What Is A Good Dog Food? It’s the cornerstone of your furry friend’s health and happiness, and larosafoods.com is here to guide you through the maze of options with expert advice and practical recommendations. We’ll help you navigate the world of canine nutrition, ensuring your beloved pet gets the balanced diet they deserve, boosting their vitality and longevity.
1. Understanding the Basics of Good Dog Food
What is a good dog food fundamentally boils down to meeting your dog’s nutritional needs. According to Dr. Lori Teller, a board-certified veterinarian and immediate past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, commercially processed canned or kibble foods are formulated to meet dogs’ nutritional needs for proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. These foods offer convenience, consistency, and undergo quality control to catch contaminants.
1.1. Nutritional Adequacy: The AAFCO Statement
Any reputable dog food will meet the nutrient standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This is critical in understanding what is a good dog food.
What to Look For
- “Complete and balanced”: This phrase on the label indicates that the product is intended as a sole diet and should be nutritionally balanced.
- Life stage: Ensure the food is appropriate for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, senior).
According to the FDA, the nutritional adequacy statement is one of the most important aspects of a dog food label.
1.2. Ingredients and Palatability
While specific ingredients aren’t the only determining factor of what is a good dog food, they provide insight into the food’s nutritional content. Dr. Richard Hill, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, suggests focusing on the nutrients derived from those ingredients.
Key Considerations
- Ingredient list: Ingredients are listed by weight, from highest to lowest. The first three ingredients are the most critical.
- Ingredient quality: Both natural ingredients (like whole chicken) and processed ingredients (like chicken meal) can be nutritious. Chicken meal is simply dehydrated chicken.
1.3. Nutritional Value and Proportions
Ensuring your dog receives the appropriate nutrients and proportions is vital to answering “what is a good dog food.”
How to Determine
- Energy density: Check the kcal (calories) per cup, can, or ounce, similar to nutritional facts on human foods.
- Feeding guidelines: Follow the guidelines on the packaging, but adjust based on your dog’s individual needs.
Dr. Kristin Michael, a board-certified veterinarian and medical director at VCA Liberty Animal Hospital, emphasizes that commercially prepared dog foods generally contain all the essential nutrients a dog needs.
1.4. Tailoring Food to Your Dog’s Life Stage
Matching your dog’s food to their life stage is crucial. Puppies, adults, and seniors have different nutritional requirements.
Life Stage Guidelines
- Puppies: Feed puppy-specific food until they reach their adult body weight. Small breeds can switch at 7-9 months, while larger breeds switch at 12-14 months, according to the American Kennel Club.
- Senior Dogs: If your senior dog is healthy and eating a nutritionally balanced diet, there’s no need to change their food, according to Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.
1.5. Dog Size and Breed Considerations
Dog foods labeled for small, medium, and large breeds often vary in kibble size. Some brands, like Royal Canin, offer breed-specific formulas.
Breed-Specific Benefits
- Joint health: Large and giant breeds may benefit from diets that consider their predisposition to joint problems, as highlighted by Dr. Brian Roberts, a board-certified veterinarian.
Royal Canin dog food is often recommended by vets.
2. Recommended Dog Food Brands and Products
To simplify the search for what is a good dog food, here are some expert-recommended brands and products available in the US.
2.1. Best Dog Food for Puppies: Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food
This formula is designed for puppies up to 1 year old.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Small-sized kibble | Easy to digest for puppies |
| Omega-3 fatty acids | Supports healthy brain and eye development |
| Vitamin E and C blend | Supports a healthy immune system |
2.2. Best Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Dry Dog Food
This food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| No corn, wheat, soy | Easier to digest for dogs with intolerances (only avoid if your dog has an intolerance, says experts) |
| High-protein salmon | Helps with sensitive stomach issues |
| Probiotics and prebiotic fiber | Supports digestive and immune health |
| Omega-6 fatty acids | Supports healthy skin and coat |
2.3. Best Overall Dog Food: Royal Canin Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin offers a diverse range of dog food options tailored to different sizes, breeds, and dietary needs.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Crunchy texture | Promotes dental health |
| Multiple kibble sizes | Suitable for various small breed dogs |
| Resealable bag | Keeps food fresh |
Former NBC Select editorial operations manager Shari Uyehara regularly uses the same formula for her dog Loki, a 2-year-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, after it was recommended by Loki’s breeder.
2.4. Best Poultry-Free Dog Food: Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food
This formula is suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs or poultry allergies.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Novel proteins | Good for allergies and sensitivities |
| Grain-free | Suitable for dogs with specific grain intolerances |
| Deboned salmon | Provides high-quality protein |
According to studies, beef and chicken are among the most reported causes of allergies in dogs, making this poultry-free option beneficial.
2.5. Best Food for Active Dogs: Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance Salmon & Cod Dry Dog Food
This food is designed for active adult dogs.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids | Helps maintain joint health and mobility |
| 30% protein, 20% fat | Keeps energy levels high |
NBC Select commerce analytics manager Amanda Smith feeds this Purina Pro Plan formula to her 3-year-old rat terrier Mac, a picky eater who found this option more palatable than others.
2.6. Best Subscription Dog Food: The Farmer’s Dog Subscription Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog delivers fresh, ready-to-eat dog food to your door.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Home delivery | Convenient for pet owners |
| Custom formula | Tailored to your dog’s specific needs based on age, weight, breed, activity level, and build |
| Easy to store | Food pouches can be stored in the fridge or freezer |
NBC Select social editor Sadhana Daruvuri feeds The Farmer’s Dog to her 2-year-old Maltipoo, Bandit: “I knew friends who tried it, and their dogs were all big fans, so I did a trial with Bandit and it was obvious he liked it way more than his kibble,” she says.
2.7. Best Dog Food for Large Breeds: Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
This Purina Pro Plan formula has natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Maintains healthy weight | Optimized protein-to-fat ratio |
| Large kibble size | Easy for large dogs to eat |
| Good value for size | Cost-effective for large breed owners |
NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says her large 100-pound yellow lab Chance eats the weight-management dry kibble from the brand, which has a more optimized protein-to-fat ratio because he’s 10 years old and less active.
2.8. Best Canned Wet Dog Food: Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Canned Dog Food
If you prefer incorporating canned food into your dog’s meals, Royal Canin has various wet food options tested by veterinary nutritionists that can help you provide them with a little more diversity at dinnertime.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Great for sensitive stomachs | Low-fat and easy to digest |
| Low-fat | Suitable for dogs with gastrointestinal issues |
| Maintains gut health | Prebiotics to maintain good bacteria, dietary fibers for healthy digestion, omega-3 fatty acids to soothe |
2.9. Best Frozen Dog Food: Just Food For Dogs Fish & Sweet Potato
Just Food For Dogs has pouches of high-protein food with a low-calorie count, so it’s great for dogs who may be overweight or don’t get regular exercise.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Locally sourced produce | High-quality ingredients |
| Long-lasting | Pouches last up to 18 months in the freezer, thawed meals stay fresh for up to seven days |
| Balanced diet | Provides a balanced diet for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those in need of a novel protein |
2.10. Best Dog Food for Digestive and Joint Health: Kirkland Signature Adult Formula Chicken, Rice and Vegetable Dog Food
This dry dog food with chicken, whole grain brown rice and vegetables
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Good source of protein | Supports muscle health |
| Promotes joint health | Contains glucosamine and chondroitin |
| Budget-friendly | Affordable option |
2.11. Best Wet Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Canned Dog Food
This wet food is recommended for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Good for sensitivities | Formulated for sensitive stomachs and skin |
| High moisture content | Adds moisture to the diet |
| Can mix with dry food | Versatile for meal preparation |
2.12. Best Prepared Wet Dog Food: Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef & Chicken Medley
As a treat, Smith mixes a scoop of this prepared meal with Mac’s dry food about once a week.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Dogs love the flavor | Palatable and enjoyable for dogs |
| Resealable container | Keeps food fresh |
| Can serve on its own | Convenient and balanced meal option |
A rat terrier eating dry dog food from a snuffle mat, a puzzle-like toy that keeps him engaged as he eats and encourages him to slow down.
3. How to Choose the Best Food for Your Dog
Choosing what is a good dog food depends on several factors, starting with nutritional completeness and balanced portions based on your dog’s size and weight.
3.1. Reading the Label and Beyond
The label provides essential information, but it’s also important to research the brand.
Key Questions to Ask
- Who is involved in the product’s formulation and manufacturing?
- Does the company routinely analyze its finished products?
- Does the company have veterinarians or board-certified veterinary nutritionists on staff?
3.2. Understanding Ingredients
While specific ingredients are not the only factors, understanding the ingredient list helps in determining what nutrients your dog is receiving.
Ingredient List Priorities
- Ingredients are listed by weight, so the first three are the most critical.
- Ingredients can be meat-based (chicken, fish, lamb) or vegetable-based (corn, brown rice).
3.3. Understanding Nutritional Value and Portions
To ensure your dog receives the appropriate nutrients and proportions, check the food’s energy density and feeding guidelines.
Energy Density & Feeding Guidelines
- Energy density: Shown as kcal (calories) per cup, can, or ounce.
- Feeding guidelines: Keep an eye on your pet’s weight with the Body Condition Score.
4. Special Dietary Considerations
4.1. Grain-Free Dog Food: Is It Necessary?
A grain-free formula is made without wheat, barley, rye, and corn, commonly fed to dogs with gluten intolerance.
Key Points
- Actual cases of true gluten intolerance in dogs are rare.
- Carbohydrates (and corn especially) provide calories, extra fiber for better digestion, and important vitamins and minerals.
4.2. Raw Food Diets: Are They Safe?
Some dog owners feed their dogs a raw food diet consisting of raw meat, eggs, and dog-safe fruits and vegetables.
Expert Advice
- The AVMA discourages feeding dogs any animal-source protein that has not been subjected to a process to eliminate pathogens.
- Raw meat-based diets can produce a higher risk of microbial pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes.
4.3. Dog Food Toppers and Boosters: Are They Beneficial?
Dog food toppers or boosters, including canned pumpkin, blueberries, and bone broth, are mixed into your pet’s food to make it taste better.
Important Considerations
- Use toppers as a last resort if they’re not eating their regular food.
- Toppers should be treated like dog treats and factored into their total calories.
5. Common Dog Food Myths
There are several misconceptions regarding what is a good dog food that need clarification.
Myth: Natural Ingredients Are Always Better
Both natural ingredients and processed ingredients can be nutritious. The key is the overall nutrient content and balance.
Myth: Grain-Free is Always Healthier
Grain-free diets are not inherently better and can sometimes prevent dogs from getting appropriate daily nutritional intake.
Myth: Raw Food Diets Are Superior
Raw food diets carry a higher risk of microbial pathogens and are generally not recommended by veterinarians.
6. Addressing Weight Issues
If you notice your dog is gaining weight, the first thing to address is the type and amount of food they’re getting daily.
6.1. Weight Management Tips
- Monitor whether your dog is getting table scraps or other treats.
- Discuss the weight gain with your dog’s veterinarian.
- Consider a weight management food.
A 100-pound yellow lab switched to Purina Pro Plan’s weight management dog food when he was 8 years old as he got less active.
7. Switching Dog Foods
Switching dog foods should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset.
7.1. Gradual Transition
- Days 1-2: Mix 25% new food with 75% old food.
- Days 3-4: Mix 50% new food with 50% old food.
- Days 5-6: Mix 75% new food with 25% old food.
- Day 7: 100% new food.
8. Common Questions About Dog Food
8.1. Dry vs. Wet Dog Food: Which is Better?
The main difference is water content. Kibble is 10% water, while canned food is upwards of 70% water, says Roberts.
| Feature | Dry Food (Kibble) | Wet Food (Canned) |
|---|---|---|
| Water content | Lower (around 10%) | Higher (upwards of 70%) |
| Economical | More economical | More expensive |
| Storage | More stable if stored properly | Perishes at room temperature after opening |
| Dental Health | Can promote dental health due to crunchy texture | May not provide the same dental benefits |
| Hydration | Less hydrating | More hydrating |
| Palatability | Some dogs may find it less appealing than wet food | Often more appealing to picky eaters |
| Specific Needs | Suitable for most dogs; check food labels for breed and life stage suitability | Can be beneficial for dogs with dental issues or those needing higher hydration |
8.2. What Ingredients Should I Avoid?
The main ingredient to avoid that’s commonly seen in commercial pet food is garlic powder. Also, avoid onions, raisins, grapes, and sugar-free additives.
8.3. What are the Pros and Cons of Grain-Free Dog Food?
A grain-free diet isn’t better for your dog and feeding them grain-free kibble can sometimes prevent them from getting their appropriate daily nutritional intake.
8.4. What about Raw Food Diets?
Our experts advise against a raw diet because of the higher risk of microbial pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes.
8.5. How Do I Use Dog Food Toppers Correctly?
If your dog is eating a complete and balanced commercially available pet food, toppers are not recommended unless specifically prescribed by your veterinarian, says Teller. Toppers should be treated like dog treats and factored into their total calories, our experts say.
8.6. My Dog is Gaining Weight, What Should I Do?
The first thing to address if you notice your dog is gaining weight or shifting out of an ideal Body Condition Score range is the type and amount of foods they’re getting on a daily basis, says Michael.
8.7. How Much Food Should I Feed My Dog?
There is no specific figure for the amount of food you should feed your dog. The number of calories your dog needs per day depends on a few factors, including their breed, weight and size.
9. Expert Insights
Choosing what is a good dog food is a significant decision, and expert opinions can offer invaluable guidance.
9.1. Consulting with Veterinarians
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential to monitor your dog’s health and dietary needs.
9.2. Understanding Body Condition Score
The Body Condition Score is a visual scale that evaluates the amount of fat on key parts of the dog’s body. A score of 4 or 5 is ideal.
10. Finding the Right Dog Food at larosafoods.com
Finding what is a good dog food doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At larosafoods.com, we offer a curated collection of recipes and detailed nutritional information to assist you in making the best choice for your dog’s health and happiness. Whether you’re seeking grain-free options, weight management solutions, or breed-specific formulas, our website is a valuable resource for every dog owner.
10.1. Explore Our Recipe Collection
Discover a variety of dog-friendly recipes that complement commercial dog foods, providing a balanced and nutritious diet for your furry friend.
10.2. Dive into Detailed Nutritional Information
Access comprehensive nutritional guides and articles that break down the essential components of a healthy dog diet, helping you make informed decisions.
10.3. Join Our Community of Dog Lovers
Connect with other dog owners, share your experiences, and learn from each other through our interactive forums and community events.
Conclusion
What is a good dog food? It is about finding the right balance of nutrients, quality ingredients, and suitability for your dog’s individual needs. By understanding the basics, consulting with experts, and exploring resources like larosafoods.com, you can ensure your furry friend enjoys a healthy, happy, and vibrant life. Remember, the best dog food is one that meets your dog’s specific requirements and keeps them thriving.
Ready to take the next step? Visit larosafoods.com today to explore our extensive collection of recipes, nutritional guides, and expert advice. Give your dog the gift of optimal health and happiness with the right food choices.
FAQ Section
What is the AAFCO statement, and why is it important?
The AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement is a nutritional adequacy statement on a dog food label that indicates the species and life stage the food is formulated for and how it’s substantiated. If the statement includes the phrase “complete and balanced,” the product is intended to be fed as a pet’s sole diet and should be nutritionally balanced.
How do I determine the right portion size for my dog?
Check the food’s energy density (kcal per cup, can, or ounce) and feeding guidelines on the packaging. Monitor your pet’s weight with the Body Condition Score, and consult your veterinarian for specific caloric needs.
Are grain-free diets better for dogs with allergies?
Not necessarily. Actual cases of true gluten intolerance in dogs are rare. Carbohydrates, including corn, provide calories, extra fiber, and important vitamins and minerals. Grain-free diets should only be considered if your dog has a diagnosed grain intolerance.
What are the risks of feeding my dog a raw food diet?
Raw meat-based diets can produce a higher risk of microbial pathogens, antibiotic resistance genes, and other anti-nutritional factors. It’s generally not recommended by veterinarians.
What should I do if my dog is a picky eater?
Try mixing wet food with dry food to enhance palatability. Consider using dog food toppers sparingly. Ensure that the underlying cause of their pickiness is not health-related by consulting with your veterinarian.
How often should I change my dog’s food?
You typically don’t need to change your dog’s food unless there are specific dietary needs or health concerns that warrant a change. Regular check-ups with your vet can help determine if a change is necessary.
What are the signs of food allergies in dogs?
Common signs of food allergies in dogs include excessive itching, loose stools, occasional vomiting, and other digestive issues. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, consult with your veterinarian.
Is it okay to mix dry and wet dog food?
Yes, it’s okay to mix wet food with your dog’s dry dog food, especially if they often get picky about their food or need an extra boost of hydration. Ensure both products have the same ingredients and are nutritionally balanced.
How important is the order of ingredients listed on a dog food label?
The ingredient list is required to display all ingredients from highest amount to least amount by weight. The first three ingredients listed are the most critical and indicate the primary components of the food.
Where can I find reliable information about dog food and nutrition?
You can find reliable information at larosafoods.com, consult with your veterinarian, and refer to resources from organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA).
For more information and to explore a wide range of dog food options, visit larosafoods.com today. Your dog’s health and happiness start with the right food choices!
