Decoding Dog Food Labels: How to Choose the Best Nutrition

Navigating the dog food aisle can be overwhelming. Between vague marketing claims and long ingredient lists, it’s hard to know which options truly support your dog’s health.

At Roo Food, we believe every dog parent deserves to feel confident in what they’re feeding their pet. This guide to decoding dog food labels will help you better understand what’s inside the bag—and how to choose food that actually benefits your dog.

The Basics of Decoding Dog Food Labels

Every dog food label must include specific information. Understanding these elements is essential for making informed decisions.

Here’s what you’ll typically find:

• Ingredient List

  Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. Look for recognizable whole foods near the top of the list.

• Guaranteed Analysis

  This shows minimum percentages of protein and fat, and maximum percentages of fiber and moisture.

• AAFCO Statement

  Indicates whether the food meets nutritional guidelines. While helpful, this doesn’t reflect the overall quality of ingredients.

It's important to remember that AAFCO approval means the food meets minimum standards—not that it contains high-quality, whole ingredients. That’s why it’s critical to check the full label.

What to Look For When Reading Dog Food Labels

Not all dog food is created equal. Choosing high-quality options starts with knowing what to prioritize.

• Whole Proteins as the First IngredientLook for specific proteins like chicken, lamb, or beef—not vague terms like "meat meal" or by-products.

• Natural, Recognizable IngredientsIngredients such as peas, carrots, kelp, flaxseed, and oats offer fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients.

• Transparency in Ingredient SourcingLook for companies that clearly state where their ingredients come from (e.g., "locally sourced").

• Nutritional AdditionsVitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, B-complex, and calcium help round out a dog's daily dietary needs.

The first five ingredients typically make up the majority of the food—so those should be real, functional ingredients.

What to Avoid When Choosing Dog Food

There are also ingredients and labeling tactics to steer clear of:

• Artificial Preservatives and ColorsAdditives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin may be linked to long-term health concerns.

• Fillers with Little Nutritional ValueCorn, wheat, and soy are often used to add bulk but offer limited benefits for dogs.

• Generic Ingredient NamesTerms like “animal fat” or “meat meal” don’t specify sources and could indicate lower quality.

• Excessive Sugars and SaltsToo much sugar or sodium can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues.

  
  

Decoding Dog Food Labels: The Roo Food Difference

At Roo Food, we keep it simple: whole, natural ingredients with purpose. Each component is chosen for how it supports your dog’s health, digestion, and vitality.

We never use fillers, artificial preservatives, or vague terms. Here are a few of the ingredients you’ll find in our recipes:

• Kelp – Rich in iodine and antioxidants to support thyroid function and gut health

• Carrots – A source of beta-carotene, which may support vision and immune health

• Rolled Oats – A gentle grain that provides fiber for digestion and steady energy

• Flaxseed – Offers omega-3s and fiber to support skin, coat, and digestive wellness

Transparency and nutritional integrity are at the heart of everything we do.

Why Decoding Dog Food Labels Matters

Choosing food with whole, high-quality ingredients can support your dog’s long-term health. By learning to read labels and understand what’s really inside the bag, you’re taking an active role in your dog’s nutrition.

The more you know, the better you can feed.

Key Takeaway

Decoding dog food labels empowers you to choose nutrition that supports your pet’s overall well-being. Look for whole proteins, clear sourcing, and functional ingredients—and avoid vague terms and unnecessary additives. Roo Food is proud to lead with transparency and real ingredients you can trust.