When it comes to our furry friends, we always want to ensure they’re getting the best nutrition possible. Just as humans need to watch their diets, it’s crucial that we pay close attention to what we’re feeding our dogs. Unfortunately, not all dog foods are created equal, and some can be downright detrimental to your dog’s health. From artificial additives to low-quality meat sources, certain dog foods can lead to a range of health issues, from digestive problems to serious diseases.
In this top 10 list, we are going to delve into the worst dog foods on the market – the ones you should avoid to ensure your dog maintains a healthy and happy lifestyle. Starting with number ten and working our way to the number one spot, we’ll discover which brands and types of dog food are best left on the store shelves.
#10. Ol’ Roy Dog Food
Ol’ Roy is a brand that is often associated with inexpensive pet food, but unfortunately, the low price can come with a cost to your dog’s health. The main issue with Ol’ Roy Dog Food is its heavy reliance on filler ingredients such as corn, soy, and wheat, which offer little nutritional value to dogs and are common allergens. Additionally, the use of meat by-products and artificial coloring adds to the reasons why this brand makes our list.
#9. Kibbles ‘n Bits
Kibbles ‘n Bits has been a popular brand for many years, but popularity doesn’t necessarily equate to quality. One of the major concerns with this brand is the inclusion of artificial food colorings and preservatives, which have no beneficial properties for your dog’s health and have been linked to behavioral problems and cancer risks. Moreover, this brand often uses unnamed meat sources, which can be concerning as it’s unclear where the meat is sourced from or what kind of meat it is.
#8. Pedigree
Pedigree is another well-known dog food brand that, while widely available and affordable, lacks in quality for our canine companions. The primary ingredients are often grains and meat and bone meal, which is a rendered product from mammal tissues and does not specify the source. Also, they have been previously scrutinized for recalls due to the presence of harmful substances like metal fragments in their food.
#7. Beneful
Beneful by Purina presents itself with vibrant packaging and promises of wholesome nutrition. However, look closer, and you will find that many of their products contain sugar, which is unnecessary in a dog’s diet and can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes. Additionally, Beneful has faced legal action due to allegations of their food containing toxins that may have harmed or even killed some dogs.
#6. Gravy Train
Gravy Train is known for its wet dog foods that create a gravy-like sauce when mixed with water. Unfortunately, the appeal stops there as Gravy Train uses multiple artificial colors and flavors in their products. It’s also known for using meat by-products and an excess of salt, which isn’t the best for your dog’s heart or overall health.
#5. Twin Pet
Twin Pet may not be as well-known as some other brands on the list, but it’s one that you might find at a discount store. The affordability comes with a price — a formula that is high in corn and by-product meals while lacking in high-quality protein sources. This can lead to poor digestion and insufficient nutritional intake, which is certainly something to avoid for your pet’s diet.
#4. Royal Canin Breed-Specific Formula
While Royal Canin may surprise some by appearing on this list, it’s important to note that their breed-specific formulas are not necessarily tailored to each breed’s dietary needs as one might assume. These expensive foods often contain corn and chicken by-product meal as primary ingredients, rather than whole, wholesome protein sources. Although they are marketed as premium, the content does not always match the label or the price point.
#3. Cesar Filets
Cesar Filets is another food that’s more marketing than substance. While it may look enticing with its small portioned and “gourmet” appeal, this brand is heavily processed and includes by-products, fillers, and additives that do not contribute to a healthy diet for your dog. Furthermore, it is packed in plastic trays with a film cover, which raises concerns about the environmental impact and potential contamination from packaging chemicals.
#2. Alpo
Alpo, part of the Purina family, is another brand with a long history but dubious health credentials for our dogs. While the brand offers wet and dry food options, the ingredient list is filled with red flags such as “meat and bone meal” and artificial colors. Additionally, Alpo has been through a series of recalls, including one due to the discovery of aflatoxin, a potentially deadly mold.
#1. IAMS ProActive Health Adult MiniChunks
Topping our list of the worst dog foods is IAMS ProActive Health Adult MiniChunks. Despite the “ProActive Health” tag in its name, this dog food has faced criticism for its use of animal by-product meals as a protein source. Additionally, the presence of cornmeal and sorghum – ingredients with a high glycemic index – raise concerns about the risk of obesity and diabetes. IAMS has also been involved in recalls over the years, some due to salmonella concerns, which could be detrimental to both pet and owner’s health.
When choosing a dog food, it’s essential to read the labels and understand the ingredients. Look for whole, high-quality protein sources like real meat or fish as the first ingredient, minimal use of fillers, and a lack of artificial preservatives and colors. While the cost of higher-quality dog food may be higher, investing in your dog’s health can save on veterinary bills and ensure that your pet lives a long, healthy, and happy life. Remember, if in doubt, always consult with your veterinarian to make the best possible choice for your canine companion. Your dog’s diet is a key factor in their overall wellbeing, so making informed choices is an act of care and love.