The earliest dog foods were our leftovers. The earliest commercial dog foods were made from ingredients deemed unfit for human consumption. That’s changed. Now, dog foods are increasingly competing with human foods as consumers of “human-grade” ingredients. This makes our pets’ environmental pawprints much larger than in the past; in fact, in the book Time […]

It was a routine vet visit for Oliver, Julie Carter’s 3½-year-old Golden Retriever. At least, it was until the vet listened to Oliver’s heart and uttered the sentence that would change her life: “He has a heart murmur.” It was February 2018, and Carter had also brought in an interesting article from the Morris Animal […]

How do you choose the best dog food for your pup? AKC's dog nutrition experts explain how to choose the best dog food diet for your dog or puppy.

Your small breed dog might think they're one of the big dogs, but when it comes to dinnertime, their nutritional needs are unique. Food for small dog breeds needs to follow a specially-formulated diet to help your dog feel and act their best. Unfortunately, finding the best dog food for small breeds is not always […]

Our research shows that nearly a quarter of all owners warm their dog’s food. So, who are these owners and why are they going through this extra trouble at feeding time? Pet food companies suggest their products be served at room temperature so that, as Purina says, “your dog can taste and smell it properly.” But […]

Your dog probably won't be harmed by eating some cat food now and then, but it isn't something you should give them on a consistent basis.

UPDATE: On August 17, 2021, the FDA issued a "corporate-wide warning letter" to Midwestern Pet Foods, Inc., the company that produces Sportmix pet food and other pet food brands. Per the FDA alert, as of August 9, the agency "is aware aware of more than 130 pet deaths and more than 220 pet illnesses that […]

This past week, the Wisconsin Assembly passed a bill allowing the state to establish regulations regarding food establishments.  The bill includes an amendment stating that no rule may ban allowing dogs or cats at any establishment that sells only pre-packaged food. The rules established by the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection under […]

Feeding a sick dog, especially one dealing with a decreased appetite, upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting, can be stressful. To deal with some symptoms, you may want to ask your vet about an over-the-counter stomach and diarrhea treatment. But a bland diet can help address some of these symptoms while also giving your dog the […]

Summer is the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the nice weather, and gather with friends to eat and chat. From May through September, many families have calendars packed with barbecues, picnics, and outdoor parties. And what's a party, if your dog isn't invited? If you are bringing your dog along to these events, you need […]