Dry dog food is a good alternative for people who are looking to save money on their pet’s food. The convenience of dry dog food also makes it an attractive option for owners with busy lifestyles. However, there are some disadvantages that you should be aware of before buying your next bag or canister of this type of kibble.
Dry dog foods have less water content than wet foods so they take longer to digest and will often cause constipation in dogs which can lead to discomfort while eating, vomiting, weight loss and excessive gas production. This means that you’ll need the time to monitor your pup’s stool output at least once per day during the first few weeks after switching from wet to dry food. Plus, your dog is more likely to suffer from tooth decay since the dry kibble they are consuming doesn’t provide them with as much of a cleansing effect.
One of the most common complaints about dry dog food is that it tends to lose its taste over time. Since there are no preservatives added, your dog will gradually get used to the taste of this type of food and will begin to ignore it. It may take up to 60 days for your pup to get used to this food so be patient if you notice that they are not eating as much as usual during this time.
Do dry dog foods go bad?
As with wet foods, some brands have additives that extend the food’s shelf life. This means that if you store it properly, dry food will stay fresh for a long time. However, the taste and smell of your dog’s kibble can be diminished by prolonged exposure to humidity, so keep this in mind when storing it.
Fortunately, special containers have been developed with pre-measured portions that can help regulate the humidity level inside. This way you can ensure your food is properly stored and will remain fresh for longer, giving you peace of mind whether feeding at home or on the go.
How long do dry dog food last?
The best way to determine how long your storage will last is to check the manufacturer’s guidelines on the package. This information represents their guarantee that the food will remain fresh for a certain number of months or years before it becomes unsafe to use. If you are unsure about what type of container your kibble came in, check out our blog and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Regardless of whether your food is made from beef, poultry, lamb or pork protein sources, dry dog food will last longer than wet dog food. This is why people looking for ways to save on their pet’s bills are often tempted to switch over to this type of kibble.
As with wet food, dry dog foods become less appetizing over time. The best way to store it is in airtight containers that prevent humidity from spoiling the taste of this type of food. However, you should also note that despite their long shelf life, some types of kibble may not be healthy for your pup’s health. To make sure your dog is 100% safe, remember to keep an eye on the expiration date and if you notice any signs of spoilage such as mold or discoloration, don’t hesitate to replace the food with new kibble.
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Hi there! My name is Alex Landy, one of the co-founders here at Our Pets HQ and a parent to a small-breed Yorkie. I am a published author of two books on dog breeding and currently write on various pet-related blogs about caring for dogs. I am a parent of two daughters and live outside Boston where I spend a lot of time with family and serve in different breeding clubs. You can reach me at alex@ourpetshq.com