Iams, Pedigree, Purina and Eagle Pack are just a few of the dog food brands we see advertised on TV. The positive, fun statements these ads give promote dog food brands to be healthy, nutritious and beneficial to a dog’s everyday life. Our dogs may be eating this simply because they have no choice when they are hungry.  Dog's can't talk and tell us what they think about their food and how it makes them feel. Yes, dog food is expensive, but it’s important to look into specific brands rather than just at the price of the food. I have learned from previous brands and research that the words “all” or “100%” cannot be labeled on dog food unless there are no other ingredients used besides water, de-characterizing agents or just a few preservatives.

One website I found helpful is BornFreeUSA. This website includes plenty of information about specific kinds of dog food (wet and dry).  It also includes all the important facts by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). I highly recommend anyone who is interested in the contents of their pet’s food to look at this site.

Solly has been eating Purina One dog food since he was a puppy. I stick with this dog food because it is healthy for him, and he seems to like it.  Occasionally, I change the flavor for him.  I think it’s important that once you find a good brand, you should stick to it. This way the dog is used to that food and can adapt to his/her diet.

I know it’s hard not to give your dog human food, so I listed some important foods that dogs can eat.  However, do not get in the habit of constantly giving them human food because they could start to lose interest in their own food.  Also, who really wants a dog that begs all the time?  Below are some foods that are OKAY to give dogs and some foods that you should never give a dog because of the unhealthy side effects they could experience.

I give Solly carrots and cooked chicken once in a while, but I make sure to put it in his bowl so that he doesn’t develop the habit of begging. So far that trick has worked!

Dogs should NOT drink/eat:

-Alcohol
-Onions and Garlic
-Caffeine of any kind
-Grapes and Raisins
-Chocolate
-Raw meat

Dogs can eat (occasionally):
-Carrots
-lean meats
-Rice
-Cheese

Solly's enjoying all the snow we got by laying in it and eating it!