Croquettes, barf, homemade… what food to give your dog to keep him in good shape? I did not write this article myself but finding it interesting for the Wouafer's, I accepted its publication on the Mag'. I therefore leave the floor to the editor of the site Croquettesdefrance.fr 

Happy reading.

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While some people only swear by kibble, others prefer to vary the pleasures; the question of dog food has always been divisive. But then, who does their dog the most good?

The question of animal food, and particularly dog ​​food, often gives rise to two completely opposing opinions. On the one hand, the empathetic, convinced that a dog with the same kibble will be bored if he eats the same thing every day, and that he too certainly wants to vary his meals! On the other side, the rational, firmly opposed to this idea and for whom kibble, due to its composition, seems to be the best option. But who is really right? Are dog food 100% adapted to its needs? Is our food really bad for your health? Let’s lift the veil on the question!

Does the composition of the kibble really meet the nutritional needs of the dog?

The manufacture of kibbles is highly regulated, particularly in France. Indeed, numerous standards exist on the content of proteins, fats, fibers, vitamins and minerals, and other essential nutrients to meet the nutritional needs of the dog.

According to manufacturing standards and studies carried out on the subject, the ideal composition of dog food would therefore be the following:

  • High quality proteins: between 30 and 50%;
  • Healthy fats: between 10 and 20%;
  • Carbohydrates: between 15 and 30%;
  • Vitamins and minerals.

We also find vegetables in certain kibbles, which nevertheless remains adapted to the dog's eating habits since, even if it is a carnivore, the latter feeds on plants and legumes in small quantities.

Be careful, however, to take into account the age of your dog, its breed, its activity level, its specificities (sterilization, urinary problem, etc.) and its food sensitivity. The correct nutrient dosage will evolve according to these criteria.

Are all kibbles good for animal health?

dog next to a bowl of kibble

No, not all kibbles are good for animal health, which is why you need to look at the type of dog for which they are formulated, but also at the label to find out their composition.

Here's what to watch out for:

  1. The absence of an exhaustive list of ingredients (despite its display obligation). Please note that the first ingredient on the list is the one found in the greatest quantity in the product, and this evolves in a decreasing manner.

  1. The presence of the words “beef”, “poultry” or “by-product”. This mention does not mean that the kibbles are made with meat, they can also be made from the muscular parts of the animal: carcass, tendons, legs, etc.

  2. The presence of cereals in the kibbles. A high intake of cereals can harm your pet's well-being. Cereals are not part of dogs' eating habits, and some of them are even allergic to them.

To help you find the right kibble, use a Online Configurator or go for dog food made in France. These are often of very good quality and formulated to specifically meet their nutritional needs.

What happens if my dog ​​eats the same foods as me?

Since we now know the nutritional needs of the dog and we have seen that meat and vegetables are part of the composition of the kibble, it is legitimate to wonder what is different between our diet and that of the dog. If you have taken note of the previous recommendations, you certainly have the answer… The dosage of ingredients!

Indeed, the dog is a carnivore, the man, an omnivore. Thus, dogs need meat more than humans, who will require a significant quantity of vegetables to maintain good health. So, if my dog ​​eats the same food as me, it is obvious that his nutritional needs will not be met since they are different from mine.

On the other hand, it is important to note that changes in the dog's diet are harmful to its health. The dog's digestive flora gets used to a type of food. Thus, by varying the dog's diet, it will not find any intestinal stability and may then suffer from digestive problems, or even gastroenteritis. This is true for dogs who alternate between meal scraps and kibble, but also for those who feed on both kibble and canned pâtés, or undergo regular changes in the choice of their kibble.

Also be aware that sharing food with your dog represents a real danger. Certain foods such as chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, potatoes, avocado or even cow's milk are toxic for him!

As you will have understood, a healthy dog ​​is a dog that benefits from a stable and appropriate diet. So avoid giving in to the bright eyes and gentle gaze of your furry friend who can't help but admire you eating... Know that giving in won't do your little darling any good, so hold back!