Here are 5 essential factors to consider when choosing kibble:

1. Ingredient Order: What's Really Inside?
In Australia, pet food ingredients are listed in order of quantity, from most to least. This is crucial for understanding what your dog is actually eating.

• Look for: Real meat (like kangaroo, lamb, or chicken) listed as the first ingredient, followed by legumes and vegetables.
• Be wary of: Starches, flours, by-products, and artificial colours appearing high on the list. These often indicate a lower nutritional value.

2. Gluten: Is It a Problem?
Many dogs, like humans, can experience digestive issues from gluten.

• Gluten from wheat, barley, or oats can lead to allergies and digestive upset.
• Signs of gluten sensitivity can include:
  • Stinky ears
  • Chronic ear infections
  • Itching or hot spots
• Consider a premium grain-free kibble to avoid potential issues.

3. Bag Size: Freshness Matters
While buying in bulk might seem economical, it compromises the freshness and nutritional benefits.

• Kibble exposed to air and humidity for any period of time, loses its nutritional value and palatability.
• Smaller, pre-portioned bags help maintain freshness and prevent oxidation.

4. Meat Source: Quality Counts
Pay close attention to how meat is listed in the ingredients.

• Avoid vague terms like "by-product" to ensure you’re feeding your pup premium quality.
• Look for clearly identified meat sources (e.g., beef, chicken, lamb) – you want to have meats listed exactly as they are.
• Be suspicious of products that fail to identify the specific source of meat.

5. Ignore the Buzzwords: Focus on Substance
Marketing terms like "artisanal" and "gourmet" can be misleading.

• Don't rely on fancy packaging or buzzwords.
• Look past the packaging and do your due diligence with the ingredient list.
• Understanding the ingredients is the best way to ensure the food is good for your dog.

Choosing the right dog food doesn't have to be a headache. By focusing on these key factors, you can make an informed decision and provide your dog with the nutrition they need.