What Should I Look for in Canned Dog Food?

When it comes to pet nutrition, canned dog food is a popular choice. Canned dog food is convenient, shelf-stable, and often contains higher levels of moisture than dry kibble. But not all canned dog food is created equal – there are some important factors to consider when selecting the right canned food for your pup.

Ingredients: Look for a canned dog food with real meat as the first ingredient, like chicken or beef. Avoid foods with by-products, fillers or artificial preservatives. Whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Nutrition: Choose a formula that meets the nutritional needs of your pup’s specific life stage and size. For example, puppy formulas contain more calories than adult formulas. Also look at the list of vitamins and minerals to ensure they meet AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.

Price: While quality should always be your top priority, price is an important factor as well – especially if you have multiple pets who need to eat on a regular basis. Compare prices at different stores or online retailers to get the best deal on your pup’s favorite canned food.

Feeding Guidelines: Read the feeding guidelines carefully to ensure your pup is getting enough calories per day from their diet. Many brands will list how much food you should feed based on weight or activity level – follow these guidelines closely for optimal health and wellness.

Conclusion: When selecting canned dog food for your pup, look for high-quality ingredients like real meat, whole grains, fruits and vegetables that meet AAFCO standards for complete nutrition. Consider price when budgeting for pet food expenses, but don’t sacrifice quality just to save money – always read feeding guidelines carefully to ensure optimal health and wellness for your canine companion.