If you feed your dog what you eat yourself, you will end up with an unhealthy dog. Dogs need diets high in fats and proteins, along with the right amounts of vitamins and minerals. Store-bought dog food is tailored to the needs of dogs, and manufacturers are required to list ingredients and quantities of nutrients. Packages often have serving recommendations for various sizes of dog.

On the Other: Homemade Food Puts You in Control

Store-bought dog food often contains preservatives and chemicals, such as sorbitol and ethoxyquin, which can cause adverse health effects. In 2008, according to the New York Times, tainted food from China sickened and killed dogs in the United States. The resource linked below has a guide to energy needs and recommended amounts of protein and fat based on the size, age, and activity level of your dog.

Bottom Line

A carefully prepared and selected homemade canine diet works well, but you need not feel guilty about feeding your dog from a can or bag. Whether you use prepackaged dog food or homemade, watch for recall notices and news about contamination, make sure dog food has the proper mix of nutrients, and avoid food with harmful preservatives and additives.

Source:

The Case of the Poisoned Pet Food

Natural Dog Food No-Nos

Resource:

Your Dog's Nutritional Needs: A Science-Based Guide for Pet Owners