Does your pooch come running when you fill his bowl? Chances are, he probably does. Our canine companions are very enthusiastic about dinner! What you put in Fido’s dish can have a huge impact on his health and well-being. Of course, choosing your pup’s food can be tricky. Companies are well-versed at using slick marketing techniques to make their products look best. A local Frisco, TX vet offers a few ‘pointers’ on picking Fido’s food in this article.
Check The Label
Reading pet food labels may be confusing, but it can help you identify quality foods. The first three ingredients will be the ones that take up the largest percentage of the food. These should be meat, fish, or poultry. Beware of tricky wording! For instance, the term ‘flavor’ can be misleading. A beef-flavored food only needs to have tiny amounts of actual beef. Similarly, something that says ‘with chicken’ only has to contain 3% chicken.
Choose An AAFCO Approved Brand
Look on the label and see if the food is recognized by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These standards are based on official studies that have determined the optimal percentages of carbohydrates, protein, different vitamins, and minerals for Fido.
Choose Age-Appropriate Food
Fido’s nutritional needs will change over time. Puppies need lots of nutrition to fuel that big growth spurt. Seniors, however, may need foods that contain certain supplements, such as omega-3s. Keep in mind that not all dogs are considered seniors at the same time. Large pooches reach their golden years fairly quickly, while smaller breeds may not be seniors until they are 9 or older.
Consult Your Vet
Your vet can be a great source of information when it comes to caring for Fido. That includes feeding him! Don’t be afraid to ask for tips on choosing your canine pal’s food.
Watch Calorie Counts
The amount of calories Fido should eat per day will depend on his age, weight, breed, and lifestyle. Ask your vet for recommendations on your furry pal’s nutritional and Kcal requirements, and adjust portion sizes accordingly.
Monitor Trends
Grain-free foods are all the rage, but the jury is still out on their long-term effects. Play it safe, and check with your vet on this.
As your Frisco, TX animal clinic, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Please contact us anytime!
