The first thing you should look at are the carb sources. Simple or starchy carbohydrates pass through your dog’s digestive system quickly and don’t provide a lot of nutrition. Instead, look for carbs like brown rice, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, and barley. These provide fiber and long lasting energy.
Most dog foods contain chicken as a protein source. Chicken meal is a concentrated form of chicken that contains cartilage. Animal cartilage sounds gross, but it’s a good source of glucosamine, which supports joint health in dogs. Fish is also a good protein source for dogs because it contains healthy fats. Red meats like bison and venison are also a great source of iron for blood health. Look for a dog food that contains 25-30% protein to keep your Labradoodle’s muscles healthy and lean.
Fats are also an important part of your dog’s diet. Animal fats are necessary for your dog’s health. Fish oil is a great source of fat because it reduces inflammation in the body and keeps your dog’s coat soft and silky. Without fat, your dog’s skin will be dry and their fur will be brittle. Healthy vegetable oils are also good, but make sure there is at least one good source of animal fat.
Almost every dog food has added vitamin and mineral supplements. These make sure that your dog gets all of the nutrition they need. However, your dog may be able to absorb these nutrients better when they come from a real food source. Good dog foods contain nutrient rich produce like berries, carrots, and leafy greens. Also, if your dog has digestive issues, look for a dog food with probiotics. These aid digestion and may even support the immune system.
If your Labradoodle has troubles digesting food, they may have food allergies. There are dog foods on the market that are made specifically for dogs with allergies. Grain free dog foods are popular choices because many pet owners believe that grains like corn, soy, and wheat cause tummy troubles. There are also foods with limited ingredient lists to minimize the amount of offending ingredients. If your dog has food allergies, it may take some trial and error to find the best food.
Here are some dog food brands that are popular with dog owners. These contain healthy proteins, energy-rich carbs, and healthy fats. Many of these also contain fruits, vegetables, and probiotics.
- Wellness Core
- Orijen
- Taste of the Wild
- Acana
- Fromm
- Canidae
- I and Love and You
- Holistic Blend
When you know what you’re looking for in a dog food, it’s easier to find one that works well for your dog and your budget. When trying out a new dog food, give your pup a few weeks to get used to it. If they have digestive troubles, try a grain free or limited ingredient formula. The right nutrition will help your dog to live a long and healthy life.
Image sourced from www.waltzingdoodles.com.