When choosing food for their canine companions, pet owners generally look at cost and convenience, but the best pet owners consider the content first, knowing that nutrition takes first place. Why? Nutrition matters! Food shouldn’t just be fuel for your pet – it should be the first step in supporting their overall wellness and preventing illness or malnutrition. Read more about preventing unintentional malnutrition here. Whether you decide on canned dog food, dry kibble, or a raw diet, always be sure to read the ingredients list and the nutrition label first.
Canned Dog Food v Dry Kibble – Which is Better?
Dry dog food lasts longer – which also means it contains a lot of preservatives. Kibble has a lot going for it when it comes to cost, convenience, and cleanliness. Canned food on the other hand is made with fewer carbs and generally carries more protein than kibble. Additionally, canned dog food is easier to chew and easier to digest – making it a top choice, especially for pet owners of senior dogs.
Dental Health Considerations
Dry kibble and canned dog food each have their own benefits, but there is a circulating myth that dry kibble is a “dog’s dental health hack.” Many brand name kibble companies – and some vets – claim that dry kibble acts like a toothbrush and can help to keep your dog’s teeth cleaner. What a mistake! Imagine hearing your dental hygienist telling you to stop brushing your teeth and to regularly eat some chips instead.
It’s true that dry dog food can knock off some of the plaque perhaps, but kibble will never be an effective method of maintaining a clean gumline – which is the real danger zone. Plaque and tartar build up along your dog’s gums leading to decay (cavities) and dental diseases. Instead of pretending that kibble will take care of the problem, invest in teeth-cleaning dog toys and spend time regularly brushing your pup’s less than fresh breath.
**Bad breath can be a sign of poor health so if your pet suffers from chronic halitosis, it’s time to check in with your vet.
So whether your dog chows down on dry kibble or feasts on canned dog food instead, dental care won’t be found in his method of dinner.
