Dog lovers are a special breed. We spend hours walking, playing with and caring for our four-legged friends. Nothing makes us happier than seeing them run toward a ball at the park or waking up next to them in the morning. Our special friends deserve the best, but when it comes to their food, most dog owners don’t think twice about picking up a bag of whatever kibble is on sale this week. However, do you really know what’s in your dog’s food, and more importantly, do you know what it’s doing to your dog’s health? Let’s take a look at the most common ingredients found in commercially produced dog foods, what they’re for and why companies use them.
Corn
Corn is the most common ingredient in commercial dog foods. In animals, corn can develop ulcers and deteriorate the lining for the stomach, causing gas, bloating and lameness. If your little baby can easily clear a room when passing gas, it’s not the baby’s fault. It’s most likely the food! If corn or corn products are the first ingredient listed on your dog food, you should consider switching to a brand with meat listed as the first ingredient.
Food Dyes
Food dyes can create a world of problems for animals and people. The most widely used dyes are known carcinogens for humans and animals alike but are still found in the food supply. Food dyes are only used as a marketing tool by making the food look better than it actually is. Why does your dog’s food need to be dyed anyway? Dogs are only concerned with smell not looks.
By-Products
Around 50 percent of every by product of animals used for our human consumption like bones, heads, feet, intestines, lungs and other organs and trimmings are used for pet food, animal feed and other products. This means your beloved pets aren’t getting real meat; they are getting trimmings and organs instead!
Corn Gluten Meal
Corn gluten meal is a cheap way for companies to add protein without using real meat while also absorbing any toxins that may have contaminated the pet food. When processed properly, corn gluten meal can be beneficial in dog food, but it should not be the primary form of protein in a dog’s food. Where the problem comes in is when gluten meal is improperly processed in China and imported to the US for use as filler for pet food. Important: When selecting a quality dog food make sure it is only corn gluten meal processed in the USA and is not the primary source of protein in the food.
Read more about Corn Gluten Meal :
http://www.ehow.com/facts_5585906_cornmeal_gluten-toxicity-dogs.html
http://www.askavetquestion.com/nutrition/corn/
Vitamin Mix
Although all pet foods, even natural brands, contain vitamins, vitamin mixes in commercial pet foods have their share of problems. Not all dog foods are created equal. You will find that High Quality foods made in the USA have good vitamins already added. If you feel you pet needs more, and remembering vitamines supplements are not regulated, always consult your Veterinarian and do research about vitamin supplements before giving your pet anything.
Treats
First, they are mostly manufactured in China or India where standards are lower. In 2007, an additive premix killed many dogs and cats when Chinese companies added melamine in order to increase protein. Treats like rawhide chews are not bad for Fido as long as you again select made in USA. There have been too many problems with pet food items processed in other countries
Research the Best Foods
If you love your dog and want to keep him happy and healthy for many years to come, take a look at the food you’re feeding him. If you don’t know what the ingredients are or recognize them from this list, you may be putting your pets in danger. Consider switching your beloved furry friends to one of the best pet foods to keep them healthy!
