Salmon Dog Food Buyer's Guide
Dogs can suffer from poultry allergy which causes allergic reactions. At the same time, they need their daily intake of protein.
Salmon and other seafood provides a notorious source of protein for your pooch. They are light on the stomach but filled with nutrients and amino acids essential for the healthy immune system. Not only salmon, but most fishes are a rich source of Omega 3 fatty acids which are necessary for healthy skin.
That is why we have provided a list of the best salmon dog food avaliable.
Why Should You Get Salmon Dog Food?
Here are a few reasons why salmon is good for your dog.
- Protein Rich: It has very high-quality protein necessary for all bodily activities. It is a rich source of Omega 3 fatty acid which is essential for the overall health of its skin and joints.
- Amino Acids: Amino acids are required for hormonal health and cartilage building. These are present in abundance in salmon.
- Full of Nutrients: Salmons are also high in rich nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12.
- Low Mercury: According to the FDA, salmon fishes are one of the 5 most common eaten fish that are low in mercury. Therefore, having your pooch eating salmon dog food will minimize mercury overexposure. Prolong exposure to mercury can be detrimental to your pooch's overall wellbeing.
Tips On Choosing A Salmon Dog Food
Salmon is the preferred protein source for dogs that are allergic to meat. But many times, salmon is used in combination with other protein sources.
- Real Salmon: Check the label to find out if the food is made from real salmon/salmon meal and not salmon flavoring. Artificial salmon flavoring will have no health benefits that the real thing has.
- Complete Nutrition: You must ensure that the dog food you choose is wholesome and complete. The calorie content and the nutritional values of the ingredients must match the guidelines laid by the Association of American Feed Control Official's nutritional adequacy. It must be a balanced mix of carbohydrates (such as sweet potatoes), proteins, and essential fats. It should also contain additional benefits of Vitamins A and E, which work as powerful antioxidants.
- Filler-Free: The food must not have any fillers, colors and poor-quality grains like corn, wheat, and soy. It must be free of meat by-products too. Only whole meat must be used in dog foods. Avoid poultry meat if your dog is allergic to it.
- Avoid Artificial Preservatives: Steer clear of dog foods with artificial preservatives. Instead, look for labels that make sure tocopherol and ascorbate as preservatives. They are Vitamin E and Vitamin C which are naturally found in foods. Ensure that the dog food does not contain any BHT, BHA or ethoxyquin.
- Dog Age: You must choose foods according to the age and the energy needs of your pet. Almost all brands are labeled with “Senior” or “Small Breed” to indicate which stage the food is suited for. The AAFCO has regulations on how much calories and protein puppies and senior dogs need.
