Being a dog parent is fulfilling, especially when your pet is thriving and happy. One of your obligations is to feed it and choose what is best for their diet, health, and enjoyment because they don’t get to make that choice. Luckily, you have plenty of options, especially with the availability of different types of foods for dogs. But choosing the ideal food for your dog can also be challenging. Before comparing fresh and raw food, here are some considerations to remember.
Activity level: service and working dogs have different nutritional requirements than household puppies.
- Age and size: large and older dogs tend to eat more than puppies and small breed dogs.
- Allergies: some dogs are allergic to ingredients such as corn, eggs, soy, wheat, and milk.
- Taste: your dog food has to smell and taste good for your dog to love.
- Your lifestyle: do you have the time to prepare or cook dog food? Raw dog food may be a good solution for your pet if you do not have much time.
- Health: a well-balanced diet is paramount for the health of your pet.
Raw dog food
You can make raw dog food from home, buy it from the shop, and freeze it for storage. Complete raw dog food includes whole or ground bone, muscle meat, organ meats, raw eggs, dog safe, fresh vegetables, and dairy products. Benefits of raw dog food include:
- A shinier coat.
- Improved dental health.
- Healthier skin.
- Smaller stool.
- Increased energy levels.
However, some vets suggest that raw dog food may not be suitable for pets that share their homes with people with compromised immune systems and infants. Alternatively, you can ensure a high level of care when handling these foods. Puppies and dogs with pancreatitis or cancer are better of with cooked food.
When buying raw dog food, ensure it is tested and subjected to a process to eliminate pathogens to ensure your pet’s health. A vet familiar with raw dog foods can guide you in proper handling and sanitation to address any possible health concerns.
Fresh dog food
Fresh dog food is made with natural ingredients like chicken, lamb, beef, spinach, peas, carrots, blueberries, etc. Although fresh foods for your dog demand a lot of time for preparation and cooking, they can significantly contribute to your pet’s health and wellbeing.
Some of the benefits of fresh dog food include:
- Better heart health.
- A shinier coat.
- Better breath smell.
- Improved eyesight.
- Improved stool.
If you want to cook fresh dog food, ensure you use a recipe recommended by a vet nutritionist. Alternatively, you can use a fresh dog food delivery service or work with a vet to formulate a custom food plan for your dog. Ensure you understand the ingredients, preparation, and how to keep the food fresh.
The bottom line
Your dog food choice depends on many aspects, including your lifestyle and personal preference. Raw dog food is more convenient if you don’t have the time to cook fresh dog food.
