As a dog owner, you want what is best for your best friend, and if you are like many dog owners, it is highly possible that you worry more about your dog’s nutrition than you do your own. Reviews of different types of dog food can be found online, and you have probably read them all, but you might still be at a loss as to what is the best food for your beloved pet. Reviews, unfortunately, can be full of misinformation, and they sometimes can be nothing more than an advertisement for a particular brand. With all the falsehoods being put forth regarding canine fare, a number of popular misconceptions have been formed by otherwise intelligent and discerning people. This being the case, there are a lot of dog food ingredients that are undeservedly promoted, but more importantly, there are a number of dog food ingredients that get a bum rap. This article will attempt to help you with your analysis of dog food and bring to light some of the undeserved fallacies surrounding a few key ingredients, which are actually quite healthy for your dog.

Avocado Oil

…the parts of the fruit responsible for its oil are not toxic whatsoever.

Many people falsely believe that dog food which uses avocado oil as one of its ingredients can cause harm to their dog. While it is true that certain parts of the avocado such as the skin, wood, leaves, bark, and pit are toxic to dogs, the parts of the fruit responsible for its oil are not toxic whatsoever. Certain dogs may have an allergy to avocados, but this is rare. If you are concerned about how avocado oil might affect your dog, consult with your veterinarian. Needless to say, you should avoid letting your dog have access to any avocados, or areas in which they are grown.

Beet Pulp

…it will not cause your dog’s coat to turn red, contrary to the popular urban myth

Some dog owners are convinced that beet pulp, which is commonly used as a filler ingredient in dog food, is responsible for causing ear infections and allergies. This is untrue. Certainly there are dogs suffering from allergies, but these conditions are not caused by any ingredient in the dog food. More than just filler beet pulp is actually a terrific source of fiber for dogs; it is usually tolerated quite well, and it also contains elements that make it easier for beneficial bacteria in your dog’s digestive system to thrive. In addition, it is far less likely to cause the vomiting and distress that other filler ingredients like rice bran can cause in some sensitive dogs. Moreover, most of the sugar in beet pulp is removed when being prepared for dog food, leaving it largely beneficial, and no, it will not cause your dog’s coat to turn red, contrary to the popular urban myth.

Corn And Wheat

…corn and wheat are fine sources of carbohydrate energy …

The most popular misconception about dog food ingredients might be the one that assumes that corn and wheat are bad for a dog’s digestive system. This is not true unless your dog has an allergy or a particular sensitivity to one of these ingredients. Otherwise, corn and wheat are fine sources of carbohydrate energy for your dog. Again, if you are unsure of possible allergies or food sensitivity issues your dog may have, it is recommended that your animal be examined by a veterinarian. Adverse effects may result from a gluten intolerance, for instance, in which case a specialized diet would probably be advised. If your dog does not suffer from any such malady, then corn and wheat are as nutritious as any other grain.

White Rice

White rice … is actually easier on the digestive system for most dogs

Some dog owners feel that white rice, because it is more processed than brown rice, is less nutritionally sound for their pet. Depending on the dog, and its particular system and sensitivity, brown rice may be a better choice. White rice, however, is actually easier on the digestive system for most dogs.

These dog food ingredients that get a bum rap need not be avoided. They are actually quality ingredients. Some dog foods might claim to offer better ingredients, but it is ultimately unnecessary to spend the extra money for these enhanced contents. As with most things, take what you read about dog food with a grain of salt. By not buying into the hype about certain ingredients, you can keep your dog healthy while your wallet stays a little more full.