A dog owner trying to choose the best food for their dog must surely wonder how credible dog food reviews are. Every website seems to favor one type or another with equal fervor, so how do you find a credible review?
Check to See Who Owns the Website
If it's owned by a dog food manufacturer, be careful about trusting any customer reviews posted. You will seldom see a negative review and that in itself should be a warning. A satisfied customer will write a glowing review, but if the food is not compared to others of its kind, it's difficult to make comparisons. Look for impartial websites that list multiple dog foods and compare them side-by-side.
Read the Dog Food Reviews Carefully
Do they begin with a list of essential ingredients for optimal dog health and nutrition? These would include a balance of the following:
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Protein
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Fat
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Carbohydrates
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Minerals
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Fiber
If this information is missing, keep looking at other dog food review sites.
Check to Make Sure the Food Meets Industry AAFCO Standards
All dog food manufacturers are required to meet the minimum standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials, Inc. (AAFCO) for a complete and balanced dog food diet. If the information that the food does meet or exceed the minimum standards is not posted prominently, keep checking.
Learn What Types of Dog Food Are Available
There are two types of dog food diets available, wet and dry. Each diet normally meets nutritional values but they each have strengths and weaknesses.
Dry Dog Food Diets
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Satisfies a dog's chewing instinct
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Is usually cheaper than wet food
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Helps clean the dog's teeth
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Typically has a shorter shelf life than wet dog food
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Normally has more filler and preservatives than wet dog food
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Usually has less vitamins and minerals than wet dog food
Wet Dog Food Diets
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Is more palatable to picky eaters
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Is not as processed and contains more vitamins and minerals than dry dog food
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Has a longer shelf life before opening
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Spoils more quickly than dry dog food once opened
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Usually costs significantly more than dry dog food
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Must be kept refrigerated after opening for optimum nutrition
People and Groups Who Offer the Most Credible Advice on Dog Food
Generally you will find the most credible advice on the nutritional and health benefits of different dog foods from companies and people who are not trying to sell their product but are motivated solely by their love of dogs and wanting the very best for them. People such as dog breeders, veterinarians, dog trainers, animal welfare organizations and dog clubs are a few examples. While some people may have a favorite type of dog food they prefer, a balanced and credible dog food review will list several different brands within that food type as well as compare their nutrient value.
Look for sites that offer reviews based on the quality of the ingredients and/or teach the novice dog owner how to read the labels on dog food to make the best decision for their dog.
Armed with this knowledge, you can be sure to find the most credible dog food reviews to help you make this crucial decision.