Consumer Reports tested 20 different dog food brands and found that many contain ingredients that are not listed on the labels.

The Investigation

Consumer Reports conducted a comprehensive investigation into the ingredients used in popular dog food brands. The organization tested 20 different dog food brands and analyzed their ingredient lists to determine the accuracy of the labels.

What’s in the Dog Food? Some ingredients are not listed on the labels.**

  • *Many dog food brands contain fillers and by-products.**
  • *Some brands use low-quality protein sources.**
  • *Some brands use artificial preservatives.**

    • The Most Common Misleading Ingredients

    • *Meat by-products**
    • *Meat and bone meal**
    • *Corn and wheat**
    • *Soy and other grains**

    The Impact on Your Dog’s Health

    • *Consuming fillers and by-products can lead to digestive issues.**
    • *Low-quality protein sources can lead to nutrient deficiencies.**
    • *Artificial preservatives can cause allergic reactions.**

    What You Can Do

    • *Read the ingredient list carefully.**
    • *Choose a dog food with named protein sources.**
    • *Avoid dog foods with fillers and by-products.**
    • *Consider a homemade diet or consult with a veterinarian.**

    Conclusion

    The investigation by Consumer Reports highlights the importance of reading the ingredient list carefully and making informed decisions about your dog’s diet.

    The bacteria can cause severe illness in both dogs and humans.

    The Discovery

    Consumer Reports conducted a study to test the safety of raw dog foods. They analyzed 30 different brands of raw dog food and found that two of the samples contained Listeria monocytogenes. The bacteria can cause severe illness in dogs and humans, and it is particularly concerning for people with weakened immune systems.

    The Risks

  • The bacteria can cause listeriosis, a severe and potentially life-threatening illness. Listeriosis can affect people of all ages, but it is most severe in older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems.
  • Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Excessive intake can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness. The product contained 10,000 IU of vitamin D, which is 500 times the recommended daily intake. The product was marketed as a dietary supplement, but it was not regulated by the FDA. The company behind the product was not required to disclose the amount of vitamin D in the product or provide any warnings about potential toxicity. The product was sold through online retailers and was marketed as a “miracle cure” for various health issues.

    Avoid giving them table scraps. Table scraps can be high in fat, salt, and sugar, and can be unhealthy for dogs.

    Choosing the Right Treats

    When selecting treats, look for foods that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This organization sets standards for pet food, including treats. By choosing AAFCO-approved treats, you can ensure that your dog is getting a healthy and safe snack. Some popular AAFCO-approved treat options include:

      • Freeze-dried liver or chicken
      • Sweet potato chews
      • Carrot and apple slices
      • Greenies dental chews
      • Orijen freeze-dried treats

      Limiting Treats

      Limiting treats to just 10 percent of your dog’s diet is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity. Overindulging in treats can lead to weight gain and other health problems. Consider the following tips for limiting treats:

      • Measure out treats in advance to ensure you’re staying within the 10 percent limit
      • Choose low-calorie treats to make it easier to stay within the limit
      • Avoid giving treats at mealtimes to prevent overeating
      • Consider alternative snacks, such as baby carrots or green beans, to satisfy your dog’s cravings

      Avoiding Unhealthy Foods

      Avoid giving your dog table scraps, as they can be high in fat, salt, and sugar.