The ingredient list is a major key to what’s actually in that bag or can. Ingredients must be listed in descending order of weight (before processing). Unfortunately, the “before processing” piece of this rule, gives dog food makers a loophole to make their food appear higher quality than they actually are. For instance they may use a better quality ingredient in a high moisture composition, and the less liked ingredients in dehydrated form. In this fashion, the high moisture ingredient will appear on the label before the more plentiful dehydrated content.
Is Your Dog Food Approved?
Are you aware there’s a body that tests and certifies the nutritive value of dog food? Although there are critics that say their standards are not high enough it gives you a benchmark to guage your dog food against. If a food doesn’t at least meet AAFCO standards you may want to question its ‘ nutritional value.
Behavior and Training Your Dog
Start your training immediately. “Every type of dog was initially bred to serve us doing one task or another. They’re happiest when they know what’s anticipated of them and have boundaries set for them. Don’t let them gnaw on your fingers at any time. They should never put their mouth on you even during play. Stop that right away. This becomes an expression of leadership with the dog as they grow older. Don’t let them jump up on you or anybody else. Granted puppies are smaller and need to jump on you for a head pat but this starts a practice you will not want as an adult. Do not let them jump up on your cabinets in the kitchen while you are preparing meals. Don’t feed them from the table, Don’t let them bark excessively. Tell them to keep quiet and mean it. They read your voice tone and body language. Do not allow them to scratch your door to get in. Flick their small noses or you can spray them with a water bottle (make it a brightly coloured one). Tell them “no, stop that”. Dogs are awfully smart and will learn rapidly but you must be firm and consistent with them.