You may have noticed the AAFCO label printed on your pets food bag, but most people do not know why it is significant. AAFCO publishes specific dietary nutrient requirements for cats based on one of two life stagesadult maintenance or growth/reproduction. With 27% protein, 12% fat, 4% fiber, and 307 kcal per cup, we recommend it for moderately active, normal-weight dogs. This Life Protection example derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken and chicken meal. Standout carbohydrates consist of rice bran, whole grain barley, and whole grain brown rice. Individual states often use AAFCOs recommendations to create pet food regulations. Treats should comprise no more than 10% of a dogs daily caloric intake. Yes, dogs can get their nutritional needs met through dry food alone. ORIJEN represents the fullest expression of our Biologically Appropriate philosophy. The brand also offers its dry food formula for medium and largebreeds. ( AAFCO Talks Pet Food ). Other substances, like vitamins, minerals, flavorings, and preservatives, may be generally recognized as safe for an intended use. With 25% protein, 11% fat, 6% fiber, and 280 kcal per cup, this food is ideal for overweight dogs that need to lose weight. Yeast and raw dough are unsafe for dogs for several reasons. For example, senior dogs with chronic kidney disease need lower levels of phosphorus, sodium, and sometimes potassium in their diet, according to Bullen. as well as other partner offers and accept our, This article was medically reviewed by Karie Johnson, DVM, a veterinarian in the south suburbs of Chicago whose focus is on nutrition, osteoarthritis, behavior, and end-of-life care. Probiotics, prebiotics, and yeast can also benefit a puppys immature GI tract and probiotics may help boost overall immunity in senior dogs. Hill's Science Diet is a good choice for dry food. The brand also has its own Ph.D. nutritionists on staff. We're excited to announce that we have completed comprehensive in-home versions of the Association of American Feed Control Officials . AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles Growth and Reproduction Protein 22.5% Further broken down into specific amino acid requirements Fat 8.5% Minerals Includes calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, zinc, iodine, selenium Vitamins Association of American Feed Control Officials, World Small Animal Veterinary Association has a helpful sheet, Where Can I Buy Earthborn Holistic Dog Food, Vet Recommended Safe Dog Treats for Snacking, Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University, Best Non-prescription Dog Food For Kidney Disease, What Dog Food Is Comparable To Hills Prescription Diet. The Association of American Feed Control Officials has strict requirements to make sure that a product is in fact complete and balanced for dogs . The food contains 25.6% protein, 13% fat, and 4.2% fiber, with 450 kcals/cup. AAFCO's Role in Pet Food Regulation Throughout this section, there are numerous references to the AAFCO Model Pet Food Regulations or other AAFCO Models. While there's no strict definition of the term "limited ingredient," limited-ingredient dog foods do, as a general rule, contain fewer ingredients than regular dog foods. I use AAFCOs and FDAs recommendations to go by, including for this list of best vet recommended dog foods. If a product is substantiated by a feeding trial and does not meet the AAFCO Dog or Cat Food Nutrient Profiles, the label cannot reference the Profiles. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. She is published in the, Wellness; Chewy; Natural Balance; Tyler Le/Insider, Hill's Pet Nutrition; Wellness Pet Company; Nestl Purina; Tyler Le/Insider, Chewy; Wellness Pet Company; Nestl Purina; Insider. For example, dogs with dental disease or tooth loss may benefit from the softness of wet food, though you may also choose to soften kibble with water before feeding your dog. Generally, large breed formulas contain glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, since larger breeds are more likely to develop diseases like osteoarthritis due to their size. AAFCO guidelines for pet food labels include: Species of animal that the food is intended for, Nutritional adequacy statement (complete and balanced statement). With 26% protein, 9% fat, and 10% fiber, this food is ideal for moderately active dogs that have constipation or need help maintaining a healthy weight. Insoluble fiber, such as cellulose, draws water into the digestive tract," Bullen says. Hills Science Diet is another brand that gets the seal of approval from Dr. Frione, and its especially popular for those who prefer to feed their dog wet food. I tried a few different foods with him but this seemed to give me the best results. At the top of the list are chicken meal and chicken fat plus millet and eggs. Phrases like this can be a tip-off that the meat is not actually human-grade. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken and Rice is one of 21 kibble recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line. These prices depend, in part, on ingredient quality. Hes finally eating as much as he should without stomach issues and its made him almost a brand new dog. One cup contains 352 kcal. However, for those that want even more recommended or even a place to start before your annual visit, we have that covered. A dog food can only claim it is complete and balanced if it meets or exceeds AAFCOs minimum requirements, as outlined in the nutrient profiles. The list of carbohydrates includes oatmeal, barley, brown rice, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. In addition to wet and dry options, Purina Pro Plan formulas include food nutritionally designed for adult dogs, puppies of various sizes, senior dogs, and specialized diet support for overweight dogs, sensitive stomachs, and more. Dr. Pendergrass earned her veterinary degree from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, then completed a research fellowship at Emory University's Yerkes National Primate Research Center. Carbohydrates include brown rice, brewers rice, and rice bran. Many dog owners love to feed treats to their dogs. If the pet food meets or exceeds the standards, it will have the following statement: "(Product name) is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.". If the product is found to provide proper nutrition, it will have the following statement: "Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that (product name) provides complete and balanced nutrition.". Carbohydrates include pumpkin seeds, kelp, almonds, carrots, apples, blueberries, and cranberries. If the dog chews are clearly labelled as treats or snacks, they are exempt from registration and labelling because they are intended as treats only. Its nutritional breakdown is 33% protein, 18% fat, and 4% fiber. At the top of the list are chicken meal and chicken fat plus millet and eggs. Wet food can help puppies transition from a liquid diet to solid food, says Shepherd. The top selections for this category are specially formulated for large breed adult dogs. "Special nutritional requirements for large and giant breed dogs, such as lower energy density and an appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratio level, are most important in the puppy stage," Koehler says. All dogs can enjoy dry food, aka kibble. They also refer to outside studies for information. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Some dogs may do better on dry food, while others may thrive on wet food. Before meat byproducts can be used in dry or canned pet food, they must be heat-treated and undergo additional processing to eliminate all disease-causing bacteria. This food contains 21% protein, 14% fat, and 4.5% fiber, with 384 kcals/cup. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) makes sure that the ingredients used in pet food are safe and have a purpose in pet food. Healthy extras consist of glucosamine and chondroitin. It can also apply to some veterinary diets, as these are formulated to address specific nutritional needs. Is Blue Buffalo bad for dogs? Pedigree Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food 6. Sample buyer reviewMy dog is a very picky eater with a sensitive stomach and this food has done wonders for him. It also prevents the company from getting any feedback or follow-up as to how well a pet would do consuming it as a primary food source. The organization was concerned that pet food lacked the proper nutritional value and has worked since its birth to improve quality standards. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. Healthy extras: Some foods contain extra ingredients intended to support healthy skin, coat, and joints, Swanson notes. The Honest Kitchen successfully completed in-home, comprehensive AAFCO Feeding Trials that substantiate our foods provide nutritional adequacy and overall health in dogs. Foods that are marketed for all life stages must meet the more stringent standards for growth and reproduction. However, this is not an AAFCO designation. It has two significant pieces of information that you can use to rule out certain diets. As for just beef? Recommended Reading: Black Gold Explorer Dog Food. There are plenty of factors to consider, but one thing that all vets agree on is that whichever pet food you select, it needs to be AAFCO-approved. Healthy extras like menhaden fish meal provide omega fatty acids while glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health. List Of Dog Foods That Meet Aafco Standards. Carbohydrates include pumpkin seeds, kelp, almonds, carrots, apples, blueberries, and cranberries. Since fresh dog food contains no preservatives, it must be kept refrigerated or frozen. This isnt just an advertising slogan. The organization understands that conducting such testing aids in understanding how certain diets affect animals in different lifestyles or age groups. This can quickly become fatal and requires immediate medical intervention. Deboned duck, chicken meal, and turkey meal are the main protein sources in this grain-free food. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider "Senior dogs can do well on an adult maintenance diet, unless they have age-related medical conditions that require dietary changes," Bullen says. It also has prebiotics and probiotics as healthy extras. Without sturdy adult teeth, young puppies can struggle to munch on dry kibble, making wet foods soft and moist texture ideal. We recommend it for moderately active, normal-weight dogs, with 24% protein, 14% fat, and 5% fiber. All of Purinas dog food products meet or exceed AAFCOs nutrient profile standards, so you can feel confident knowing your dog is eating a complete and balanced diet. Instead, they establish guidelines for ingredient definitions, product labels, feeding trials, and laboratory analyses of the nutrients that go into pet foods. At the top of the list are chicken meal, chicken fat, millet, and eggs. The Purina Pro Plan formula contains natural prebiotic fiber for digestive health and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A for skin and coat health, according to the brand. The AAFCO label must be on any food that is imported or exported in of Canada. Dog food must fulfil the nutritional criteria defined by AAFCO in order to be labelled as "complete and balanced." There are two nutrient profiles depending on a dog's life stage that establish these nutritional adequacy requirements, which are: Adult maintenance - Consists of protein (18%), fats (5.5%), minerals and vitamins. Sorting through the noise and picking great kibble for your pup can feel daunting, but here, experts are sharing solid tips to make it all easier. Instinct Raw Boost Senior Grain-Free with Real Chicken is designed specifically for older dogs. This grain-free food's main protein sources are deboned turkey, turkey meal, and salmon meal. We operate independently from our advertising team. According to the FDA, the nutrient profiles are updated as new, science-based nutritional information becomes available, most recently in 2016.. Our experts both prefer reputable food brands that employ a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. "Overall, the best food for a dog is what they will eat and what will support optimal metabolism and a good quality of life," Bullen says. Deboned chicken, chicken, and salmon meal are the main protein sources. With 29% protein, 14% fat, 3% fiber, and 423 kcal per cup, we recommend it for active normal-weight dogs. Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food. "These diseases can range from mild to severe, so check with your veterinarian before switching to this type of food," Bullen says. Healthy extras include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Dr. Lindsey E Bullen is a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at Friendship Hospital for Animals in Washington, D.C. After graduating from veterinary school at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, she remained at the veterinary school and completed a medical and surgery internship, followed by a residency in small animal nutrition and fellowship in clinical nutrition. When shopping for dry dog food, considering these criteria can help you choose a brand that meets your dog's needs: To select foods for this guide, we spoke with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and a small animal veterinarian in private practice. Some dogs may do better with more protein or fat and some with less. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains offers recipes for all breed sizes and life stages. We recommend this food for active, normal-weight dogs with a breakdown of 36% protein, 15% fat, and 5% fiber. This brand is committed to creating high-quality dog foods, and its products all meet or exceed the nutrient profiles and manufacturing guidelines of the AAFCO and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association . Commercial raw diets and freshly prepared diets should also meet AAFCO requirements or NRC standards. Yes, with the exception of Merrick which was recently bought by Purina but operates as its own company and hasn't reformulated any diets according to Purina research. Yes, dog food products that do not meet AAFCOs nutrient profile standards are allowed on shelves. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Healthy extras include probiotics and l-carnitine, an amino acid that can help promote weight loss. You May Like: Where Can I Buy Earthborn Holistic Dog Food. Major Breakthrough in Managing Cat Allergens. UnKibble offers recipes made with fish, beef, and chicken that use 100% fresh, entirely human-grade ingredients, and are formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists. All of Purina's dog food products meet or exceed AAFCO's nutrient profile standards, so you can feel confident knowing your dog is eating a complete and balanced diet. Have you ever been frustrated while trying to read the label on your pets food? We recommend it for moderately active normal-weight dogs. For large breed puppies who experience rapid growth, these nutritional requirements help protect against developmental orthopedic diseases like hip dysplasia. If Buddy is barking at you to fill his bowl, listen up. Dogs are fed the food according to strict procedures. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Treats are a type of pet food that isnt intended to provide complete and balanced nourishment but rather to reward pets. Ahh, that's what my favorite word means. One cup contains 370 kcal. Each cup contains 432 kcal. There are two ways that a pet food can meet AAFCO's standards: either through feeding trials . Ingredients must be displayed in order of the largest amount to least amount by weight. This food contains 23% protein, 12% fat, and 4.5% fiber, with 322 kcals/cup. The recipe meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages which makes it a healthy option for senior dogs. Designed specifically for the needs of senior dogs, Wellness CORE Digestive Health Age Advantage is a highly digestible, probiotic-coated kibble crafted with a unique blend of prebiotic fibers to support digestive health. Merrick is part of Nestl Purina, meaning they use the same team of nutritionists, veterinarians, and behaviorists when creating their dog food formulas. Similar to Purina Pro Plan, Purina One is a science-based food that offers premium nutrition for growing dogs. Senior dog foods have fewer calories, but they contain more high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass. List of Dog Foods That Meet AAFCO Standards October 11, 2022 by Burton Carson Aafco does not provide a list of approved dog foods however, they do provide a list of nutrients and their profiles that would make a dog food ideal in terms of nourishment. This dry dog food is sold in a variety of sizes from six to 34 pounds, lasting your pup a while until they become a big kid well, big dog. Generally, no. Tater Tot. AAFCO has recommended that any dog foods that exceed this amount be reformulated to meet the new standard. This limited-ingredient food has duck as the top ingredient and novel protein. Its made with wholesome ingredients like chicken and barley and enhanced with antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E and DHA to support developing organs and learning ability. When you buy dog food, if it contains the below-mentioned nutrients comparable to the below mentioned table then you can assume that it would be beneficial for your dog as the manufacturer has made the product according to the guidelines set by Aafco. Also Check: Best Food To Feed German Shepherd Puppy. The brand takes a nutrient-focused approach to pet food, evaluating the specific nutritional needs of dogs and creating optimal diet profiles based on scientific findings. "Puppies are growing and need to develop their muscles, bones, and brains. She has previously written for PetMD, Pet Coach, dvm360, and American Veterinarian. The list is updated annually and is availble free of charge to pet owners and veterinarians. Menhaden fish oil provides omega fatty acids. I feed my 4-year-old Havachon, Bella, this small breed kibble from the brand which is formulated for small dogs from 10 months old to 8 years old that weigh 9 pounds to 22 pounds after it was recommended by my veterinarian. How To Stop Food Aggression In Dogs Towards Other Dogs, How Much Homemade Dog Food Should I Feed My Dog. This puppy food also contains probiotics and omega fatty acids from salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, and salmon oil. The methods and studies used by the AAFCO are regarded as generally beneficial and trustworthy. This usually applies to treats and supplements, which are formulated to make up a small portion of your dogs total caloric intake (10 percent or less, daily). Examples include long-chain omega-3 fatty acids , omega-6 fatty acids , glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussels, and additional vitamins and minerals . Other standout ingredients include brown rice, pea protein, and brewers rice. If your dog has trouble digesting certain foods, a dog food designed for sensitive stomachs may be worth a try. (Cat food profiles were created in 1992.) * https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/resources-you **Additional Resources: Carbohydrates include brown rice, oatmeal, barley, quinoa, apples, and carrots. Formulated by scientists and nutritionists. Some ingredients, like meat, poultry, and grains, are deemed safe. Recommended Reading: Why Doesnt My Dog Eat Her Food. "Foods for sensitive stomachs are highly digestible," she says. Spot & Tango offers an affordable fresh food option resembling kibble, but only uses fresh, whole ingredients. To have "complete and balanced" in the nutritional adequacy statement, a dog or cat food must either: Pass a feeding trial using AAFCO procedures. Read Also: Is It Ok To Change Dog Food Flavors. It includes rice, corn, wheat, barley, omega fatty acids, and glucosamine. Wet food is also easy for puppies to eat. All Life Stages Diets If you look at the AAFCO label for an all life stage diet you will find that it is a puppy/kitten food. Any product that does not meet either standard must be labeled for intermittent or supplemental feeding only. These foods are not deemed to be complete and balanced and should not be fed as your pets primary diet. Chicken and chicken meal are the main protein sources in this low-fat weight-management food and standout carbohydrates include whole grain brown rice, sorghum, barley, and oats. If a laboratory analysis was used to verify that a pet food meets AAFCOs nutrient profiles, the label will read: (Name of food) is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO (Dog/Cat) Food Nutrient Profiles for (life stage)., Further broken down into specific amino acid requirements, Includes calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, zinc, iodine, selenium, Includes vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, thiamine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, niacin, pyridoxine, folic acid, vitamin B12, choline. Although small dogs need calorie-dense food, it's important to take care not to overfeed your small dog to reduce the risk of obesity. This information is not a substitute for a vets opinion. Carbohydrates include pumpkin seeds, kelp, almonds, carrots, apples, blueberries, and cranberries. Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and probiotics are healthy extras. Each cup contains 385 kcal. No, AAFCO does not have the authority to inspect, approve or regulate dog food (or any other pet food). Most commercial dog food companies formulate their dog foods for puppy, adult, and senior/mature life stages based on AAFCOs standards. The WSAVA Approved Dog Food list is a comprehensive guide to over 1,400 dog foods that meet the standards set by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). Deboned chicken and chicken meal top the ingredient list of this food, along with brown rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. All of the foods in this guide have moderate to high protein and low to moderate fat . If there were no feeding trials done, then the AAFCO label would say that the food was formulated. All of Purinas dog food products meet or exceed AAFCOs nutrient profile standards, so you can feel confident knowing your dog is eating a complete and balanced diet. This brand offers three puppy-specific foods, including a regular dry food, large breed puppy dry food, and wet food option, and you can typically find these products at big name retail and grocery storesnot just specialty pet stores. Choosing the right cat food or dog food is a challenge for every pet parent. With 26% protein, 15% fat, and 3.5% fiber, this is a good option for moderately active, normal-weight dogs. Explore all our dog foods and dont miss out on other dog nutrition articles. Prevent clicks on page when mobile menu is being shown, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Association of American Feed Control Officials, https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/resources-you, https://www.petfoodinstitute.org/pet-food-matters/commitment-to-safety/pet-food-regulations/, https://www.petfoodinstitute.org/pet-food-matters/commitment-to-safety/pet-food-regulations/about-aafco/. The food is fed to a group of 8 pets for 10 to 26 weeks depending on their life stage. There are healthy extras like probiotics and digestive enzymes. AAFCO defines byproducts as secondary products produced in addition to the principal product. Pet food advertising often portrays byproducts as undesirable and unappetizing, but byproducts that are properly processed are safe and nutritious. Waffles. Each cup contains 462 kcal. AAFCO Statement: Raw Paws strives for AAFCO excellence with their blends of 80% meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ. Water absorbed in the digestive tract can make stool more formed, which can help with diarrhea. It can also apply to some veterinary diets, as these are formulated to address specific nutritional needs. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 16% fat and 50% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.