There are many options available on the dog food market today. You can choose everything from plain, dry kibble (which is not recommended) to dehydrated treats to fresh ingredients. With so many options available, should you consider choosing fresh dog food for your canine?
In many cases, the answer is yes. There are many health benefits to choosing fresh ingredients for your dog’s meals.
Of course, some dogs are going to benefit more from fresh ingredients than others. Here are some situations where choosing fresh ingredients may be particularly helpful.
Dogs with Allergies
Many dogs today are allergic to various food ingredients. If your dog has food allergies, you know how hard it can be to find a food they can eat. Many kibbles on the market contain a vast list of ingredients, which inevitably includes the foods your dog can’t eat.
Luckily, fresh dog foods typically don’t include as many ingredients as some other options. Because of this, you may find it easier to find something they can eat.
For instance, if your dog is allergic to chicken, you may find it very difficult to find a kibble that does not contain chicken or chicken by-product-meals. Many of the recipes on the market include chicken, even if they don’t say it on the front of the bag.
However, most fresh dog foods do not include chicken unless it’s a chicken recipe. Many just include one protein source, making it much easier to find something for your dog to eat.
Picky Eaters
Some dogs just aren’t a fan of processed foods - and who could blame them! In particular, many older canines are picky, but even some younger dogs only eat food that they find appealing.
As you might imagine, fresh ingredients are almost always more appealing to dogs than over-processed kibble. It smells better, looks better, and tastes better. The inclusion of real, whole meat can often turn on even the pickiest eater.
If you struggle with your dog eating, you may want to switch to fresh dog food. This is especially true if you’re already adding plenty of ingredients to your dog’s food to encourage them to eat it. While some pet parents enjoy making their own dog food, others may not have the time or inclination to do so, which makes choosing a fresh dog food a good option.
Older Canines
Many older dogs may benefit from fresh dog food in particular. Older dogs are often experiencing some sort of health problem and a significant loss of energy.
Luckily, fresh dog food can help with many different health complaints older dogs often experience. Most fresh dog foods contain plenty of omega-3s, which can help with your dog’s coat and skin. Vitamin A from fresh veggies leads to brighter and healthier eyes. Plenty of vitamins A and C, as well as zinc from fresh meat, can boost your pet’s immune system - leading to fewer veterinary visits.
Furthermore, fresh, nutrient-packed ingredients can boost your pet’s energy. If your dog seems to be lethargic much of the day but has no underlying health condition, fresh dog food may provide them with the boost they need.
Younger Dogs
Puppies and still-developing dogs are laying down the foundation for the rest of their life. Dogs are what they eat, and this is especially true for puppies. Proper nutrition can prevent health problems down the road, while low-quality food can create nutritional deficiencies and health problems as your pet ages.
If you want your pet to live a long and happy life, you may want to consider switching them to fresh dog food.
Of course, make sure the particular food you choose is formulated for puppies. Most fresh dog foods are suitable for all life stages, but you should still double-check before making your final decision.
Dogs with Underlying Health Conditions
The fresh meats and veggies in fresh dog food can help dogs with specific diseases and disorders. You may want to speak to your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet, especially if your pet has a dietary condition. However, fresh dog food may be exactly what your pooch needs. There are several great options that have convenient delivery and make it easy to order dog food with fresh ingredients.
Fresh dog food isn’t a miracle pill. However, it may be useful for dogs with certain skin conditions, arthritis, and other common ailments. These are most common among older canines, but they can strike younger dogs as well.
Should I Get a Fresh Dog Food
Practically any canine can benefit from a fresh food diet. However, dogs that are already not in their best health may gain particular benefits.
While fresh dog food may cost a bit more, it is often the perfect choice.
Submitted by Cliff Small
