Nowadays there are so many different diet trends. You can be vegan, vegetarian, carb-free, or dairy-free. But what you may not know, is that there are all these types of trends for your dog as well. When you bring home a new dog, choosing the right diet may seem like an overwhelming task. To help make this decision simpler, Pets a Go Go has broken down the different options available to dog owners, including wet, dry, and home-cooked, and all the perks they can bring your pet (and you!). Remember a well-fed puppy is a happy puppy.
There are some factors to be aware of before going into the meal plan. When shopping, make sure to look for the FDA’s “complete and balanced,” label on food options. The FDA explains that “complete and balanced” brands can be the sole diet and your dog will be nutritionally balanced. Also keep in mind that all dogs are different, which means their diets should be unique to their needs. The diet you choose when raising a puppy may not be the best diet when they are an adult. So don’t be afraid to change diets if you feel you are not giving your furbaby everything they need to be strong, playful, and healthy.
Dry Diet. Dry dog food is one of the more reasonable options for your pet’s diet. Dry dog food is the option always advertised on TV when someone is rushing out the door and dumping the bag into their puppy’s dish. It doesn’t need to be refrigerated, lasts long, and is less expensive than other diet options. It also can help your dog’s dental health because chewing food like this helps reduce buildup in the teeth!
Wet Diet. Wet dog food usually comes in a can and has a long shelf life making it another convenient option for you and your pet. It has a lot of the same ingredients as dry dog food, but some brands can meet different needs for your pet, like having more fresh proteins. But when you’re shopping keep an eye out for water content! A high-water content means fewer nutrients, which means your furbaby may not be getting all they need to be strong and active.
Home Cooked. A home-cooked diet is very appealing to some dog owners because it means they are in full control and are aware of everything going on their pet’s plate. It can be a lot of work compared to the other diet options, but the control and peace of mind can make it worth it. If you choose to home cook your furbaby’s meals, make sure you fully understand the nutrients they need so they meet their requirements because you won’t have the “complete and balanced,” guarantee that store-bought food can have.
In the end, your pet’s diet is up to you and what works best for you and your pet! Following one of these diets solely may work best for your pet, or maybe a combination of dry and wet food with an occasional home-cooked treat. As long as your furbaby is properly nourished and their nutrients are being met then they’ll be sure to live a happy and healthy life!
