Besides pet waste removal, one of the services that Doggie Scoops provides Metro Detroit pet owners is dog food delivery. Though that in itself is not necessarily an actual service to your pet, unless the dog food we deliver is high quality and contains everything your dog needs to be healthy and happy.
Of course, as Metro Detroit’s top pet service provider, that is exactly what we do. But what if you haven’t hired us (yet)?
What should you look for in a dog food?
What does “high-quality” dog food contain?
Taking into account your dog’s age and personal nutrition needs…
Here’s The Scoop
Protein
Other than water, protein is number one in nutritional importance to your dog. It should also be number one in the listing of your dog food ingredients. Proteins— meats and meals— are vital for your dog’s development and growth. The protein is broken down by your dog’s digestive system and creates amino acids, which his body will use to improve the strength of its muscular, skeletal and immune systems. Look for protein from natural sources, such as: Lamb, Beef, Fish and Poultry. Soy is also an option, but may cause skin allergies for some pets.
Grains
Another main ingredient in almost all dog foods is grain. So grains in your dog’s diet are a good thing, right? Well, it depends who you ask, and it depends on your dog. Grains deliver energy by breaking down into complex carbohydrates, which are then used as energy. It is this “breaking down” process that some dogs have a problem with. See, dogs have rather short digestive tracts and a cheap grain—like corn—can be hard for them to digest. Better grain choices would be whole grains, like brown rice, oats or barley. If your dog does not digest grains well, there are many good “grain-free” foods available on the market.
Fatty Acids
Omega-6 and Omega-3 are important additives to a healthy dog’s diet. They improve heart health, strengthen the immune system, lower blood pressure and reduce joint stiffness. Yet, opinions are varied as to what ratio they should be added. Anywhere from 5-1 to 10-1 (Omega-6 to Omega-3) is generally agreed to be an optimal mix.
AAFCO
AAFCO is not in your dog’s food, but it should be on the package. Because it’s not an ingredient, it’s a stamp of approval. The Association of American Feed Control Officials is an association of local, state, and federal agencies whose stated goals include, “ensuring consumer protection and safeguarding the health of animals and humans.” Dog foods labeled “complete and balanced” have met the associations agreed upon standards. If you are interested, these sites give in-depth information on what goes into their certification process.
Remember, your dog is counting on you to keep them healthy. Do your homework and learn what’s best for your pet. And please, whatever food you decide on, make sure to check the “best by” date stamped on the bag. Do not purchase or feed your dog food that is beyond that date.
The dog food we recommend is the Natural Balance® L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets® Sweet Potato & Venison.
Follow this link for an extremely helpful resource for overweight dogs and cats – Cat and Dog Weight Loss Solution.