How Do I Know if I’m Choosing a Good Kibble for My Dog?

When it comes to choosing a kibble for your dog, the options are endless and let’s face it, shopping can feel overwhelming. From labels filled with long ingredient lists to claims of “premium” and “grain-free,” finding the right kibble can seem more like a puzzle than a shopping trip. But don’t worry, we have 6 easy steps to get you on the right paw! 

Step 1: Start with the Ingredient List

1. Prioritize Real Meat as the First Ingredient
When checking the ingredient list, the first item listed should ideally be a named meat like chicken, beef, lamb, or salmon and contain no less then 28%. This is a big indicator that the food has a strong base of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle health, immune function, and energy. Avoid vague terms like "meat meal" or "animal by-products". Don' be fooled though, all kibble is actually made from meal, as it requires the protein to be dried before being extruded - so if your dog food isn't listing this on the ingredients, it may be time to questions their transparency!  Choose kibble that lists the specific meat source is named (e.g., “chicken meal” or “beef meal”), which is generally a higher-quality source. 

2. Look for Wholesome Grains (or Grain-Free Alternatives)
Grains can be a healthy part of your dog’s diet when they’re from whole sources like brown rice, barley, or oats. These grains provide fibre, vitamins, and minerals that help with digestion and energy levels. If you prefer grain-free, look for nutrient-dense alternatives like sweet potatoes, peas, or lentils, which are complex carbohydrates that offer a steady energy release.

Avoid: Skip kibble that lists low-quality grains and fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy as primary ingredients. These are often used to bulk up the kibble without adding much nutritional value, and some dogs find them harder to digest.

3. Check for Healthy Fats (Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids)

Good fats are a must for skin, coat, brain, and joint health. Look for ingredients like fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat (poultry tallow), which provide Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are anti-inflammatory, promote shiny coats, and can improve overall skin health. 

Avoid: Be wary of ingredients like “animal fat” if it doesn’t specify the source. Fats from low-quality sources can contain impurities or additives and don’t offer the same health benefits as fats from fish or named sources.

4. Spot High-Quality Fibre Sources

Fibre helps with digestion and can improve gut health, so it’s worth looking for quality sources like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, beet pulp, or chicory root. Fibre helps dogs feel fuller for longer and promotes healthy stools.

Avoid: Stay away from kibble that relies on high quantities of low-value fibres like beet pulp or cellulose. These don’t offer much nutritional value and can sometimes be hard on digestion.

5. Superfoods and Natural Additives
Some kibbles go the extra mile by including superfoods and natural additives like blueberries, spinach, and kelp. These add extra vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that boost immunity, protect against cell damage, and support overall health. Ingredients like turmeric or parsley can provide anti-inflammatory benefits and even freshen your dog’s breath!

6. Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Look for added vitamins and minerals like Vitamin E, Vitamin A, calcium, and zinc in the ingredient list. These are crucial for immune function, bone health, and skin health, and are essential for a complete and balanced diet.
Avoid foods that use synthetic fillers or “filler” minerals without any natural, bioavailable sources.

7. Stay Away from Artificial Preservatives and Colours

Artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are often used to extend shelf life but have been linked to health concerns over the long term. Similarly, artificial colours or flavours offer no benefit to your dog and can sometimes cause allergies or sensitivities. Instead, look for naturally preserved kibble with ingredients like mixed tocopherols (a source of Vitamin E) or rosemary extract. These are natural antioxidants that help preserve the food without the need for synthetic chemicals.

8. Sodium Levels and Added Sugars

A moderate level of sodium can be beneficial, as it helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function. However, be cautious of kibble that has “salt” high up in the ingredient list, as excess sodium isn’t great for long-term health.
Avoid kibble with any added sugars, syrups, or molasses, as these don’t offer nutritional benefits and can contribute to obesity or dental issues over time.

Step 2: Check the Nutritional Balance

A good kibble should have a balance of protein, fat, and fibre, with essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a quick guide:

• Protein Content: Look for a protein percentage between 28% and 35%. High-quality kibbles often fall in this range and contain amino acids essential for muscle and organ health.
• Healthy Fats: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, often from fish or flaxseed, support healthy skin and a shiny coat. Aim for a fat content of around 10%–20%.
• Fibre for Digestion: Fibre helps keep your dog’s digestive system regular. Ingredients like sweet potatoes, peas, and beet pulp provide good fibre without fillers.

Step 3: Think About Your Dog’s Unique Needs

Is your dog a puppy, adult, or senior? Do they have specific health concerns, like allergies or joint issues? Here’s how to choose the right formula:

• Puppies need higher protein and fat for growth - ensure your diet is suitable for either all life stages or a puppy specific diet. 
• Adult Dogs thrive on a balanced formula with moderate protein and fat.
• Seniors may benefit from joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and a lower-calorie formula to prevent weight gain.

If your dog has allergies, look for kibbles with limited ingredients or hypoallergenic formulas. For joint health, choose kibbles with ingredients like green-lipped mussels or fish oil.

Step 4: Look for Quality Certifications

Knowing who formulated the kibble recipes can make a big difference in ensuring the food is both safe and nutritionally complete for your dog. A quality kibble brand often collaborates with veterinary nutritionists, animal dietitians, or pet food scientists who specialize in canine nutrition to create recipes that meet all of a dog’s dietary needs. 

• Veterinary Nutritionist Approved: Check if the food was developed or approved by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN). These experts have advanced training in pet nutrition and ensure recipes provide a balanced diet for all life stages.

• Company Transparency: Reputable brands will be transparent about who is on their formulation team and often have information on their website detailing their approach to food safety and nutrition. Look for brands that proudly display the credentials of their team members or offer insights into their formulation process.

• AAFCO Standards Compliance: The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutritional standards for pet foods, and good kibble brands will align their formulations with these standards. Look for a statement on the label like “formulated to meet AAFCO nutritional levels” for your dog’s life stage (e.g., adult, puppy, senior).

Step 5: Avoid the “Big Red Flags”

Some ingredients and practices are best left on the shelf. Here’s what to skip:

• Mystery Meats: Ingredients like “meat meal” or “animal fat” without a named source can indicate lower quality.
• Excessive Sodium: A little sodium is okay, but steer clear of kibble that lists salt or sodium high up in the ingredient list.
• Artificial Preservatives and Dyes: These are unnecessary and can sometimes cause digestive issues or allergies.

Step 6: Take It for a Taste Test!

Once you’ve chosen a quality kibble, give it a try! Introduce the new food gradually over 7-14 days by mixing it with your dog’s current food, increasing the amount each day. Watch for positive signs like:

• Shiny Coat and Healthy Skin: A well-balanced kibble with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids should leave your dog’s coat shiny and their skin itch-free.
• Good Energy and Playfulness: If your dog is happy, playful, and has steady energy, their food is likely doing a good job!
• Small, Regular Stools: Properly digested kibble results in small, firm stools that are easy to pick up.

The Bottom Line: Happy, Healthy Pup

Choosing a good kibble doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By focusing on real ingredients, balanced nutrition, and your dog’s unique needs, you can find a kibble that’s perfect for them. After all, food is the foundation of your dog’s health, so a little label-reading and research go a long way toward giving your best friend a long, healthy, tail-wagging life! 🐾