Taking care of our dogs’ health is extremely important, and a significant part of that care begins with the diet. For dogs and other pets, the most convenient way to feed them is with kibble that’s been engineered to give them the nutrients they need. Whole foods, on the other hand, are prepared by pet owners and dog food companies in small batches and are made from natural ingredients. Is one better than the other? Research reveals some interesting facts.
Whole Food for Dogs
Whole food for dogs includes raw or cooked, but also packaged food. This gives owners the power to control what goes into a dog’s diet. Mixes of natural ingredients like chicken, duck, and vegetables provide natural nutrients that dogs need. Using raw food, more like what an animal would find in the wild, can be beneficial depending on the dog breed, but not for all. This also increases the risk of transferring pathogens from food to stool, which can infect humans.
Another factor to consider with providing raw, cooked, or other soft foods, is the risk of gum disease, or periodontitis. Whole food can become trapped between teeth, requiring brushing or other dog chewing solutions. Whole dog food, depending on the brand or recipe, provides nutrients and vitamins each dog needs. But each dog breed has unique requirements, so it’s important to match the breed with the food. Country Creek Animal Hospital hopes to enlighten owners on this topic.
Processed Dog Food
Mass-produced, engineered for dogs, and cheap, processed food is a great convenience to many pet owners. Common complaints, however, claim that processed food is unnatural, contains chemicals, and causes dogs to develop diseases over time. This is not universally true, but some processed foods contain chemicals to preserve or protect the food. Just like the risk of raw foods, it’s possible for dogs to get sick from processed foods. It is noted, though, that many processed foods contain vegetables and ingredients that dogs do not properly digest or need, and others are made just to be a cheap solution for your dog.
What’s best for Your Dog?
Whole foods provide a great alternative to processed dog food, and many owners claim their dogs are happier and healthier. Although raw and home-made cooked foods permit the greatest food control, it takes immense time and effort to provide for your dog in this way. However, some whole food choices have the convenience of packaged dog food with the bonus of being healthier for them. For more information, visit your dog food websites or contact your local Allen veterinarians.
If you have any other questions about your dog’s health, or need to schedule an appointment, please call. We love pets and do our best to take care of them, and at our hospital they receive the best care possible.