How To Compare Dog Foods

Naturally, all pet owners want the absolute best for their dogs. This is especially true when it comes to nutrition, an extremely vital part of good health. But with all the conflicting opinions and reports regarding which type or brand of dog food is the best, how are pet owners to know which really would be best for their own dog?

The first thing to keep in mind when comparing dog foods is your own pet’s current health and stage of life. Unfortunately there is no “one size fits all” food that is best for each and every dog, as each dog’s needs may be very different.

Younger pups will generally need a food that offers higher calories to fuel their growing and energetic bodies, whereas the nutritional needs of older dogs may vary greatly depending on factors such as their weight, overall health, and whether or not they have any medical conditions or allergies.

The best brands of dog foods will contain high quality ingredients like meats, fish, vegetables, and fruits, as opposed to cheap, unhealthy fillers including corn and grains. Although cheap dog foods may meet basic standards from a legal standpoint, that doesn’t necessarily mean they offer the nutrients and right balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

The best dog foods will have some type of meat as the first ingredient. Ingredients must be listed in order of weight, with the highest being first. So you want to look for foods with named meats (and not unspecified byproducts) near the top of the list, followed by recognizable ingredients such as vegetables and fruits.

Some of the best brands of dog foods based on ingredients, consumer opinion, and price include Orijen Adult Forumla Dry Dog Food, which costs around $37 for the 15.4 pound bag; TimberWolf’s Wild & Natural Canid Formula Dry Dog Food, which costs around $48 for a 16.5 pound bag; and Blue Buffalo Wilderness Adult Salmon Formula Dry Dog Food, which costs roughly $27 for an 11 pound bag.

Of course you should always consult with your own veterinarian if you have questions regarding the ideal nutritional balance for your dog’s specific health needs.

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