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But wait, there’s more. The proper mix of ingredients should only be considered high quality if they can be easily digested and the nutritional content can be absorbed and utilized by the body. Different breeds of dogs, due to their genetic makeup, process ingredients differently.
For example, German Shepherds have small colons. As a result of this, they should be fed a diet high in fiber in order slow the movement of food as it gets processed by the body, thereby giving the body more time to absorb the nutrients it needs. A commercial dog food simply cannot provide this level of dietary support.
No one single ingredient contains everything a person or dog needs. While all dogs are of the same species, breeds vary widely thanks largely to human interaction.
Breed Specific Needs
Dogs have been bred throughout the years for different purposes and in different areas of the world. Because of this, breeds have dietary needs and staple ingredients that can be traced back to a its native land. Some ingredients that are very commonly used in commercial dog food are difficult for certain breeds to process effectively.
For example, Labrador Retrievers do not digest beef, corn or soy properly, and Golden Retrievers have a hard time digesting ocean fish, soy and white rice.
Some breeds, such as the Pekingese, are prone to cataracts. Knowing genetic problems that are common in certain breeds allows us target these problems and use proper nutrition to help prevent them.
Special Needs
Specific needs covers dogs living with cancer to dogs with allergies. Many dogs do not tolerate Gluten very well, so we make sure to use gluten free ingredients. Many food "allergies" actually result from additives used in the commercial process and not from the food itself. Food allergies are actually very rare in dogs.
Pregnant and lactating bitches really need a special diet in order to supply not only the mothers body with enough nutrition, but the newborns as well. A special diet is needed during gestation, parturition, lactation, and weaning.
Individual Needs
A well balanced diet supplies the body with the essential nutrients and energy needed to grow, heal, and maintain a proper weight for each life stage. Food is made up of protein (which contains amino acids), carbohydrates, fat, minerals, and vitamins, all of which are needed in different amounts (along with energy and water) for the body to function properly.
All dogs have the same basic nutritional needs, but differ greatly according to breed, age, weight and age. An adult lab weighing 70 pounds does not need as much calcium in their diet as a puppy or lactating female.