We nurture them, we play with them, we love them unconditionally from puppydom to seniorhood. But are we feeding them the best we can? The idea of cooking Pinterest-worthy meals for our furry companions that promise glossy coats and a cure for their arthritis feels deeply personal – like a way to show our love through nourishment.
However, is homemade dog food better than kibble? Our guide will highlight some top considerations to keep in mind when choosing pet food to feed your four-legged friend.
Ensure Nutritional Balance
Like humans, dogs require a range of vitamins and minerals for optimal growth and health. They typically get these nutrients from the food they eat. While dog owners who make fresh food can control which ingredients they include, it can be challenging to know if your pet is getting sufficient nutrition.
In contrast, many kibble brands are scientifically formulated to ensure the ideal nutritional balance. You can also choose a kibble option suited to your hound’s breed, activity level and dietary requirements for maximum health benefits.
Weigh Up The Costs
Homemade dog food requires quality meats and vegetables, which can drive up the costs of feeding your pet. There’s also a greater risk of it spoiling, resulting in you needing to discard the fresh food.
On the other hand, kibble is available at various price points, ensuring there is a good option for every budget. Buying larger bags of kibble can reduce the cost per meal even further.
Consider Convenience
Between preparing the raw ingredients and cooking and freezing batches of homemade dog food, the process requires significant time and effort. You also need to consider the time it will take to thaw and heat ahead of your pet’s next meal.
Kibble offers greater convenience as you simply need to put the desired quantity into a bowl at feeding times. In addition, it’s easy to store in an airtight container at room temperature. Pet owners often keep a sealed bag on hand, so there’s no risk of running out of food.
While there are benefits to fresh pet food diets, kibble is often more cost-effective and convenient. Trusted brands, like Blackhawk, also ensure their kibble offers maximum nutrition for healthy and happy hounds.
Coffs Harbour Produce is a leading supplier of dry and wet pet food at varying price points. Our expert team is also ready to assist in finding the right food for your dog’s age, breed and nutrition requirements. Get personalised dog food guidance by contacting our team today!