Dog Food: Types, Nutrition, Brands & Homemade Options

Dogs are more than just pets—they’re family. And just like any family member, what they eat directly impacts how they grow, feel, and thrive. But with so many options on the market, what exactly is dog food, and how do you know what’s best for your pup?

What Is Dog Food?

Dog food refers to any formulated product specifically designed to provide the necessary nutrients for domestic dogs. Unlike random scraps or leftovers, commercial and homemade dog foods aim to deliver a balanced ratio of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Modern dog food formulations are backed by veterinary science and regulated (in most developed countries) by bodies like the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials), which ensure that pet foods meet minimum nutritional standards.

EXPERT TIP: Not all dog foods are created equal. The nutritional quality of ingredients, sourcing, processing, and formulation varies dramatically from one brand to another.

Different Types of Dog Food at a Glance

Type	Description	Ideal For
Dry Dog Food	Kibble – long shelf life, affordable, convenient	Daily feeding for most healthy dogs
Wet Dog Food	Canned or pouched, high in moisture	Picky eaters or dogs with hydration needs
Raw Dog Food	Uncooked meat, organs, bones	Experienced owners with vet guidance
Fresh Dog Food	Gently cooked meals, often subscription-based	Dogs with sensitivities or health conditions
Freeze-Dried	Lightweight, retains nutrients, rehydrated before serving	Travel-friendly or as toppers

Why Nutrition Matters More Than Ever

A poor diet can lead to obesity, skin issues, low energy, and even chronic diseases like diabetes or joint deterioration. The right food can help with:

• Shiny coat & healthy skin

• Stronger immune system

• Improved digestion

• Longer life expectancy

What This Guide Will Help You Do

By understanding the various types of dog food, the needs of your dog by breed and age, and how to read labels correctly, you can make informed, trustworthy decisions for your dog’s diet.

Comparing Dog Food Types – Dry vs Wet vs Raw

Feeding your dog isn’t just about filling a bowl—it’s about nourishing your pet’s body, mind, and longevity. With so many choices available, understanding the differences between dry, wet, and raw dog food is essential for making informed decisions.

Dry Dog Food (Kibble)

Dry dog food, or kibble, is the most common type of commercial dog food on the market—and for good reason.

Key Benefits:

• Convenience: Easy to store, measure, and feed.

• Long shelf life: Usually stays fresh for months after opening.

• Oral hygiene: Crunchy texture helps reduce plaque buildup.

Best For:

• Busy pet owners

• Dogs with strong teeth and no hydration issues

• Multi-dog households needing cost-effective options

Expert Tip:

Choose kibble with meat listed as the first ingredient. Avoid products with high levels of corn, wheat, or unnamed by-products.

Drawbacks:

• Less moisture (around 10%), which can lead to dehydration.

• May contain fillers or artificial additives if not carefully selected.

Wet Dog Food

Wet dog food (canned or pouched) contains about 70–80% water, making it ideal for dogs who don’t drink enough or prefer softer textures.

Key Benefits:

• Highly palatable: Ideal for picky eaters and senior dogs.

• Hydration boost: Moisture content supports kidney and urinary health.

• Easier to chew: Great for small breeds or dogs with dental issues.

Best For:

• Dogs recovering from illness

• Older dogs with reduced appetite

• Small breeds prone to picky eating

Drawbacks:

• Higher cost per meal

• Requires refrigeration after opening

• Can lead to plaque if not balanced with dry food or dental chews

Vet-Backed Insight: Many veterinarians recommend rotating wet and dry food to balance dental benefits with hydration needs.

Raw Dog Food (BARF)

The BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) mimics a dog’s ancestral diet. It typically includes uncooked meat, bones, organs, eggs, and vegetables.

Key Benefits:

• Improved coat shine and energy levels

• Smaller, less odorous stools

• Fewer food additives and preservatives

Best For:

• Dogs with food sensitivities

• Owners seeking holistic or natural feeding methods

• Dogs on specialized elimination diets (under vet supervision)

Risks & Considerations:

• Pathogen risk: Raw food can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli.

• Nutritional imbalance: Unless carefully formulated, the diet may lack essential vitamins and minerals.

• Time and storage: Requires freezer space, careful handling, and meal prep.

Professional Guidance Recommended: Only feed raw diets under the advice of a canine nutritionist or veterinarian. Improper feeding can harm your dog’s health long-term.

Which Type of Dog Food Should You Choose?

Choosing between dry, wet, and raw depends on your dog’s:

• Age and life stage (puppy, adult, senior)

• Breed and size

• Health condition (e.g., kidney issues, allergies)

• Activity level and lifestyle

Feature	Dry Food	Wet Food	Raw Food (BARF)
Moisture	Low (~10%)	High (~75%)	Variable (~70%)
Storage	Easy	Requires fridge	Freezer needed
Cost	Budget-friendly	Moderate to high	High (prep time + ingredients)
Nutrition Control	Moderate	Moderate	High (but risky)
Best For	Most healthy dogs	Picky eaters, seniors	Sensitive dogs, holistic owners

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All

The best dog food type isn’t the one with the fanciest label—it’s the one that fits your dog’s unique needs, your lifestyle, and meets complete nutritional standards.

If you’re unsure, start by consulting your vet, then try transitioning slowly between types while observing your dog’s digestion, energy levels, and coat condition.

Nutrition by Age & Breed

Tailoring Dog Food to Your Dog’s Life Stage and Breed

Proper nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all approach—especially when it comes to dogs. Whether you’re raising a playful puppy or caring for a wise senior, feeding your dog according to their life stage and breed is one of the most important ways to support their health, development, and longevity.

Puppy Food – Fueling Growth and Development

Puppies grow at an astonishing rate. From the moment they open their eyes to their first zoomies in the yard, they require higher levels of calories, protein, fat, calcium, and DHA to support bone development, brain function, and muscle growth.

What to Look for in Puppy Food:

• Minimum 22% protein and 8% fat (per AAFCO standards)

• Small kibble size for easy chewing

• DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) from fish oil to support cognitive development

• Calcium-phosphorus ratio carefully balanced to avoid orthopedic issues

Best For:

• Puppies under 12 months old (up to 24 months for large breeds)

• Recently weaned pups transitioning from mother’s milk

Vet Insight: Large breed puppies (like Labs or Great Danes) require controlled-growth formulas to avoid rapid weight gain that can damage developing joints.

Adult Dog Food – Maintenance and Weight Management

Once your dog reaches adulthood—typically around 12 months of age—their focus shifts from growth to maintenance. At this stage, balanced nutrition helps maintain energy levels, lean muscle, immune strength, and healthy digestion.

Key Features in Adult Dog Food:

• Moderate protein (18–26%) and calorie levels depending on breed/activity

• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for coat and skin health

• Joint support nutrients (especially for active or large dogs)

• Grain-free or limited-ingredient formulas (for sensitive dogs)

Obesity Prevention:

Adult dogs are prone to gaining excess weight, especially if they’re less active or are fed too many treats. Choose formulas that match your dog’s lifestyle and breed tendencies.

Senior Dog Food – Supporting Aging Gracefully

As dogs age, their metabolism slows down, muscle mass declines, and they may face joint pain, dental issues, or digestive challenges. Senior dogs typically require food that is gentler on the system but still nutritionally dense.

What Senior Dogs Need:

• Lower fat and calorie to prevent weight gain

• Higher fiber to support regular digestion

• Joint-supporting supplements: glucosamine and chondroitin

• Antioxidants to combat cellular aging

• Easier-to-chew kibble or soft textures

When to Switch:

• Small breeds: ~10+ years

• Large breeds: ~6–8 years

Expert Note: Not all dogs show signs of aging the same way. Monitor mobility, weight, and appetite to determine the right transition time.

Nutrition by Size – Small Breeds vs Large Breeds

Dog size isn’t just about portion sizes—it affects how food is formulated. Small and large breeds have vastly different caloric needs, metabolism rates, and joint stress factors.

Small Breeds:

• Fast metabolism: need energy-dense food

• Tiny stomachs: require frequent, smaller meals

• Dental health: smaller kibble sizes and dental support

• Common Issues: heart murmurs, dental disease

Formulas for Small Breeds often include L-carnitine for fat metabolism and taurine for heart health.

Large Breeds:

• Slower metabolism but larger portion needs

• Joint and bone stress: prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis

• Controlled protein and calcium levels to avoid fast growth

Large Breed Dog Food usually contains added glucosamine/chondroitin, EPA & DHA, and has controlled energy density to support a healthy weight.

Breed-Specific Formulations – Personalized Nutrition

Some manufacturers now offer breed-specific dog food tailored to well-known characteristics or health risks of popular breeds. While not mandatory, these diets are often formulated with added support for common breed traits.

Examples:

• Poodle Food: Formulated for skin health, brain function, and fine digestion
  (Phantom Keyword: poodle diet)

• Husky Food: Higher fat and protein for energy, omega-3s for thick coats
  (Phantom Keyword: husky nutrition)

• Labrador Retriever Food: Weight management support, joint care nutrients

• Shih Tzu Food: Dental protection, tear stain reduction

Hamiestore Tip: Breed-specific diets are helpful but not essential—always check the ingredients and adjust based on your dog’s individual health and activity.

Feed According to Who Your Dog Truly Is

Feeding your dog isn’t just about their age or size—it’s about their story. Are they a senior Husky who loves the snow? A small-breed puppy with a sensitive stomach? A middle-aged Labrador with joint stiffness?

The best diet combines:

• Science-backed ingredients

• Tailored caloric and nutrient profiles

• Monitoring and adjusting over time

Trusted Dog Food Brands – In-Depth Reviews & Expert Picks

Choosing a reputable dog food brand is crucial—not just for your peace of mind, but for your dog’s daily well-being and long-term health. With countless options lining the shelves (and online marketplaces), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

This guide breaks down 5 of the most recognized dog food brands—including their origins, formulation focus, pros & cons—so you can make an informed decision.

Royal Canin – Precision Nutrition Backed by Science

Overview: Founded in 1968 by a French veterinarian, Royal Canin has become a global leader in breed-specific, size-specific, and medical veterinary diets.

Key Features:

• Breed-specific formulas (e.g., Poodle, Golden Retriever, Shih Tzu)

• Veterinary prescription diets for health conditions like renal issues, obesity, GI disorders

• Tailored kibble sizes and textures to suit breed anatomy

Trusted For:

• Dogs with special dietary needs

• Owners seeking vet-approved formulations

• Performance dogs needing targeted nutrition

Considerations:

• Premium pricing

• Some formulas contain corn and by-products, which might concern owners seeking holistic/natural diets

Expert Insight: Royal Canin is respected for its extensive research and clinical trials. While not “grain-free,” it delivers veterinary reliability, especially for dogs with complex needs.

Pedigree – Affordable & Widely Accessible

Overview: A household name under the Mars Petcare umbrella, Pedigree is widely available and budget-friendly. It’s a popular entry-level brand, especially in developing markets.

Key Features:

• Broad variety: dry kibble, wet food, dental chews

• Fortified with vitamins & minerals

• Products for all life stages, from puppies to seniors

Best For:

• Multi-dog households on a budget

• First-time dog owners

• Healthy adult dogs without special dietary restrictions

Considerations:

• Lower meat content compared to premium brands

• Some recipes include meat by-products and fillers (e.g., corn, wheat gluten)

Pro Tip: Pedigree isn’t ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs, but for everyday feeding on a budget, it remains a practical choice.

SmartHeart – Balanced Nutrition at a Mid-Range Price

Overview: Originating in Asia and gaining global traction, SmartHeart is part of the Perfect Companion Group. It’s known for balancing price and quality with a broad product lineup.

Key Features:

• Life stage-specific formulas: Puppy, Adult, Senior

• High palatability: Great for picky eaters

• Options include lamb, chicken, beef, and fish-based formulas

• Includes DHA, omega oils, and vitamins

Best For:

• Pet owners seeking value for money

• Dogs transitioning between wet and dry food

• Small to medium breeds

Considerations:

• Not all formulas are grain-free

• Limited availability in some Western markets

Author’s Note: SmartHeart is a rising star in developing countries due to its cost-efficiency + nutrition combo, though less known in Western vet circles.

ANF – Premium Holistic Formulas with Global Standards

Overview: ANF (Advanced Nutrition Formula) is a U.S.-based premium dog food brand that has grown in Asia and Europe. It emphasizes natural ingredients and grain-free options.

Key Features:

• Meat-first formulations

• Grain-free and low-allergen recipes

• No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavorings

Ideal For:

• Dogs with food sensitivities or allergies

• Owners looking for limited-ingredient diets

• Pet parents who prefer natural & transparent labeling

Considerations:

• Slightly more expensive than SmartHeart or Pedigree

• Not always widely stocked in local stores

E-E-E-T Backing: ANF often attracts holistic veterinarians and pet parents who want clean-label dog food without unnecessary additives.

Zenith – Soft, Nutrient-Dense Kibble with Digestive Support

Overview: A South Korean premium brand gaining traction for its semi-moist kibble and probiotic-rich formulations. Ideal for small dogs and picky eaters.

Key Features:

• Semi-moist texture: Easier to chew and digest

• Includes probiotics and prebiotics for gut health

• Uses duck, salmon, lamb, sweet potato, etc.

Best Suited For:

• Small or senior dogs with chewing difficulty

• Dogs with sensitive digestion or mild IBD

• Dogs recovering from illness or medication

Considerations:

• Shorter shelf life due to higher moisture

• Premium price tag in international markets

Trust Signal: Many small-breed owners switch to Zenith for improved digestibility and stool quality, especially when dry kibble causes GI upset.

Which Dog Food Brand Should You Choose?

The best dog food brand is the one that suits your dog’s unique needs and your expectations for quality, budget, and availability.

Brand	Best For	Key Strengths	Watch Out For
Royal Canin	Breed-specific, vet diets	Science-backed, targeted	Higher price, may contain by-products
Pedigree	Budget-conscious owners	Widely available, affordable	Lower protein, more fillers
SmartHeart	Balanced mid-tier pick	High palatability, life-stage options	Not always grain-free
ANF	Sensitive dogs, clean diets	Natural, grain-free, holistic	Price and availability
Zenith	Small/sensitive dogs	Probiotic, soft texture, digestibility	Moisture-sensitive, shelf life

How to Read Dog Food Labels & Make Smarter Choices

When it comes to your dog’s nutrition, the front of the packaging can be misleading. Words like “premium,” “natural,” or “holistic” are often used as marketing buzzwords. But the real story lies in the ingredient list and nutritional analysis on the back of the label.

Learning how to read dog food labels can help you avoid harmful ingredients, spot quality nutrition, and make informed choices that support your dog’s health.

The Ingredient List – What Comes First Matters Most

Dog food ingredients are listed in descending order by weight before processing. This means the first five ingredients often account for the majority of the food’s composition.

Look for:

• Named protein source as the first ingredient (e.g., chicken, beef, salmon)

• Whole grains or complex carbs (e.g., brown rice, barley, oats)

• Named fat sources (e.g., chicken fat, salmon oil)

• Essential nutrients and supplements (e.g., glucosamine, probiotics, taurine)

Be cautious of:

• Generic terms like “meat meal,” “animal fat,” or “meat by-products” – these lack transparency

• Ingredients with unclear origin, especially when listed early

Expert Tip: Meat meal (e.g., chicken meal) isn’t always bad—if it’s clearly named, it’s actually a concentrated protein source. The key is specificity.

The Guaranteed Analysis – Decode the Nutrition Panel

This panel provides the minimum or maximum levels of key nutrients such as:

• Crude Protein (important for muscle maintenance)

• Crude Fat (energy source)

• Crude Fiber (digestive support)

• Moisture (affects texture and shelf life)

Key Guidelines:

• Puppy food: ≥ 22% protein, 8% fat

• Adult food: ≥ 18% protein, 5% fat

• Senior food: Moderate protein, lower fat, higher fiber

Dry Matter Basis should be used to compare products fairly—especially when comparing wet vs dry dog food.

Authoritative Note: Understanding the “as-fed” vs “dry matter” difference is vital for accurate comparison. Always check moisture content.

Red Flag Ingredients – What to Avoid

Some ingredients can be harmful, low-quality, or completely unnecessary in a healthy dog’s diet.

Avoid These:

• Artificial preservatives: BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin – linked to long-term health issues

• Artificial coloring and flavors: Dogs don’t care about color—this is purely for human appeal

• High filler content: Excess corn, wheat, soy (especially as main ingredients)

• Sweeteners: Corn syrup, sugar, fructose (no place in a dog’s diet)

Known Problem Additives:

• Propylene glycol: Used in antifreeze, still allowed in some semi-moist dog foods

• Carrageenan: Common thickener in wet food, may cause inflammation

• Rendered fats from unknown sources

Veterinary Warning: Prolonged exposure to low-grade fillers and preservatives may contribute to chronic allergies, kidney strain, or even carcinogenic risk.

Ingredient Splitting – A Hidden Marketing Trick

Ingredient splitting is when manufacturers divide a single low-quality ingredient into sub-categories to push it further down the list.

Example:

Instead of listing corn as the second ingredient, they split it into:

• Ground corn

• Corn gluten meal

• Corn flour

This makes meat appear more dominant than it really is.

Smart Buyer Tip: Add all similar ingredients together when analyzing the label. This gives a more accurate picture of your dog’s actual diet.

Certifications and Quality Seals – What Matters

Reputable Certifications:

• AAFCO Statement: Ensures the food meets minimum nutritional standards

• NASC Seal: For supplements, ensures quality control

• Organic Certifications: USDA Organic, if applicable

Marketing Buzzwords to Scrutinize:

• “Natural” – Not regulated; could still contain preservatives

• “Grain-Free” – Doesn’t always mean better; may lack balance or fiber

• “Veterinarian Approved” – Vague unless backed by named studies

Author’s Advice: Focus less on front-facing slogans and more on ingredient transparency and scientific formulation.

How to Choose Smartly

Use this 5-step checklist when evaluating any dog food product:

Step	What to Check	Why It Matters
1	First 5 ingredients	Indicates food’s true base
2	Protein source specificity	Avoids mystery meats
3	Avoid harmful additives	Long-term health safety
4	Fiber & fat levels	Digestive & energy balance
5	Certifications & labeling honesty	Trustworthiness of the brand

DIY Dog Food – A Practical Guide to Homemade Dog Meals

Homemade dog food is more than just a trend—it’s a growing movement among pet parents who want control, quality, and transparency in what their dogs eat. Whether you’re addressing food allergies, picky eating, or simply prefer natural ingredients, DIY dog food offers a tailored approach to canine nutrition.

But cooking for your dog requires more than just love. It requires knowledge. A poorly balanced homemade diet can harm your dog’s health more than help it. That’s why this guide will show you how to do it right—step by step.

Benefits of Homemade Dog Food

Why More Pet Owners Are Going Homemade:

• Full control over ingredients (no fillers, by-products, or chemicals)

• Customizable for allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities

• Fresher, less processed food—closer to nature

• Higher palatability: Dogs often love fresh, warm food

Veterinary Insight: Dogs with chronic skin issues, upset stomachs, or recurring ear infections often improve dramatically on elimination diets made at home.

Core Components of a Balanced DIY Dog Meal

A complete and balanced homemade diet must include all essential nutrients a dog needs—just like commercial food is required to do.

Basic Nutrient Categories:

1. Protein (40–50%)
   – Lean meats: chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, fish

2. Carbohydrates (20–30%)
   – Brown rice, oats, quinoa, sweet potatoes

3. Vegetables (10–20%)
   – Carrots, green beans, peas, spinach, pumpkin

4. Fats (5–10%)
   – Fish oil, flaxseed oil, chicken fat

5. Vitamins & Minerals (supplemented as needed)
   – Calcium, phosphorus, zinc, Vitamin D, E, B12

Nutrients Dogs Need But Don’t Naturally Get in Cooked Food:

• Calcium (especially if not feeding bones)

• Taurine (for heart health)

• Omega-3s (anti-inflammatory and skin support)

• Zinc (immune function)

Expert Note: Always work with a vet or canine nutritionist if feeding homemade exclusively. Use commercial premix powders if you can’t calculate nutrients manually.

Sample Homemade Dog Food Recipe (Vet-Approved)

Here’s a basic vet-approved balanced meal for a 20–25kg adult dog. Adjust portions based on your dog’s size and activity.

Turkey & Veggie Power Bowl

• 500g ground turkey (lean, cooked)

• 1 cup cooked brown rice

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 cup cooked spinach

• 1 tbsp flaxseed oil

• 1/4 tsp ground eggshell powder (for calcium)

• Optional: canine multivitamin

Instructions:

1. Cook turkey thoroughly (no seasoning).

2. Steam vegetables until soft.

3. Mix everything evenly.

4. Store in refrigerator up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage.

Tip: Let meals cool to room temperature before serving. Never serve food with onion, garlic, or heavy spices.

Foods to Avoid in Homemade Dog Meals

Even natural foods can be dangerous for dogs if you don’t know what to avoid.

Never Feed These:

• Onions, garlic, leeks, chives – toxic to red blood cells

• Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol – neurotoxic

• Grapes and raisins – can cause kidney failure

• Cooked bones – risk of internal injury

• Xylitol (in peanut butter) – highly toxic, even in small amounts

Reminder: Just because it’s safe for humans doesn’t mean it’s safe for dogs.

Homemade vs Commercial Dog Food – Pros & Cons

Criteria	Homemade Dog Food	Commercial Dog Food
Ingredient Control	100% control	Limited
Nutritional Balance	Requires calculation/supplement	Pre-balanced
Cost	Varies (often higher)	Range from budget to premium
Convenience	Requires prep & storage	Ready-to-serve
Customization	Easily adapted to needs	Only with special formulas

Veterinarian’s Tip: Some pet parents choose a hybrid approach—50% high-quality kibble, 50% homemade food—to balance convenience and personalization.

How to Get Started with Homemade Dog Food (Safely)

Step-by-Step for Beginners:

1. Talk to a vet or pet nutritionist – especially if your dog has health issues

2. Start with one basic recipe and monitor stool, energy, and skin

3. Introduce changes slowly – no abrupt diet switches

4. Track nutrients using apps like PetDietDesigner or BalanceIT

5. Keep meals refrigerated or frozen—use clean prep areas

Bonus Tip: Join online forums or groups with other DIY feeders to share recipes, experiences, and health updates.

Cook With Love, But Cook With Science

Feeding your dog homemade food can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make—but only when done right. With proper planning, expert guidance, and regular health checks, your dog can thrive on a well-prepared DIY diet.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Dog Food

Choosing dog food might seem simple—but many well-meaning dog owners unknowingly make mistakes that can harm their dog’s health, shorten lifespan, or lead to chronic illnesses. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or a seasoned owner, understanding the most common dog food mistakes is key to making smarter, healthier decisions.

Choosing Food Based Only on Price or Popularity

The most common mistake? Picking a dog food because it’s cheap, trendy, or heavily advertised.

Why It’s a Problem:

• Cheap food often contains low-quality fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.

• Popular doesn’t mean nutritionally complete for your dog’s breed, age, or health condition.

Expert Tip: Look beyond the brand name. Always evaluate the ingredient list and nutritional profile before making a purchase.

Ignoring Your Dog’s Life Stage and Breed Needs

Feeding an adult dog puppy food—or vice versa—is more common than you’d think.

Why It Matters:

• Puppy food is too high in calories for adults and can cause weight gain.

• Senior dogs need joint support, easy digestion, and fewer calories.

• Small and large breeds have very different nutritional requirements.

Always choose food that matches your dog’s age group and size classification (e.g., “Adult Small Breed,” “Large Breed Puppy”).

Believing “Grain-Free” Automatically Means Healthier

Many owners assume that grain-free diets are superior. While this may help in some allergy cases, it’s not inherently better.

The Truth:

• Dogs are omnivores—they can digest grains like brown rice, oats, or barley.

• Some grain-free formulas use excess legumes or potatoes, which may lack balance.

• Certain grain-free diets have been linked to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in some breeds.

Choose whole grains if your dog isn’t allergic. And always ask your vet before switching to grain-free.

Not Reading the Ingredient Label Carefully

Many owners rely solely on the front of the bag—phrases like “natural,” “premium,” or “vet-approved” can be misleading.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Unnamed proteins: “meat meal” instead of “chicken meal”

• Fillers listed early: corn, soy, wheat

• Chemical preservatives: BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin

E-E-E-T Note: A professional pet nutritionist always reads the first 5 ingredients and avoids ambiguous or non-transparent sourcing.

Feeding Table Scraps or Human Food Without Knowing the Risks

It’s tempting to share your meal—but what’s tasty for you can be toxic for your dog.

Common Harmful Human Foods:

• Onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, caffeine, alcohol

• Cooked bones (especially chicken bones) can splinter and cause internal injury

• Foods high in sodium, fat, or spices

Even a small amount of certain human foods can lead to organ failure or death in dogs.

Abruptly Changing Dog Food Without Transitioning

Switching foods overnight can cause diarrhea, vomiting, or refusal to eat.

Proper Transition:

• Days 1–2: 25% new food + 75% old food

• Days 3–4: 50/50 mix

• Days 5–6: 75% new food + 25% old food

• Day 7: 100% new food

Behavioral Insight: Dogs are routine-driven animals. Sudden changes can lead to stress and gut imbalance.

Overfeeding or Free-Feeding Without Monitoring Weight

Even healthy food becomes a problem when given in excessive quantities.

Common Mistakes:

• Free-feeding (leaving food out all day)

• Not adjusting food volume for weight changes or reduced activity

• Ignoring portion recommendations on packaging

Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup to portion accurately. Obesity is one of the leading causes of chronic illness in dogs.

Trusting the Wrong Online Advice or Homemade Recipes

Not all DIY or “natural” dog food recipes online are balanced.

Risks Include:

• Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., calcium, zinc, taurine)

• Imbalanced phosphorus-to-calcium ratios

• Unsafe cooking techniques or ingredients

Always consult a veterinarian or certified canine nutritionist before creating a long-term homemade feeding plan.

HATECO APOLLO XUAN PHUONG APARTMENT – SOUTH TU LIEM DISTRICT – HANOI CITY

 Email : [email protected]

Website : https://hamiestore.com/