What Does Healthy Dog Food Look Like?

We are constantly trying to do the best for our dogs, so that they live long and happy lives. Feeding right is one such responsibility for pet parents. However, there are many schools of thought when it comes to what is right or healthy food for dogs. Let us understand the approach that will help you identify the right food for your furry friends.

1. The Processing

Choose the food which goes through the least possible processing i.e. heat exposure in case of food. Commercial dry and wet food go through various cycles of ultra-processing at high temperatures and in the process, impact or eliminate the crucial nutrients in our dog’s foods. To supplement the nutrient loss, they then add synthetic supplements which are not natural and hence, not easily absorbed by the body.

2. Ingredients

Dogs as a species, do not really need carbohydrates. Dogs are facultative carnivores, meaning they primarily eat meat but also consume plant matter. Their anatomy like their long carnivore teeth, short GI system, lack of amylase in the saliva, etc are all designed for a majorly carnivore diet. 

High quality protein, organs, optimal amount of veggies and fruits, and the rotation of all ingredients is what helps dogs derive complete nutrition and enough variety in their gut microbiome to build a strong immune system..

3. Each Dog’s is Unique

Because each dog is unique - at an anatomical and breed level - they need specific ingredients in their food to keep them thriving. Feeding one type of protein or dry food is not just boring at the most basic level, it also does not address their unique needs. For the sake of their health and longevity, it is important to understand what your dog wants and needs.

4. Over-supplementation or Synthetic supplementation

It is important that our dogs get the nutrition they need. It is equally possible to derive that nutrition from the right, fresh food customized for them. Feeding over-processed food with chemical based supplements may cause toxicity and build-up in your dog’s body. Read the ingredients, ask the questions and only buy food when all your questions pertaining to the questions are answered.

To Summaries:

Dogs require a unique blend of macro and micro nutrients in their food for their health and longevity. It is important to understand that not every meal needs to be balanced and packed commercial food may not be the choice for them. Understanding the process, ingredients and supplementation of food and asking the right questions, is the only way to ensure that we make the right choice for our dogs.

To order our balanced Fresh Meals created to optimize your dog’s health and nutrition, click here.