When Bruno and Lukas came into our lives, one of our main concerns was how to provide them with a healthy lifestyle that would allow them to have energy and be with us for many years.
In our home, food is essential. We love to cook, eat delicious food and we take great care of the type of food we eat. This could not be different for our furry friends.
One of the most common debates in the world of canine nutrition revolves around feed or kibble.
For years, the idea has been promoted that dry food or kibble is the ideal diet for dogs, under the premise that they are formulated to offer a perfect nutritional balance and are very convenient since they are easily found in supermarkets.
However, not all feeds are created equal, and choosing carefully is essential to ensure proper nutrition.
Dogs, descendants of wolves, are carnivores by nature. This means that their diet should be meat-based. However, many kibbles contain a high proportion of cereals, meat by-products, and preservatives, elements that are not part of a carnivore's natural diet.
What causes this in our puppies?
Nowadays, statistics show that more and more dogs are suffering from diseases such as obesity, allergies, digestive problems, cancer...
Due to ignorance, or because that is what we have been taught, we have been giving them ultra-processed foods that are not in keeping with their nature, that are causing inflammation, making them sick, and diminishing their quality of life and the time they spend with us.
While it may be tempting to select a feed simply for its convenience, it is crucial, and unfortunate, to understand that most brands do not meet the necessary nutritional standards.
However, not everything is bad, it is also true that there are certain exceptions. The important thing is that as responsible parents of furry friends we can learn to read labels and understand what we are feeding our dogs.
One of the first things to look for on a good quality dog food label is the protein source. Since dogs are carnivores, it is crucial that the food contains an animal protein source as the main ingredient (such as chicken, beef, lamb) and contains a lower proportion of grains or by-products. This is closer to a natural and balanced diet for your dog.
Unfortunately, many commercial feeds choose to use cereals as the main component, because it is cheaper to produce these foods, so it may not be the most beneficial choice for the health of our furry friends and may cause stomach irritations and allergies.
Ultimately, remember that choosing the right food is an investment in your furry friend's continued health and happiness. In the medium term, this will save you countless trips to the vet, spending on medication and will determine your dog's longevity.
Knowledge is power, by learning to read labels and understand the importance of a quality protein source, you can make informed choices that contribute to your dog's vitality and longevity.
Always remember to consult with your veterinarian to customize your dog's diet according to his specific needs.