04/04/2025
Ever wondered what’s really in your pet’s food?
Understanding the label can help you choose high-quality, nutritious options for your furry friend! Here’s what to look for:
Ingredients List (First 5 Matter Most!)
- Look for real meat (chicken, beef, fish) as the first ingredient.
- Avoid generic terms like ‘meat by-products’ or
‘animal meal’.
- Whole food ingredients like sweet potatoes,
blueberries, and flaxseed = great nutrition!
Protein & Fat Content
- Dogs thrive on high-protein diets (25-30% for active dogs).
- Healthy fats like salmon oil & flaxseed support skin, coat, and energy levels.
Artificial Additives? No Thanks!
- Avoid: Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin.
- Look for natural preservatives like vitamin E (tocopherols) or rosemary extract.
Guaranteed Analysis
- This tells you the minimum % of protein and fat and the maximum % of fiber and moisture.
- Compare across brands to see which provides the best balance for your pet!
Complete and Balanced (Nutritional Adequacy)
- Look for statements such as ‘Complete and Balanced’ or ‘Meets The Total Daily Nutritional Requirements of a Pet Animal’.
- This ensures the food meets minimum nutrition standards for different life stages (puppy, adult, senior). Always check for this!
Pro Tip: Shorter ingredient lists with recognizable,
whole foods = better nutrition!
Did you know how to read pet food labels before? Let us know in the comments!
