How to Choose the Right Dog Food

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Read the ingredients listed on the bag or can. Ingredients are listed in order; the first ingredient listed makes up most of the dog food. Dogs don't need a lot of carbohydrates like flour, wheat or corn. Yet many dog foods have those ingredients listed first. Meat should be listed first, whether buying canned or dry dog food.
Step 2:
Check the package or can to verify that the dog food is nutritionally complete. It's very important that your dog gets the vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain his good health.
Step 3:
Reduce the calories if your dog is overweight. Many dog food companies have dog food for overweight dogs; choose a dog food brand your dog enjoys when reducing calories.
Step 4:
Choose a senior dog food for older dogs. Senior dogs have less need for calories and energy; at the same time senior dogs have a need for more vitamins to maintain their good health.
Step 5:
Feed puppies only puppy style dog food. Puppies have a much greater need for calories and vitamins because they are growing so fast. Make sure you check the dog food labels to verify that the food is nutritionally complete.
Step 6:
Ask your veterinarian about feeding a sick dog. Dogs need special nutrition during illness or stress. For example, some dogs need to have less protein if they suffer from kidney disease. Many vets recommend a lamb and rice dog food for sick dogs; always check with the vet before you choose a dog food for your sick dog.

Resources

Visit Dog Breed Facts to learn more about choosing the right dog food.

More Puppy Pages

How to Choose the Right Cat Food

Instructions Step 1: Check the label on your cat food cans or bags to verify that it's nutritionally complete. Cats need more protein, vitamin A and B vitamins than dogs do. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) regulates nutrition...

Instructions Things You’ll Need: Veternarian Puppy bed Quarintined area Sufficent funds (some illnesses can become quit costly) Step 1: If you detect that your puppy has fallen ill, the first thing you must do is call the veterinarian and make an...

Instructions Things You’ll Need: Puppy proof home A quality dog crate A veterinarian Puppy food Dog bowls Leash Collar Caring For Irish Wolfhound Puppies Step 1: Make sure that getting a puppy is the right thing for you and your household. Prepare...

Instructions Step 1: Start by learning about dog nutrition. Dogs need a certain balance of nutrients to stay healthy. The various dog food brands contain different levels of protein, carbohydrates, fiber and fat. Learn the recommended amount of each...

Instructions Things You’ll Need: Large stainless steel bowl Puppy kibble Step 1: Your large breed puppy will need to eat three times a day until he is at least three months old. Although some breeds can already appear large by eight weeks, their...