As pet owners, we must ensure our furry friends get the proper nutrition to stay healthy. One of the most popular types of dog food is dry kibble. This type of food is convenient, easy to store, and less expensive than wet food. Dry kibble is also known to help maintain dental health by reducing tartar and plaque build-up. It also differs from wet food because it has a lower moisture content. While wet food can have up to 80% moisture, dry kibble only has about 10%. This means dogs must drink more water if they primarily eat dry kibble.
As with any other dog food, you must carefully inspect the dry kibble food you give your dog. This is because not all dry kibble is created equal, and some brands may not have the necessary nutrients your dog needs. Feeding your dog poor-quality food can result in health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and even cancer. However, the tricky part is knowing what kind of dry kibble you should give your dog because aside from the brand, other factors must be considered, such as your dog's breed, age, and activity level.
To help you find the best dry kibble suitable for your dog, here are some tips:
1. Check the First 5 Ingredients Listed
The first 5 ingredients listed on the label of dry kibble are the most important to consider when choosing a food for your dog. Pet food manufacturers must list ingredients in order of weight, with the first ingredient being the heaviest. Therefore, the first five ingredients will make up the bulk of the food.
For most dry kibble products, you can expect to see the likes of meat or meat meal, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the first ingredient. This is a good sign, as dogs are carnivores, and meat is an essential source of protein. The next few ingredients should ideally be whole grains or vegetables, such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, and peas. These ingredients provide carbohydrates for energy, fibre for good digestion, and essential vitamins and minerals.
2. Check to See If Healthy Fats Are Present
Healthy fats are essential to a dog's diet and can be found in chicken fat, fish oil, and flaxseed. These fats are important for keeping your dog's skin and coat healthy, supporting their immune system, and providing energy. Look for these ingredients in the top five ingredients or at least in the ingredient list. With this in mind, you must avoid unhealthy foods like animal fats or vegetable oils high in omega-6 fatty acids.
3, Check the Protein Level
The protein used for dry kibble is one thing, but the quality of that protein is another. Look for high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, lamb, or fish as the first ingredient. Also, check the percentage of protein in the food. Dogs need at least 18% protein, but active or growing dogs may need more.
However, remember that just because a food has a high percentage of protein does not mean it is a high-quality protein source. For this reason, you must look for foods with good sources of protein that are easily digestible and provide all the necessary amino acids.
4. Avoid Empty Fillers
Empty fillers refer to ingredients that provide little to no nutritional value and are added to bulk the food, such as corn, wheat, and soy. Dogs are carnivores and need animal protein, not plant-based fillers. Moreover, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients, causing digestive issues or skin problems. Because of this, you must look for dog foods that use high-quality carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, peas, and brown rice instead of fillers. These are easier to digest and provide more nutritional value for your dog.
5. Look for Additional Healthy Ingredients
Dry kibble is often fortified with additional vitamins and minerals to provide a balanced diet for your dog. Look for dog foods that contain antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, to support your dog's immune system. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also benefit your dog's skin and coat health. Some dog foods may also contain probiotics to promote digestive health.
Conclusion
Feeding your dog high-quality dry kibble is essential for their health and well-being. Since many choices are available, you must carefully evaluate and choose the best option for your furry friend, especially since their dietary needs may change throughout their life. This way, your furry friend can enjoy a long and healthy life with you by their side.
If you’re looking for dog food supplies online, PeekAPaw has what you need! We offer various dog food selections, including air-dried, wet kibble, and treats, all suitable for dogs of different sizes. Subscribe to our newsletter today for early access to the latest offers!
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