Perhaps the #1 question our shelter partners report getting from new fur parents is what dog food to feed their new dog.
Here are our basic recommendations:
- If you know what it is, feed the food they were being fed at the shelter.
- This helps keep their gut settled in this time of big change.
- You don’t have to keep them on this; you can wean them off over a week or so by mixing the old food with the new.
- Pick a dog food you feel good about. Whether it’s the look of the label or if you’re big into the ingredients, many people find that sweet spot between their personal budget and quality.
- Pick a dog food your dog likes to eat. You’ll find out very quickly if you have a picky eater or someone who will eat anything.
Now, for a more complicated answer, there are dog foods for every budget and health goal out there. And honestly, it can be so confusing!
There are raw diets, vegan diets, homemade recipes, wet food, dry food, grain-free, and more.
Let’s break down all the options out there.
Table of contents
Commercial Dog Foods
Dry Food (Kibble)
- Dry food is one of the most popular and economical choices for dog owners.
- It is convenient to store and has a long shelf life.
- Brands like Purina, Royal Canin, and Hill’s offer a variety of formulas catering to different dietary needs and life stages.
Wet Food (Canned)
- Wet food is often more palatable than dry food
- Can be a good option for picky eaters or dogs with dental issues.
- It has a high moisture content, which helps ensure adequate hydration.
- Well-known brands include Blue Buffalo and Wellness.
Semi-Moist Food
- These foods offer a middle ground between dry and wet formats.
- They are often packaged in convenient, portion-controlled packets
- They are a good option for treats or special occasions.
Prescription Diets
- Prescription diets can be crucial for dogs with specific health issues, such as kidney disease or diabetes.
- These are specially formulated under the guidance of veterinarians. Only feed if told to by a vet.
- Popular brands include Royal Canin Veterinary Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet.
Specialty Commercial Diets
Grain-Free Diets
- These diets exclude traditional grain ingredients like wheat and rice, which some believe can be healthier for dogs prone to allergies.
- However, the benefits of grain-free diets are currently under debate among veterinary professionals.
Limited Ingredient Diets
- Designed to minimize food sensitivities, these diets contain fewer ingredients to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
- Only feed if told to by a vet
- Brands like Natural Balance and Blue Buffalo offer specialized formulas.
Home-Cooked Commercial
- Blends the benefits of home-prepared meals with the convenience of commercial products.
- These are excellent choices for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with meals that feel more personalized and fresh without the time commitment required for daily cooking
- Brands such as The Farmers Dog are popular and have launched huge marketing campaigns. (However, we don’t appreciate the kibble-shaming.)
Raw Infused Kibble
- This type of food combines the convenience of kibble with the nutritional benefits of raw food
- Features pieces of freeze-dried raw meat mixed in.
- Brands such as Instinct and Merrick are popular choices.
Alternative Diets
Raw Diet
- A raw diet typically includes raw meat, bones, and organs, along with a selection of fruits and vegetables.
- Proponents argue that it mimics a dog’s natural ancestral diet, offering numerous health benefits.
- Can be labor intensive.
- Uses up a lot of freezer and fridge space, as it must be kept cold.
Home-Cooked Diet
Preparing meals for your dog at home allows you to have complete control over its diet. However, it requires a good understanding of canine nutrition to ensure it is balanced and complete. It can also be very labor intensive.
Therapeutic and Life Stage-Specific Diets
Puppy Diets
Puppies have different nutritional requirements from adult dogs, needing diets rich in calories and nutrients to support their growth and development.
Senior Dog Diets
Older dogs benefit from diets formulated to support joint health and manage weight, as their activity levels tend to decrease with age.
Weight Management Diets
These diets help overweight dogs lose or maintain weight and typically feature higher fiber and lower fat content.
Specialty Foods and Supplements
Organic and Natural Foods
Increasingly popular, organic and natural dog foods are made without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals, offering a potentially healthier option for your dog.
Supplements
While not a food, dietary supplements such as probiotics and omega fatty acids can support a dog’s diet by improving gut health and enhancing coat quality.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Vegetarian and Vegan Diets
Some owners opt for vegetarian or vegan diets for ethical reasons, though these diets must be carefully balanced to ensure they meet all nutritional needs.
Locally Sourced and Eco-Friendly Options
Choosing dog food from local sources or companies that prioritize sustainability can reduce environmental impact and support local economies.
Choosing the Right Food for Your Dog
When choosing a dog food, consider your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and any special health needs. Transitioning to a new food should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset.
If you’re unsure, consider asking your veterinarian when choosing a diet for your dog, especially if your dog has health issues or dietary needs.
With the vast array of dog food options available, finding the right diet for your dog can seem daunting. However, understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks of each type of food will help you make an informed decision.
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