Blog, Enrichment, Food, Norwich dog training

Feeding Dogs Without Breaking the Bank

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by scentastic_

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We all want our furry companions to thrive on the best. But let’s face it, high-quality dog food can come with a hefty price tag. So how do we ensure our pups get the nutrition they need without leaving our wallets whimpering? Fear not, fellow dog lovers, this blog is your guide to navigating the world of dog food, savings in tow!

First things first: Ingredient Intel

Deciphering dog food labels can be like cracking a doggy Da Vinci code. But understanding the basics is key. Look for options rich in real meat and vegetables. Avoid excessive fillers, artificial ingredients, and preservatives. Remember, “complete and balanced” isn’t just a marketing term – it means the food meets your dog’s nutritional needs at their specific life stage.

What to look out for:
  • Cool pressed
  • Fresh
  • Whole
  • Specific terms
  • Complete
What to avoid:
  • Derivatives
  • Meat meal
  • Grains (fillers)
  • General terms
  • Super foods (no meaning to it)
Shopping Savvy: Where and How to Find Fur-tastic Deals
  • Bulk it Up: Buying larger bags often translates to lower cost per serving and stock up when possible, when larger discounts are about. Considering storage space and your dog’s consumption rate. Getting a discounted sign up subscription, why not double your dogs weight?
  • Compare and Contrast: Don’t blindly trust the first brand you see. Online research is your friend. Compare prices, read reviews, and explore various brands before making a purchase.
  • Food quantity: Like us each dog requires different amounts to eat depending on their metabolism. It a good idea to always check that you can feel the ribs (not sharp) and the back of a back bone. As a general rule the packets suggest over feeding your dog to increase their sales.
  • Subscription Showdown: Dog food subscription services tend to offer very competitive discounts on first order this can be as much as 50% off. Tails once gave me 95% off my first order because I didn’t complete the order! I always make sure I cancel the subscription before throwing away the box. These can easier be found by searching google and waiting for the discounts to come in.
  • DIY Dinners (with Caution): Making your own dog food can be surprisingly affordable, but proceed with caution. Consult your vet and ensure you’re providing a balanced diet with proper nutritional ratios
Fussy dog eaters?
  • Medical woes? Check with your vet.
  • Bland bites? Upgrade their food or make it fun.
  • Same-same bowl blues? Spice things up verity is the spice of life!
  • Too much food?
  • Make food fun. (Our shop)
  • For general cash back including Forthglade, Top Cash Back can be a nice little saver. Click here
Links

Check to under stand your dog’s body score here
For treats and dog food click here.

Environmental impact

Something that I always like to think about at the back of my mind is the environmental impact of what myself and my dog eats.
Please see below from the Visual Capitalist

Remember, the best dog food is the one that fits your wallet and your pup’s needs. With a little research, clever shopping, and some DIY creativity, you can keep your furry friend fed and happy, all without breaking the bank. So let’s raise a bowl (or maybe a squeaky toy) to budget-savvy dog ownership!

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet.