With a plethora of options available for dog foods, it can be confusing to figure out which one is the right option for one’s pet. From choosing to go the traditional route of buying kibbles to picking trendy raw food marketed on social media, pet owners are often overwhelmed by the decision. In such situations, it is helpful to know about the various aspects that need to be considered while buying the best dog foods.

1. Check the package for an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement
One of the easiest ways to determine if a package of dog food will give complete nutrition is to look for the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement.  The AAFCO, or Association of American Feed Control Officials  (AAFCO), has established nutritional standards for pet foods. While the AAFCO does not conduct any testing on dog foods, brands can put the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement on their product packages only if they have third-party feeding tests and laboratory analyses to verify that the products meet the AAFCO nutrient profiles. So, dog food packages that come with AAFCO’s nutritional adequacy statement are considered to be complete and balanced foods. These fulfill the minimum requirement of essential nutrients in proper proportions. This ensures that the food fulfills all the dog’s nutritional needs.

2. Consider the dog’s specific nutritional requirements
Sometimes, a dog might have very specific nutritional needs. This usually happens with senior dogs with health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or incontinence. Even some younger dogs might have prolonged health issues such as asthma, kidney issues, or gastrointestinal problems. In such situations, it is important to buy the best dog food that has been formulated for these specific health conditions. But before buying these dog foods, consult a vet, who will recommend specialized meal plans for dogs with underlying health conditions.

3. Consider the age of the dog
Usually, dogs have different nutritional requirements across various stages of life. So, it is crucial that a dog is given food that has been made specially for the specific stage of life. This will ensure the dog gets the right nutrients in the right amounts. For instance, when they are younger, dogs need more calories, fats, and proteins. As they grow older to their adult stage, dogs will need food that will help them  maintain a healthy body mass and provide adequate energy.  Furthermore, as the dog reaches senior age, it is important to give them foods that provide extra support, such as relief from joint pain.

4. Buy dog food based on the size of the dog
Dogs can greatly benefit from being fed food specifically made for their size. For example, giant breeds have specific nutritional requirements that can be met by giving them foods rich in Omega-3 and glucosamine. Such foods provide the necessary support to improve joint health and growth. On the other hand, smaller-sized dogs may find it easier to eat bite-sized food, such as kibbles or canned foods.

5. Make a note of the activity levels of the dog
Along with age and size, it is important to pay attention to the activity levels of the dog when choosing their food. Dogs that are highly active require nutrient-dense foods. For example, foods with high amounts of fats and proteins will help keep up the energy levels required for intense activities. On the other hand, dogs that are less active would benefit from foods that are lower in calories. They do not require highly nutrient-dense foods but foods that will keep them feeling full without causing an increase in body mass.

6. Buy dog foods that have all the ingredients listed on the package
Most trusted brands of dog foods list down all the ingredients used to formulate the food. Besides this, the list also includes the exact quantities of the ingredients used. After all, a dog owner must always know what they are feeding their pet. Every ingredient used in the food plays a crucial role in the dog’s well-being. So, it is important to check the list of ingredients when selecting dog food. Aside from the names and quantities of the ingredients, it is crucial to ensure that the ingredients used are of good quality. Most top and popular brands of dog foods ensure that their ingredients undergo quality checks. As a result, dog owners can be confident that they’re giving their pets the best possible food.

7. Check the serving size and not the package weight
Many dog owners prefer buying the biggest bag of dog food in the supermarket to decrease the number of errands, especially if they have several large dogs at home. But instead of the package weight, it is better to check the serving size of different dog foods. A package with a lower serving size means the food is highly nutritious, dense, and has healthy calories. So, even if one buys a smaller bag of this food, it will last for a longer time.

8. Include variety in the meals to avoid monotony
Dogs can get bored with their food if they eat the same thing every day.  This can cause them to lose interest in eating, leading to a lack of necessary nutrient requirements and potential health issues. To avoid these issues, one must include a variety of food with different textures, consistency, and flavors. This will make mealtimes more enjoyable and ensure that the dog gets a variety of nutrients.