The term ‘raw meaty bones’ refers to many types of animal parts and organs with muscle tissue functions, including the heart, poultry gizzards, skin, tongue, stomach tissue, lungs, raw intestine, and throat, tendons, etc. These ingredients are readily available in supermarkets, and they can be a great addition to the usual meats provided to give your dog a more comprehensive level of nutrition.

Raw meaty bones are divided into Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods (BARF), and the other is called Prey Model Raw (PRM). No matter which one you choose, these meats, including bones, liver, and endocrine organs, are raw.

Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods (BARF)

Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods (BARF) is a raw meat diet that conforms to canine biology. This diet consists of 70% meat, 10% bones, 5% liver, 5% endocrine organs, 7% vegetables, 2% nuts and 1% fruit composition. Throughout long-term evolution, dogs have become omnivores for access to many essential nutrients, especially vitamin E. Meat for your dog can be selected from all meat varieties that we consume as humans, which can be particularly handy for those living in cities. 

Prey Model Raw (PRM)

Prey Model Raw (PRM) is a raw bone and meat diet based on predators. According to petfoodsherpa, this diet consists of 80% meat, 10% bone, 5% liver, and 5% endocrine organs. This type strives to restore a dog’s canine ancestors’ natural diet structure as closely as possible. It includes whole birds, hares, other wild animals, furs and feathers, etc., and the choice of species needs to be more abundant. In the United States, dog owners who live in rural areas or have a lifestyle that incorporates hunting habits are more suited for this method.

Why Feed Raw Meaty Bones to Dogs

Many people may believe that being that there are so many dog food choices these days, it’s unnecessary to go to the trouble of providing a raw meaty bones diet. Some veterinarians do not believe that a raw meaty bones diet for dogs is an unacceptable feeding method. There are many perspectives on this topic, and primarily it comes down to personal belief and preference. In this article, we’ll focus on the reasons you may want to consider this diet for your dog.

BARF Ingredient Ratios

70% Meat

Meat is an essential part of a dog’s diet. It provides a daily energy source for the dog and is also rich in various essential amino acids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Duck, turkey, pork, beef, and lamb are all excellent meat choices for dogs. Plus, if your sensibilities as a dog owner permit it, rabbit, quail, venison, etc., can provide them with further beneficial dietary diversity.

10% Raw Bones for Dogs

Raw bones are an essential source of calcium, which plays a significant role in your dog’s health – plus, it can clean their teeth to a certain extent as they chew. Although it only needs to contain 10% bones, this proportion of raw bones for dogs needs to be bones with meat. It can be tricky to ascertain the right proportion of raw bones to provide for your dog when you are new to this diet concept, but take your time to gradually learn and experiment to find the most suitable food habits and needs for your dog.

The legs, wings, necks, claws, and poultry skeletons are all very suitable ingredients for dogs of various body types. Small dogs are better to eat chicken, whereas, for medium dogs, you could choose duck or turkey. For large dogs, choose pig, cow, and sheep ribs and tails. Load-bearing bones, spine bones, and some bones with hard bone density (such as turkey legs) are not suitable for feeding and can easily damage your dog’s teeth. Any cooked and smoked bones are easily broken and are not ideal for feeding your dogs.

The presence of bones in such meats varies and must be considered when deciding which to use. For example, the proportion of bones in chicken feet and duck feet is approximately 50%, the proportion of bones in duck necks is around 60%, and in pig’s tails, it’s about 30%. It is better for older dogs to choose crushed bones, and for dogs who eat big mouthfuls, you should also choose ingredients that are not easily swallowed at once – alternatively, you can freeze the food to slow down your dog’s eating speed to avoid choking while eating.

5% Liver

Liver provides necessary fat-soluble vitamins and minerals. However, the proportion of liver you provide mustn’t exceed 5% of your dog’s food; otherwise, it may lead to excessive intake of vitamin A. For some sensitive dogs, it may be necessary to reduce the proportion and gradually introduce the liver appropriately. Chicken liver, pork liver, beef liver, etc., are very common in supermarkets and at reasonable prices.

5% Endocrine organs

The endocrine organs are also rich in nutrients, and there are many choices, especially in supermarkets where you can find a variety of the visceral tissues you need. Kidney, Spleen, Pancreas, Brain, Thymus, Testicles, Ovaries, etc., are all endocrine organs, and you can choose according to yours and your dog’s preferences.

7% Vegetables

There is no reason to avoid upping your dog’s daily vegetable intake for dogs who love vegetables. But for some picky dogs, it may be tricky to get them to eat any at all. However, the nutrients in vegetables are not provided by meat-only diets, so incorporating vegetables into your dog’s diet must be persevered with.

Vegetables include plant pigments, low GI, and starch. Plant pigments mean that dogs should eat vegetables of various colors, such as peppers, tomatoes (without any stems and leaves), carrots, cucumbers, eggplants, ginger, etc. These different plant pigments are essential to the health of dogs. Low GI vegetables promote low glycemic index and include green leafy vegetables, spinach, kale, etc., and starchy vegetables can provide energy for dogs. Some dogs cannot eat high-fat diets to maintain energy, and in this case, they need to supplement with starchy sweet potatoes, beets, and pumpkins appropriately.

A dog’s digestive system finds it very difficult to digest vegetables. If they are fed directly, they will be excreted directly without digestion. Therefore, you must do some preparatory work when feeding your dog vegetables to aid nutrient absorption. Green leafy vegetables are tough to digest. You can use a wall breaker to make a paste of raw vegetables and store them in the refrigerator. Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes and pumpkins are best steamed before serving.

Because there are different vegetables and your dog only needs to eat a small amount every day, you can make full use of what you can’t eat and prepare that for the dog! Carrot leaves, broccoli stems, and peeled vegetable skins can all be used for your dog.

2% Nuts

Nuts are rich in fat-soluble vitamins and essential fatty acids, and as we humans recognize, these ingredients hardly require any preparation. The easiest nuts and seeds you could buy for your dog are Chia, Ground Flaxseed, and Hemp Hearts, all of which can be added directly to your dog’s meal. 

1% Fruit

Fruits are rich in antioxidants. Although they are not essential foods for dogs, for many, fruits are incredibly delicious snacks. But what owners should remember is that it is not recommended to feed too much fruit to dogs because of the high sugar content. It is recommended to choose fruits with low sugar content such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. It is also important to avoid fruits with pits for obvious reasons.

Feeding Amount of Raw Meaty Bones for Dogs

The ideal amount of raw meaty bones to feed your dog every day is approximately 2% to 3% of body weight, which needs to be adjusted according to the amount of exercise your dog gets. If your dog exercises a lot, raw meaty bones should naturally be fed more. If your dog needs to lose weight, you can also reduce feeding, and if your dog starts to lose weight, you can increase it appropriately. This ratio of raw meaty bones for dogs can only be adjusted accurately after long-term feeding. Each dog’s health requirements are different, and for their owner, these ratios require some trial and error before perfecting.

Extra Fish and Shellfish

Fish and shellfish (such as shrimp) are also a great addition to your dog’s daily diet. Still, because fish typically provides a dog with very simple nutrition and very little energy, it should only be an accompaniment to their daily feed. Fish contains a lot of fatty acids, which can provide healthy skin and hair for dogs. It is recommended to choose sardines, mackerel, herring, etc. The lower the food chain, the less mercury is contained in the fish.

Shellfish are also very important. They can provide essential minerals and other elements for dogs. Mussels and oysters are more suitable for feeding, but it is necessary to remember that they must be shelled and cooked before they can be given. Buying canned boiled oysters at the supermarket is also a good choice. 

The Benefits of Raw Meaty Bones for Dogs 

1. Your dog will be healthier, and anal gland, skin disease, allergy, ear smell, and ear canal diseases will be significantly reduced. Your dog’s feces will also become far less odorous. Simultaneously, raw meaty bones for dogs can considerably reduce the dog’s body odor and breath. 

2. Balance your dog’s bodily energy. Cooked food calms the dog, while the raw meat makes the dog more active than before. 

3. Cooked food frequently causes dental problems. Feeding raw meaty bones will keep your dog’s teeth clean naturally, which can reduce dental diseases. 

4. Raw meaty bones for dogs significantly reduces their chemical intake, such as preservatives in processed dog food. 

5. Long-term feeding of raw meaty bones for dogs will ensure no lack of calcium. 

6. Raw meaty bones for dogs can provide maximum energy, complete vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, yeast, protein, and carbohydrates. After cooking, high temperatures destroy these vitamins, yeast, and antioxidants, cause protein indigestibility and cause the loss of amino acids.

Article written by Author: Elsa Smith

Undoubtedly, you’ve looked at a dog food label and seen many things that may not be so clear. What’s really in that food? There’s a lot of information on the label. You have to know where and how to look for it. 

First, all pet foods, by law, must have the following information: 

• Product name
• Manufacturer’s name and address
• Weight
• Guaranteed analysis
• Ingredients
• Nutritional adequacy statement
• Feeding directions 

Here we’ll take a closer look at the last four.

1. Supported Analysis On A Dog Food Label

The guaranteed analysis lists the minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat and the maximum percentages of crude fiber and water. Nutritional experts call this “as fed,” meaning everything in the product, including the weight of non-caloric items such as water, fiber, and ash. The standards for dog food set forth by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) require a minimum of 18% crude protein for adult dogs and 22% crude protein for puppies. This crude protein amount is on a dry matter basis (that means with the water removed, canned foods should have more protein because they have more water). Dog food must also have a minimum of 5% crude fat for adults and 8% crude fat for puppies. 

The guaranteed analysis doesn’t give you any information about whether the protein and fat are of high quality. That is up to you to find out. One way is to read the ingredients. 

2. Ingredients Listed On A Dog Food Label

The ingredients list the most common item in the food first, and so on until you get to the least common item, which is listed last. A dog food label that lists an animal protein source first, such as chicken or poultry meal, beef or beef by-products, offers an excellent protein source. 

Other ingredients may include:

•  a carbohydrate source (rice, corn, barley)
• fat (chicken fat, lard, tallow)
• vitamins and minerals
• preservatives (mixed tocopherols, ethoxyquin, BHA)
• fiber (beet pulp)
• and sometimes other additives purported to be healthy (glucosamine, yucca, etc.). 

Some grocery store brands may add artificial colors, sugar, and fillers. 

However, amid growing interest among Americans in feeding their families and pets more “natural” foods, some dog food manufacturers are now using more natural — and recognizable — ingredients in foods they sell.

Natural Dog Food Ingredients May Include:

Chicken and Egg 

The high-quality protein in these food items helps build and maintain healthy muscles.

Carrots 

They are high in beta-carotene that can be converted to vitamin A, which helps in vision. AAFCO requirements call for a minimum of 5,000 IU/kg in the canine diet.

Tomatoes 

Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C, which are antioxidants that can limit cell damage and promote a robust immune system.

Peas 

These have antioxidants, including Vitamin E, which promote a robust immune system and limit cell damage. AAFCO requirements call for a minimum of 50 IU/kg in a healthy dog’s diet.

Spinach 

This leafy green vegetable has many essential vitamins and minerals — including vitamin A, manganese, riboflavin, calcium, and iron — that the AAFCO says a dog needs. Spinach is linked to a healthy heart, among other positive benefits.

Apples and Beets 

Fruits and vegetables such as apples and beets, contain natural fiber that helps promote a healthy digestive system in canines.

Fish Oil and Flaxseed 

Fish oil and flaxseed, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, contribute to skin health and coat shine.

Grains 

Wholesome whole grains such as rice, sorghum, and barley provide a natural energy source and vitality to dogs.

Calcium 

Natural calcium promotes healthy teeth and bones, not only in humans but in canines, too.

Ingredients to Avoid In Dog Food

Your definition of “natural” foods for your family probably doesn’t include artificial colors, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Those may also be ingredients you want to avoid feeding your dog. Artificial colors can often be detected by a reference to a color with a number after it, such as Blue 2, Red 40, and Yellow 5. When it comes to flavoring, it’s a good idea to look for a natural flavoring, such as natural chicken flavoring, instead of an animal digest, which is a cooked-down broth of unspecified animal parts. Some of the new natural foods promote the fact that they don’t use preservatives. Common preservatives used in dog foods include Ethoxyquin, BHA, or BHT.

In addition to bettering your dog’s health, going natural with the foods you feed your dog may give you more peace of mind. “As the human-animal bond has grown, marketing has lent itself towards what’s appealing to the person,” says Rebecca Rose, CVT, of Red Valley Rose Consulting, in Gunnison, Colo. “The balanced diet for the animal is the important part. As long as the animal is getting what it needs and maintaining its weight and coat, it’s fine.”

Our feeding of dogs is one of the reasons that they became domesticated in the first place. “That’s one of the reasons dogs selected humans to bond with — it was easier for them to please us and get food in return than it was to go out and hunt for it on their own,” Peterson says. 

3. Nutritional Statement On A Dog Food Label

Somewhere on the dog food package should be a nutritional adequacy statement saying that it meets or exceeds the AAFCO dietary guidelines. 

If the dog food doesn’t meet AAFCO guidelines, it can’t be considered complete and balanced and can cause nutritional deficiencies if it is the only food your dog eats.

4. Feeding Directions On A Dog Food Label

Finally, dog food should have some feeding directions. Usually, these directions are more than the average dog needs, but it’s a good guideline when starting. 

Next time you feed your dog, look at the label. There’s lots of useful information on it.

Margaret Bonham is the co-author of Complete Idiot’s Guide to Dog Health and Nutrition, written with James M. Wingert, DVM, published by Alpha Books.  

Article written by Author: Margaret H. Bonham, and Elizabeth Wasserman

Vegan Amy Rader knows her dog, Henry, needs meat protein, but she hates that chemically processed additives are going into her 5-year-old Beagle’s food. The new “natural” label on pet foods — and what that precisely means — has also puzzled the Seattle-based social worker. “It’s similar to buying organic for myself,” explains Rader. “A lot of words that sound pretty good are on the packaging, but I’m not always sure exactly what they mean, and I end up spending way too long in the pet store.”

For dog owners like Carol Davis of Fairfax, Va., the sight of a synthetic or chemical ingredient listed on a pet food label leads to the following conclusion: I wouldn’t feed that to my dog. “I usually avoid it,” says Davis, who has a 5-year-old English Springer Spaniel named Lana. “I feel like if she eats healthy now, she’ll stay healthier, and we’ll have fewer vet bills later.”

Like Davis, you are probably more concerned about putting “natural,” or minimally processed, foods on your dinner table, and that standard now extends to what’s in Fido’s bowl. Davis says she looks for recognizable ingredients, such as chicken and carrots when choosing Lana’s commercial food. However, there’s still some confusion about what constitutes a “natural” dog food.

“Natural” Dog Food Labeling Rules

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) regulate dog food labeling in the United States. Companies can’t make claims about pet food products that are false. The FDA doesn’t define the term “natural” for the pet food industry. Still, the AAFCO definition says natural food is “… derived solely from plant, animal, or mined sources. It does not contain any additives or processing aids that are chemically synthetic except in amounts as might occur unavoidably in good manufacturing practices.”

Most commercial dog foods contain some synthetic sources of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that meet AAFCO’s requirements that the food is “complete and balanced.” These requirements are to satisfy a dog’s nutritional needs, says Dr. Amy Dicke, DVM, a Dayton, Ohio-based veterinarian who has worked with teams of nutritionists and researchers. “If a product says it is all-natural and has not pulled out ‘with the inclusion of vitamins, minerals and amino acids,’ when in truth, they may not be practicing proper marketing,” Dr. Dicke says.

Dr. Katy Nelson, DVM, an emergency veterinarian in Virginia, suggests that Rader try a different approach when selecting dog food. “Do your research before you go to the pet store,” Dr. Nelson advises. “Labels are confusing. I’ve spent hours lecturing about them to veterinary students, and even they still have questions when I’m done!”

Below, Dr. Nelson explains current industry standards for natural kibble and weighs whether this food is right for your pet.

How the USDA Define Natural Dog Food

Believe it or not, the federal government has taken an interest in protecting pet food consumers from misleading claims. Like food for humans, food for dogs must adhere to the United States Department of Agriculture‘s definitions of “natural.” According to the USDA, food can only be labeled “natural” if it is minimally processed and contains no artificial ingredients or added colors.

Minimally processed can be fine, but sometimes that means it has no preservatives, so you need to be careful with expiration dates.” If it’s preservative-free, buy less of it. Ideally, you’d choose food containing natural preservatives like vitamin C and vitamin E rather than no preservatives at all.

How the AAFCO Define Natural Dog Food

The American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides a more specific description of the labeling requirements, adding that chemically synthesized ingredients may not be present in vittles claiming to be natural. Two common chemically synthesized ingredients in pet foods are propylene glycol and BHA. They both must be listed as ingredients on the labels of pet foods that contain them.

Ingredients in a “Natural” Dog Food

Protein 

Dogs are classified as either carnivores or omnivores. Either way, they are best fed a diet high in animal protein. Meat and/or poultry sources — such as chicken, lamb, or eggs — should be listed within the first three ingredients in natural dog food, says Katy J. Nelson, D.V.M., an emergency veterinarian in Alexandria, Va., who has worked on dog nutrition. 

Byproducts 

This term has gotten a bad rap. Meat or plant-based byproducts fit the definition of “natural” under the AAFCO regulations. “Good, high-quality pet food byproducts don’t need to be a four-letter word,” Dr. Nelson says. Organ meat and tissue help provide dogs with needed minerals and amino acids. 

Grains 

Natural sources of carbohydrates, such as brewer’s rice, whole-grain barley, and ground whole grain sorghum, can provide energy for a dog’s active lifestyle, Dr. Dicke says. 

Fruits and Vegetables 

Spinach, tomatoes, and peas are rich in vitamin E and antioxidants to help your dog build its immunity; apples are a great source of fiber; carrots help keep your dog’s vision healthy. 

No Added Artificial Colors, Flavors or Preservatives

“Natural” dog foods should not have synthetic fillers, artificial colors or flavors, or human-made preservatives. Natural flavors and colors are okay. Some preservatives are naturally occurring, such as vitamin E and tocopherols (TCP), acceptable to help preserve food.

Veterinarian Recommendations For Natural Dog Food

While Dr. Nelson sees the value in natural pet foods, she also advises dog owners to proceed with caution, keeping the following guidelines in mind:

• Remember that “natural” is not the same as “complete and balanced.” Ensure any pet food you select has conducted AAFCO-endorsed feeding trials or satisfied AAFCO’s dog food nutrient profiles.
• When choosing food, give your furry friend’s health issues a top priority. “You can find natural foods that also address some common health problems like weight and joint trouble, but you may have to look a little harder,” says Dr. Nelson.  
• Talk to your veterinarian before choosing any diet for your dog. “Don’t rely on the 16-year-old stock boy to help you decide what your dog should eat,” advises Dr. Nelson.
• Don’t make a good deal, your top priority. “The most expensive brands are not necessarily the best, but the quality of ingredients — natural or otherwise — does tend to increase with price,” concludes Dr. Nelson.

Our Natural Dog Food Recommendations

• Purina ONE Natural Puppy Food
• Diamond Naturals Adult Dog Food
• Purina ONE Natural Dog Food

When deciding on a food, talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s individual needs. Also, some pet food companies list toll-free phone numbers on their packaging so you can call and speak to a nutritionist.

After consulting Henry’s veterinarian, Amy Rader found a natural food that satisfied her concerns. It also seems to be fulfilling Henry’s. “He gobbles it up,” she says. “So, I guess we both feel good about it.”

Experts caution that there is no scientific agreement that natural foods provide more safety or nutritional value than traditional dog foods. “I don’t want people to expect health miracles from feeding a natural food,” says Dr. Dicke. “It’s a personal choice. It’s another feeding option.” For some dog owners, however, “natural” is the way to go.

Article written by Author: Elizabeth Wasserman and Darcy Lockman

Selecting the right kibble for your dog can be an overwhelming task. After all, there are dozens of choices on the market these days. To help simplify your decision, ask yourself these seven questions:

1. What Life Stage is Your Dog?

This is an important initial question, as it will then help narrow your choices, says Korinn E. Saker, DVM, president of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition. Puppies, for instance, should be on a growth diet, which will contain the proper nutrients for their rapid development. An adult maintenance diet may be best for healthy adults, and senior dogs will thrive on food made specifically for their geriatric needs.  However, Only 11 percent of U.S. pet owners consider their pet’s age when determining which formula to feed their pet. “I always tell my patients that healthy checkups start on the inside,” says Dr. Katy Nelson. Dr. Nelson is an emergency veterinarian in Alexandria, Va., who is also a member of the Iams Pet Wellness Council, who encourages feeding a pet a high-quality diet specific to an animal’s age.

It’s essential to consider the stages of life for dogs when deciding on pet food choices. “Diet requirements — including protein levels, calories and vitamins and minerals — vary over the life of a pet,” says Nelson. “In turn, an animal’s needs change as he grows from a puppy to an adult into a senior.”

Nelson shares these basic guidelines:

• One To 12 Months 

Puppy formula at this stage should include DHA for brain and vision development. Dr. Amy Dicke, a technical service veterinarian, explains that DHA stands for docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. “The benefits of a diet rich in DHA starts in the womb, much like pregnant women taking prenatal vitamins,” says Dicke.

Our Puppy Kibble Recommendations:

• Hill’s Science Diet Dry Puppy Kibble
• Royal Canin Medium Puppy Kibble

Our Adult Dog Kibble Recommendations

• IAMS Minichunks Dog Kibble
• Hill’s Science Diet Dog Kibble

Our Senior Dog Kibble Recommendations

• Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Senior Dog Kibble
• Royal Canin Medium 7+ Dog Kibble

While you might think any size will work, buy one appropriately sized for your dog’s mouth.

7. Is Your Dog Overweight?

If your dog is a little heavy, the weight issue needs to be addressed. But don’t do it by cutting back on your dog’s regular food. “You’ll reduce calories, but you’ll also cut valuable nutrients,” says Dr. Saker. Instead, purchase a calorie-restricted food reduces the number of fat calories while still providing optimal nutrition. Be sure to follow the feeding instructions on the food’s packaging.

The ultimate test, however, will be passing your dog’s lip-licking taste bud evaluation.

Article written by Author: Karen Asp and Jennifer Viegas

With such various offerings in the pet food aisle, selecting the right food for your dog can feel complicated. Health issues and life stages may take precedence, but feeding according to breed-specific needs is also an important consideration, especially for healthy adult dogs. 

When George Kantor took his Pug Sadie to his mother’s country home for the holidays, the New York City psychologist forgot to bring his diminutive dog’s small-breed kibble. It was Christmas Eve, and the stores were closed, so he fed Sadie from the food bag of his mother’s standard poodle. “If you know pugs, they never turn down a meal, and Sadie is no exception,” says Kantor. But the pug’s holiday meal soon turned sour.

“She seemed to be having a hard time with the bigger pieces,” he explains. Unfortunately, the kibble didn’t stay down, leaving Kantor with a most unwanted “gift” to clean up. He surmises, “I guess she wasn’t able to chew the large chunks quickly enough.” Kibble size isn’t the only reason to feed your best friend food specific to breed size. Appropriate nutrient levels also vary based on whether your dog is small, medium, large, or giant.

Your dog’s weight at maturity determines its breed size, whether your pet is a giant purebred or a tiny mixed breed. A giant-breed dog may reach 90 pounds or more at maturity, while a large breed will grow anywhere from 51 to 90 pounds. A small/toy dog will weigh up to 20 pounds as an adult. Any furry friend between (21 to 50 pounds) is a medium-sized dog.

Below, veterinarians Trisha Joyce, DVM, of New York City Veterinary Specialists, and Katy J. Nelson, DVM, a Virginia-based emergency veterinarian, weigh in on the importance of size-specific feeding.

Adult Nutritional Differences in Dogs

Post-growth, different breeds still have different needs. “Caloric needs vary based on breed size,” says Dr Joyce. Small and toy breeds have higher metabolic rates (more than twice those of large breeds)and smaller stomachs. They, therefore, function best on energy-dense diets and small meals. Small-breed formulas have more calories per cup than medium- and large-breed foods, making an energy-packed diet most appropriate.

Large and jumbo dogs have special nutritional considerations, mostly related to joint health issues. “In adulthood, larger dogs are prone to orthopedic problems and arthritis, so you may want to select foods that have protective substances for their joints, like glucosamine,” says Dr Joyce. Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which are sometimes included in commercial dog chows, are thought to maintain your oversized pet’s cartilage.

Your Dog in Maturity

“The rate at which a dog ages depends on the breed,” explains Dr. Joyce. The larger and heavier the dog, the earlier the aging process begins. A large or jumbo dog should then start eating a “maturity” diet earlier than a small or toy dog. Larger breeds tend to have shorter life spans, so they might be considered seniors as early as six-years-old, while smaller dogs don’t generally reach senior status until ten years. Check with your veterinarian if you’re not sure when to start a mature diet.

The nutritional makeup of all senior diets should include immune-system-supporting antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene. But such diets also vary by breed size. Large and jumbo dogs are still in need of nutritional support for their sensitive joints, so glucosamine should be on the ingredient list in your large or jumbo pet’s formula. Similarly, small dogs continue to need energy-dense food, and the calories per cup should be higher than for medium and large breeds.  

As for Kantor and his Pug Sadie, they had to make do over Christmas. “I cut the kibble pieces in half before I fed her Christmas day!” he recalls laughing. “The next morning, the stores were open super early, and we were back to her small-breed kibble by breakfast.”

 

What is the Difference Between Toy Breed Dog Food and Regular?

Suppose your dog is a Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, Brussels Griffon, Maltese, Pekingese, Pomeranian, or Yorkshire Terrier or weighs 10 pounds or less. In that case, you could consider feeding him a toy-breed dog food formula.

“The vast majority of toy dogs are shaky and are always cold,” says Dr. Nelson. “They’re worked up all day long over nothing.” As with fidgety people, the constant movement of toy dogs means they burn energy all day long. They also have small stomachs that cannot hold significant portions, so they need an especially calorie-dense formula. Small dogs also tend to have poor dental health and may benefit from tartar-controlling dog foods, helping protect their teeth.

As there is a wide variety of toy dog foods on the market, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

What is the Difference Between Small Breed Dog Food and Regular?

If your dog is a Jack Russell, Shih Tzu, Pug, Lhasa Apso, Cocker Spaniel, Border Terrier, French Bulldog, or Dachshund or weighs between 10 and 20 pounds, you could consider feeding him a small-breed formula.

In the commercial dog food world, toy and small formulas are often one and the same, and with good reason: “A lot of small dogs are also high in energy and low in stomach capacity. Plus, they need bite-sized kibble for their relatively small mouths,” says Dr. Nelson.

However, small dogs are more likely than toy dogs to become overweight. To ensure that toy- and small-dog formulas do not pack the pounds on your dog, small-dog owners need to be particularly attuned to portion control.

Finding the right dog food for your dog is a significant first step; ensuring they are fed correctly is the second. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

As there is a wide variety of dog foods on the market for small dogs, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog for whatever their life stage.

 

What Should I Feed My Mid-Sized Dog?

If your dog is a Schnauzer, Beagle, Border Collie, Basset Hound, Irish Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog, or Shar-Pei or weighs between 20 and 50 pounds, you could consider feeding him a standard adult dog food formula.

Mid Sized dogs are considered standard by the pet food industry, and their needs encompass the needs of most dogs: high-quality protein dog food to maintain muscle mass, fiber to promote intestinal health, fish oil for healthy skin and coat, carbohydrates for fuel and vitamins and minerals for proper immune function.

“These are middle-of-the-road dogs,” says Dr Nelson. “In adulthood, there’s not a lot separating their dietary needs from large breeds.” Such dogs do, however, reach what is considered old age more slowly than bigger dogs. Mid Sized canines can safely remain on “adult” instead of a “maturity” formula through to age 7.

As there is a wide variety of dog foods on the market for standard-sized dogs, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog for whatever their life stage.

What is the Difference Between Large Breed Dog Food and Regular?

Suppose your dog is a German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Pointer, Great Dane, Bullmastiff, Newfoundland, Rottweiler, or weighs over 50 pounds. In that case, you could consider feeding him a large or giant-breed dog food formula.

Post-puppy-hood, large and giant breeds have the same nutritional requirements and the same concerns. “They have a lot more joint issues compared to smaller dogs,” says Dr Nelson. Foods for these oversized dogs should contain glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health and antioxidants like vitamin A and vitamin E to slow the aging effects, which larger dogs do more quickly.

Finally, they also require fewer calories. Large-breed foods have less fat and calories per kibble because, except for hunting dogs, the dogs they’re targeted at tend to be less active. The L-carnitine in these formulas will help large and giant dogs to burn fat more efficiently.

Large dog breeds can be more susceptible to conditions such as Orthopedic Disease and Bloat. Feeding your large dog a formula specifically designed for large dogs made by

a reputable company can help avoid the onset of these conditions. Consult with your veterinarian for any recommendations and advice.

Finding the right dog food for your dog is a significant first step; ensuring they are fed correctly is the second. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

No matter your dog’s breed, feeding the right formula will help maintain its health and longevity, an objective that all dog lovers can agree on, regardless of their breed preferences.

Article written by Author: Darcy Lockman, and The Daily Dog Expert

When shopping for dog food, pet food stores offer a wide variety of choices.

“There are foods on the market which are very easy and tasty for your dog but don’t provide the highest nutrition,” says Dr. Katy Nelson, a Virginia-based veterinarian. She has consulted on the nutritional makeup of dog food products. “Even though your pet may be excited about what’s in their bowl, it won’t necessarily glow afterward, just like people who regret those visits to fast-food restaurants.”

How can we tell the difference? Like with fast food for people, very inexpensive dog food may indicate a less nutritious meal.

“Generally, the higher-priced premium brands have higher-quality ingredients and specialized nutrients,” says Dr. Amy Dicke, a veterinarian who also consults on the nutritional aspects of pet food. 

1. As a general rule, it’s wise to feed your pet the best food you can afford.

“From foods which use human-quality sources, to foods which use the scraps off of the slaughterhouse floor, you truly do get what you pay for most of the time,” says Nelson.

2. After price, look at the list of ingredients.

Like we screen our food labels for unsaturated fats or high fructose corn syrup, there are things to look out for on dog food ingredients lists.

Because ingredients are listed in order of quantity, “always look at the first three ingredients on your pet food’s bag,” says Nelson. “If there is corn or something with the word ‘gluten’ in those first few ingredients, step away and keep looking.” Gluten, a vegetable protein, is a cheap alternative to protein from animal sources. But animal protein is more nutritious for your pet.

How to Find the Best Dog Food on the Market

Although it’s not a panacea, there is a seal of approval you can look for. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides pet food guidelines and regulates ingredients’ naming.

“AAFCO’s nutritional adequacy statement identifies the food is nutritionally complete and balanced and contains all of the required nutrients,” says Dicke.

Beyond that, there’s still variation. But Nelson recommends at least avoiding foods without AAFCO approval.

Special-Needs Dog Food

Many foods are tailored to particular circumstances, like a dog’s health or age. Dicke says AAFCO also regulates these claims. Choosing the right one for your dog involves matching your dog to the goal of the product, which typically falls into the following three categories:

1. Age
   

   Growing puppies (0 to 24 months), healthy adults, and senior dogs (5 years giant breeds and seven years and older for other breeds) all have different nutritional profiles.

Our Best Dog Food Brand Recommendations Based on Age

• Royal Canin Medium Puppy Kibble
• Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dog Kibble
• Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Senior Dog Kibble

2. Body Size/Activity Levels
   

   According to Dicke, “Pets that are overweight or underweight need different nutrition than those who are at an optimal weight. Pets who get lots of exercise also have different nutritional requirements.” These food labels include weight control, performance, or maintenance.

Our Best Dog Food Brand Recommendations Based on Size or Activity Levels

• Purina Pro Plan with Probiotics Weight Management Dog Food
• Purina Pro Plan Sport Dog Food

3. Health History
   

   Your dog may have a condition requiring a therapeutic or prescription formula. For instance, dogs with sensitive stomachs can benefit from foods containing prebiotics. These non-digestible food ingredients stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria that help the digestive system. Other blends are specialized for heart health, dental health, bone/joint health, and more.

Our Best Dog Food Brand Recommendations Based on Health Needs

• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin Adult Dog Food
• Hill’s Prescription Diet Heart Care Adult Dog Food
• Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care Adult Dog Food
• Royal Canin Joint Care Large Adult Dog Food

Ask Your Veterinarian About the Right Food For Your Dog

In the end, however, Nelson says the most important thing is to discuss your dog’s food options with your veterinarian. She says the most significant mistake people make when choosing food is seeking advice from the sales associate at the pet store rather than their veterinarian.

“Your veterinarian can help you find the food that’s best because they know the particular issues that your pet deals with,” she says. “Your veterinarian has the best interests of your pet in mind.”

 Article written by Author: Brad Kloza, Elizabeth Parker, and Darcy Lockman

As we all become more aware of our impact on the planet, efforts to go green have crept into many aspects of corporate and individual decision-making — from packaging products to what kind of soap to buy. It is no surprise, then, that dog owners have become more interested in feeding their pets in eco-friendly ways.

Using eco-friendly dog poop bags to replacing store-bought toys with safe, old household objects, pet lovers are demonstrating that they are environment lovers. It’s only natural that the concern over pollution from pets would extend to chowtime.

“Being eco-conscious is not something you do for yourself and not for your pets,” says Don Reisinger, sales and marketing director for New Age Pet, maker of the ecoConcepts Pet Bowls.

“If you’re going to do it right, you need to be eco-conscious right across the board.”

The Green Dog Movement

As you seek out more natural foods for yourself and continue to recycle packaging, think about doing so for your dogs. 

“I think for all my clients, sustainability takes a backseat to nutrition,” says Dr. Patricia Joyce, a veterinarian at BluePearl Veterinary Partners. “With that said, most pet owners would love to make ethical, environmental choices in all aspects of their lives, including what they feed their dogs.”

The pet food industry is responding to this desire. In a recent industry survey conducted by the trade magazine Petfood Industry, 62 percent of respondents believed that consumers value sustainability and cited consumer demand as one key reason for their operations adopting green practices. Below, Joyce and Virginia-based emergency veterinarian Dr. Katy Nelson weigh in on balancing your dog’s nutritional requirements with environmental responsibility — and what else you can do to protect the planet while caring for your dog.

Here are tips on how to make your dog’s dinnertime more eco-friendly:

1. Look For Natural Dog Food Ingredients

Humane and Sustainable Dog Food

While a vegetarian diet has less impact on the environment than one that includes animal proteins, Joyce and Nelson stress that dogs are omnivorous in the wild and should remain as one in your home. “Animal protein is an essential source of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for dogs,” says Nelson. “You can do research and find a dog food you feel good about — say one that uses cage-free chickens. But it’s neither fair nor healthy to force a vegetarian diet on your dog.”

Our Recommendations for Humanely and Sustainably Sourced Dog Food

• Open Farm Humanely & Sustainably Sourced Puppy Food
• Open Farm Humanely & Sustainably Sourced Beef Dog Food
• Open Farm Humanely & Sustainably Sourced Senior Dog Food

Our Recommendations for Environmentally Ethical Dog Food

• Open Farm Harvest Chicken & Ancient Grains Dog Food
• Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon & Ancient Grains Dog Food
• Open Farm Catch-of-the-season Whitefish & Ancient Grains Dog Food

Our Recommendations for Eco-Friendly Farmed Dog Food

• Open Farm Humanely & Sustainably Sourced Pork Dog Food
• Open Farm Humanely & Sustainably Sourced Lamb Dog Food
• Open Farm Humanely & Sustainably Sourced Beef Dog Food

Our Recommendations for Natural Dog Food

• Purina ONE Natural Puppy Food
• Diamond Naturals Adult Dog Food
• Purina ONE Natural Dog Food

Our Recommendations for Dog Food with Recyclable Packaging

• Hill’s Science Diet Wet Puppy Food
• Purina ONE Smartblend Wet Adult Dog Food
• Hill’s Science Diet Wet Senior (7+) Dog Food

Our Recommendation for Eco-Friendly Dog Bowls

• Stainless Steel Dog Bowl – Set of 2 – Made in the USA

Our Recommendations for Recirculated Water Fountains

• Drinkwell Platinum Water Fountain
• Drinkwell 2 Gallon Water Fountain
• Veken Water Fountain

Our Recommendation for Recycled Dog Placemats

• Personalized Dog Placemat – Made from recycled materials – Made in the USA

Other Ways to Help the Environment

“At the end of the day, the goal is to feed your pet the best quality food,” says Nelson. “If that’s beef, then it’s beef. You can reduce your environmental footprint in other ways that don’t negatively impact your dog’s well-being. Ride your bike rather than drive. Recycle.” And use the Web to start researching the following nonfood aspects of your pet’s kibble company:

• Energy Consumption

Some commercial pet food makers have made public commitments to using renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. Look for these commitments and manufacturing plant Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

• Giving Back

Corporate philanthropy often supports green causes. Pet food manufacturers in North America are involved with all sorts of philanthropic programs — from

dedicating a percentage of their profits to supplying clean water to children to supporting local conservation efforts.

With the pet food industry coming on board to support a whole host of environmentally-friendly changes, dog owners can feel more optimistic about reducing their best friends’ carbon paw prints.

“For too many decades,” Reisinger says, “We just bought what we wanted and did not pay attention to the environment.” With just a few simple changes, you can help to make a positive difference.

Article written by Author: Rose Springer, and Elizabeth Wasserman

Most of us have learned to check the ingredients list on dog food, but there’s another set of information on pet food labels that merits your attention: the guaranteed analysis. Understanding this information, based on the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines, provides you with yet another essential tool in the marketplace.

What Is the Guaranteed Analysis on Pet Food?

“Minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat, and maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture must be listed in the guaranteed analysis,” says Dr. Amy Dicke, a technical services veterinarian with Iams. “Pet food manufacturers may guarantee other nutrients as well.”

Here, Dicke and Dr. Katy Nelson, an emergency veterinarian in Alexandria, Va., take you through the guaranteed analysis information on dog food, explaining its many benefits — and its limitations.

What the Guaranteed Analysis Will and Will Not Do

“Guarantees indicate the nutrient will be present at no more or no less, depending on the guarantee, throughout the product’s shelf life,” says Dicke. 

The Guaranteed Analysis Will:

• Allow you to compare foods
• Indicate the legal minimums of crude protein and crude fat
• Provide the statutory maximums of water and crude fiber contained in the product
• Permit direct comparisons between products with similar water content, such as one dry food versus another dry food or one wet/canned food versus another wet/canned food

The Guaranteed Analysis Will Not:

• Portray the quality of ingredients within a product
• Specify the actual amount of protein, fat, water and fiber in the food
• Permit comparisons between products with different water amounts

As you can see, water levels are a significant consideration. “Canned foods typically contain 7 percent to 78 percent moisture, whereas dry foods contain only 10 percent to 12 percent moisture,” says Dicke. “To make meaningful comparisons of nutrient levels between a canned and dry product, they should be expressed on the same moisture basis.”

Using the Guaranteed Analysis Information

Until your dog eats a portion of food, you cannot tell if the meal will be a taste bud pleaser. By reading pet food labels at the store, however, you can make predictions about a product’s quality and nutrient punch. Nelson shares her tips below:

1. If your dog is getting older and/or has renal issues, look for a food that has higher moisture content. It will help keep your pet hydrated.
2. If your dog suffers from weight issues, diabetes, renal difficulties, diarrhea, or constipation, speak with your veterinarian about desired protein and fiber levels in pet food. You may need to find a diet that is more geared to your particular pet’s needs.
3. Beneficial inclusions like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are not required in the guaranteed analysis. 

4. However, many premium dog food products will ensure minimal levels of these fatty acids to let pet owners know that the nutrients’ health benefits can be expected throughout the products’ shelf life.
5. Another inclusion not required in the guaranteed analysis is L-carnitine. However, if your dog is overweight, studies suggest L-carnitine can help the body enhance lean muscle mass by promoting a more efficient manner of utilizing dietary fats.
6. Helpful inclusions found in diets, especially for large breeds, senior pets, or overweight pets, are glucosamine and chondroitin. “These are the building blocks of cartilage and can help promote joint health and even keep the healthy cartilage in an already damaged/arthritic joint going strong,” says Nelson.

Article written by Author: Jennifer Viegas

The latest archaeological evidence suggests that dogs were domesticated as early as 26,000 years ago. It’s incredible to consider that commercial dog food dates back fewer than 200 years. So how did packaged dog food emerge and evolve?

James Spratt’s Mid-1800s Breakthrough

Before a better understanding of dogs’ nutritional needs developed, people mostly fed dogs dribs and drabs from human food stores. Feeding scraps of people food held for shipyard dogs, which used to gobble down hardtack biscuits. These biscuits, which are still available today, were just crunchy, wheat-based crackers that stored well.

According to Stephen Zawistowski, science advisor for The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, one day in the mid-1800s, lightning rod salesman James Spratt had a light bulb moment while he was standing on a dock.

Spratt, from Ohio, “watched how dogs would eat up hardtack biscuits on fishing docks, and thought, ‘I could make something similar,'” says Zawistowski.

Spratt compressed beetroot, various other vegetables, meat, and wheat into cakes and baked them, and the first manufactured pet food was born. He called it a “Meat Fibrine Dog Cake” and cleverly printed ads on the opposite side of dog show flyers, which he created and controlled with business partner Charles Cruft, founder of Crufts dog shows.

At around this same time, says Zawistowski, small-business owners — often working through farm animal feed operations or veterinary offices — started selling their pet food products to locals. Horsemeat was a popular ingredient in early dog foods since horses were plentiful then. (Using horsemeat for pet food was outlawed in the U.S. in the 1970s.)

Early Dog Food Advertising Fuels Interest

Advertising targeted dog owners, with celebrities of the time serving as spokespeople. For example, Zawistowski says that posters of Admiral Richard Byrd, a famous explorer who went to the Arctic and Antarctic, featured photographs of Byrd in the tundra with his dogs. At least one pet food company even paid Byrd to travel around the world and promote dog food.

Regulated Products and the Birth of AAFCO

With the growing popularity of commercial pet products came a need for regulation. In 1909, the Association of American Feed Control Officials was founded to oversee pet food quality. To this day, quality pet foods feature an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement that indicates that the food is complete and balanced for a particular life stage. Kurt Gallagher, communications director of the Pet Food Institute, reported that AAFCO paved the way for canned dog foods, “with regulations established in 1917 for canned pet food products.”

1950s Machinery Breakthrough in Dog Food Manufacture

The two World Wars put a dent in businesses, but during the high-growth 1950s, snack food manufacturing resulted in another ingenious moment. Astute observers, watching cheese puff extruders turn out tasty bites, had the idea that such machinery could produce dry pet foods with yummy, nutritious coatings, says Zawistowski. This discovery resulted in the first pellet-sized dry foods, similar to those still sold today.

During the early- to mid-20th century, new influential entrepreneurs associated with companies like Purina, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Iams forged new commercial ground. Paul Iams, for example, “worked as a dog food salesman during the Depression,” according to Jennifer Bayot of The New York Times. “Not even severe economic hardship, he learned, could deter pet owners from paying the price to feed their companions.” Iams created some of the first meat-based, high-protein foods for pets, emphasizing quality and good health. Gallagher says that, at the same time, interest in pets began to skyrocket. “Dog food sales in 1958 were $298 million,” he says. “In 2010, they were about $12 billion.”

Continued Emphasis on Quality and Growth

To this day, most dog owners wish to feed their pets foods that contain high-quality ingredients with health benefits. The “eat healthy” trend kicked in during the late 1960s, with momentum building each subsequent year. We all want to live longer, healthier lives, and that extends to our dogs as well. “The pet food industry continues to grow and expand,” says Zawistowski. “Even during the toughest economic times, owners want the best for their pets.”

Dog Food Manufacturing Today

The process of making high-quality commercial dog food involves scientists, nutritionists, veterinarians, and even dog-food tasters in a production more befitting the Food Network than Animal Planet.

“They’ve got as many Ph.D.’s and doctorates on staff as any of the pharmaceutical companies,” says Dr. Katy J. Nelson, an emergency veterinarian who works on pet nutrition. “They’re trying to make a product that is going to be the sole thing that these animals are going to survive on, so they have to make sure they have everything that could be needed to sustain life and enhance the well-being of these animals.”

Find the Right Dog Food Recipe

It can take years for new dog food to progress from a concept to a food you can buy at your local pet store. Besides keeping up with the latest nutrition and scientific research, pet food makers also work with dog owners to explore what would best meet particular dogs’ needs beyond the basics. “Getting the idea is the easy part,” says Nelson. “Developing the food and making it into a great product is the hard part.”

Adds Dr. Amy Dicke, a Dayton, Ohio-based veterinarian who has worked with teams of nutritionists and researchers: “Innovative nutrition starts with research.”

Here’s how the different stages of developing a new dog food recipe usually progress:

1. Formula development. 
2. Dog food formulas have their beginnings with research teams that include nutritionists, behaviorists, and veterinarians, says Dicke. During this stage, raw ingredients are evaluated for functional qualities, nutrient availability, and digestibility. 
3. Product and process development. 
4. Many factors can affect dog food formulas, such as cooking temperature, cooking duration, and even the order in which ingredients are added, says Dicke. Dog food makers will produce small sample quantities of test formulas in their laboratories and make adjustments to find the best combination of production efficiency, production capability, and nutritional enhancement for every formula. 
5. Analysis. 
6. An expert team of chemists, biologists, microbiologists, and lab technicians evaluates the test dog food formula for proper nutrients. 
7. Palatability testing. 
8. “Even the most nutritious pet food is worthless if the dog or cat won’t eat it,” says Dicke. During this stage, dog food formulas are tested by dog taste-testers. Instead of primarily relying on pets in a research setting, some pet food makers now recruit dogs for palatability testing in their home environment. 
9. Digestibility testing. 
10. Researchers don’t stop after determining which dog food is more palatable to dogs. They also test to understand how much of the nutrients in the food are absorbed by the body. “This tells us how well the formula’s nutrients are retained and how well they contribute to the pet’s health and well-being,” says Dicke.

Before new dog foods are sold, they must be complete and balanced and meet the nutritional adequacy expectations of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which regulates pet food labeling in the United States.

Pet food makers are always looking for volunteers to help test foods. “Many companies feel like in-home usage gives you more realistic information about how pets are going to do on this diet because it incorporates the stresses of everyday life — both good and bad,” says Nelson.

Article written by Author: Jennifer Viegas and Elizabeth Wasserman