dry dog food bag with bowl icon

UNDERSTANDING PET FOOD

Practical information about commercial pet foods and what goes into them.

Resources

Prebiotics

Ingredients in Pet Food

Prebiotics

Purina was the first to use prebiotics in pet food and is a leader in the field. What are the benefits of prebiotics to pets?

VIEW HOT TOPIC

6 min to 10 min

How Do Pet Food Companies Ensure Food Safety?

Choosing a Pet Food

How Do Pet Food Companies Ensure Food Safety?

Pet food manufacturers are committed to producing safe, nutritious cat and dog foods.

VIEW BRIEF

1 min to 5 min

Grains Are a Rich Source of Nutrients for Pets

Ingredients in Pet Food

Grains Are a Rich Source of Nutrients for Pets

Grains are a valuable source of nutrients in pet food.

VIEW BRIEF

1 min to 5 min

What Is the Difference Between Dry, Semi-Moist and Wet Pet Foods?

Choosing a Pet Food

What Is the Difference Between Dry, Semi-Moist and Wet Pet Foods?

Commercial pet foods are available in different forms, each providing different features and benefits for owners and pets.

VIEW BRIEF

1 min to 5 min

Toxic Foods for Dogs and Cats

Feeding Management

Toxic Foods for Dogs and Cats

Many common food items found in kitchens are potentially harmful to dogs and cats.

VIEW BRIEF

1 min to 5 min

Considerations for Feeding Gluten-Free Diets to Pets

Feeding Philosophies

Considerations for Feeding Gluten-Free Diets to Pets

Following the human nutrition trend, gluten-free foods are becoming increasingly popular for pets.

VIEW BRIEF

1 min to 5 min

Definitions of Key Terms Regarding Commercial Pet Foods

Choosing a Pet Food

Definitions of Key Terms Regarding Commercial Pet Foods

This glossary defines the key phrases used to describe commercial pet foods and explains the roles of two important associations.​

READ GLOSSARY TERMS

1 min to 5 min

Why Is Taurine Considered an Essential Nutrient for Cats?

Nutrients

Why Is Taurine Considered an Essential Nutrient for Cats?

Cats need to obtain adequate taurine from food, which makes this amino acid an essential one.

VIEW BRIEF

1 min to 5 min

Switching Pet Foods - Dogs

Changing Diets

Switching Pet Foods - Dogs

Gradually transitioning onto a new diet minimizes the risk of stomach upset.​

VIEW BRIEF

1 min to 5 min

Probiotics

Treats & Supplements

Probiotics

Probiotics offer many benefits, but with so many options available, pet owners may not know how to select the best quality and most appropriate one for their pet's needs

VIEW HOT TOPIC

6 min to 10 min

Why Choose a Small Breed Dog Food

Choosing a Pet Food

Why Choose a Small Breed Dog Food

Learn why small dogs can benefit from a food specifically formulated for them.

VIEW HANDOUT

1 min to 5 min

Grains in Pet Foods

Ingredients in Pet Food

Grains in Pet Foods

Grains provide valuable nutrients, but pet owners may believe that grains are “fillers” or that they may be a source of food allergies.

VIEW HOT TOPIC

6 min to 10 min