6 Ingredients To Avoid In Dry Dog Food

Many dog food brands contain questionable ingredients that can negatively impact your dog’s well-being. To ensure you’re feeding your pet a nutritious, balanced diet, it’s important to be aware of the harmful ingredients in commercial dry dog food. When shopping for dog food, especially dog food online, always check the ingredient list to avoid these harmful ingredients that could affect your dog’s health.

Meat by-products:

Meat by-products are the parts of animals that are not considered human-grade, such as internal organs, bones, and feathers. These are low-quality protein sources that do not offer the same nutritional value as named meats like chicken or beef. While not necessarily harmful in small amounts, meat by-products provide poor nutrition and should be avoided when possible.

Corn, wheat, and soy:

While these grains are used as fillers, they provide little nutritional value to your dog. They are often difficult for dogs to digest and can lead to allergies or digestive issues. Many dogs, especially those with food sensitivities, can experience inflammation or discomfort from corn, wheat, or soy-based dog food.

Artificial colors and flavors:

Artificial colors and flavors are added to improve the appearance and taste of dog food but have no nutritional benefit. These additives may cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, or digestive issues in some dogs. Natural ingredients should be used to flavor and color the food instead of synthetic additives.

BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin:

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and ethoxyquin are chemical preservatives used to extend the shelf life of dry dog food. These chemicals are linked to health problems such as cancer, liver damage, and kidney issues. Look for dog food with natural preservatives like vitamin E or vitamin C to ensure your pet’s safety.

Propylene glycol:

Propylene glycol is used as a humectant to retain moisture in dry dog food. While safe in small quantities for humans, it can be harmful to pets. It can cause gastrointestinal issues, skin irritation, and allergic reactions in some dogs, especially those with sensitivities.

Sugar and sweeteners:

Excessive sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol can be harmful to your dog’s health. Xylitol, in particular, is toxic to dogs and can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar, leading to seizures or liver failure. Even non-toxic sweeteners can contribute to obesity and dental problems.