Canines also need to have a balanced diet and pet parents should find good-quality food for dogs to keep them happy and healthy. Fresh and vet-approved food diet has a great impact. A balanced and nutritious diet aids in digestive system, brain function and heart health. When going for dog food shopping, always check the weight of the ingredients, and to help you, here are some of the healthiest ingredients in dog food.

Top healthy ingredients in dog food

1. Meat
Meat is one of the most important and healthiest ingredients in dog foods. A canine diet should include 30 percent lean protein; this helps them have a healthy weight and keeps muscles and joints strong. Maintaining a balance is the key, so don’t overdo meat in meals. You can consider offering them chicken, beef, fish, rabbit, venison, and eggs.

2. Organ meat
Organ meat is equally important for a dog’s well being and is considered among one of the healthiest ingredients in dog food. This item provides the dog with essential vitamins and nutrients. While shopping, check for labels, like kidneys, heart, and liver.

3. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates play an equally important role as they provide instant energy to dogs and aid in digestion. You can add rice, oats, barley, quinoa, and peas to the diet and avoid giving them soy, corn, and wheat, as many dogs are allergic to them.

4. Vegetables
Vegetables provide the canines with essential vitamins and minerals. You can offer them pumpkin, carrot, squash, and kale. Additionally, sweet potato is one of the healthiest ingredients in dog food as it contains potassium, vitamin B, beta-carotene, and antioxidants.

5. Fruits
Fruits like apples and blueberries are loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants which help with strengthening the immune system. Cranberries help them fight urinary infections and maintain dental hygiene.

6. Healthy fats
Just like human beings, dogs also need to consume healthy fats as they are an essential part of the diet. Sunflower oil, coconut oil, fish oil, flaxseed oil, and olive oil encourage cell function, are good for heart and brain, and also improve the dog coat.

7. Electrolytes
Electrolytes, such as sodium, chloride, and potassium are important ingredients for dog food. They are equally important in every aspect for overall dog health and aid in organ health and muscle function.

8. Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K hold much importance in dog food. Some canines require these vitamins in the form of supplements. Minerals, in low quantities, are important for a proper bone and joint function. Zinc gluconate, ferrous sulfate, and manganese sulfate should definitely be present in dog food. You can consult a vet if in doubt for any of the components.