Freshpet Reviews Reasons It May Be Time to Switch Dog Foods – OCNJ Daily

Choosing the best dog food possible can be a difficult task for plenty of reasons. Not only are we limited by factors such as our budgets and our dogs’ tastes, but there are also a staggering number of brands out there that can further complicate our choices. Naturally, pet parents want to stick with options that their dogs enjoy best, but there are certainly circumstances that may prove a switch is necessary.
As a leader in the pet food industry, Freshpet recognizes that pet parents may be unaware of several of the signs that it is time to switch from their preferred dog food to another brand. Here, Freshpet explores a few common reasons to consider making a change.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are a common reason that pet parents decide to switch their dogs’ food, and it is a great idea to be aware of the signs. For example, if your dog’s coat is dull and flaky or they are scratching a lot, they may be experiencing an undiagnosed allergy. Experts commonly point to protein sources as one of the most common causes of allergies in pets, meaning that changing the protein source of their next choice may help alleviate their symptoms. One thing to note about allergies is that it can take as many as six to eight weeks to be able to tell if their diet is the cause for their complications. For this reason, pet parents will want to consult their vets to promptly start the process of switching.
Changing Life Stages
Many pet parents are aware that age plays an important role in dogs’ diets. Puppy food is higher in calories and certain nutrients to facilitate a healthy transition into adulthood. Meanwhile, senior dog food often has less calories because dogs tend to be less active during their twilight years. Choosing an option that matches your dog’s life stage is crucial because formulas that account for their needs and lifestyle are integral for their continued health. Feeding them the wrong foods can cause weight loss, weight gain, or prevent them from getting necessary nutrients to stay happy and healthy.
Weight Issues
If your dog is under or overweight despite a diet that is consistent and vet approved, it may be a sign that a change is necessary. Dogs may gain weight for several reasons including issues with portion control, their metabolism, or even their activity level. Pet parents should remember that making changes too swiftly can lead to issues such as nutrient and vitamin deficiencies or organ issues moving forward. The best methods for addressing weight issues can be outlined by your vet, as they can help figure out if the food is the primary issue.
 
Overweight dogs can usually get control of their weight through dietary changes, portion control, or physical activity
Stomach Problems
Pet parents usually note that chronic stomach problems such as vomiting and diarrhea are bad signs, but they may not be aware if their food is the culprit. If your dog’s stool is noticeably loose, or they have been throwing up, it is important to tackle the issue one step at a time to deduce the true cause of their indigestion. This is because switching foods too rapidly in response to stomach problems can make it more difficult to find the root of the issue and can even make them worse. A trusted vet should point pet parents towards the reasons for their dogs’ upset stomach and construct a plan to alleviate symptoms by switching food options.
Health Conditions  
When Freshpet reviews reasons why pet parents switch their preferred dog food to other brands, health conditions stand out as one of the most common. Dogs, after all, can develop any number of medical conditions over the course of their lives, even if they are otherwise active and healthy. Diabetes, kidney diseases, bone and joint issues, liver disease, and stomach conditions are all common health issues that may lead to a change in diet. Luckily, many different brands have realized the need for formulas that address health conditions, and pet parents may not need to look far to find an option that fits their dogs’ needs. Many of these choices are well-known by vets and are often recommended upon diagnosing their conditions.
Low Energy Levels
Low energy or lethargy can be an issue caused by malnutrition and may be linked to a dog’s diet. Typically, this is because the dog food does not have the nutrients required for the dog to maintain their energy levels, leading to them being sleepy or unable to participate in activities they normally love. If you think that your dog’s lethargy may be linked to their diet, your vet can rule out other issues such as illness and assist with selecting an option that properly accounts for all their needs.
How Can Pet Parents Make the Switch?
Pet parents who find that it may be time to switch from their preferred dog food can do so by following just a few simple steps. One of the most important is consulting a vet who can help diagnose potential issues, create a feeding schedule, and evaluate options that may be better fits.
Freshpet reviews how purchasing decisions can make a huge difference in the health of our pets and finds that pet parents can benefit from expanding their knowledge on the options available to them. By looking closely at packaging, avoiding harmful ingredients, and keeping note of which products have caused issues in the past, you will be well on your way towards finding the perfect option for your pet!
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