Training & Education

The Lowdown on the Label

Guaranteed Analysis – Two Nutrient Profiles – Pet Food Ingredients

The typical pet food label contains three main areas. The Guaranteed Analysis specifies the product’s minimum percentages of crude protein and crude fat. The AAFCO has established two nutrient profiles each for dogs and cats – growth/lactation and maintenance – to fit their life stages. Pet Food Ingredients are listed on the label in descending weight order, however, weight includes moisture, which makes overall interpretation difficult.

Low Down on Labels PDF

Ten Quick Crate Training Tips

Originally published in The Whole Dog Journal (Volume 9)

Teaching your pet to happily and willing enter its crate is a very useful skill that will greatly benefit both you and your animal. By following these ten effective tips for training your pet, you’ll soon discover how quick and easy crate training really is.

Ten Quick Crate Training Tips PDF

Pet Nutrition

The Prince Corporation Pet Nutritional Guide

Prince Corporation offers this three chapter Pet Nutritional Guide for owners interested in learning how to effectively monitor your pet’s nutrition. Chapter One provides an introduction to your pet’s needs with a brief overview of basic facts and figures. Chapter Two introduces measuring energy, allergies, carbohydrates, fats and oils, fiber and minerals and the Chelation Process. Chapter Three concludes with detailed information concerning the various types of antioxidants.

Pet Nutrition Booklet PDF

FAQ

What should I feed my puppy or kitten?

Answer: Premium puppy or kitten food is important because it is high in protein and calcium. Many premium foods are supplemented with DHA. This essential fatty acid is important for brain development and overall health.

What is the difference between small breed puppy foods and large breed puppy foods?

Answer: The main difference is that small breed puppies have higher metabolisms and special growth rates and their foods are created to meet those needs. On the other hand, large breed foods are formulated to promote a slower growth rate, which will allow for healthy bone and joint development in large and giant breeds.

When should my puppy/kitten change to adult foods?

Answer: Always follow your vet’s recommendations when it comes to your pet’s development. A good rule of thumb is to change to an adult food at about 12 – 14 months of age or when the pet reaches 80% of its adult size.

What should I feed my large breed dog?

Answer: If you have a dog that is 50 pounds or larger, it’s recommended that you feed a large breed formula. This food has lower fat and protein levels and a larger kibble size. Many large breed formulas also have higher levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.

At what age should I switch my dog/cat from adult to a senior formula?

Answer: For most dogs and cats, senior foods should be introduced at about 7 years of age. Large and giant breed dogs should be switched at 5 years of age. Today’s senior foods are formulated with added protein to meet older animal’s unique nutrition requirements.

What can I do to help my dog lose weight?

Answer: Reduce the amount you’re feeding gradually every week or two until your dog begins to lose weight. Weigh all the food you feed to give you more control over your dog’s diet. Monitor your dog’s weight regularly to be sure your weight loss program is on track. Watch for calories from treats, chews, leftovers and other extras that you may not be counting. Increase exercise gradually as your dog becomes more fit.

What is an all-natural pet food?

Answer: Natural foods are free of chemical additives, artificial preservatives, by-products and is free of sugar, indigestible fiber/fillers and generic nutrient sources.

These foods focus on the long-term health benefits of your pet.

What is a holistic pet food?

Answer: Holistic foods promote and maintain health and they help prevent illness by avoiding ingredients that may be harmful to the general well-being of the pet.