Main Explanation
How to Choose Dog Food on Chewy.com
- Read the ingredient list. Learn about key dog food ingredients, what to avoid, and how to choose the right food. Look for named protein sources (e.g., chicken, beef, fish) and avoid vague terms like "meat meal."
- Check for AAFCO guidelines. Science-based dog foods are formulated to meet or exceed Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines. This ensures the food is nutritionally complete and balanced for your dog's life stage.
- Determine the right amount to feed. General feeding guidelines are often based on ideal weight. Most dogs will consume 2–4% of their body weight in food per day. However, factors like activity level, age, and health status also matter.
- Choose a food type that fits your lifestyle. Chewy carries dry food, wet food, fresh, and raw options. Feeding guides on the bag provide a helpful starting point, but your veterinarian can recommend portions tailored to your dog's individual needs.
- Chewy. "The Ultimate Guide to Dog Food Ingredients." https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/food-and-nutrition/dog-food-ingredients
- Chewy. "How Much Food Should I Feed My Dog?" https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/food-and-nutrition/how-much-food-to-feed-my-dog
- Chewy. "What Is Science-Based Dog Food?" https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/food-and-nutrition/what-is-science-diet-pet-food
- Chewy. "Dry Dog Food - Healthy, High Quality..." https://www.chewy.com/b/dry-food-294
