As a pet owner, you want to provide the best food for your furry friend. With so many options available—whether it’s fresh, canned, or freeze-dried—choosing the right dog food can feel overwhelming.
A recent investigation by Consumer Reports looked into popular dog food brands to see if they are safe and nutritious for your pet. The study focused on 58 different dog foods, examining their ingredients and testing for harmful substances.
Some well-known brands like Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina were part of the testing. The findings were eye-opening. While most of the brands met basic nutritional standards, some raw dog foods tested positive for potentially harmful bacteria. For instance, Listeria monocytogenes was found in samples of Raw Bistro’s Free Range Chicken Entree and Viva for Dogs Ground Beef meal, both of which are frozen raw foods. This bacteria poses risks to both pets and humans.
Raw Bistro stated that their internal tests revealed no contamination and that the batch tested is no longer for sale. Similarly, Viva for Dogs mentioned that they have improved their testing methods to ensure safety.
Another alarming discovery came from Pedigree’s Complete Nutrition Adult Roasted Chicken, Rice, and Vegetable, which contained nearly five times the recommended limit of vitamin D. Too much vitamin D can be toxic for dogs. Pedigree responded that the specific batch was safe and met all safety standards during production.
So, what should you do when choosing dog food? Experts recommend working closely with your veterinarian. Look for foods labeled as compliant with the guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Keep treat calories to a minimum, ideally no more than 10% of your dog’s total diet. Avoid changing foods unless necessary, and be cautious with raw diets, as they can carry serious health risks.
For detailed results from the Consumer Reports investigation, check out their website.
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