The right food for a dog makes all the difference in his or her health and happiness. However, there are so many choices out there; it may seem hard to figure out what the best food is for a dog. Specialty foods, while broadening the range of opportunities, also require pet owners to do a little more research to find the best option. Some owners whose dogs have special dietary needs find their needs met best through preparing the pet food on their own. There are also more ways than ever to buy food, including delivery services. With the choices available for foods, as well as the various ways to purchase the food, pet parents can feel confident about giving their companions the most wholesome options possible.

Dog Food Delivery Services

One thing that has helped contribute to happier, healthier pets is the range of food delivery services that are available. Owners don't need to leave the house, saving a lot of time for people with busy schedules. Another advantage is that dogs who have specialized food needs can always have the food they need available. When the food is delivered, owners have less chance of running out and dealing with the dog getting digestive upsets from unfamiliar food.

Delivery services offer almost every major brand, as well as lesser-known specialty brands. The shipping fees are usually very reasonable, with free shipping offers being common when a certain amount is spent. These services make getting the right food more accessible than ever before.

Specialty Dog Foods

Specialty dog foods allow dog owners to feed their pets food that most meets their particular needs. Allergy foods are one example of these specialty products that many people buy for their dogs. Skin and coat issues often have their origins in allergies, making foods designed to help alleviate this type of problem a good idea. These food formulas are free from ingredients likely to trigger dogs' allergies.

Other examples of specialty options include:

• Sensitive stomach formula
• Small/large breed foods
• Puppy/senior formulas
• Breed-specific foods

Buying food tailored to a dog's special needs is an excellent way to make sure he or she is always consuming the healthiest options that are available.

Homemade Dog Food Recipes

Sometimes, owners find making their own dog food to be the best option. Dogs that are very fussy about their food or sensitive to most commercial ingredients often benefit from home made meals. One of the best things about this option is that it is easy for most people to do, regardless of how much time they otherwise spend cooking or preparing food.

One good dog food recipe includes these elements:

• 1 lb. beef stew meat, in small chunks
• 1 small sweet potato, cooked for 5 min. in the microwave
• 1/2 c. each of sliced green beans, diced carrots, and flour
• 1/2 c. water, 1 tbsp. organic vegetable oil to fry ingredients with
• Cook the stew meat in vegetable oil for 10 to 15 minutes, reserve meat drippings
• Heat the drippings, while adding water and flour
• Mix the meat and vegetables into the gravy
• Cook the mixture for 10 minutes

This food can be served once cooled and will keep for five days refrigerated.

What is a Dog Food Weight Chart?

A dog food weight chart serves as important guidance about the amount of food to give your dog. These charts help prevent owners from overfeeding their dogs or underfeeding them, both of which can have serious effects. These charts, usually appearing on a label on the back of the food bag, indicate how much the dog should eat based on their weight. For most dogs, the feeding amounts are easily divided into two feedings.

The exact amount that your dog eats might vary based on their activity level. A dog that is more active is likely to require a more substantial serving than a less active dog. Also, a dog's age should be taken into account, with older dogs likely to need less food and puppies to require more.