A recent survey conducted by Royal Canin of 1,023 puppy owners in North America found more than half (62%) of puppy owners feel overwhelmed by the number of choices in puppy food and struggle to figure out what ingredients are important.
With 45% of U.S. households and 20% of Canadian households owning a dog, the period of adjusting to being a dog owner can often be overwhelming. It's common for pet owners to feel uncertain about where to start with pet nutrition, including what pet food to choose. This is especially true for puppy owners, who often experience the "puppy blues," a feeling of stress when bringing home a new puppy.
"In our recent survey, we found that more than half of pet owners experience the 'puppy blues' and one of the top contributors highlighted the number of options when it comes to choosing the right diet for their pet," said Racquel White, vice president of corporate affairs, Royal Canin North America.
While nearly all puppy owners (96%) recognize the importance of their puppy's overall health, almost half do not feel knowledgeable about puppy nutrition (42%).
"As a veterinarian, I recognize there is a wide variety of pet food products available, and it may be confusing or overwhelming at times but it's important to remember, you're not alone in making this nutritional decision for your pet," said Courtney Deer, doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM). "Leaning on experts like my colleagues in the industry to inform your decisions on potential diets is a great way to help ensure your pet is getting the nutrition they need from puppyhood to adulthood."
Three keys to educate puppy parents
Royal Canin offers these three tips to help puppy parents choose the right diet:
- Consult an expert: Consult an expert on your puppy's nutritional needs at their first veterinary appointment. In fact, the majority of puppy owners said they would change their puppy's food based on expert recommendations (82%). Not only are veterinarians and veterinary technicians experienced professionals, but one of their day-to-day duties is to help advise pet owners on proper nutrition for their pet.
- Remember every dog has unique needs: 91% of puppy owners agree tailoring food to their puppy's needs is important but it can be tough to know what that means. Each pet has unique needs and characteristics based on their breed, size and stage of life. The proper diet will address the specific nutritional needs of the individual puppy, laying the foundation to help build strong bones, a healthy immune system and proper cognitive development.
- Choose a puppy diet based on real science and not trends: While there are a variety of different diets on the market, 94% of puppy owners prioritize ingredient quality and scientific evidence in nutrition choices. It is important to choose a diet from a company backed by years of research and innovative nutritional science. In this approach, the nutritional needs of a pet are evaluated through research and observation, which then determine a diet profile based on the pet's breed, age, lifestyle, sensitivities and health status.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies, Royal Canin USA, a subsidiary of Mars, Inc., is a leader in science-based cat and dog health nutrition. Founded by a veterinarian in 1968, Royal Canin has more than 50 years of experience in delivering individualized nutritional solutions. In collaboration with an expert team of nutritionists, breeders, and veterinarians from around the world, Royal Canin places cats and dogs at the central point of the innovation process.
Adapted from a press release.
