Five Important Things to Consider When Buying Dog Food

When it comes to feeding your dog, it’s important to choose a quality food that balances nutrients and great flavor. A healthy diet is vital for keeping your dog’s body in good shape and the experts recommend foods with primary ingredients such as real meat like lamb or poultry, and a blend of vitamins for a healthy coat and skin.

Pure Balance, a holistic dry dog food available at Walmart, encourages pet owners to consider the following things when selecting food for their furry friend:

• Age – A puppy has different nutritional needs than an adult dog. To help your pup properly develop, a diet rich in specific nutrients and vitamins is recommended. An older dog may need foods that aid with digestion and weight management.

• Size – It’s important to consider the size of both the dog you’re feeding as well as the kibble going into the bowl. Generally, dry dog food should be proportionate to the size of the animal. Smaller dogs need smaller pieces to chew and digest properly. On the other hand, larger dogs have powerful jaws to easily chew larger pieces of food without causing digestive distress.

• Breed – Some dog breeds are more prone to certain ailments than others. Larger dog breeds such as golden retrievers and German shepherds need a high calcium diet for strong joint development to prevent hip issues later in life. Meanwhile, dachshunds require a diet that promotes lean body mass to help prevent back disease.

• Lifestyle – Highly active dogs (herding, sled, or hunting dogs) who are working for several hours a day typically need more protein in their diet to help build muscles and repair injuries. If your dog isn’t as active, a lower protein diet is healthier.

• Special Needs – Just like humans, dogs can have certain dietary restrictions. Some may develop sensitive skin and stomachs or, in older dogs, diabetes. Choose a product that caters to your dog’s special needs to ensure he is getting the appropriate amount of nutrition.

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