Lots of wheat gluten and other proteins are routinely added to dog food. Wheat free dog food is less common, because the majority of large-scale pet food manufacturers do not cater enough to the health needs of pets, especially those puppies or adult canines that might be allergic to wheat.
But just as humans are often allergic to wheat, the same is true for dogs. So these days many pet food companies are beginning to recognize the need for more dietary restrictions, as they respond to consumer demand for products such as wheat free dog food. If you shop carefully � especially in better pet stores or in places like health food grocery stores that have a pet food aisle � you can find plenty of wheat free food for you dog. And if you are not near a store that has that kind of product � which is the situation for many people who live in small towns or rural communities � then you can even order dog food that doesn’t contain wheat over the Internet. The delivery truck or post office will bring it right to your doorstep.
The most alarming cases of pet food problems are, of course, those that upset pet owners across the USA last year when it was discovered that dogs were dying from tainted pet food imported from China. These toxic foods were contaminated with melamine, a chemical sometimes used in industrial products as a binder or thickening agent. The melamine-tainted food is banned, and hopefully it will never return. But pet owners who are still concerned that imported dog food might once again slip through inspections and harm their dogs can buy brands that stick to a higher standard. Many companies now offer organic dog food, wheat free dog food, and gluten-free dog food, plus specially blended foods that are rich in nutrients and vitamins that growing puppies and older dogs both need.
Keep your dog safe and healthy by shopping for dog food that is made to the highest possible health standards. To find out what brands are the top rated and offer the most nutrition per meal, just ask your local vet for some brand name recommendations. You can be sure that whatever he or she feeds his or her own pets is a good choice for you and your furry friend.
