A dog requires variety and balance in their diets. Types of diets include dry kibble, wet dog food, slightly cooked human-grade food and raw pet food. Research continues to show human-grade and raw pet food is the most beneficial for our dogs' overall health. Affordability can influence what food we give our dogs. If a dog rejects food, he may not like it and/or he may know it is not good for him. Listen to your dog to help determine the best food for him.
Pet Parent Question: I have read the research and know raw pet food is best for my dog, but I cannot afford it, nor do I personally feel comfortable going from kibble to raw. What options do I have?
There are a growing number of pet parents who feed their dogs raw pet food and most pet food stores carry it in frozen and freeze-dried forms. Staff are usually knowledgeable and can help you understand how to prepare and feed your dog raw.
If cost is a factor, I suggest two options. First, slightly cooked human grade could be ground turkey, hamburger and chicken with tuna, sardines, salmon or any other protein. Second, if you must feed kibble, supplement with some fresh protein like the ones mentioned. No matter what diet you choose to feed your dog it is important to supplement with dog-friendly fruits and vegetables in a moderate amount. Experiment a bit and your dog will let you know what he likes.
Donna Chicone is an award-winning author, TEDx speaker and advocate for dogs. She lives in Woodbury. You might find her engaged in pet-assisted therapy work.
