Part 1 and Part 2 of this series discussed how to read labels and what to avoid when examining ingredients in dog food. Here in this final part, I am sharing with you the ingredients I believe are essential in a high-quality kibble.
Diverse Proteins: The first thing I am looking for is protein from more than one source. Protein is are the building blocks of the body, made up of amino acids. Each type of protein has its own set of these amino acids. I believe a good food should have at least 3 protein sources to give your dog as many different amino acids as possible for a strong and healthy body. Chicken, beef, lamb, and fish are all considered different protein sources. If I see a label that says Chicken and Chicken meal, that is actually just one protein source. I am looking for proteins from different species. Chicken and egg are also considered two sources because they are made up of different types of amino acids.
*Disclosure: This blog post contains referral links which may reward me with a commission in the event of a sale, at no extra cost to you. I use these funds to feed my dogs. Thanks for the dog food!
I prefer to feed a dog food that lists a species-specific meal instead of a “fresh” protein. Remember, a meal is not the same as a by-product. In part 2, I explained that a by-product is what is left over after the meat is removed. A meal is the meat that has been cooked down to remove the water, so it has a higher protein content before it is added to a food. On the other hand, a “fresh” protein contains as much as 80% water, which is all lost once the food is cooked down into a kibble. Since ingredients are listed in order of weight before processing, that “fresh” protein may fall much lower on the list in the finished product. Another thing to note is not all meal is the same either, research to see how their protein is processed into a meal. Is it the scrapings left after the major muscles are removed, or is it made from whole muscle? The food I feed only uses breast and thigh meat to produce their chicken meal, which is a superior source to the leftover bits and pieces other brands use in their meal.
Here is a graphic that shows the difference between a fresh meat and meal:
Species Specific Animal Fat: Animal fat is an important part of a dog’s diet. You want to look for a food that specifically states what type of fat it uses, for example, chicken fat or salmon oil. Avoid foods that say animal fat, fish fat, or poultry fat as those are not specific and could be any type animal that falls within that category. It not only signifies less care is given to the formulation of the food, but if your dog has diagnosed allergies, fats (and proteins for that matter) that are listed under general terms could trigger bad news for your pal. Some foods use vegetable oils like canola, safflower or sunflower oil. To many consumers, they appear to be a healthy option, but truthfully, they are not what your dog needs. The nutrients in species-specific animal fats are more appropriate for your dog’s diet.
Vitamins A, C and E (antioxidants): Good health is promoted by antioxidants in the diet. These specific vitamins are some of the most effective antioxidants. You want to find these vitamins on your food’s guaranteed analysis to be sure your pup is getting enough of them in their diet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Balancing this with Omega-6 fatty acids promote a healthy skin and coat. Omega-3’s should be listed on the guaranteed analysis to promote overall health.
Prebiotics: You will find these on the ingredient list under names like fructooligosaccharides (FOS), inulin and oligofructose. These are complex sugars that feed friendly bacteria in the intestines.
Probiotics: Friendly bacteria that aid the digestive process. You should see probiotics listed under Total Microorganisms on the guaranteed analysis. Probiotics are listed as varieties of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. It is important to have more than one type of probiotic as each strain offer a different benefit.
Vegetables: Beets, broccoli, carrots, watercress and other vegetables all have unique properties. Including a variety of vegetables in a food expands the array of phytonutrients, minerals, vitamins, fiber and antioxidants available to digest.
NO Corn or Wheat or added glutens: Be sure your food is free of corn and wheat, they are difficult for a dog to digest. They are usually filler added to bulk up the kibble, but it goes straight through your dog and lands in your yard. In addition to this, these grains mold easily, which can be toxic for animals. Also, corn gluten or wheat gluten is added to bump up the protein level of the food because it is a cheap source of protein. The right grains in dog food are helpful, but these two are ones to be sure your food does not have.
I love the food I am now feeding my dogs. After looking for a good food for years, I was referred to this brand by a good friend. I was pleasantly surprised to find it met all the criteria I listed in this series. I have been amazed at how well my dogs are doing on this food. Healthy, shiny coats and plenty of energy. Overall, they just seem happier too. I am so happy I have found a healthy food and wish you well on your journey to find a high-quality food for your dog too.
