Types of foods for dogs: find the best one for your pet
How do you ensure your dog still gets all the nutrition without having to force-feed them? Is there a way to make the meal both healthy and enjoyable? Read on to find out the different types of foods for dogs.
The types of foods for dogs
Generally, across the globe, there are different types of foods for dogs. In fact, a new one is entering the market: the freeze-dried. We are listing out the qualities of each type, so you can pick one according to your dog's preferences and needs.
Dry food or Kibble
This is the most common type of dog food. It is protein-rich, easy to store and comes in many varieties. You can pick from various flavours, like salmon, chicken, turkey etc. and with specific nutritional value mentioned in the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement behind the package, based on your dog's breed or size.
If your dog is allergic or sensitive to certain foods, you can check for hypo-allergenic specifications, and find it easily at any store. If you are looking for food that is economical, easily available and also caters specifically to your dog’s health conditions, this could be the one for you.
Canned food
Canned food is usually slightly moist and is best for dogs who eat soon or don’t chew properly. Some dogs develop acid reflux or bloating due to this habit. This could cause digestive issues in the long run. Moist food needs less chewing and could work as a great solution in this case.
Semi-moist
Among the types of foods for dogs, the semi-moist is the type that mostly comes in the form of treats and works best if it is given as an occasional snack. It comes in many flavours and can be a fun snack for training or pampering the pooch. One example is Nature's Variety cooked bars, that are prepared with natural ingredients for a complementary pet food snack.
Raw food
Raw food is perhaps the most timeless among the types of foods for dogs that has existed for centuries. Evolutionary traits allow dogs to eat raw meat. They have strong stomach acids and short intestines that make it possible for them to digest raw meat.
But some dogs (tiny ones or specific breeds) might have trouble chewing through it. There is also the fear of salmonella with chicken meat. So it’s always best to consult with a vet before starting a raw meat diet for your dog.
Freeze-dried
Freeze-dried dog food is the latest in the market and seems like a breakthrough so far thanks to its minimal disadvantage and major benefits! Lyophilisation or freeze drying is where you freeze the meat, and reduce moisture level using pressure tools. This is done to make it easily storable without actually compromising any of the nutrition in it.
This is a great alternative to frozen raw food, which can be stored for long periods. It is protein-rich, more nutritional than kibble, and is a meal by itself. This was made keeping in mind the benefits of all types of dog food and eliminating the disadvantages of each type. Here are also three of our top picks for you to try out:
- Nature’s Variety meat bites serve as the perfect treat for training your dog!
- Nature’s Variety’s chicken-flavoured food is wholesome and serves as a meal by itself.
- Meat chunks for dogs who love Nature’s Variety a little too much. Serves perfectly as a treat or a meal, this is delicious and filled with nutrients for your fur baby.
Do you have doubts about which of these types of foods for dogs is the best one for your pets? Consider making a list of their eating habits and health preferences. Examine the traits of each type and compare them with your dog's nutritional needs. Consider alternating between these types based on your dog’s consumption habits and health needs. Freeze-dried food is our current favourite due to its benefits and easy maintenance. Make sure to consult with a vet while evaluating your options!