In order to develop a successful dog food comparison, it's important to first learn a little about your dog's dietary needs. By understanding your dog's nutritional needs, you can discover for yourself the best dog foods available.

INGREDIENTS TO AVOID
Meat by-products, corn, soy, dyes, preservatives such as BHT, BHA, an Ethoxyquin. The best dog foods will not contain any of these ingredients.

PROTEINS
Protein is not only important for a dog's muscles but for his skin, coat and nails as well. The age of the dog and how active he is determines the necessary amounts of protein needed. 25%-35% would be the recommend range for pups, dogs performing agility, sled dogs, sick or unhealthy dogs and pregnant or lactating canines. The average healthy adult dog requires 18% daily. Protein should be monitored for dogs with kidney problems or kidney disease. Veterinarians generally place these dogs on a protein restricted diet.

CARBOHYDRATES
While most prepared dry dog foods contain anywhere between 30-70% of carbohydrates, dog's actually need very little. The main reason for such high percentages of carbs in most brands of dry foods is that the starch helps to mold and form the kibble itself.

FATS
Fats are the main energy source for dogs. Age and activity level determine the recommended amount. Pregnant or lactating dogs as wells as puppies should receive 17% daily. A healthy adult dog should receive between 10-15%. High performing dogs require 20% a day. Requiring the most fats would be sled dogs at 50% daily.

Most veterinarians recommend animal fats, however oils such as vegetable, canola or olive are also good sources of fat for dogs. These oils can provide the recommended 1% of Omega 6 a.k.a. Linoleic Acid in which a dog needs. Linoleic Acid is considered an Essential Fatty Acid meaning humans and pets must receive and consume it from dietary sources. Fats also promote a healthy immune system.

FIBER
Good sources of fiber for your dog are pumpkin and Metamucil. Fiber is not considered essential in your dog's diet, however it is very good for bowel and colon health. It can do wonders for constipation, diarrhea and anal gland troubles.

It's a very scary time for pet owners with the uncertainty of pet food safety. Now more than ever it's important that you take a few minutes to develop a dog food comparison for yourself and for your dog of course. Although as consumers we have no control over what manufacturers put in their foods or where their ingredients come from, we do control whether or not we buy it.

Compare the all natural brands against the traditional commercial brands and see what you think. Research different online dog food reviews and ratings, then check out the website for "Natural Balance" Dog Foods to get an idea of what a premium food really is. Fifty years ago it was acceptable to load dog foods with corn and preservatives and call it food, but today it's not. With these ever changing times, we as pet owners must look out for our furry family members and choose wisely.

By: Janie Knetzer

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Janie resides in the Pittsburgh area and is an avid dog lover with over 25 years of dog handling experience. She has written many articles on dog nutrition, care and health. www.old-dog-treats-and-rawhide.com/dog-food-comparison.html