Is Pedigree dog food good for your dog?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

In my expert opinion, Pedigree dog food is not a good choice for your dog. Let me explain why.

One of the main concerns with Pedigree is its use of poultry by-product or meat and bone meals as its primary sources of animal protein. These ingredients are considered lower quality and less nutritious compared to whole meats. Poultry by-products can include things like chicken feet, beaks, and internal organs, which may not provide the same nutritional value as lean muscle meat. Meat and bone meals, on the other hand, are rendered products that can contain a mix of animal parts, including bones, skin, and connective tissue.

Another issue with Pedigree is its heavy reliance on plant-based ingredients. While dogs are omnivores and can derive some nutrition from plant sources, they still require a significant amount of animal protein for optimal health. Plant-based proteins, such as corn and soy, are generally less digestible for dogs and may not provide all the essential amino acids they need.

Furthermore, Pedigree contains a number of fillers and low-quality ingredients, such as corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients are often used as inexpensive fillers and can contribute to allergies, digestive issues, and weight gain in some dogs. Additionally, the food contains artificial colors and flavors, which serve no nutritional purpose and may be potentially harmful.

Personal experience-wise, I have had clients who have fed their dogs Pedigree and noticed negative effects on their dogs’ health. Some have reported issues like skin allergies, digestive upset, and lack of energy. Switching to a higher quality dog food with better ingredients has often resulted in significant improvements in their dogs’ overall well-being.

Pedigree dog food is not recommended due to its reliance on lower quality animal protein sources, heavy use of plant-based ingredients, and inclusion of fillers and artificial additives. There are many better options available in the market that provide higher quality nutrition for your furry friend.