why human-grade dog food is a smart switch option for your pet

Domesticated pets are much different from their wild counterparts with the major distinction being that the former are not able to fend for themselves the way the latter can. This makes it all the more imperative to ensure you, as a pet owner, are providing nothing but the best for them. 

From the perspective of pet nutrition, the innovative approach of human-grade food is strikingly different from traditional kibble. It offers a level of quality and safety that rivals the food we put on our plates. You never have to worry about compromising the quality of food when you are opting for human-grade pet food for your beloved canines. 

What is Human-Grade Dog Food?

Human-grade is one of two main categories of ingredients found in pet food, the other being feed-grade. A product can only be classified as human-grade if every aspect of its production adheres to the rigorous standards established for human food manufacturing, and hence are edible by humans. 

It involves the quality of whole-food ingredients such as pumpkin, broccoli, spinach, and flax seeds as well as high-quality meats that match the quality we find in our grocery stores, making sure that our pets get the same standard of food as we get for ourselves.  

This stands in heavy contrast to feed-grade pet food, which in some situations contains low-quality ingredients like "4-D" meat—meat sourced from animals that are dead, dying, diseased, or disabled; and this can even extend to roadkill and expired meats. 

Furthermore, proteins found in kibble often go through processing that can damage their quality and bioavailability. It's a concerning practice that shows the value of being careful about what we feed our pets.  

Ethical pet food manufacturing companies cater to the specific nutritional requirements and digestive systems of each species. New pet food recipes are craftily designed to be rich in animal-based protein, aligning with the natural dietary needs of dogs. It's all about providing a nutritionally sound and species-appropriate meal for your canine buddies. 

Selecting brands that value these quality ingredients can make a pivotal difference in your pet dog's well-being and health, and can even provide them with healthier lives.    

5 Reasons Why Human-Grade Dog Food is the Way to Go

Conscious pet owners are opting for human-grade dog food due to the various benefits that come along with it, the primary among them being the following.  

Higher Energy Levels

The presence of high-quality protein derived from animal sources is crucial for maintaining the energy and happiness of your dog, which can be found in human-grade dog food. This is due to the balanced nutrition and the right mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, that help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day, preventing the energy spikes and crashes common with lower-quality pet foods. 

Highly active dog breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Australian cattle dogs, and Terriers need higher protein dosage to support their muscles and fast metabolism. In addition, a protein deficiency may lead to fatigue and muscle loss. 

Specific health conditions or diseases such as kidney disease may require a different protein intake. Consulting with a veterinarian is important for receiving guidance tailored to the individual needs of your pet dogs. 

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Improved Digestion

Human-grade fresh foods exhibit remarkably high amino acid absorption values. Not only are they delicious but they also demonstrate superior digestibility compared to other diet options. The absence of artificial additives supports smoother digestion, which makes this diet ideal, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. 

On the other hand, commercial pet foods with low-quality ingredients and fillers lead to indigestion, foul-smelling poops, and irregular bowel movements. Keep in mind that with smart mealtime hacks such as avoiding plastic bowls and a timely schedule, you will further contribute to better digestion. 

Human-grade pet foods often contain seeds like flax, hemp, chia, or other seeds, which are a great source of both soluble and insoluble fiber that heavily improves digestion and promotes smoother bowel movement. 

Shinier Coat

A shinier coat isn't merely about appearances; it also signifies overall health and well-being in dogs. Maintaining healthy skin and a lustrous coat is facilitated by the essential role of Vitamins A and E, which are present in spinach, carrots, pumpkins, and whole grains. 

These vitamins contribute to skin moisture and help avoid issues like flakes and dryness. Moreover, Vitamin E is beneficial in protecting the skin from sun damage and other environmental toxins. 

Human-grade food contains premium meats and healthy fats, including fish oil that is abundant in key fatty acids like omega-3 acids that nourish the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote a glossy, lustrous coat. 

They also avoid common allergens and additives found in lower-quality pet meals, which can negatively impact skin and coat health. 

Better Immune System

Human-grade nourishment provides an abundance of essential nutrients, such as healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and protein, which are pivotal for immune function. These nutrients play an important function in supporting your dog's ability to fight off infections. 

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals within the body (free radicals are unstable molecules that can inflict harm on cells and tissues). They act like problem-solvers by efficiently fighting off disruptive molecules. 

Such foods also contain ferrous gluconate that prevents iron deficiencies and promotes healthy blood flow. A balanced diet, incorporating antioxidant-rich foods such as spinach and carrots, adds to your dog’s ability to combat oxidative stress. 

Fresher Breath

If you own a dog, chances are that you've encountered halitosis (bad breath) emanating from their mouth. While we adore our dogs, it's worth noting that foul breath isn’t the norm. Even though your dog may never have minty breath, it can be ameliorated as it is often linked to oral health and diet. 

High-quality dog food is less likely to contain artificial additives or fillers that can lead to bad breath. They help lower the risk of dental issues that often cause foul breath. 

Moreover, as mentioned earlier, balanced nourishment in such meals can promote better digestion, which can indirectly impact breath odor. 

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Selecting the Apt Human-Grade Dog Food Brand

For the sake of the well-being and safety of your pet, selecting the best manufacturing company is vital. Keep in mind the following tips that will help you in making an informed decision while selecting your pet’s food.

Research the Brand

Browse through the brand's reputation and history. Select brands with a transparent commitment to quality, safety, and ethical sourcing. 

Devoting a few minutes of your research will contribute to healthy years to your pet dog’s life and this is the least you could do for them. 

Read Ingredient Labels

Many pet food labels use harsh chemical additives such as Butylated Hydroxy Anisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) as preservatives to extend the shelf life of kibble. BHA and BHT are recognized as endocrine disruptors and possess carcinogenic properties (cause cancer) when consumed regularly. 

This is why going through the ingredient list is mandatory. Check for real, recognizable ingredients like whole meats, grains, and veggies. Say no to manufacturers with excessive fillers or artificial additives. 

Check for Adherence to AAFCO Guidelines

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is an important regulatory body in the pet food industry. It sets guidelines for ingredient quality, nutritional content, production process, and labelling accuracy, making sure that pet food products are safe and meet specific nutritional standards to maintain the health and well-being of dogs. 

Gradually Transitioning

When switching to a new brand of dog food, transitioning gradually over a week or more to avoid digestive issues is recommended. You can even mix the new diet with the old one, gradually increasing the proportion of the new one to help them acclimatize better. 

Think about Your Dog's Tailored Needs

Similar to how different dog breeds have different traits, they also have distinct dietary needs. To make the best choice, it's recommended to consult with your veterinarian. They can assist you in selecting a good brand that harmonizes with your dog's breed, age, size, and any health concerns they may have. 

Even within the same dog breed, there can be specific requirements and treatments just like how our requirements at times differ from the person next to us. Therefore, value customized treatments while taking care of their meal options. 

Cost Considerations

Even though high-quality human-grade dog food may seem more expensive, it often turns out to be cost-effective in the grand scheme of things. Keep in mind that investing in your dog's nutrition is an investment in their long-term health and happiness, which can ultimately save you money with fewer visits to the clinic and ensure your canine buddy enjoys a better quality of life. 

Furthermore, various economic options also exist, and various companies offer affordable, quality alternatives.

Summary

At the end of the day, human-grade dog food isn't just a choice; it's a commitment to providing your pet dogs with the best quality of life. It's an acknowledgment that your pets, often considered family, deserve the same level of care and nutrition as you do. 

The brilliant blend of top-notch ingredients, rigorous safety standards, transparency, and potent nutrition provides your dog with a healthier, longer, and more vibrant life. It's proof of your love and dedication, an investment in their well-being, and a promise to celebrate every valuable moment that you spend with them. 

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