why switching to human-grade dog food is a smart idea?

As any pet lover can attest, your pets inherently become part of your family before you realize it. And as with any family, you always want to provide nothing but the best for them. A core part of any living form’s basic needs revolves around its diet, and dogs are no different.

The innovative approach of human-grade dog food from the lens of pet nutrition goes beyond traditional kibble. It offers a level of quality and safety that rivals the food we put on our plates. Since domesticated dogs can’t fend for themselves, it becomes all the more important for us to take charge. 

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. 

This encompasses the quality of whole-food ingredients such as spinach, broccoli, pumpkin, and flax seeds as well as high-quality meats that match the quality we find in our grocery stores, ensuring that our pets receive the same standard of food as we expect for ourselves.  

This stands in stark contrast to feed-grade pet food, which in some cases 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. Moreover, proteins found in kibble often undergo processing that can reduce their quality and bioavailability. It's a concerning practice that highlights the importance of being mindful about what we feed our pets.  

Conscious pet food manufacturing brands cater to the specific nutritional needs and digestive systems of each species. Recipes are meticulously designed to be rich in animal-based protein, aligning with the natural dietary preferences of dogs. It's all about providing a nutritionally sound and species-appropriate meal for your canine companions. 

Choosing brands that prioritize these quality ingredients can make a significant difference in your pet's well-being and health, and can even provide them with longer lives.    

5 Benefits of Human-Grade Dog Food

Smart pet owners are backing human-grade dog food because of the numerous advantages 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 require elevated protein levels to support their muscles and fast metabolism. Moreover, a protein deficiency may lead to fatigue and muscle loss. 

It's worth noting that specific health conditions or diseases such as kidney disease may necessitate a different protein intake. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial for receiving guidance tailored to the individual needs of dogs. 

GET FREE EXPERT VETERINARY ADVICE

Shinier Coat

A glossy coat isn't merely about aesthetics; it also serves as a reflection of 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 carrots, pumpkins, spinach, and whole grains. These vitamins contribute to skin moisture and help prevent issues like flakes and dryness. Additionally, Vitamin E is beneficial in safeguarding the skin from sun damage and other environmental toxins. 

Moreover, 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. 

Additionally, this food typically avoids common allergens and additives found in lower-quality pet meals, which can negatively impact skin and coat health. 

Better Digestion

Human-grade fresh foods exhibit notably high amino acid absorption values. Not only are they exceptionally palatable 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. 

In contrast, commercial pet foods with low-quality ingredients and fillers lead to indigestion and foul-smelling poops. 

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 significantly improves digestion and promotes smoother bowel movement. 

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. 

Firstly, high-quality ingredients are less likely to contain artificial additives or fillers that can lead to bad breath. Secondly, they help reduce the risk of dental issues that often cause foul breath. 

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

Improved Immune System

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

For example, 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 effectively counteracting disruptive molecules. 

These 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, contributes to your dog’s ability to combat oxidative stress. Overall, a well-fed, healthy dog is better equipped to ward off illnesses. 

ORDER NUTRITIOUS DOG FOOD

Choosing the Ideal Human-Grade Dog Food Brand 

For the health and well-being of your pet, choosing the best brand is crucial. Bear in mind the following tips that will assist you in making an educated decision while choosing your pet’s food.

Read Ingredient Labels

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

Examine the ingredient list carefully. Look for real, recognizable ingredients like whole meats, vegetables, and grains. Avoid brands with excessive fillers or artificial additives. 

Research the Manufacturer

Investigate the brand's reputation and history. Choose companies with a transparent commitment to quality, safety, and ethical sourcing. 

Just a couple of minutes of your research will add valuable years to your pet’s life and this is the least you could do for them. 

Check for Adherence to AAFCO Guidelines

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

Consider Your Dog's Tailored Requirements

Just as different dog breeds exhibit unique traits, they also have varying dietary needs. To make the best choice, it's advisable to consult with your veterinarian. They can guide you in choosing a good brand that harmonizes with your dog's age, size, breed, and any health concerns they may have. 

Even within the same dog breed, there can be individualistic needs and treatments just like how our needs at times differ from the person next to us. So, prioritize tailored treatments while taking care of their diet. 

Transition Gradually

When switching to a new brand, transition gradually over a week or more to avoid digestive issues. Mix the new diet with the old one, gradually increasing the proportion of the new one. 

Cost Considerations

While high-quality human-grade dog food may seem more expensive upfront, it often proves cost-effective in the long run. Remember that investing in your dog's nutrition is an investment in their long-term health and happiness, which can ultimately save you money with less vet visits and ensure your furry friend enjoys a better quality of life. 

Moreover, budget-friendly options do exist, and various brands offer affordable, quality alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Human-grade dog food isn't just a choice; it's a commitment to providing your loyal companions 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 unique blend of superior ingredients, rigorous safety standards, transparency, and balanced nutrition grants your dog a longer, healthier, and more vibrant life. It's a testament to your love and dedication, an investment in their well-being, and a promise to cherish every precious moment spent together. 

GET FREE PROFESSIONAL HELP FOR YOUR PETS