There are things dogs eat.
And there are things dog owners eat, mostly myths.
“Grains are bad.”
“A dog should eat like a wolf.”
“Lamb is always hypoallergenic.”
“The more protein, the better.”
“If it says natural, it’s necessarily healthy.”
The truth, as always, is a bit more complex. So let's sort things out.
Not entirely true.
Grains are not the enemy. Many dogs digest grains like rice, oats, corn, or wheat well, and they can provide energy, fiber, and nutrients.
Some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to a specific grain, but that doesn't mean all dogs need grain-free food.
In fact, even grain-free foods usually contain other carbohydrate sources like peas, lentils, potatoes, or sweet potatoes. Therefore, "grain-free" doesn't mean "carb-free," and doesn't necessarily mean "healthier."
The FDA has investigated a possible link between certain diets, especially those containing legumes or potatoes as main ingredients, and DCM, a heart disease in dogs. Therefore, it is better to choose food based on actual suitability for the dog rather than just a trend.
Not exactly.
It's true that dogs and wolves are biologically close, but a domestic dog is not a wolf in the living room. Over thousands of years, dogs have adapted to living alongside humans, and their digestive system is also different from that of wolves.
Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can derive nutrients from non-meat sources as well. This doesn't mean their diet should be based on bread and pasta, but it does mean that not every plant ingredient is "unnecessary filler."
Not accurate.
Lamb was once considered a good choice for dogs with sensitivities, mainly because it was a protein source that fewer dogs had been exposed to. But once many dogs started eating lamb-based food regularly, sensitivities to it could also develop.
No protein is "hypoallergenic" for everyone. A dog can be sensitive to beef, chicken, milk, wheat, egg, lamb, or another ingredient. The MSD Veterinary Manual notes that common allergens in dogs can include, among others, beef, dairy products, chicken, wheat, and lamb.
If there is suspicion of an allergy, don't guess based on the food bag. Consult a veterinarian and follow a structured process.
Not necessarily.
In dogs with existing kidney disease, the veterinarian may recommend a special, controlled diet. But this doesn't mean that quality protein in a complete and balanced food damages the kidneys of a healthy dog.
The emphasis should be not only on "how much protein there is," but also on the quality of the protein, suitability for age, activity level, health status, and whether the food is complete and balanced.
If a dog has kidney disease, abnormal blood tests, or a previous medical recommendation – do not choose food alone. Consult a veterinarian.
Not necessarily.
"Natural" sounds good, but it's not enough. Even natural food needs to be balanced, suitable, safe, high-quality, and right for the pet.
Natural, fresh, or homemade food can be suitable in some cases, but if it's not properly balanced, it can lead to nutritional deficiencies or excesses. The Merck Veterinary Manual emphasizes that complete and balanced food is designed to provide all the necessary nutrients for dogs and cats, without undesirable deficiencies or excesses.
If you are considering a natural, homemade, or therapeutic diet – it's advisable to do so with the guidance of a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist.
Not always.
Many dog owners see "fresh chicken" and think it's always better than "chicken meal." But it's important to understand that ingredient lists are ordered by weight before processing.
Fresh chicken contains a lot of water. After cooking and processing, its weight decreases. Chicken meal, on the other hand, is a more concentrated raw material, after some of the water and fat have been removed.
This doesn't mean that all meat meal is high quality, and it doesn't mean that all fresh meat is superior. You need to look at the manufacturer's quality, the formula, the nutritional values, and the suitability for the dog.
Some dogs like consistency. Some like variety.
What's certain: too sudden a change in food can upset their stomach.
If you want to change food or diversify, do it gradually. Mix a little of the new food with the old, and gradually increase the amount over several days.
If the dog is sensitive, suffers from diarrhea, vomiting, or skin problems – it's best to consult before making a change.
Not by myth.
Not by trend.
Not by what the neighbor said their dog eats.
And not by whoever made the flashiest packaging.
Choose according to your dog:
Age
Weight
Size
Activity level
Sensitivities
Health status
Taste preferences
Actual response to the food
The right food is the one that does your dog good in the long run.
Good dog food doesn't have to be a drama.
It should be suitable, high-quality, balanced, tasty, and do the job day after day.
And if the dog is happy, the stomach is calm, the coat looks good, and the bowl is empty – you're probably on the right track.
No. For most dogs, grains are not dangerous and can be part of a normal diet. If there is a sensitivity or allergy, the food should be adapted individually.
Not necessarily. Grain-free food can be suitable for some dogs, but it's not necessarily better for all dogs.
Yes. Dogs can be sensitive or allergic to chicken, beef, wheat, dairy products, eggs, and other ingredients.
It can be considered, but it's important to ensure the diet is complete and balanced. For natural, homemade, or therapeutic diets, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
Not obligatory. If the dog is healthy, eats well, has normal bowel movements, and a stable weight – there isn't always a reason to change.
Not sure what food is suitable for your dog or cat?
At Peteat, you'll find a variety of high-quality foods for dogs and cats, according to age, size, sensitivities, and preferences. And if needed, you can always consult with us before filling their bowl.
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For purchases up to ₪199, the delivery cost is ₪29.
New same-day/next-day delivery service to designated cities only,
from Netivot to Binyamina by prior arrangement. For the list of cities, click here.
Home delivery is made by a courier to the address you provided at the time of purchase,
within 1 to 5 business days; usually, we'll arrive much faster (:
In buildings without an elevator, the courier will only go up to the second floor.
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