When choosing a diet for your dog, the source of the ingredients, type and ratio of ingredients, and the processing all affect the final product. Labeling requirements ensure that "organic" really does mean something. Sales of organic dog food have been on the increase for several years as dog owners seek to provide their animal companions with the best nutrition possible.
Natural refers to the way the foodstuff is processed with no artificial preservatives or chemical additives. Organic is the way plants are grown, with no fertilizers or pesticides, or raised, with no antibiotics or growth hormones.
Canines are natural carnivores. Meat should be the first ingredient. Meat byproducts and animal protein are not synonyms for meat. Byproducts are made up of any unused part of an animal and can include the head, feet, ligaments, lungs, spleen, and leftover fat, as well as meat from diseased, dead, dying, or disabled animals. There's no way to measure the nutritional value of byproducts and each batch will be different.
A note about labels. Meat can only refer to cows, pigs, goats, and sheep, and only includes specified muscles and tissues. If labeled "beef dog food", the product must by 95% beef. If labeled "beef dinner" it must by 25% beef. A label of "dog food with ..." requires 3% meat. Flavor can be any trace amount of offal or byproducts.
Most dog fare lists grain as a primary ingredient. Grains have to be cooked at a high temperature to render them digestible. Few nutrients remain. They're empty calories leading to weight gain.
Few studies have been done to assess the long term effects of artificial preservatives. One preservative, propylene glycol, was banned from cat products when it was linked to anemia in felines. It's still used in dog kibble. The only advantage of artificial preservatives is a shelf life of 12 months, versus 6 months for feed kept fresh with natural preservatives.
Some experts say dry product should not be mixed with water, milk, canned or other liquids. Although high heat kills bacteria, additional bacteria can be picked up during drying and packaging. Liquids allows the bacteria to multiply. Wet fare is a recommended part of a healthy diet, just feed it on a separate plate. Always check the expiration date when purchasing. Don't use any product that has a rancid odor. Dry foodstuff should be stored in a tin or other sealed non-porous container.
Cost is often listed as a downside. Since non-organic products contain a lot of filler, the amount fed and the amount pooped out is greater. Expect to save on the serving size. And for the long term, expect your pet to be healthier and more energetic.
When changing a pets diet, it's best to get an okay or a recommendation from a vet. This is especially important if a dog has health or allergy issues. Don't switch with one meal as this can lead to digestive upset. Mix one-quarter of the new with three-quarters of the original, and increase the amount of the new diet a little bit each day. There are many organic foods to choose from. Buy a small amount of a couple options and see what's preferred by your dog.
Organic dog food is available in traditional meat-based formulas, vegetarian formulas, and raw meat diets. Purchase at a veterinarian's office and most pet stores. Many online companies ship the food right to your front door. Dogs benefit from a nutritious diet with increased health and energy, less digestive problems, natural weight control, and a healthier skin and coat.
Author Resource:
Jamie is a pet health consultant who specializes in natural pet food .
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