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Millions of dog owners have no idea what is in their pet's food, according to research

2023-08-10 58 Dailymotion

Millions of dog owners have no idea what's in their pet's food, according to research.<br /> <br />A poll of 2,000 dog owners found 48 per cent could only name up to three ingredients when quizzed on what they feed their dog.<br /><br />Almost a quarter (23 per cent) struggle to understand the ingredients listed on dog food labels.<br /><br />While 44 per cent are confused by what they see as contradictory advice on what makes a healthy diet for dogs.<br /> <br />Perhaps as a result, 36 per cent admit they're worried their canine might not have a nutritious diet.<br /><br />As such 40 per cent find planning their dog’s diet more stressful than figuring out their own - with 41 per cent calling for clearer labelling on dog food packaging.<br /><br />The study was commissioned by Butternut Box, which has unveiled an edible billboard in a South London park, to highlight the need for fresh and healthy nutrition for dogs.<br /> <br />The fresh dog food brand's in-house vet, Dr Ciara Clarke, said: “Food is such an important factor when it comes to our dogs living long, healthy, and happy lives.<br /><br />"A healthy diet can help to prevent many issues and illnesses, but getting the portion sizes and ingredients right is crucial.<br /> <br />“It’s clear from this research that dog parents are confused when it comes to what to feed their dog and how much they should be feeding.<br /><br />"We need greater transparency and information around dogs’ diets to help owners to make better, more informed choices.<br /> <br />“Many people don’t know that dog foods are often packed with nasties like rendered, hydrolysed, or pasteurised animal byproducts, along with artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives.<br /> <br />“A lot of manufacturers avoid stating that they use these sorts of ingredients, so it’s best to practice caution when it comes to vague references to ingredients."<br /><br />Price is the deciding factor for 45 per cent of owners when choosing which dog food to buy, while 13 per cent are swayed by the packaging alone.<br /><br />The study also found 37 per cent describe their pet as a 'fussy eater.'<br /><br />Almost a fifth (17 per cent) said their pups won't think twice about turning their nose up at what they're served if it's not up to scratch.<br /><br />With 11 per cent consistently refusing to eat their food.<br /> <br />It also emerged three in 10 tend to show more interest in what their owners are having for dinner than their own.<br /><br />As a result, 61 per cent of dog parents feed their beloved pooch ‘human’ food at least once a week.<br /> <br />One in four owners admit they feel guilt-tripped into sharing their meals.<br /><br />But the study, carried out through OnePoll, found 23 per cent do so because they believe fresh, human-quality food is better for their dog.<br /> <br />Dr Ciara Clarke added: "We encourage dog owners to read the label when selecting their dog food, and I do the same with my clients when in vet practices.<br /> <br />“It’s not only the ingredients to look out for, but the way dog food is cooked too.<br /><br />"For example, dry dog food - or kibble - is made through a process called extrusion, which takes raw ingredients and cook

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