An increasing number of pet owners are turning to organic dry food for their pet dogs as an alternative to standard diets and food sources. Organic diets provide dogs with all-natural ingredients that are less likely to bring about allergic reactions.
Dry foods have several benefits in general over canned foods. The most important thing to keep in mind, however, while planning your dog's meals and diet, is that he receives all of the necessary nutritional elements that he requires to grow properly and maintain good health. These needs fluctuate over the course of a dog's life, and the ideal food for a puppy is not the same as that of a mature or an aging dog.
Benefits of Organic Foods
Organic dog foods contain a minimal ingredient list, typically devoid of preservatives, artificial coloring agents and additional flavor additives. Dogs do not typically notice or appreciate the presence of these elements in their food, and while preservatives help to enhance the shelf life of a dog food, they may also lead to allergic reactions in dogs. Generally speaking, organic foods are less likely to cause some sort of sensitivity in your dog as compared with regular brand name foods.
Many organic dog foods have the added bonus of being produced in an environmentally sustainable way and without certain butchering practices that some pet owners find objectionable.
Benefits of Dry Food
If you've decided to give your pet organic food, the next step is to determine whether he'll need dry or canned meals. Canned food is an excellent way of providing your pet with added moisture and water. Some dogs benefit greatly from this factor. Generally speaking, however, dry foods offer a wider array of benefits as compared with canned ones. Dry foods keep longer on the shelf and emit less of an odor. They also help to remove plaque on your pet's teeth, keeping them healthier. Dry foods also tend to be less expensive than canned foods.
Considerations When Selecting a Food
The most important thing to keep in mind while selecting a food is that it must meet all of your pet's dietary needs. If you have any questions about whether your food is adequate, consult the ingredients list and compare it against several brand name labels. One advantage to brand name dog foods is that they are strictly controlled by the FDA, which ensures that they provide a balanced mix of nutrients to your pet. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about the suitability of a particular organic food for your pet.
Organic foods tend to be significantly more expensive than standard dog foods. Keep this in mind when making your selection, as an organic diet will tend to cost you several more dollars per bag than a regular brand name food.
Finally, if switching your pet's food to a new type, mix in the new food with the old and gradually adjust his diet accordingly. Do not try to switch the food completely and immediately, as your dog may not accept the new food in this case.