Grain Free Puppy Food Buyer’s Guide
There are two key ingredients to zero in when it comes to the best grain free puppy food: protein and fat content.
Puppies require at least 22% protein in their diet to ensure healthy growth and development. The higher the protein content, the better.
But do not just rely on just about any protein sources. It should mainly come from animal sources instead of plant-based since the latter is not easily digested by their bodies. Animal sources such as turkey and fish also contain complete protein with all of the required essential amino acids.
Next to protein, you need to make sure your pooch gets healthy fat daily. Essential fatty acids from salmon or chicken fat support a healthy coat and skin. These good fats also help with metabolism. The body converts fat into energy to promote endurance, stamina, and agility.
Is Grain Free Dog Food Better for Puppies?
The answer depends on your pet’s condition.
If your young pooch suffers from digestive problems such as diarrhea, loose stools, or flatulence, these are signs of food sensitivities. The same holds true with chronic ear infections, rashes, scratching, and itching.
This is why it is best to steer clear of grains such as wheat and corn and opt for grain free dog food for puppies as these ingredients only make things worse for your furry friend.
Features to Look for in a Grain Free Puppy Food
Not all grain free dog foods are created equal.
It takes a lot of research and understanding on what your pet truly needs to help you determine the best grain free dog food to buy.
Here are important features you need to look into before you buy.
More Protein and Fat, Less Carbohydrates
Carbs are mainly utilized as a secondary energy source. Protein and fat, on the other hand, are essential nutrients that your puppy needs for lean muscles, healthy weight, and proper development. Good sources of protein include wild-caught salmon and free-range Turkey or chicken because of their excellent protein to fat ratio content.
Natural Ingredients
Be sure to read the label. If you see a long list of odd ingredients such as BHT, BHA, propylene glycol, ethoxyquin, food dyes, grain meals, and the like, keep looking. Your puppy does not need these nasty substances. Instead, look for all-natural, superfood, and quality protein sources.
Yes to Probiotics
Probiotics protect your growing puppy’s gut and support better digestion. These also help with allergies and infections characterized by rashes, itching, and loose stools. Be sure there are probiotics to the dog foods you buy. This way, little Fido’s intestinal flora is well-protected for stronger resistance against illnesses.
Check for Antioxidants
Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that wreak havoc to your puppy’s body and overall health. These include carotenoids, flavonoids, and quercetin that strengthen the body and make it less prone to diseases. This is why you need to look for natural ingredients that contain high antioxidant levels such as blueberries, kale, spinach, apples, and the like. These whole foods offer holistic health to your puppy without compromising the body.
Bite-Size is Best
Puppies with teeth issues can benefit from eating softer and smaller kibbles. While wet food is easier to digest, dry food is often more convenient to many pet owners. If you do decide to feed your little pooch dry food, be sure it is bite-size instead of big chunks of pellets. You can also soak it in water if your pet has a tough time chewing it.
Simplified Vs. Complex
Food sensitivities often arise when you feed your pet a highly complex meal. This is why it is smarter to stick to simple ingredients. The less ingredient in the list, the better. Go for natural protein, healthy vegetables and fruit, and probiotics. Your pooch is better off with a simplified food than a massive list of over 20 ingredients or so.
How Much Food Should You Give Your Puppy?
This all depends on a number of factors.
Expect your puppy to grow very quickly, so it is important to give as much as it needs. However, between its 4th and 12th month, you need to feed your furry pal the same food - and with the same amount. By doing so, this helps promote a steady growth.
Portion-control is only necessary among large breed puppies as they have a tendency to become overweight due to free-feeding. As for other breeds, the amount of food depends on the age and body weight. You should be able to find feeding recommendations posted on the packages of the dog foods, which are prescribed by vets.
Generally, puppies eat 3 to 4 times a day. But after the 6th month, you can reduce the feeding to 2 meals per day. Make it a point to monitor the weight and condition. The goal is to help your pooch grow properly and not fat.
