Every day, veterinarians are asked about what is the best type of pet food to give to their dog or cat. Every pet owner wants to give their furry friend the best possible care, but many people get overwhelmed and confused when faced by the sheer variety of pet food brands that are available. On top of all the brands and labels, experts offer conflicting information on the healthiest types of pet foods.
There has been considerable debate over kibble versus “human” food for animals. If you’re concerned about the quality of your pet’s canned food, you can rest assure that there ARE good brands available, you just have to check the label! The best pet food is made from real, whole ingredients that you can recognize and pronounce. It’s best to avoid foods that are made with preservatives or artificial flavors. Always check to make sure that specific meats or meat meal (a highly digestible protein) are listed as the primary ingredient, not just the generic “meat”. A good pet food should include the following:
- Beef, chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, bison, pheasant, salmon, or venison
- A variety of vegetables, and sometimes fruits
- If grains are present, they should be low on the list of ingredients
If you see nutritional supplements or probiotics (which aid in digestion) on the ingredient list, don’t worry. Reputable pet food companies will provide an explanation on the label and state how each ingredient benefits your pet. Here are some of the best brands of pet food for your best friend:
Nature’s Valley – offers kibbles, canned, frozen, and freeze-dried food. Their raw and canned foods are made out of 95% meat and 5% fruits and vegetables.
Steve’s Real Food – this brand carries raw foods, which are available in both frozen and freeze-dried varieties. The food comes in chicken, turkey, or beef blends.
Wysong – this dog food brand carries single meats and blended food diets that are formulated for age and lifestyle.
Solid Gold Northwest – this company has been in business since 1974 and claims to be the first natural dog food company in the United States. In addition to their whole meats and non-allergenic grains, their kibble contains garlic for good heart health and parasite reduction.
Dr. Harveys.com – produces all-natural products for dogs, cats, and birds. This company uses only human consumption ingredients, and are all-natural and free of preservatives.
If you are concerned about keeping your pet happy and healthy, do you research before you buy pet food! Remember that a good manufacturer will always welcome inquiries from customers, so don’t be hesitant to call your pet food company and inquire about their ingredients!
