Things to Consider When Choosing Natural Dog Food

When choosing natural dog food there are other aspects to consider. Some pet owners prefer dry also known as kibble. Some choose a diet which may consists of organic or natural products. This diet may include raw foods otherwise known as B. A. R. F or biologically appropriate raw food diet.

It is the nature of wild animals to consume the internal organs of prey and other dead animals as many of the nutrients needed are found in the linings of these organs as well as the organs. While eating grains and rice is not a normal part of their diet, the minerals, vitamins useful for energy are obtained in the wild.

Packaged diets (or kibble) is made up of what is called meal (namely meat and bone product of various animals). Meal simply means products which are not sold fresh. They consist of parts of the animal not fit for human consumption including feathers, hair, leather, gristle and fecal waste.

To process meal involves the rendering of all the animal-by-product by boiling. Boiling separates the fat-soluble from the water and solid materials. This process often does not destroy additional drugs and hormones used to cure livestock of illness and or to fatten up livestock. Nor does the process destroy any drugs used for euthanasia.

Most healthy dogs are active and of good temperament. Insufficient nutrition can not only slow them down but create digestive problems. The optimum diet is one which supplies the necessary vitamins and minerals to maintain energy levels is a good choice.

When considering the option of an organic way in feeding pets. Organic is a method of producing foods. Organic standards are different. These are natures foods but not all natures foods are organic.

Organic does not contain pesticides, herbicides. It also is void of the chemical preservatives, artificial colors, and antibiotics. There are standards for dog foods labeled organic. It is required that human-grade meats be used. This adds to the vitamin and mineral content which is usually very high.

Natural diets can be frozen, freeze-dried or dehydrated. Standards require these foods be processed as little as possible before allowing this to be appear on labeling.

In considering a diet more biologically appropriate, the frozen food option may be best. This contains the highest level of nutrition as it is not processed by heat in any way. However, this diet should be refrigerated which may be an inconvenience to pet owners as storage may be limited. Just as the organic diet, this diet can be costly.

A convenient option is the freeze-dried diet. This diet is a popular choice because of its convenience. Packets may be stored at room temperature and on shelves. The nutritional value remains high in these products.

Dehydrated also retains most of its value. Although vitamin C is depleted during processing. Some owners choose a vitamin C supplement to replace the loss.

Pet owners are faced with many issues to consider when choosing a proper diet for their pet. Although it is more cost effective than other diets it is lower in nutritional value. When choosing natural dog food, pet owners may want to talk to a veterinarian about how to feed their family companion.