Avoiding Fillers, Artificial Preservatives, and By-Products
This article will discuss how to choose high-quality dog food by avoiding fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products.
By learning what low-quality ingredients are, you can make informed decisions and provide your furry friend with the best nutrition for a healthy and happy life.
Fillers
Fillers are low-quality ingredients used in dog food to bulk up the food and make it cheaper to produce.
Examples include corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients provide little nutritional value and can even harm your dog’s health.
Instead, look for dog foods with high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, which should be listed as the main ingredients.
Artificial Preservatives
Artificial preservatives are added to dog food to extend its shelf life.
Examples include BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin.
These chemicals have been linked to dog health problems and should be avoided whenever possible.
To avoid artificial preservatives, look for dog foods that use natural preservatives, such as vitamin E or rosemary extract.
These ingredients are safe and effective in preserving dog food without the harmful side effects of artificial preservatives.
By-Products
By-products are low-quality animal parts used in dog food, such as organs, beaks, feet, and other body parts.
While some by-products can source valuable nutrients, others are low-quality ingredients with little nutritional value.
To avoid low-quality by-products, look for dog foods that use high-quality animal protein sources, such as chicken, beef, or lamb. These ingredients provide essential nutrients that dogs need to thrive.
Avoid dog foods that rely heavily on by-products as a source of protein.
By selecting foods that prioritize quality ingredients, you can help ensure your dog gets the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.