A Dog’s Diet: Canned Dog Food vs. Dry Kibble
Naturally, as a dog owner, you’ll want the best for your pet and you’ll know that a dog’s diet affects all their bodily functions and general health and well being. However, when you’re bombarded by advertisements and conflicting information it’s hard to know whether canned dog food or dry kibble is best for your dog.
The subject of canned dog food vs. kibble has been hotly debated ever since there has been a choice. Is canned dog food better for your dog or is kibble healthier for him? Is it just a matter of personal preference or is there a real scientific difference?
Let’s have a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each dog food to ensure a balanced diet for your best friend. Talk to your veterinarian for expert advice relating to your specific dog as this can vary from breed to breed and depending on the dog’s age.
Cost: Meal for meal, most people find that dry kibble is better value
Content: Dogs are predominantly carnivores therefore a good meaty canned dog food is necessary. Make sure that you buy a reputable brand and check the ingredients for additives and fillers.
Taste: Many dogs prefer canned food but others prefer dry food. If your dog prefers dry food, there’s no point trying to force feed him tinned food, even if you do think it’s better for him. However, picky eaters often take to dog meat, particularly those nice little foil trays, very quickly. Beware though; this can become expensive.
Eatability: Dogs with sensitive mouths or teeth problems will have a hard time eating dry kibble. In any event if your dog seems to be have trouble eating it, see a vet straight away.
Teeth Cleaning: Without a doubt, dry kibble will keep your dog’s teeth much cleaner than canned food, because the abrasive action of the kibble will help to remove plaque.
Storage: Dry kibble wins here as you can store it in a tub and don’t have to worry about refrigerating open cans.
Choose whichever food gives your dog the best nutritional value and keeps him healthy and energetic.
Alternatively, you may not like to feed your dog either canned food or dry kibble, in which case you may want to try a raw food diet.
A good place to get more information is from the ebook ‘Going Rawr! Dog Lovers Compendium’. Its author, Maggie Rhines, shows you exactly how to choose raw food for dogs, as well as proper methods of storage and preparation.
