Dog Information: Critical for Better Dog Food Choices
Although the dog is considered to be man's best friend and his most loyal and faithful companion, little thought is given to how they are fed. This is because feeding responsibility is often dismissively reduced to the habit of keeping a steady supply of dry pellets and/or food tins. However, those who truly care for their furry friend should take feeding seriously by getting dog products which guarantee a dog's health.
To be fair, the reason why the dominant brands of dog products continue to sell is because of the convenience they give dog owners. Dry dog food can be left out for days in the feeding dish, which means there is no need to watch over the dog to ensure he finishes his meal. He or she can merely come and go at his stomach's urging. Canned food on the other hand, keeps fresh unopened and ensures a moist and tasty meal no matter how long they're been in the pantry.
That said there are some who would contend that natural dog food is merely a trendy fad spawned from the same hippie urges that have made organic produce and fair trade so fashionable. The reality of the matter is that the convenience of commercial dog food comes at a price. Most brands are filled with disgusting animal by-products, unhealthy gluten and other components not suitable for consumption by dogs.
The lack of attention which dog product manufacturers as well as consumers give towards dog information also impedes our collective ability to ensure the well-being of our canine companions. Because no two dogs have the same physiology, it is critical to have access to dog information from a veterinarian or an animal nutritionist to ensure that your dog is fed the right type of dog products, as various brands use different components that may have varying effects on your dog.
These obstacles can be overcome simply by purchasing dog food from a company that puts a premium on dog information by emphasizing simplicity of product and transparency of manufacturing. A good example of such a company is Honest Kitchen, which attempts to find a realistic place between health and convenience through dog food products made from dehydrated natural ingredients that only require rehydration to serve. They are notable for their track record of comprehensive ingredient reporting which has earned them the approval of consumer and environmental watchdog groups.
Canidae Dog Food, on the other hand, specializes in wholesome meals that have all the storage convenience of both types of dog food, but with all the aesthetic qualities of human grade food. Their products are free of preservatives, hormones, animal by-products and chemical additives. This is further accounted for on their website, which speaks truth to power by listing all the ingredients and components used in their products.
This article attempts to shed light on the lack of attention given to dog health by most dog owners by describing how many dog food companies benefit from a lack of attention to dog information. To that end, consumers have a responsibility to educate themselves on their dog's nutritional needs and support companies such as Honest Kitchen and Canidae Dog Food which recognize the value of consumer knowledge.
Published November 6th, 2009
Filed in Family