Best Grain Free Dog Foods

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Best Grain Free Dog Foods

Grain free dog foods have become a favorite for those wishing to more closely mimic a dogs natural ancestral diet and to lessen the risk of food allergies. And its easy to see why Compared to the typical kibble or canned food, the best grain free recipes contain more meat based protein as well as easy-to-digest animal fats. And usually fewer carbohydrates, too. Not only are grains like corn and wheat a frequent cause of canine allergies1 they can also be more difficult for a dog to digest.

Why Grains Can Be More Difficult to Digest Thats because many plant-eating animals (known as herbivores) possess one powerful weapon many carnivores (like dogs) usually lack Salivary amylase. Amylase is a special enzyme most herbivores and omnivores (like us humans) produce in their saliva. Its needed to begin the break down of starchy carbohydrates into simple sugars Before they enter the stomach. Now, dogs also produce amylase. But the enzyme is added further down the digestive tract in the small intestine. Because a carnivores saliva is mostly amylase-free, carbohydrates can be more difficult for a dog to digest. What actually does make corn and other grains more digestible for a dog is the cooking process itself.

Why Kibbles Can Be Grain Free But Never Carbohydrate Free Compared to canned dog foods, kibbles cannot be made with just meat. Thats because the process used for making kibble requires a notable amount of carbohydrates to create a dough-like binder to hold everything together. Since there can be no corn, wheat, barley, rice (or any other cereal grains, for that matter), novel carbohydrates must be used in their place to make grain-free kibbles possible. And vegetables (like potatoes) appear to be the most common source of carbohydrates found in non-grain recipes.

The Bottom Line Supporters of grain-free dog foods claim these products provide at least two important benefits Theyre considered hypoallergenic They attempt to mimic a dogs natural ancestral diet So, how can you find a quality grain-free dog food?

How We Selected the Best If youre looking for a quality grain free dog food, weve prepared two lists one for dry dog foods and the other for wet. To be selected, these products must meet two basic requirements. First, they must have been rated at least four stars or five stars by the Advisor. And lastly, the recipes (of course) must be grain free.

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6/26/2012 8:22 PM

Dog Food Labels | Frequently Asked Questions

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Understanding Dog Food Labels

The following items represent some of The Dog Food Advisors most frequently asked questions about reading and understanding dog food labels. Why are my dog foods protein and fat percentages different from the ones mentioned in your reviews? Because all foods (even human foods) contain varying amounts of moisture, we use dry matter basis to report the nutrient content of every product we review. This method mathematically removes all the water from a food. Dry matter basis allows a more accurate comparison between dog foods with different moisture content.

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6/26/2012 8:24 PM

Rotation Diet for Dogs | Frequently Asked Questions

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Diet Rotation for Dogs

The following items represent some of The Dog Food Advisors most frequently asked questions about diet rotation for dogs. What is diet rotation? Unlike a conventional feeding plan where the same food is served at each meal, diet rotation involves varying a dogs menu on a daily, weekly, or other periodic basis. Why should I consider diet rotation for my dog? Since theres no such thing as a perfect dog food, its reasonable to assume every product is deficient or excessive in some way. Too much of one nutrient or too little of another. Plus many foods can contain traces of dangerous toxins. So, built-in flaws tend to be magnified when the same food is fed continuously day-in and day-out for a lifetime. By periodically switching dog foods, the unhealthy consequences of serving the same imperfect products can be minimized. What are the benefits of diet rotation? Here are a few of the many advantages of diet rotation Diet less boring so dogs less finicky Switching protein sources decreases the risk of allergies Diversification minimizes the long term build-up of toxins Doesnt changing a dogs diet increase its risk of allergies? This is a common myth. Changing protein sources (species) on a routine basis is one of the best ways to avoid continuous exposure to the same ingredients a major cause of canine allergies. Isnt changing dog foods dangerous for the animal? Although some pets cant tolerate menu changes, Ive never been able to find a single scientific study proving diet rotation to be unhealthy or detrimental to a dog. Does diet rotation mean mixing two or more different dog foods together and serving them at the same meal? No. The benefits of diet rotation are optimized only when cycling between different products on a periodic basis. How often should dog foods be switched? Theres no fixed feeding plan that works better than the others. So, it depends on your own imgenuity. Some switch foods daily. Others change weekly. And still others prefer to empty one bag of kibble before beginning the next. Is there a downside to diet rotation? There are mainly two disadvantages to diet rotation Avoiding GI upset Maintaining product freshness Since some dogs have sensitive stomachs, the potential for GI upset can be an issue for certain pets. And because alternating between two or more kibbles can make each bag take longer to use up, it can be difficult to maintain the freshness of each product. Can you provide an example of diet rotation? For Bailey, we mix one-fourth of a small can of a single-species wet food (chicken, lamb, rabbit, etc.) with his kibble. As each can runs out, we switch to a different canned product from the same brand. Then, when each bag of kibble is empty, we start with a different kibble (usually, but not always, from the same brand). Over the long term (twice a year), we gradually switch brands, too.

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6/26/2012 8:26 PM

Dog Food Allergies | Frequently Asked Questions

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Dog Food Allergies

The following items represent some of The Dog Food Advisors most frequently asked questions about dog food allergies. What is a food allergy? A food allergy occurs when a dogs immune system mistakenly identifies a particular food ingredient as harmful. And then creates defensive antibodies to fight the invading enemy (the food). Is it better to feed your dog the same food each meal? Or is it safer to change menus on a regular basis? For the surprising answer to these and other questions about dog food allergies, be sure to visit this video by Dr. Karen Becker. What are the signs and symptoms of a food allergy? The symptoms of an allergy include skin rash, hives, itching, paw biting, obsessive licking and sometimes nausea or vomiting. What is a food intolerance? A food intolerance is a digestive problem rather than an immune response. An intolerance occurs when a dogs digestive system is unable to digest a specific ingredient. What are the signs and symptoms of a food intolerance? The signs of food intolerance include mostly digestive distress gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. If my dog is allergic to a specific dog food, does that mean theres something wrong with the quality of the product? Allergies are related to your pets own immune system and are not due to a problem with the product itself. So, if a dog is allergic to a particular ingredient, he will likely experience the same unfavorable reaction to that ingredient no matter what brand you find it in. If my dog shows signs of an allergy, should I immediately suspect its caused by the food? Maybe not. Because food is only the third leading cause of canine allergies, the signs and symptoms you observe may not even be related to your pets diet in the first place. What are the most common causes of dog food allergies? Dog food ingredients most likely to provoke an allergic reaction1 include Beef Dairy Chicken Lamb Fish Corn Wheat Soy Yeast2 What else could cause my dog to be allergic to his food? Many times, its not even the ingredients themselves that are the problem. In some cases, a dog can also be allergic to contaminants in the food itself. What should I feed my dog if I suspect his allergy symptoms are caused by his food? Since certain recipes have been intentionally designed to help you control or isolate these problems, you may wish to read our recent post, Suggested Hypoallergenic Dog Foods. You may also wish to consider a grain free dog food.

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6/26/2012 8:27 PM

Hypoallergenic Dog Foods

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Suggested Hypoallergenic Dog Foods

Hypoallergenic dog foods usually share one of three basic designs. Products made with Limited ingredients Novel ingredients Hypoallergenic recipes Or occasionally some combination of these designs. First, because they do contain fewer ingredients, limited ingredient dog foods make it simpler to pin down the suspected allergen in the food a pet might be allergic to. Next, novel ingredient dog foods contain elements less likely to be known to the memory of a specific animals immune system. Since allergic reactions generally require a previous exposure to an allergen, these foods contain relatively obscure ingredients like buffalo, pheasant, kangaroo or millet. And finally, hypoallergenic recipes avoid the use of ingredients most likely to provoke an allergic reaction1. They include Beef Dairy Chicken Lamb Fish Corn Wheat Soy Yeast2 Surprisingly, dogs arent naturally allergic to these ingredients. Its just that these are the ingredients most commonly used in dog food recipes. So, theyre simply the ones dogs are most frequently exposed to. And many times, its not even the ingredients that are the problem. Dogs can also be allergic to whats in the ingredients, too. In any case, no matter which design youre considering, you may be surprised to learn

Why Food May Not Be the Cause of Your Dogs Allergies Now, contrary to popular belief, food is not the leading cause of canine allergies. In dogs, food allergies account for just 10% of all allergies. Theyre only the third most common cause well behind fleas and atopic (non-contact) allergies.1 Yet food is the first to be blamed whenever a dog shows any sign of an allergic reaction (like itchy skin). And that begs the question, is it truly an allergy in the first place?

Food Allergy or Food Intolerance? Food allergies and food intolerances are two completely different issues. A food allergy occurs when a dogs immune system mistakenly identifies a particular food ingredient as harmful. And then creates defensive antibodies to fight the invading enemy (the food). A food intolerance is a digestive problem rather than an immune response. An intolerance occurs when a dogs digestive system is unable to digest a specific ingredient. For example, lactose intolerance is a common condition in which a dog is unable to break down lactose (a sugar found in milk).

Different Conditions Different Symptoms

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6/26/2012 8:29 PM

Hypoallergenic Dog Foods

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The symptoms of an allergy can include (but are not limited to) skin rash, hives, itching, paw biting, obsessive licking and sometimes nausea or vomiting. The signs of food intolerance include (mainly) digestive distress, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Again, lets use milk as an example A milk intolerance would look more like gastric distress (bloating, gas, diarrhea). However, a milk allergy would likely produce an immune reaction (itching or rash).

The Bottom Line If you believe your dog is suffering from a food allergy (or a food intolerance), here are a few hypoallergenic dog foods for you to consider. Suggested products must meet two requirements. They must be rated three stars or higher by the Advisor. And they must have been recommended by their manufacturers to be appropriate for dogs with food allergies or food intolerances. Of course, this list should not be considered a complete catalog of all the hypoallergenic foods on the market. For there are others. Many others. We only provide this small group as a starting point. As a matter of fact, if you know of a specific dog food you believe we should have included on this list, please feel free to share your recommendations in the Comments section below. Or if youre looking for some suggestions yourself, be sure to look through our readers Comments to find more good ideas.

Suggested Hypoallergenic Dog Foods Addiction Dog Food (Dry) Blue Buffalo Blue Basics (Dry) Bravo Balance (Raw) Brothers Complete Allergy Formula (Dry) California Natural (Canned) California Natural (Dry) Canidae Grain Free (Dry) Daves Delicate Dinner (Canned) Evangers Game Meats (Canned) Go Natural Dog Food (Dry) Natural Balance Limited Ingredient (Canned) Natural Balance Limited Ingredient (Dry) Natural Life Adult Lamaderm (Canned) Natures Variety Instinct (Canned) Natures Variety Instinct (Dry) Natures Variety Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet (Dry) Paw Naturaw Organic Bison Diet (Raw) Pinnacle Holistic (Dry) Skoki Dog Food (Dry) Wellness Simple Food Solutions (Canned)

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6/26/2012 8:29 PM

Best Dry Dog Foods

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Best Dry Dog Foods

The following is a list of The Advisors best dry dog foods. To be included here, each must have earned at least 4 stars. 4Health Dog Food (Dry) Acana Dog Food (Dry) Acana Regionals Grain-Free (Dry) Addiction Dog Food (Dry) American Natural Premium (Dry) Amicus Dog Food (Dry) Annamaet Dog Food (Dry) Annamaet Grain Free (Dry) Artemis AGARx Immune Support (Dry) Artemis Fresh Mix (Dry) Artemis Fresh Mix Maximal Dog (Dry) Artemis Osopure (Dry) Artemis Professional Formula (Dry) AvoDerm Natural Dog Food (Dry) AvoDerm Natural Revolving Menu (Dry) Back to Basics Dog Food (Dry) Bench and Field Dog Food (Dry) Berkley and Jensen Dog Food (Dry) Best Breed Dog Food (Dry) Blackwood Black Label (Dry) Blackwood ExPro (Dry) Blackwood Original Recipe (Dry) Blackwood Special Diet (Dry) Blue Buffalo Basics (Dry) Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free (Dry) Blue Buffalo Life Protection (Dry) Blue Buffalo Longevity (Dry) Blue Buffalo Wilderness (Dry) Born Free Dog Food (Dry) Breeders Choice Active Care Healthy Joint (Dry) Brothers Complete Allergy Formula (Dry) Brothers Complete Grain Free (Dry) By Nature Dog Food (Dry) By Nature Organics (Dry) California Natural Grain Free (Dry) Canidae Dog Food (Dry) Canidae Grain Free Pure (Dry) Canidae Single Grain Protein Plus (Dry) Canine Caviar (Dry) Canine Caviar Grain Free (Dry) Carna4 Dog Food (Dry) Castor and Pollux Natural Ultramix (Dry) Castor and Pollux Natural Ultramix Grain-Free (Dry) Castor and Pollux Organix (Dry) Castor and Pollux Organix Grain-Free (Dry) Chicken Soup for the Dog Lovers Soul (Dry) Darford Zero/G Dog Food (Dry) Daves Dog Food (Dry) Diamond Naturals (Dry) DNA Dog Food (Dry) Dog Lovers Gold (Dry) Dogswell Dog Food (Dry) Dogswell Nutrisca (Dry) Dr. Tims Dog Food (Dry) Dynamite Dog Food (Dry) Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry)

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6/26/2012 8:29 PM

Best Dry Dog Foods

http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/best-dry-dog-foods/

Earth Naturals Dog Food (Dry) Earthborn Holistic Dog Food (Dry) Earthborn Holistic Grain Free (Dry) Earthborn Holistic Primitive Natural (Dry) Evangers Dog Food (Dry) EVO Dog Food (Dry) Evolve Dog Food (Dry) FirstMate Dog Food (Dry) FirstMate Grain-Free (Dry) Fromm Four Star Nutritionals (Dry) Fromm Four Star Nutritionals Grain-Free (Dry) Fromm Gold Nutritionals (Dry) Gaea Dog Food (Dry) Go! Dog Food (Dry) Go! Fit and Free (Dry) Grandma Maes Country Naturals (Dry) Great Life Grain Free (Dry) Halo Dog Food (Dry) Harmony Farms (Dry) Health Food for Dogs (Dry) HealthWise Dog Food (Dry) Hi-Tek Naturals (Dry) Hi-Tek Naturals Grain Free (Dry) Holistic Blend Dog Food (Dry) Holistic Blend Grain Free (Dry) Holistic Select Dog Food (Dry) Horizon Complete (Dry) Horizon Legacy (Dry) Infinia Dog Food (Dry) Innova Dog Food (Dry) Innova Prime Grain Free (Dry) Ivet Dog Food (Dry) Kirkland Dog Food (Dry) Kirkland Signature Natures Domain (Dry) Laughing Dog (Dry) Lifes Abundance (Dry) LiveSmart Dog Food (Dry) Lotus Dog Food (Dry) Merrick Classic Dog Food (Dry) Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) Mulligan Stew Dog Food (Dry) Native Performance Dog Food (Dry) Natural Balance Alpha Dog (Dry) Natural Balance Synergy (Dry) Natural Balance Ultra (Dry) Natural Planet Organics (Dry) Natures Logic (Dry) Natures Select Dog Food (Dry) Natures Select Grain Free (Dry) Natures Variety Instinct (Dry) Natures Variety Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet (Dry) Natures Variety Prairie (Dry) Newmans Own Organics (Dry) Northwest Naturals Freeze Dried Diets (Raw) Now Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) Nulo Dog Food (Dry) Nutri Life Grain Free (Dry) Nutrience Original (Dry) Nutripet Dog Food (Dry) NutriSource Dog Food (Dry) NutriSource Grain Free (Dry)

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Best Dry Dog Foods

NutriSource Grain Free (Dry) Nutro Ultra (Dry) Orijen Adult (Dry) Orijen Puppy (Dry) Orijen Senior (Dry) Oven-Baked Tradition (Dry) Pelican Bay Dog Food (Dry) Perfectly Natural Dog (Dry) Performatrin Ultra Grain Free (Dry) PetWay Dog Food (Dry) Pinnacle Dog Food (Dry) Pinnacle Grain Free (Dry) Pinnacle Peak Protein Formula (Dry) Pioneer Naturals Grain Free (Dry) Precise Dog Food (Dry) Precise Holistic Complete (Dry) Precise Plus Dog Food (Dry) Premium Edge Dog Food (Dry) Premium Edge Healthy Weight Reduction (Dry) Professional Dog Food (Dry) Pronature Holistic (Dry) Pronature Holistic Grain Free (Dry) Pulsar Dog Food (Dry) Pure Vita Dog Food (Dry) Redpaw Dog Food (Dry) Regal Dog Food (Dry) Rotations Dog Food (Dry) Royal Canin Starter (Dry) Simply Nourish Dog Food (Dry) Skoki Dog Food (Dry) Solid Gold Barking at the Moon (Dry) Solid Gold Dog Food (Dry) Solid Gold Sun Dancer (Dry) Summit Holistic Dog Food (Dry) Taste of the Wild (Dry) TimberWolf (Dry) TimberWolf Wild and Natural (Dry) Vets Choice Dog Food (Dry) VF Complete (Dry) Victor Dog Food (Dry) Victor Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) Vom Daxi Hundefutter (Dry) Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry) Wellness Core Reduced Fat (Dry) Wellness Super 5 Mix Dog Food (Dry) Whole Earth Farms (Dry) Wysong Archetype Buffet (Dry) Wysong Epigen (Dry) Wysong Maintenance (Dry) Wysong Optimal Performance (Dry)

http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/best-dry-dog-foods/

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6/26/2012 8:29 PM

Dog Food Fiber | Frequently Asked Questions

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Dog Food Fiber

The following items represent some of The Dog Food Advisors most frequently asked questions about dog food fiber. How is dietary fiber beneficial to a dogs health? Dietary fiber found in dog food can improve colon health, aid in weight management and help stabilize blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs. It can even help control both diarrhea and constipation. What causes my dog to generate such a large volume of stool? To a notable degree, stool size and form can be directly related to the fiber content of a dog food. What ingredients contain the most fiber? Because fiber is only found in the wall of a cell (and since animal cells dont have cell walls) fiber can only come from vegetables and grains. Never from meat. Thats why one should expect plant-based dog foods to generate more stool volume than meat-based products. How can dog food fiber help a diabetic dog? Fiber can help a diabetic dog maintain stable blood sugar levels. Although higher dietary fiber was initially believed to be beneficial, recent studies have suggested there may be no real advantage to high fiber diets compared to the more moderate type associated with many commercial foods.1 How does dietary fiber help control inflamed anal glands? Fiber can absorb water directly into the colon. The enlarged stools fiber can produce is able to place added pressure on a dogs anal sacs during defecation. And that pressure can help induce the drainage of swollen anal glands.

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6/26/2012 8:30 PM

Dog Food Ingredients | Frequently Asked Questions

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Dog Food Ingredients

The following items represent some of The Dog Food Advisors most frequently asked questions about dog food ingredients. Ive heard rosemary extract causes seizures. Is this true? Rosemary is frequently used in dog food as a natural anti-oxidant and preservative.1 Its also considered an anti-cancer agent.2 However, weve never been able to find any scientific studies linking rosemary extract with seizures in dogs. Weve only found mention of its potential relationship in humans. And then, only rarely in subjects prone to epileptic seizures in the first place.3 Can beet pulp cause ear infections or stain a dogs fur? There are many rumors regarding the use of beet pulp in dog food. This fiber-rich ingredient has been accused of causing numerous canine maladies. Some say it produces reddish tears that stain the facial fur of light-colored dogs. Yet beet pulp isnt even red in color. Its white. Others claim beet pulp causes ear infections. However, weve never found any scientific studies factually linking this ingredient to any of them. Which ingredients most likely contain ethoxyquin? Ethoxyquin is most likely associated with fish meals. But not raw fish. Because fish meals are rarely used in canned foods, most wet products can be considered ethoxyquin free. As a pet food ingredient, is yeast bad for dogs? Yeast can be a controversial item. Although yeast can sometimes be a by-product of the beer making industry, this ingredient can contain up to 45% protein and is rich in other healthy nutrients. Fans believe yeast repels fleas and supports the immune system. Critics argue yeast ingredients can be linked to allergies. This may be true, but (like all allergies) only if your particular dog is allergic to the yeast itself. Whats more, a vocal minority insist yeast can increase the risk of developing the life-threatening condition known as bloat. However, this is something weve not been able to scientifically verify. In any case, unless your dog is specifically allergic to yeast, most experts consider the ingredient a healthy addition. Ive heard that yeast ingredients causes ear infections in dogs. Is this true? So far, Ive never found any scientific articles linking canine ear infections to the yeast ingredients found in dog food. In most cases, yeast infections are caused by living organisms found in (or on) a dogs body itself. They are usually associated with other problems like allergies or mite infestations. Is garlic good or bad for a dog? Garlic can be a controversial ingredient. Many experts favor garlic for its numerous health benefits. These can include its anti-cancer, antioxidant and anti-clotting properties as well as its ability to stimulate a dogs immune system. However, in very large quantities, garlic can be toxic to a dog.4 In any case, the professional literature we surveyed provided no definitive warnings regarding the use of garlic especially in the small amounts used in most dog foods. Is selenium or selenium selenite good or bad for a dog? Selenium is an essential mineral for both dogs and humans. However, all minerals can be found in a dog food in various forms (such as elemental selenium and sodium selenite). And each form can have a different toxic threshold before it can be considered dangerous. According to AAFCO, the maximum amount of selenium permitted in a dog food is 2.0 mg/kg a figure which is 18 times the minimum (0.11 mg/kg) for this mineral.5 However, the National Academy of Science has not yet determined the safe upper limit (SUL) for most minerals even selenium.

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6/26/2012 8:31 PM

Dog Food Ingredients | Frequently Asked Questions

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However, the National Academy of Science has not yet determined the safe upper limit (SUL) for most minerals even selenium. Although no one can assure you every dog food will be 100% safe from the potential long term build-up of specific minerals, one can take at least some comfort in the apparently safe margin between the AAFCO minimums and the maximums for selenium. How can one be sure the vitamin and mineral content of a food is safe? Technically speaking, you can almost never be sure. Thats because other ingredients (like grains, meats and bone) naturally contain minerals before a dog food manufacturer actually adds the vitamin and mineral supplements to the recipe. So, unless you test each and every batch of food, you never truly know whether you are exceeding the (still unestablished) safe upper limit of a mineral. Whats the better source of essential omega-3 fatty acids for a dog fish oil or plant oil? There are many different kinds of essential omega-3 fatty acids. Yet not all of them are created equal. Fish oil contains the prized EPA and DHA variety. These two fatty acids possess the highest bio-availability to dogs and humans. On the other hand, plant-based sources of omega-3 oils (especially flax seeds) contain a much higher content of ALA (an omega-3 fat not as readily utilized by the body). Yet ALA can be converted to EPA and DHA by the animal. However, this conversion process (of ALA to the superior EPA and DHA type) is notably limited (especially in dogs). Bottom line? Fish oil is superior to flax and canola oils. But these plant-based omega-3 fats are probably better for a dog than no omega-3 at all. What is methionine? Methionine is an amino acid essential to both dogs and cats. Methionine is added to a dog food not only to increase the supply of the nutrient itself but also to acidify the animals urine. This is reportedly done to prevent unsightly discoloration of grass and shrubbery. Methionine is also used to help prevent the formation of struvite crystals in the urine. But unfortunately, it can also increase the potential for oxalate-type kidney and bladder stones, too.

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6/26/2012 8:31 PM

Dog Food Protein | Frequently Asked Questions

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Dog Food Protein

The following items represent some of The Dog Food Advisors most frequently asked questions about dog food protein. Can a high protein diet cause kidney problems in older dogs? Although some may disagree, recent opinion finds high protein not to be a contributing factor to kidney disease in senior pets. As a matter of fact, it has now been shown that a low protein diet is actually unhealthy for most older pets. For more details, be sure to read our article about Low Protein Dog Foods. Is a high protein diet unhealthy for a puppy? Although there are many who still believe high protein can be a health problem for puppies, more recent studies tend to disagree. The rapid growth which causes skeletal disorders (like hip dysplasia) in larger breeds is now believed to be more appropriately linked to genetics1, excessive dietary calcium2 or overfeeding during the puppy phase of life3. For more in-depth information about this controversial subject (including references and footnotes), you may wish to visit our article, Best Puppy Foods.

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6/26/2012 8:31 PM

How to Feed a Dog | Frequently Asked Questions

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How to Feed a Dog

The following items represent some of The Dog Food Advisors most frequently asked questions about how to feed a dog. How much do I feed my dog? Since each dog food contains a different number of calories per serving, follow the feeding instructions on each package. If your dog is fully grown (and no longer a puppy), you can try using our dog food calculator. When does a puppy become an adult? In general, small to medium breeds may be considered adults after about six months of age. But large and giant breeds shouldnt be fed as adults until they reach about one to two years (depending upon the breed).1 When is a dog considered a senior? As a rule, small to medium dogs are considered seniors at about seven years of age. But larger breeds reach senior status much sooner some as early as five.2 Can you recommend a good food for senior dogs? Most senior dog foods are terrible. These recipes are designed to reduce calories by reducing meat content. Unfortunately, this same design makes these products notably high in carbohydrates, too. Today, most experts recommend dog foods for seniors that are higher in protein content (but also lower in fat, carbs and calories). Arent high protein diets dangerous for senior dogs? Recent studies confirm high protein dog foods make just as much sense for healthy senior dogs as they do for younger pets.3 To learn more, be sure to visit FAQ page about dog food protein. Whats the best way to transition to a new dog food? Most experts recommend transitioning to a new food gradually starting with about 20-25% new and slowly increasing that amount to a full 100% over a 7 to 10 day period. Be patient and dont rush the transitioning process. Take your time to minimize the chance of GI upset. While switching to a new dog food, my pet developed gas, soft stools or diarrhea. What should I do? If youve transitioned slowly (and with patience) and your dog still develops problems, he may be allergic or intolerant to one of the ingredients in the new recipe. In that case, you may need to cut back on the percentage of new food or stop feeding it altogether. If symptoms continue, it may be necessary to contact your vet. Is it OK to change a dogs food on a routine basis? Since theres no such thing as a perfect dog food, its reasonable to assume every product is deficient or excessive in some way. Too much of one nutrient or too little of another. And many can contain traces of dangerous toxins. So, built-in flaws are magnified when the same food is fed continuously day-in and day-out for a lifetime. By periodically switching dog foods (diet rotation), the unhealthy consequences of these defects can be minimized. Is it OK to feed my dog table food? That depends on what you mean by table food. After all, theres a notable difference between table scraps and leftovers. Leftovers usually include good quality (but surplus) food remaining after a human meal. Table scraps tend to include the fatty trimmings from whole meat. In most cases, fat is a very normal part of most any meaty meal. But table scraps tend to include only the fatty trimmings from whole meat. When you serve fatty waste, youre feeding an above-average concentration of animal fat which can lead to a painful condition known as acute pancreatitis. Whats better canned or dry dog food?

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6/26/2012 8:32 PM

How to Feed a Dog | Frequently Asked Questions

Whats better canned or dry dog food?

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Both canned and dry dog foods each has its own unique benefits and disadvantages. For more information, be sure to read our article, Whats Better Canned or Dry Dog Food. How long does dry dog food stay fresh? With proper storage, dry food can be safely used until it reaches its Best By date. That date can be found printed on the package and is commonly about one year from the date of manufacturer. But the freshness of any dry dog food is unstable and gradually deteriorates over time. So, avoid purchasing or using products as they get closer to their Best By dates. Whats the best way to store a dry dog food? Air and moisture are the enemies of dry dog food. Be sure to store all kibbles in a cool, dry location. Squeeze out any excess air as you seal the open bag. If you prefer to use a resealable container, try to leave the food in its original package inside that container. Or save the bag in a safe location. Thats because the packaging contains critical information needed to identify the product in case of a recall. How long does a canned dog food remain usable? Depending on the brand, canned dog foods are usually good for about three years from the date of manufacturer (and sometimes longer). However, once opened, canned products must be tightly sealed and immediately refrigerated. Opened wet foods can last up to about 3 days in the refrigerator. Any uneaten canned food should be taken away from your pet and discarded no more than 30 minutes after serving.

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6/26/2012 8:32 PM

Are Dogs Carnivores... or Omnivores?

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Are Dogs Carnivores or Omnivores?

Are dogs carnivores or omnivores? And so The Great Debate goes on.

You know, when it comes to choosing a top dog food, you simply have to know the answer to that question. And you need to know the truth. So, if youve already been told dogs are indifferent omnivores with no natural preferences Or that theyre strict carnivores with a built-in aversion to eating fruits and vegetables All scientific evidence clearly points to the fact that

Dogs Have a Natural and Undeniable Carnivorous Bias From DNA studies, we know dogs evolved directly from the timber wolf somewhere around 15,000 years ago1. And, of course, it should come as no surprise wolves are clearly carnivores. So, by their very genetic pedigree, dogs also demonstrate similar and noticeable carnivorous traits. Their teeth, their digestive systems and their behavior clearly confirm this fact. Yet dogs must also be recognized for their significant omnivorous ability. After all, they do have the ability to eat a remarkably diverse diet. But its inappropriate to ignore the fact their bodies are optimized for eating meat.

Dogs Dont Grind They Chop For comparison, think about a typical herbivore. A dairy cow. Now, picture the way they chew their cud. Cows chew widely from side-to-side. And they have broad, flat back teeth. And flat teeth are ideal for grinding grains and plant material into finer particles. True omnivores (like humans) share this same combination of boxy back teeth and sideways grinding motion common to herbivores. Think of your own mouth and how you chew. Dogs, on the other hand, dont have flat teeth. Like all carnivores, they have narrow pointy back teeth. Plus dogs cant chew from side-to-side. Their jaws can only move in an up-and-down, chop-chop motion. Its the perfect combination for cutting meat into smaller chunks.

Why Dogs Dont Do Carbohydrates Very Well Now, herbivores and omnivores usually have one powerful digestive weapon carnivores usually lack Salivary amylase. Amylase is a special enzyme plant-eating animals produce in their saliva. Its a critical enzyme needed to initiate the break down of starchy carbohydrates. Before they enter the stomach. Now, meat-eating animals also produce amylase. But the enzyme is produced further down the digestive tract (in the small intestine). Without amylase, a carnivores carbohydrate digestion is decidedly more difficult.

Digestive Anatomy Reveals the Truth Since they consume fewer but larger meals, carnivores have bigger stomachs than their grazing, plant-eating counterparts. Whats more, meat-eating animals exhibit a higher concentration of stomach acid. This allows faster digestion of animal protein.

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Are Dogs Carnivores... or Omnivores?

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And the stronger acid kills the disease-causing bacteria abundant in decaying meat. Plus Herbivores have a gastrointestinal tract thats unusually long sometimes exceeding ten times the animals body length. Longer systems like this are needed for consuming a plant-based diet.

Todays Confusing Dog Food Marketplace Welcome to the Age of Choice Yet in spite of this natural carnivorous design, dogs have still managed to evolve over thousands of years even surviving on the meat and non-meat scraps and leftovers of human existence. So, over time, dogs have proven to be fully capable of thriving on a variety of foods. Today, the dog food marketplace has become a living, breathing witness to the animals adaptive ability and is abounding with an astonishing array of product designs. Some favor meat. Some feature vegetables. And others are made almost entirely of cereal grains and beans. So, how do you choose the right one for your pet?

The Bottom Line Just knowing dogs are naturally optimized for eating meat can make it much easier to spot better dog foods. Even though vegetarian dog foods have been proven to work, its important to always give preference to meat-based products. Thats because

Whether you believe theyre carnivores or omnivores, dogs possess an undeniable carnivorous bias

Meat-based dog foods are closer to a dogs natural ancestral diet. Theyre more like the real thing. Thats why meat ingredients should always be the first thing you should look for on any dog foods ingredients list.

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INTERPRETING DOG FOOD LABELS - Ingredient Glossary - Chinaroa...

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Ingredient

Action

Alpha Tocopherol Animal Fat

More commonly known as vitamin E Is fat obtained from the tissue of mammals and/or poultry in the commercial process of rendering or extracting Source of vitamin C which helps prevent common diseases, anaemia and haemorrhage Fat derived from beef Substance from plants that the body converts into vitamin A. Also acts as antioxidant and an immune system booster Synthetic fat preservative permitted only at relatively low levels. Has been associated with liver damage, foetal abnormalities and metabolic stress. Also had questionable relationship with cancer Synthetic Preservative permitted only at relatively low levels. Has been associated with liver damage, foetal abnormalities and metabolic stress. Also had questionable relationship with cancer Vitamin essential to cellular metabolism, help metabolise fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Biotin helps prevent anaemia, muscular pain and skin disorders, as well as heart disease. An essential fatty acid, maintaining cell structure and producing energy. Source of imp nutrients i.e. phytosterols and beta-sistosterin as well as phospholipids which aid in digestion of fats Small fragments of rice kernels that have been separated from the larger kernels of milled rice. Is the dried, non-fermentive, non-extracted yeast that results as a by-product of the brewing of beer and ale The unpolished rice left over after the kernels have been removed. Pure form of limestone that is ground into powder. Source of calcium, necessary for bones and teeth to help prevent osteoporosis. Also useful for the temporary relief of occasional indigestion Source of calcium as well as good source of nutritional iodine which is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and metabolic regulation

Ascorbic Acid Beef Tallow Beta-Carotene

BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) Biotin

Borage Oil

Brewers Rice Brewers Yeast

Brown Rice Calcium Carbonate

Calcium Iodate

Calcium Pantothenate

Also called coenzyme A, an important metabolic cofactor. Source of calcium as well as part of B-Complex group of vitamins which is vital for many essential body processes such as the proper functioning of the adrenal glands & production of steroid hormones. Pantothenic acid is required for the conversion of fat and sugar into energy. Source of calcium which is easier to absorb than conventional caustic calcium sources. Also used as preservative Rich in complex sugars, minerals & vitamins. Contains tannins, which are well recognised antidiarrheic agents for dogs and cats. Dried carob in combination with dried turmeric, rosemary, fenugreek and kelp help support the skeleton and articulations and help prevent HD.

Calcium Propionate

Carob

Chicken

Clean combination of flesh and skin with or without accompanying bone, derived from the parts or whole carcasses of chicken or a combination thereof exclusive of feathers, heads, feet and entrails. Consists of the ground, rendered and clean parts of carcass of slaughtered poultry such as necks, feet, undeveloped eggs and intestines without feathers Fat obtained from tissue of chicken. Source of energy and high quality fat providing 20% to 30% essential fatty acids utilized for a healthy skin and coat.

Chicken By-Product Meal Chicken Fat

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essential fatty acids utilized for a healthy skin and coat. Chicken Meal Dry ground clean combination of chicken flesh and skin with or without bones, exclusive of feathers, heads, feet and entrails, derived from the parts of whole carcass of chicken. Natural Preservative. Is an organic acid, widely found in fruits, which effectively bonds to many minerals and trace nutrients acting as a very effective transporter across gastrointestinal mucosa. Increases rate of growth and decreases the fat content in the liver (vitamin B4) A mucopolysaccharide extracted from animal cartilage, that has anti-inflammatory properties. Helps alleviate arthritic symptoms Mineral Supplement Important for the haemoglobin system, reproduction and a healthy skin Is the by-product after the manufacture of corn syrup or star and is direct residue after removal of the bran, germ and starch. The entire corn kernel ground or chopped. Put through drying process, then cleaned, steamed & outer hull removed. Degermination occurs leaving only the endosperm, which is passed through rollers & broken into granules D-activated Animal Sterol Dehydrated Chicken Source of vitamin D3, which helps with the absorption of calcium and phosphorus necessary for healthy bones and teeth. Clean, fresh chicken flesh, from carcass free of skin, bones, feathers, heads, feet and entrails. Dried at max temp of 85 degrees C to avoid denaturation of the protein as well as deterioration of the fat, providing high protein efficiency ratio (PER) levels Natural supplement which supplies essential calcium and phosphate requirements of dog and cats Natural amino acid which serves as a urinary acidifier. Is indispensable to maintain liver function and a lack of may lead to hepatopathy and nephropathy Is the residue resulting from the extraction of simple sugars in the manufacture of table sugar, with no or little sucrose left in it. Causes no sharp rise in blood glucose levels and provides most of its energy in form of volatile fatty acids. Also relatively good source of calcium This is a dried fruit used as a stimulant for the whole organism. It increases blood flow, tones the nervous system, revives appetite and helps respiration. Source of added enzymes (biotechnology) in the form of Bacillus Subtilis, Aspergillus Niger and Aspergillus Oryzae In combination with turmeric & fenugreek, reduces the risk of diabetes. Also helps control excess weight when combined with turmeric. A bitter herb, dandelion is an excellent tonic and detox agent. Helps heal skin problems such as eczema Dried Egg Product Refers to eggs that have been removed from their shells for processing. Basic egg products include whole eggs, whites, yolks and various blends, with or without non-egg ingredients that are processed and pasteurized. The seeds and occasionally the roots and stems are utilized. Helps gas evacuation, and is also mild expectorant and diuretic Dried Fenugreek One of oldest medicinal plants used to help in treating anaemia, diabetes and weight loss. Also excellent tonic and good hypoglycaemic compound. Known to promote milk production This root helps gas evacuation produced by gastrointestinal fermentation. Also used as expectorant, anti-emetic (prevents vomiting) and can be used as antidote to several food toxins Increases appetite, improves digestion and promotes healthy skin and coat. Excellent source of protein-bound iodine, which is important for healthy nervous system and for endocrine functions i.e. reproduction and immunity. Contains over 60 digestible chelated minerals Its essential oils are recognised for their antioxidant properties. Helps detoxify cardiovascular and hepatic (liver) systems. Also increases bile production, which favours the digestion of fats Dried Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Extract Dried Turmeric Mannanoligosaccharides are derived from this, which are important modulators of gastrointestinal health. Effects include exclusion of pathogenic bacteria (harmful) from the gastrointestinal tract, also enhances digestive function & stimulates immune system Multiple functions include protecting the liver, increasing bile secretion and help to prevent gall bladder stones. This herb is also anti-arthritic (anti-inflammatory) A chemical preservative that is used to prevent spoilage in dog food. Source of iodine which is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland (metabolic regulation) Iron supplement. Provides iron needed by body to produce red blood cells. Used to help treat/prevent iron deficiency anaemia, caused by pregnancy, poor diet etc. Clean, dried & ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish or fish cuttings which may or may not have

Citric Acid

Choline Chloride Chondroitin Sulphate

Cobalt Carbonate Copper Sulphate/Proteinate Corn Gluten Meal

Corn Meal

Dicalcium Phosphate DL-methionine

Dried Beet Pulp

Dried Cayenne

Dried Corn Fermentation soluble product Dried Dandelion

Dried Fennel

Dried Ginger

Dried Kelp

Dried Rosemary

Ethoxyquin Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide Ferrous Sulphate

Fish Meal

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Fish Meal

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Clean, dried & ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish or fish cuttings which may or may not have oil removed Has impact by influencing metabolism, intracellular enzymes, protein synthesis and malignant cell proliferation

Flax Meal

Flaxseed

Source of Omega 3 & Omega 6 fatty acids. In a ratio of 1:5 or 1:10 shown to reduce the production of plasma and neutrophils, the latter being inflammatory mediators in skin. Also reduces possible skin irritation. Omega 3 also shown to help prevent coronary heart disease, hypertension & mellitus, non-insulin dependant diabetes, renal disease, rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis in some patients. Important in the cellular reproduction and formation of choline Selective stimulation of the growth of Bifidobacteria, thus modifying the composition of the colonic microbiota. Also has additional nutritional properties on digestive physiological parameters like colonic pH and stool bulking.

Folic Acid Fructooligosaccharides

Glucosamine (sulphate/hydrochloride) Ground Corn

Is a mucopolysaccharide compound with anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate arthritic symptoms. Also keeps joints healthy for optimal cartilage development Entire ground clean corn kernel. Nutrience uses pre-extruded ground clean kernels which increase starch digestibility (good source of starch) Entire ground clean wheat kernels including bran, germ and starch The entire barley kernel, ground or chopped

Ground Wheat Ground Whole Grain Barley

Ground Whole Grain Sorghum The grain of the sorghum plant, ground or chopped Inositol Is primarily used in the treatment of liver problems, depression, panic disorder and diabetes. Also aids in the breakdown of fats, helps in the reduction of blood cholesterol Important for cellular respiration and oxygen carrier An amino acid that releases human growth hormone and enhances fat metabolism. Helps reduce body fat & increase lean tissue mass, creating positive effects such as muscle protection during calorie restriction (i.e. when dieting) A rich nutrient that lowers blood cholesterol levels. It is believed that it strengthens arteries thus controlling blood pressure. Also helps reduce the fat content within arterial walls Is a key amino acid needed for growth, tissue repair and production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes. Essential amino acid and metabolic precursor to serotonin. Serotonin acts as a chemical messenger or neurotransmitter in the central nervous system & appears to affect the sleep/wake state of arousal. Lutein is first considered to be essential for proper eye function & vision. Also powerful antioxidant that helps maintain a strong immune system defending against the risk of disease Chelated source of manganese which is important for fat metabolism, reproduction, active enzymes & help produce ossein Source of manganese which is important for fat metabolism, reproduction, active enzymes & help produce ossein Source of manganese which is important for fat metabolism, reproduction, active enzymes & help produce ossein Clean flesh of slaughtered animals (chicken, cattle, lamb, turkey, etc.). The flesh can include striated skeletal muscle, tongue, diaphragm, heart, esophageus, overlying fat and the skin, sinew, nerves and blood vessels normally found with that flesh. Clean parts of slaughtered animals, not including meat. These include lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain, liver, blood, bone, and stomach and intestines freed of their contents. It does not include hair, horns, teeth, or hooves. Source of Vitamin K activity which is useful for good blood coagulation

Iron Proteinate L-arginine L-carnitine

Lecithin

L-lysine

L-tryptophan

Lutein

Manganese Proteinate

Manganese Sulphate

Manganous Oxide

Meat

Meat By-Products

Menadione Sodium Bisulphate Complex Niacin

More commonly known as vitamin B3. Helps maintain good growth, coenzyme, & transformation of fat, carbohydrates and proteins

Peanut Hulls Potassium Chloride Potassium Iodide

The outer hull of the peanut shell In trace amounts is essential for the electrical conduction that makes muscles and nerves work Is 76.5% iodine which is essential for proper functioning of the thyroid gland (metabolism regulation) as well as source of potassium which is important in controlling the activities of the heart, muscles, nervous system etc.

Poultry By-Products

Clean parts of slaughtered poultry such as heads, feet, and internal organs (like heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, abdomen, and intestines). It does not contain feathers.

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kidneys, abdomen, and intestines). It does not contain feathers. Propyl Gallate Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Synthetic Preservative Source of vitamin B6. Important in the protein transformation. Helps to transform linoleic acid into arachidonic acid. Riboflavin Source of vitamin B2. Helps prevent neurological disorders, opacification of the cornea and maintains healthy skin and coat. The pericarp or bran layer and germ of rice Finely granulated powder made by grinding and sifting a long grain variety of rice unless otherwise specified. Its essential oils are recognised for their antioxidant properties. Helps detoxify cardiovascular and hepatic (liver) systems. Also increases bile production, which favours the digestion of fats A natural mineral, necessary for life and good health Known to be effective in the removal of extrinsic tooth stains Similar to vitamin E functions. Helps prevent diseases such a muscular dystrophy and myocardosis Grinding of the soybeans after the chemical or mechanical extraction of the oil Consists of coarse and fine particles of soy bran and soybean shorts (offal from the tail of the mill from commercial soybean milling) A non-essential sulphur-containing amino acid. Plays important role in bile acid metabolism. Taurine is incorporated into one of the most abundant bile acids, chenodeoxychloic acid where it serves to emulsify dietary lipids in the intestine, promoting digestion More commonly known as vitamin B1 May prevent certain neurological disorders and maintains weight. Can predispose formation of vitamin C in the intestine Naturally occurring compounds used as a natural preservative. Function as antioxidants, preventing the oxidation of fatty acids, vitamins and some other nutrients The product of vegetable origin obtained by extracting the oil from seeds or fruits which are processed for edible purposes Useful for reproduction functions, for healthy skin and coat; helps keep visual system in good health and helps produce antibodies Helps maintain normal concentration of haemoglobin in blood. Helps growth (esp. weaning period), & formation of choline and methionine Vitamin D3 Supplement Helps the absorption of calcium and phosphorus necessary for healthy bones and teeth. Also prevents rachitis. Useful for the reproduction function. It is a natural fat preservative. For improved gastrointestinal function resulting in improved feed efficiency. Coverts the more or less indigestible and insoluble proteins, starches and grains into a more ready form for assimilation, resulting in a greater release of energy. Yeast changes tough starch cells into easily digested sugars Yucca Schidigera Extract Contains steroidal saponines (inner bark) which are "uresase inhibitors", reducing the activity of enzymes responsible for converting urea to ammonia which is responsible for the odours in dogs and cats faeces. Also good for arthritis, arthrosis, gut & kidney problems. Zinc Methionine Complex Zinc Oxide Is vital in several enzyme system and is important in such functions as proper growth, reproductive capacity, immune response and bone and skeletal soundness. Prepared by oxidation of pure zinc or by roasting zinc ore. Necessary to maintain healthy skin and hair. Important for the body metabolism, coenzymes, calcification and helps remove vitamin A from the hepatic content Chelated source of zinc which is necessary to maintain healthy skin and hair. Important for the body metabolism, coenzymes, calcification and helps remove vitamin A from the hepatic (liver) content.

Rice Bran Rice Flour

Rosemary Extract

Salt Sodium Hexametaphosphate Sodium Selenite Soybean Meal Soybean Mill Run

Taurine

Thiamin Thiamine Mononitrate

Tocopherols - mixed (vitamin C & E) Vegetable Oil

Vitamin A Acetate / Supplement Vitamin B12 Supplement

Vitamin E Supplement Yeast Culture

Zinc Proteinate

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