We love exploring life with our furry friends and, naturally, will always want the best for them. One of the ways we can ensure our dogs are living their best lives is through the food they eat.
Dog food can be such a complicated space as there’s plenty to choose from, and there are many foods don’t actually meet the nutritional needs of dogs – despite the fancy marketing and packaging they may have! This came as a huge surprise to me when I got my first dachshund.
As we start to explore this topic, let’s talk through the three different types of dog food you could try. Each one has their own benefits and drawbacks, but ultimately it comes down to what is best for each individual dog and your lifestyle.
As a general rule of thumb for all foods, we would recommend looking for clearly labelled foods with percentages so you know exactly what is in the food, a high meat percentage (50%+), and less filler ingredients – which can cause allergies – such as maize and cereals.
Dry Food (Kibble)
Dry dog food, commonly known as kibble, is perhaps the most popular choice among pet owners. It typically consists of a mixture of meat by-products, grains, vitamins, and minerals formed into small, bite-sized pellets.
Benefits:
- Convenience: Kibble is convenient to store, measure, and feed. Its long shelf life makes it a practical option for busy pet owners or if you travel a lot.
- Dental Health: Chewing dry kibble can apparently help in maintaining dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
- Affordability: In comparison to other options, kibble tends to be more cost-effective, making it accessible to a wide range of pet owners.
Drawbacks/Considerations:
- Quality Concerns: Not all kibble brands are created equal. Some may contain fillers or low-quality ingredients that do not meet the nutritional needs of dogs. Always look for high meat percentage, and no “filler” ingredients like maize and cereals.
- Palatability: Some dogs may be picky eaters and may not enjoy the taste or texture of certain kibble brands – my dog included!
- Dehydration: Since kibble has low moisture content, it may not provide sufficient hydration, especially for dogs prone to urinary tract issues. Always ensure water is nearby!
Wet Food
Wet dog food typically comes in cans or pouches and contains higher moisture content than dry food. It is often made from meat, vegetables, and grains, cooked and mixed with water or broth.
Wet food can be a better option if you struggle to get your dog to drink water or if they’re a fussy eater.
Benefits:
- Palatability: Many dogs find wet food more palatable due to its aroma and texture, making it suitable for picky eaters or dogs with dental issues.
- Hydration: The high moisture content in wet food helps keep dogs hydrated, particularly beneficial for those who do not drink enough water.
- Digestibility: Wet food may be easier to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Drawbacks/Considerations:
- Storage and Shelf Life: Once opened, wet food must be refrigerated and consumed within a few days, limiting its convenience and shelf life compared to dry food. This can be more difficult if you are on the go.
- Cost: Wet food tends to be more expensive per serving than dry kibble, which may not be feasible for some pet owners.
- Dental Health: The soft texture of wet food may not provide the same dental benefits as chewing on dry kibble, but you can always supplement this with chews.
Raw Diet
As natural as it can get for your dog – a raw diet for dogs consists of uncooked meats, bones, fruits, and vegetables, mimicking what dogs may have eaten in the wild.
Benefits:
- Nutritional Content: Advocates of raw diets argue that they provide the most natural and nutrient-rich diet for dogs, with a focus on whole foods and minimal processing.
- Improved Coat and Skin Health: Some proponents claim that raw diets can lead to shinier coats and healthier skin in dogs.
- Dental Health: Chewing on raw bones can promote dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup and strengthening jaw muscles.
Drawbacks/Considerations:
- Risk of Contamination: Raw meat may contain bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, posing health risks to both dogs and humans. Proper handling and hygiene practices are essential, as with all meat.
- Nutritional Imbalance: Formulating a balanced raw diet requires careful consideration of nutrient requirements, which can be challenging for pet owners without guidance from a veterinary nutritionist if making it yourself. But there are plenty off-the-shelf choices at all pet stores.
- Cost and Preparation: Raw diets can be expensive and time-consuming to prepare, requiring careful sourcing of high-quality ingredients and preparation to avoid contamination.
In conclusion, the choice between dry food (kibble), wet food, and raw diets ultimately depends on factors such as your dog’s preferences, dietary needs, and your lifestyle. Consulting with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your furry friend receives the nutrition they need to thrive.