Navigating the world of canine nutrition can seem like a maze, with so many types and brands of dog food available, not to mention lifestyle and breed-specific diets. It's important to remember, whether you're considering home-cooked meals, dry kibble, or wet food, that the most suitable choice is one that meets your dog's nutritional needs while also fitting in with your resources and lifestyle. From the history of dog food, the invention of breed, size, and life stage specific foods, to understanding commercial dog food production, this article offers a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best food for your beloved pet.
What food should my dog eat?
Do you ever find yourself standing in the dog food aisle, feeling overwhelmed by the amount of choices and the long ingredient labels on each bag? Are those rumors you've heard about certain dog food brands true? How do you know if what you're feeding your dog is really the best option for their health and well-being? If you have found yourself asking these questions, you're not alone. Every dog owner wants the very best for their furry friend, and this guide is here to help simplify the process of choosing the right food for your dog.
The journey of dog food: A history lesson
Dogs have been loyal human companions for at least 16,000 years, dating back to when we first domesticated them. Originally, our four-legged friends fed on leftovers and scraps from our meals. The first recorded guide on pet feeding was written in the 14th century by an eleventh Count of Foix Count in Southwestern France. He details feeding his greyhounds a diet of bran bread, meat from a hunt, and – if they were ill – goat's milk, bean broth, chopped meat, or buttered eggs.
By the time the Middle Ages came around, dogs were still eating pretty much the same diet as their humans, as there wasn't much focus on their specific nutritional needs. The commercial dog food as we know it didn't exist until 1860 when businessman James Spratt introduced the first dog food biscuit, comprised of wheat meal, beef blood, and vegetables.
The birth of modern dog food
The science of veterinary nutrition emerged in the late 1800s and has been evolving ever since. Each new discovery propels us further into understanding our canine companions' nutritional needs. For instance, the 1960s brought about the invention of the first puppy food specifically formulated to meet a puppy's unique dietary needs. Now, we have breed and size-specific foods available for our dogs.
The need for commercial dog foods
Most dog owners give their pets commercial dry kibble or canned wet food, or a mix of both. Even though these processed foods may not seem appetizing to us humans, they are designed to fulfill our dogs' specific dietary requirements. Providing all the necessary nutrients in a homemade diet can prove to be quite challenging, hence the convenience and importance of commercially produced dog foods.
The making of dog food
Production processes vary for pet food, depending on whether it is dry kibble or wet food. The procedure for making dry pet food starts by mixing the ingredients to form a dough, which then gets baked and extruded to shape the kibble.
Conversely, wet dog food is made by combining meat with other dry ingredients and water. This mix can then be either blended into a paste or left chunky and canned. The cooking process sterilizes the ingredients and ensures the cans remain sealed.
Where to source your dog food
Nowadays, dog food is readily available in pet stores, local supermarkets, and even online. Some dog owners prefer buying their dog food during their weekly grocery runs, while others opt for online retailers that deliver large quantities on a regular schedule. Whichever you prefer, it is crucial always to store the pet food under the appropriate conditions to keep it safe from contamination.
Choosing the right dog food
In simple terms, the best food for your dog is one that completely meets their nutritional needs. While most commercial dog foods are designed to provide for a dog's basic requirements, some are tailored for specific life stages, breed, or even exercise level. Each brand of dog food will have a unique recipe, and although many have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their safety and nutrition balance, some higher quality brands may offer more refined nutrient blends. It's essential to keep in mind that, just like humans, every dog has unique dietary needs and preferences – what suits one may not suit the other.
Need to consider: Life stage nutrition
Your dog's nutritional needs will change as they grow older. Puppies, being in their growth stage, require more protein and increased calorie content. On the other hand, senior dogs have less energetic demands, benefit from reduced sodium intakes, and need more easily digestible proteins. If it's feasible, it's advisable to feed your dogs food that corresponds to their life-stage to take into account these varying needs.
Need to consider: Size specific nutrition
Just as with humans, larger breeds have different nutritional requirements from smaller breeds. For example, smaller breed puppy dogs reach their peak adult size faster than their larger counterparts. A dog food tailored to its size will accommodate these differences in the nutrient balance and feeding guides.
Need to consider: Breed-specific nutrition
Certain dog breeds are prone to specific health conditions. For instance, some breeds are more susceptible to obesity, joint problems, diabetes, liver toxicity, etc. Therefore, breed-specific diets consider these factors and offer nutrients that can help manage these predispositions.
The trend: Fashionable dog foods
Nowadays, many novel and trendy pet foods are hitting the market, including RAW, vegetarian, vegan, and even insect-based diets. Although they may have their perks and downsides, it's crucial to ensure they are nutritionally balanced for your pet's health. Crafting a well-balanced diet at home can be quite challenging, so it's best to consult with a pet healthcare professional. Try not to sway by popular opinions and stick with evidence-based choices.
Weight matters
Don't overlook your dog's weight; their weight is just as crucial for their health as it is for ours. Overweight dogs are more likely to face numerous health complications and even a shortened lifespan. A relatively quick and efficient way to gauge your dog's weight is through body condition scoring, which you can easily do at home. Always remember to stay proactive about this aspect of your pet's health and consult with a veterinary professional when in doubt.
Supplement usage
Supplements can be beneficial to round out your pet's diet, but it's essential to use them correctly. Many supplements make grand promises but deliver little to no results. Plus, some can even pose harm to your pet. Always ensure any supplements you choose to incorporate into your pet's diet are backed by scientific evidence and have passed all necessary safety checks. Plus, always consult with your vet to ensure these supplements won't interfere with any current medications your pet may be taking.
Choosing the right food for your dog can seem like a daunting task, but remember, you're not alone in this. Ultimately, the best dog food is one that prioritizes your pet's health, considers their unique needs, and one they enjoy eating! Consulting with your vet or a pet healthcare expert can help you make an informed decision. After all, a well-fed dog makes for a happier, healthier best friend.
Source: https://pet-gp.co.uk/blog/what-food-should-my-dog-eat/
