How do I know if dog food meets nutritional standards?
Written by
Elin Eriksson
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Determining whether your dog food meets standards begins with the AAFCO statement on the package. Suppose the food provides complete and balanced nutrition for certain life stages, such as growth or adult maintenance. In that case, the AAFCO statement will be given. The statement guarantees that the food provides the right amount of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals, and is free of dangerous deficiencies.
AAFCO Statement
- Must specify 'complete and balanced' for intended life stage
- Look for 'formulated to meet levels established by AAFCO'
- Avoid foods with 'for intermittent feeding' only statements
- Confirm it matches your dog's age and activity level
Guaranteed Analysis
- Minimum protein: 22%+ for adults, 28%+ for puppies
- Minimum fat: 8%+ for adults, 12%+ for puppies
- Maximum fiber: 5% to prevent digestive issues
- Calcium-phosphorus ratio: 1.2:1 for bone health
Ingredient Quality
- First ingredient should be named animal protein
- Whole grains/vegetables preferred over by-products
- Natural preservatives like vitamin E instead of BHA
- Avoid artificial colors or flavor enhancers
The AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement is your best indicator of quality. I find several brands lacking this during my clinical inspections. Without this, the food may be lacking in essential nutrients. Always ensure that this statement aligns precisely with your dog's life stage requirements.
Be on the lookout for red flags such as vague ingredient terms. The term 'meat by-products' could refer to parts of inferior quality. The term 'chicken by-product meal' indicates a better quality of chicken. Check the dates on the food, as outdated items may lose their nutritional value. I have observed in my practice that many dogs receiving outdated food exhibit vitamin deficiencies.
For specific instances such as allergies or situations, you should consult your veterinarian. They may recommend therapeutic diets that satisfy AAFCO standards with unique and particular formulations. I would routinely prescribe kidney support foods with modified phosphorus levels for patients with renal diseases.
Don't forget that independent verification is important too. Check the transparency on the manufacturer's website for any research or nutritional information, as well as any quality certifications. Brands utilizing feeding trials offer more reassurance. I tend to trust companies that publish their findings scientifically and without censorship.
Read the full article: Dog Food Ingredients: The Essential Guide
