When it comes to choosing the best food for your dog, it can be tough to know who to trust. One popular source of information is Dog Food Advisor, but is their advice really worth following? Here we’ll take a look at some of the problems with Dog Food Advisor’s ratings, and why you should never solely rely on them when picking out a pup’s chow.
What Is Dog Food Advisor?
Dog Food Advisor is a website that provides reviews and ratings for different types of dog food. They claim to be “The Most Trusted Source of Dog Food Reviews.”
The Truth About Dog Food Advisor: It Was Created by a Dentist
Mike Sagman, the creator of DogFoodAdvisor.com, is a retired dental surgeon who has always loved dogs. His undergraduate studies included a major in chemistry and a minor in biology, which gives him the credentials for judging dog food thoroughly.
On the “About Dog Food Advisor” page, he states that his love for dogs inspired him to create a website where he could share his knowledge about dog food and help people find the best food for their pets. Although Sagman’s expertise and passion make him the perfect person to run DogFoodAdvisor.com, and his website is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to ensure that their dog is getting the best possible nutrition but it is not always the case.
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Dog Food Advisor Defies Veterinary Nutritionists
Vets do have some training in animal nutrition, but it is generally not as comprehensive as the training that nutritionists and other experts have. However, this does not mean that vets are not qualified to advise on pet nutrition. Vets are trained to understand the basic principles of animal nutrition and how different nutrients affect the health of animals. They are also familiar with the nutritional needs of different types of animals and can offer advice on which food is best for your pet. In addition, vets often work with animal nutritionists and other experts to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care. While vets may not be experts in animal nutrition, they are certainly qualified to offer advice on what food is best for your pet.
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Dog Food Advisor Beliefs
While Mike Sagman is a credible source of information, the claims made on DogFoodAdvisor.com are not always backed by science. For example, the website claims that all-natural dog food is superior to food that contains artificial ingredients. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, many experts believe that artificial ingredients can be beneficial for dogs, and that all-natural dog foods may not provide all of the nutrients that dogs need.
Another example is the claim that grain-free dog food is better for dogs than food that contains grains. Again, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, some experts believe that grain-free dog food may actually be harmful for dogs, as it can contain high levels of protein and fat.
So, while DogFoodAdvisor.com is a valuable resource for information about dog food, you should not blindly trust everything that you read on the website. Be sure to do your own research and talk to your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Changing Ratings
It is indeed notable that DFA has dramatically changed its rating of Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dog Food, from one star in 2010 (not recommended), to 2.5 stars, and as of 2019, the diet is rated 3 stars (recommended). Such change in the rating may be attributed to several reasons.
Firstly, it might be that the overall quality of the food has improved, owing to better ingredients or manufacturing processes. Secondly, it could simply be that DFA’s standards have changed over time; a food that was not recommended in 2010 might now meet their criteria for a recommendation.
Finally, it is possible that other dog foods have become worse in comparison to Hill’s Science Diet, such that Hill’s now appears to be a more attractive option. Whatever the reason for the change in rating, it is clear that DFA currently consider Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dog Food to be a good option for pet owners.
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Potentially Harmful Foods Given “5 Star” Ratings
Dog food controversy often stems from myths and non-evidence-based claims. The website Dog Food Advisor uses a methodology that involves pointing out these controversial ingredients.
However, the website also downplays the very serious implications of DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) and its associations with “BEG” dog foods. DCM is a condition in which the heart muscle weakens and deteriorates, resulting in an inability to pump blood effectively. This can lead to congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden death. While the cause of DCM is unknown, there is evidence to suggest that certain diets may be a contributing factor. “BEG” stands for “boutique, exotic, and grain-free” and refers to a type of dog food that has become increasingly popular in recent years.
These diets often contain unusual ingredients such as kangaroo, sweet potato, and quinoa. While there is no definitive proof that BEG diets are responsible for DCM, the FDA is currently investigating a possible link. In the meantime, pet owners should be aware of the potential risks associated with these diets and consult with their veterinarian before making any changes to their pet’s diet.
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Some DFA Ratings
are Inconsistent with Other Well-Regarded Organizations
The website Dog Food Advisor is a useful resource for information about dog food. However, it is important to note that not all of the ratings on the site are consistent with those of other well-regarded organizations.
For example,
- The website currently rates Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Food as 4 stars (recommended),
- While the Better Business Bureau gives the food 3 stars (average).
- Similarly, DFA rates Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food as 3.5 stars (recommended).
- While Consumer Reports gives the food 2 stars (poor).
These discrepancies suggest that you should take the ratings on Dog Food Advisor with a grain of salt and consult other sources before making any decisions about your dog’s diet.
When it comes to your dog’s food, you should never blindly trust everything that you read on the internet. Be sure to do your own research and talk to your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet. Dog food can be controversial, and there are often many myths and non-evidence-based claims floating around.
The website Dog Food Advisor is a useful resource for information about dog food, but you should take the ratings on the site with a grain of salt. Always consult other sources before making any decisions about your dog’s diet.
