Recommended Dog Food Canada: Vet-Approved Healthy Choices

Choosing the right food for your dog can feel like a big job. You walk into the store, and suddenly you’re surrounded by dozens of bags and cans, all claiming to be the “best.” Some have shiny packaging, some are super cheap, and others are packed with ingredients you’ve never even heard of. Sound familiar?

If you’ve ever felt confused or unsure while shopping for your dog’s food, you’re not alone. At Pets Gone Wild, we hear this from pet parents all the time. That’s why we’re here to help make things easier, and to point you in the right direction when it comes to feeding your furry friend healthy, vet-approved meals and treats.  If you're looking for recommended dog food Canada, you're in the right place.

Why Does Dog Food Matter So Much?

We all want our dogs to be healthy, happy, and full of energy. What they eat plays a big part in making that happen. Just like people, dogs need a balanced diet filled with good stuff: protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

But here’s the issue. Not all dog food is healthy or safe. Some cheap brands may look good from the outside, but once you look inside the bag, they’re filled with low-quality ingredients like fillers and too many carbs. Fillers are things that don’t really add any nutrition, for example corn, wheat, soy, etc. Fillers serve to add bulk and keep it cheap to make.

Too many fillers can cause problems like:

• Upset stomach

• Low energy or sugar crashes

• Hyperactive behavior

• Poor coat or skin health

You might even notice your dog acting “off” or too excited one moment, then tired the next. That’s often because of the extra sugar from all the carbs turning into energy spikes (and crashes). So, while it might seem like you’re saving money, poor-quality food can lead to vet visits or behavior issues in the long run.

What Should You Look for in Good Dog Food?

Okay, so how do you know if a dog food is good or not? Here are a few quick tips:

1. Check the Ingredients

Look at the first five ingredients on the label. These are the most important because they make up most of the food.

What you want to see:

• Real meat like chicken, beef, or salmon

• Whole vegetables or fruits

• Healthy fats like fish oil

What to avoid:

• Corn, wheat, or soy as the first ingredient

• “Meat by-products” or “animal meal”

• Added sugars or artificial colors

2. Pick Protein First

The first ingredient should always be real protein like chicken, turkey, or fish. Dogs are meat-eaters by nature, and protein helps them build strong muscles, stay energetic, and grow healthy fur and skin.

3. Watch Out for Fillers

If the first few ingredients are grains or starches, there’s a good chance the food is mostly filler. That means your dog isn’t getting the nutrients they need and they might act out or get sick because of it.

If you’re searching for the best dog food in Canada, make sure it checks these boxes for quality and nutrition.

Affordable Can Still Be Healthy

We totally understand that pet food can get expensive. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to feed your dog well.

At Pets Gone Wild, we offer a range of high-quality dog food options that are both healthy and affordable. 

Healthy Dog Treats: What’s Safe to Share?

You don’t just feed your dog meals but you also give them snacks (and probably more than you admit). But not every snack is safe or healthy. Let’s look at some great natural treats that are actually good for dogs.

1. Apples 

Fresh apples (without the seeds) are a crunchy, sweet treat. They’re packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, which helps with digestion and boost your dog’s immune system.

At Pets Gone Wild, we provide freeze-dried apple treats that dogs love. They are also easy to carry, mess-free, and super healthy!

2. Bananas 

Soft, sweet, and full of good stuff like potassium and vitamin B6, bananas are a great snack, especially for older dogs who don’t like hard treats. Just remember to serve in small pieces since too much banana can upset their stomach. Our freeze-dried banana treats are a hit with picky pups!

3. Carrots 

Carrots are excellent for your dog’s teeth and are high in vitamin A. They’re also low in calories. You can feed them raw, chopped, or even frozen for teething puppies, just make sure the pieces are small enough to avoid choking.

4. Green Beans

Green beans are one of the best low-calorie snacks for dogs. They’re full of fiber and help keep your dog feeling full without adding extra fat.

5. Mango 

This tropical fruit is loaded with vitamins, but make sure to peel it and remove the pit. Give in small amounts to avoid tummy trouble.

6. Cooked Chicken

Plain, boiled chicken (no seasoning) is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s full of protein and easy to digest. Just never feed cooked bones as they can splinter and cause serious harm.

7. Eggs

Cooked eggs (scrambled or boiled) are packed with protein and healthy fats. They’re also rich in vitamins like A, D, and B12. Just make sure they’re fully cooked as raw eggs can be risky.

8. Fish (Salmon or Sardines)

Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help your dog’s coat and joints. Sardines are even better; soft bones mean extra calcium, and they’re safe to eat whole (unlike other fish bones).

9. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are low-calorie and refreshing making them a perfect crunchy snack. Just cut them into small pieces to prevent choking.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your dog doesn’t have to be complicated. Choose food with real ingredients, watch out for fillers, and use healthy treats to make treat time enjoyable. 

At Pets Gone Wild, we can help you make the best decisions for your furry loved one. We have you covered, whether you need healthy dog food, premium freeze-dried treats, or just friendly advice.

Check out our full selection of vet-approved dog food and treats today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I give my dog fruits and vegetables?Yes, many are safe like apples, carrots, and green beans but just serve in small pieces and no seeds or pits.

2. Are cheap dog foods bad for my pet?Some cheaper foods use low-quality ingredients and fillers that can affect your dog’s health and behavior.

3. How many treats can I give my dog each day?Treats should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily food so keep it small and healthy. All products of Pets Gone Wild come with feeding instructions so you can refer to that also!

4. What is the healthiest food to feed my dog?

The healthiest food for your dog includes a variety of whole, natural foods. Always ensure that any food you offer is safe and suitable for your dog’s breed, age, and health condition.

5. Can dogs eat blueberries?

Yes, blueberries are packed with antioxidants and are a great, low-calorie snack for dogs. They’re safe in moderation.