Being a fur parent is a big responsibility because aside from providing your dog with food and shelter, you also need to make time for them and ensure that they are properly cared for and loved. This includes being selective on the food that you give them because what you feed your pet can go a long way in terms of keeping him healthy and strong. 

In this regard, below are some of the factors that you need to consider before buying dog food.

Age

One of the first things that you need to consider before buying dog food is the age of your dog. The nutrition that a puppy needs greatly varies from the nutrition that a senior dog requires. Puppies need to be fed frequently, in relatively larger portions because they are rapidly growing. For the first two months of their lives, they should be fed at least four to six meals a day. However, the amount of food, as well as the frequency of feeding will decrease as they age.

Size

Another thing that you need to think about before buying dog food is the size of your dog. The size of a dog usually depends on its breed, with some breeds generally being smaller such as a pomeranian and others being larger such as a great dane. If your pet belongs to the larger dog breed size, keep in mind that they have a different nutritional need compared to smaller dogs. Rest assured that there are dog foods that are specifically formulated to cater to the needs of your dog based on his size.

Energy Level

Some dogs are more active compared to other dogs and because of this, they tend to burn more calories. In this case, make sure that you feed your dog with a nutrient-dense diet, particularly if it falls in the category of an active dog. Conversely, make sure that you go for a dog food that is intended for weight management in case your dog is not too active. When selecting the right dog food for your furry friend, it's essential to take into account their specific health needs, such as pancreatitis treatment for dogs. 

Specific Needs

You also need to consider whether your dog has specific needs before you buy a certain type of dog food. It is important that when your dog has seizures, you provide it with food that has limited ingredients that can worsen its condition. In this case, opt for dog food which is rich in omega fatty acid and DHA. On the other hand, if your dog is prone to skin irritation, you need to look for dog food with ingredients that will help it with its condition such as those rich in vitamin B and amino acids.

To wrap things up, make sure that you consider the age, size, energy level, as well as the specific needs of your dog before you buy dog food. Better yet, consult with your veterinarian to ensure that you are giving your friend the nutrition it needs. This will also aid you in deciding upon the frequency of its feeding, as well as when you need to change its diet accordingly. While caring for your dog may prove to be laborious, in the end, all your efforts will prove to be worth it.