As the old year draws to a close, many of us are looking back on our habits over the past twelve months and considering what we would like to change in the new year. “New Year’s resolutions” are a tale as old as time – the phrase can be found in a Boston newspaper from 1813! For over 200 years, we have been making (and breaking…) promises of becoming better, healthier, more successful people once the clock strikes twelve on the night of December 31st. 

One of the most common resolutions revolves around our eating habits. Many of us swear that we’re going to eat more vegetables, that we’re going to cut down on sugar, or that we’re going to start to eat on a better schedule. This year, as you’re reviewing whether you should incorporate more protein in your diet or eat more leafy greens to fulfill your antioxidant needs, why not check your pet’s eating habits while you’re at it? 

When planning your dog’s diet and choosing its food, there are many aspects to consider: cost, practicality, allergies, etc. One of the most important factors to keep in mind is nutrition. Is your dog getting all the nutrients it needs? Is it lacking any vitamins or minerals or eating too little fat?

We’ve previously discussed different traditional types of dog food and the potential issues that can come with them, but to refresh your memory: Dry kibble does a good job of keeping your dog full and is easy to store, but the low moisture content can cause digestive problems for your dog. The ingredient quality can also be questionable. When it comes to fresh dog food – pet food that is either homemade or manufactured using fresh ingredients and sold refrigerated or frozen – there are concerns such as food-borne illnesses and nutritional deficiencies. It is also often more expensive than kibble.

In order to be healthy and live its best life, your furry friend needs to consume the right amounts of proteins and amino acids, fat and fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. These essential macro- and micronutrient groups all contribute to ensuring your dog’s body works as it should:

• Amino acids help build proteins and help your dog produce glucose for energy. At least 10% of your dog’s diet should consist of protein. 
• Fats and fatty acids should make up at least 5.5% of the food your dog consumes. They support cell function and nutrient absorption and keep your dog’s fur and skin healthy and shiny.
• Carbohydrates provide energy and digestion aid. Up to 50% of your dog’s food can consist of carbohydrates.
• Vitamins and minerals all have distinct properties, but they all help keep your dog’s body and brain feeling their best and functioning properly.

An easy way to ensure your dog gets all the required nutrients without unnecessary chemicals or additives is to feed them the third generation of dog food – PawCo Foods’ GreenMeat™! Our recipes are formulated specifically for dogs by board-certified animal nutritionists and food scientists. They’re developed to exceed AAFCO standards and provide your dog with everything they need to thrive. 

We have recently released our second flavor, so that your dog can choose their favorite! Our currently available recipes are the tried and true “Green Mix and Carrots” and our new, exciting “Pumpkin and Cranberries”. They are both equally healthy, and equally tasty. Keep your eyes peeled in the new year, because we have even more flavors planned for 2023!

PawCo’s meals are also 100% plant-based, meaning they work to reduce animal farming and environmental problems associated with the meat industry. What better way to start the new year off than to provide your dog with nutritious and delicious food, help reduce animal farming, and lower your climate footprint? We can’t think of any resolution more exciting than that! 

Place your order here and let your dog join you in your resolution to eat healthier in 2023! Happy New Year!