How to Compare Dog Foods

By Kelsey Erin Shipman

Instructions

Step 1:
Look for meat products over meat by-products. Dog food that uses meat by-products package and dehydrate any part of the animal not fit for human consumption. Choose real meat products to provide your dog with healthy nutrients.
Step 2:
Consider grain content. Many companies load their dog food with corn meal or other highly refined grains as filler. Look for food with low grain content (the fourth or fifth ingredient listed) and only purchase those that use whole grains.
Step 3:
Look for vitamins and minerals. Processed dog food strips ingredients of their natural vitamins and minerals. So, it is important that dog foods be fortified with essentials vitamins and minerals that they otherwise may not be getting.
Step 4:
Notice fat sources. Dogs need to acquire healthy fats from their food as they cannot produce them internally. Look on the ingredients for healthy fat sources such as fish oil or chicken fat.
Step 5:
Test them out. See if your dog likes a certain brand of food by noticing if he finishes his bowl in one sitting. Does his coat improve in thickness and shine? Does she have consistent energy throughout the day? Monitor your dog's health to determine the right food.

Tips & Warnings

Avoid big-name brand dog foods as almost all of them use meat by-products. Check your local pet store or search online for healthier varieties.
Many canines are allergic to wheat, corn and even chicken. If your pet is having unexplained problems, check the ingredients for any possible allergies.

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