One of the most important decisions we make for our dogs is what we feed them. When it comes to dog food and treats, reading ingredient labels is essential to ensure that we are providing our pets with quality nutrition. In this article, we will break down common dog food buzzwords and provide a complete guide to reading ingredient labels on dog food and treat bags.
Understanding Common Dog Food Buzzwords
Many dog food manufacturers use buzzwords on their packaging to promote their products. However, not all buzzwords are created equal. Here is a breakdown of some common buzzwords and what they mean:
Grain-Free: This means that the food does not contain any grains, such as wheat or corn.
Natural: This term is not regulated by the FDA, so it can be used on any dog food product. It generally means that the food does not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Organic: This term is regulated by the USDA and means that the food contains at least 95% organic ingredients.
Limited Ingredient: This means that the food contains a limited number of ingredients to reduce the risk of allergies and sensitivities.
The term "natural" on a dog food bag does not have a legal definition or standard, so it can be used in a variety of ways by dog food manufacturers. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) defines natural as, "a feed or ingredient derived solely from plant, animal or mined sources, either in its unprocessed state or having been subject to physical processing, heat processing, rendering, purification, extraction, hydrolysis, enzymolysis or fermentation, but not having been produced by or subject to a chemically synthetic process and not containing any additives or processing aids that are chemically synthetic except in amounts as might occur unavoidably in good manufacturing practices."
However, there is no formal regulation to verify whether a dog food product labeled as "natural" meets this definition. So, it is important to carefully read the ingredient list on the dog food bag to determine what ingredients are actually present in the product, and to make sure that the food meets your dog's nutritional needs as the same can be said about most marketing buzzwords corporations use. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best food for your dog's specific needs.
What is the AAFCO?
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a non-profit organization that develops and implements standards for animal feed and pet food in the United States. The AAFCO provides guidance on the nutritional requirements for pets, as well as guidelines for labeling and marketing of pet food. They work with regulatory agencies to ensure that pet food products meet safety and quality standards. The AAFCO also provides a forum for discussion and collaboration between industry members, regulatory agencies, and consumer groups. Many states in the US have adopted AAFCO regulations as law, making it an important organization for ensuring the safety and quality of pet food products in the United States.
There are many companies that adhere to the AAFCO regulations for pet food in the United States. Some of the largest and most well-known companies include:
1. Blue Buffalo
2. Hill's Science Diet
3. Purina
4. Royal Canin
5. Iams
6. Nutro
7. Orijen
8. Canidae (This is what I feed my pets)
9. Wellness
10. Taste of the Wild
These are just a few examples of the many companies that follow AAFCO guidelines for the production of safe and nutritious pet food products.
What's a Boutique Brand?
A boutique brand dog food is a type of dog food that is typically produced by smaller, niche companies that specialize in creating high-quality, premium pet food products. These brands often use unique and exotic ingredients and tout their products as being healthier and more nutritious than mainstream commercial dog food brands. Boutique brand dog foods may also be marketed as being free from common allergens or containing only natural or organic ingredients. However, it is important to note that not all boutique brand dog foods are created equal, and some may not meet the same rigorous standards for safety and nutritional balance as more established commercial brands. It's always a good idea to do your research and consult with a veterinarian before choosing a dog food for your pet.
Understanding Dog Nutrition
Dogs are omnivores, which means they require a balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. When choosing a dog food, look for one that contains high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Carbohydrates should come from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Fat is important for energy and healthy skin and coat, but it should come from healthy sources, such as fish oil or flaxseed.
Adding Fresh Foods and Toppers to Your Dog's Diet
Adding fresh foods and toppers to your dog's kibble can help provide a healthier diet. You can add cooked vegetables, fruits, or even meats to your dog's food. Toppers, such as freeze-dried meats or dehydrated vegetables, can also be added to kibble to provide extra nutrition and flavor.
Rehydrating Kibble
If your dog prefers wet food, you can rehydrate their kibble by adding warm water, bone broth, or goat's milk. This can help make the food more appetizing and provide additional nutrients.
In conclusion, reading ingredient labels on dog food and treat bags is essential to ensure that your pet is receiving quality nutrition. By understanding common buzzwords and dog nutrition, you can make informed decisions about what to feed your furry friend. Adding fresh foods and toppers, as well as rehydrating kibble, can also help provide a healthy and balanced diet.
50 Common Ingredients
1. Chicken by-product meal - a source of protein, made from chicken parts not commonly used for human consumption
2. Whole grain corn - a source of carbohydrates and fiber
3. Ground corn - a source of carbohydrates and fiber
4. Corn gluten meal - a source of protein, made from the by-product of corn processing
5. Rice - a source of carbohydrates
6. Brown rice - a source of carbohydrates and fiber
7. Barley - a source of carbohydrates and fiber
8. Oats - a source of carbohydrates and fiber
9. Wheat - a source of carbohydrates and protein
10. Wheat gluten - a source of protein, made from the by-product of wheat processing
11. Soybean meal - a source of protein, made from the by-product of soybean processing
12. Beef - a source of protein
13. Lamb - a source of protein
14. Fish - a source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids
15. Chicken fat - a source of energy and flavor
16. Pork fat - a source of energy and flavor
17. Dried beet pulp - a source of fiber
18. Sweet potatoes - a source of carbohydrates and fiber
19. Peas - a source of carbohydrates and fiber
20. Carrots - a source of fiber and vitamins
21. Spinach - a source of fiber and vitamins
22. Broccoli - a source of fiber and vitamins
23. Cranberries - a source of antioxidants
24. Blueberries - a source of antioxidants
25. Apples - a source of fiber and vitamins
26. Pumpkin - a source of fiber and vitamins
27. Flaxseed - a source of omega-3 fatty acids
28. Natural flavor - added for palatability
29. Salt - a mineral essential for bodily functions
30. Potassium chloride - a mineral essential for bodily functions
31. Calcium carbonate - a mineral essential for bone health
32. Zinc proteinate - a chelated form of zinc, believed to be more easily absorbed by the body
33. Iron proteinate - a chelated form of iron, believed to be more easily absorbed by the body
34. Copper proteinate - a chelated form of copper, believed to be more easily absorbed by the body
35. Manganese proteinate - a chelated form of manganese, believed to be more easily absorbed by the body
36. Selenium yeast - a source of selenium, believed to be more easily absorbed by the body
37. Vitamin E supplement - a source of antioxidants
38. Vitamin A supplement - essential for vision and immune system health
39. Vitamin D3 supplement - essential for bone health and calcium absorption
40. Thiamine mononitrate - a B-vitamin essential for energy production
41. Riboflavin - a B-vitamin essential for energy production
42. Niacin - a B-vitamin essential for nervous system health
43. Calcium pantothenate - a B-vitamin essential for energy production
44. Pyridoxine hydrochloride - a B-vitamin essential for protein metabolism
45. Biotin - a B-vitamin essential for skin and coat health
46. Folic acid - a B-vitamin essential for cell growth and development
47. Vitamin B12 supplement - a B-vitamin essential for nervous system health
48. Choline chloride - essential for nervous system health and liver function
49. L-carnitine - a naturally occurring amino acid believed to help with weight management
50. Taurine - an amino acid essential for heart health and vision.