What Are Different Types Of Dog Food?

Here is a list of different types of dog food and how they meet your pet’s nutritional needs

Even though pet food doesn’t have as many flavors, shapes, and colors as human food, there are different types to choose from. Regardless of the type you choose, the food you select must meet the nutritional needs of your pet. To help you make the right choice, we have discussed different types of dog foods in detail.

Kibble

• Kibble or dry dog food is the most economical type of dog food. It is commonly purchased by the bagful and comes in bite-sized pieces. It is easier to store and lasts for a long time without needing to be refrigerated. It reduces tartar buildup, thereby promoting healthier teeth and gums.

With a few exceptions, kibble is a nutritionally complete food that fulfills the nutritional requirements of your pet. From puppy chow to advanced age blends, kibble is available in multiple flavors and forms intended for different stages of a dog’s life. Read the label carefully and choose a brand that uses wholesome ingredients.

Canned Food

• Canned food is easy to find at any store. Most dogs prefer canned or wet food. Canned food has a long shelf life, but it is expensive. Every band of canned food may not provide the protein that your dog needs or the protein it provides may not be in digestible form. This type of protein passes from the dog’s system without being digested into an absorbable form.

In addition, most canned foods contain about 75% water. Pet foods with higher water content have fewer nutrients. This means the pet has to consume more canned food to fulfill his nutritional needs. When choosing canned food, go for a type that is 100% nutritionally complete.

Semi-Moist Dog Food

• Semi-moist foods are commercial dog foods that are shaped like burgers, pork chops, or other meat products. They are the least healthy forms of dog foods as they contain several artificial flavors and colorings. Semi-moist canned foods fail to provide the nutrition that your dog requires.

They have higher salt and sugar content, which is not very healthy for pets. They should not be considered a complete diet and should only be given as occasional treats in addition to a regular diet. On the plus side, most semi-moist dog foods can be bought in a resealable pouch form that makes it convenient to pour and store the dog food.

Home Cooked Food

• Home-cooked foods give you the ability to take charge of your dog’s diet. These foods are prepared in a similar way as regular human food. Unlike the same bowl of dry food day after day, home-cooked foods broaden the choices of flavors and texture for your dog. In addition, by being in control of the cooking process, you know exactly what’s in your dog food.

Home-cooked foods are minimally processed, which additionally benefits a dog’s health. However, cooking a meal for your pet may become a time invasive and expensive task. Moreover, you need to learn about your dog’s particular nutritional needs to prepare the meals accordingly.

Raw Dog Food

• Raw dog food consists of a combination of raw meat, bones, and organs. It is a good source of phosphorus and calcium. Since dogs have short intestinal tracts and strong stomach acids, this type of food is well tolerated by many dogs. Dogs can easily chew and digest raw food. However, it is advisable to talk to your veterinarian before shifting to a raw diet.

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