Dog lovers just a little warning. This will probably be one of the cutest posts that you ever did see on Eltoria. If you are following my Instagram, you would know that I took my gorgeous Springer Spaniel (Brooke) to London for the first time to attend a Purina event to learn a bit more about their dog food and treats.
If I am perfectly honest with you, I’m not a self-proclaimed dog food expert so I had many questions. Brooke is coming up to 11 so I wanted a little more advice on nutrition which will help keep Brooke in tip-top condition in her elder years. We enjoyed many aspects of the day, so I thought I would also document what we got up to and what we learned about Purina dog food.
The Event
Firstly, Brooke enjoyed a little MOT by one of the Purina vets. Whilst Brooke enjoyed the compliment that she looked extremely well for her age she, however, was advised that she would benefit from going on a small diet. Sorry kiddo, no extra treats for you this Christmas. Other than that, she was in a clean bill of health. Therefore, to celebrate our good bit of news, we went and got some professional pictures taken by the amazing Rachel Oates. Pictures from the shoot can be found at the top of this blog post. How cute does Brooke look? #Adorbs.
Nutrition Advice – Grains
With Purina, they vouch that good quality dog food starts with high-quality ingredients. To create 100% balanced and complete diets, food must include a variety of ingredients in the right proportions; Ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, additives, vegetables, cereal, animal protein, and legumes all have a role to play. Grains can be an important part of your dog’s diet.
There’s a lot of speculation surrounding grains and whether or not they’re used just as a filler in dog food. Some people also say that grains cause allergies in dogs. Grains can, in fact be important in sustaining a healthy and balanced diet in dogs and when processed properly, grains are highly digestible and provide lasting energy. Less than 1% of dogs are in fact allergic to grains. Grains are an excellent source of; fibres, proteins, B-vitamins, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and trace minerals. Therefore, there is no need to fear grains as they are an important substance to include in your dog’s diet.
Nutrition Advice – Proteins
There are a lot of myths surrounding types of protein your dog’s food. It is often assumed that a high meat protein diet always means better nutrition for dogs. However, an excess of meat protein can be expensive and isn’t entirely beneficial to pets as the excess protein won’t be absorbed by the body.
I often hear that animal derivatives are low-quality ingredients and that a raw food diet is more beneficial to dogs as it’s closer to what they would eat in the wild. Whilst a raw diet is completely fine (when done correctly), animal derivatives are highly nutritious and appealing to pets. Not failing to mention, much better on the environment as they’re simply surplus meat cuts from the human food chain which we choose not to consumer (such as offal).
Personally, I’ve never had a problem in feeding Baker’s Meaty Mealsdog food to Brooke. Her coat is always glossy, regular stools, and her joints are happy and healthy. I think whatever you decide to feed your pet is a completely personal choice, do your research and don’t feel compelled to listen to myths.
Tips For Healthy Treating
Did you know that you should treat your dog no more than 15% (and 10% if you feed smaller, meat-based rewards) of your dog’s daily food intake? It is always important to check on pack feeding guidelines.
Brooke absolutely loves Dentalife Dura Plusdentist sticks! Anytime a vet takes a look at her teeth they always comment on how good her teeth and gums are looking for her age. Dentalife dentist sticks by Purina have been scientifically proven to reduce tartar build-up.
How To Switch Dog Food
Switching your dog’s food should be a gradual process in order to avoid putting your dog off. Here are some pointers:
- Allow a slow transition process over 7-10 days
- Mix a little of the new food in with their current food or offer both foods separately
- Remember a portion of dry food may look smaller than a portion of canned food
Purina’s 7 Step Process
Ever wondered how Purina dog food is made? Well here is how your pooch’s food is made in just 7 steps:
- Grinding and mixing
- Preparation
- Cooking and Extrusion
- Drying
- Coating
- Cooling
- Packaging
I really hope you found this blog post useful and feel a little bit more knowledgeable about your dog’s pet food. What do you feed your dog? Drop me a comment below.
Much Love, Eltoria x
*This blog post has been sponsored by Purina, all thoughts and opinions are my own.