Puppy food?

Thursday March 31st, 2011

Question:

What am I buying when I pick up dog food labeled "for puppies?"

answered by Marion Nestle and Malden Nesheim

Answer:

Generally speaking, puppy food is higher in protein and enriched with vitamins, minerals, and fats essential for growth--that is, when compared to dog food made by the same manufacturer.

Still, ingredients across brands can vary greatly. Commercial puppy food must meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) nutrient standards for growth, and many companies will go above and beyond those standards, testing their products to make sure they support puppies' development. They don't have to, though--they're only required to meet the minimum nutrient standards.

In most cases, what you pay for is what you get. Lower-quality ingredients are found in the cheaper brands while "premium" and "performance" varieties tend to include higher-quality ingredients for improved digestibility.

Marion Nestle is the Paulette Goddard professor of nutrition, food studies, and public health, and professor of sociology at New York University, while Malden Nesheim is a professor of nutritional sciences and provost emeritus at Cornell University. They are the food editors of Bark magazine and are currently writing a book entitled What Pets Eat.

Tags Dog Ages & Dog Stages, Feeding A Puppy, Puppies

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	what do u feed a 6week old boared terrier 3 months ago by natalie
	Just bought a brusseels puppy. I have a six. year one at home. I am picking up the new one Friday. . I am afraid Holly will be jealous of her. We love her dearly, and she is spoiled rotton.It's going to be hard to separate the food from each other. What do you suggest, I do? over 2 years ago by Anonymous

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