Dogs aren’t strict carnivores. While it’s true they need meat to survive, they can also derive nutrients from plant matter.
In fact, most kibbles contain fresh or raw vegetables such as green peas, pumpkin, apples, and carrots, all of which are high in fiber.
Do you have a pup? Want to learn more about how to pick the healthiest dog food?
If so, you’re on the right page. We’ll be going over some essential Dog Food For Shih Tzu that you should look for below.
To find out what they are, be sure to read the rest of the post!
1. Meat
All dogs—and that includes all popular dog breeds—require animal-based proteins to grow and thrive. Some examples include beef, fish, pork, chicken, duck, turkey, and rabbit.
Keep in mind, however, that they do vary slightly in terms of nutritional value. Take turkey, for example, it’s loaded with natural minerals such as potassium, iron, zinc, and phosphorus. Not only that, but it’s rich in B vitamins.
Pork, on the other hand, tends to be extremely high in fat, which can lead to liver problems.
Note: Most dog foods (even the top dog food brands) contain ‘meat meal’, a high-protein meat product that’s cooked, processed under high heat, and dehydrated.
2. Carbohydrates
Dogs are able to convert carbohydrates into simple sugars, which can then be used as energy. Generally speaking, they make up anywhere between 30 to 70 percent of dry dog food. Check here about Superfood Complete coupon code.
Keep in mind, however, that not all carbs are created equal. Ideally, you want to opt for high-quality carbohydrates such as oats, brown rice, sweet potato, or barley.
Avoid lower quality carbs such as corn and soy (they’re considered to be bad ingredients in dog food). Not only are the crops usually covered in pesticides, but they’re also one of the most genetically modified foods on the planet.
3. Fats
Fats and oils are necessary for proper cell function; they provide the necessary essential fatty acids to maintain healthy skin and a strong immune system. Not only that, but they’ll also help keep their coats healthy and shiny.
For healthy adult dogs, the recommended amount is 10 to 15% fat (of their total diet). Some good choices include fish oils, olive oil, sunflower oil, flaxseed oil, canola oil, and cod liver oil.
Chicken fat is also good for dogs in moderation. Not only is it high in omega-6 fatty acids, but it’s also a natural source of vitamin E. Too much of it, however, can cause pancreatitis. In addition to that, it can lead to weight gain.
Choosing the Best Dog Food Ingredients
Dog food ingredients vary from brand to brand. That’s why it’s so important to do your research before buying a kibble. Ideally, it should contain a healthy amount of meat, carbohydrates, and fats.
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