For the most part, choosing the right hypoallergenic dog food for Golden Retrievers isn’t much more complicated than choosing the right one for any large breed dog. Goldens, the name we often give to Golden Retrievers, are a generally healthy breed. When you’re looking for a hypoallergenic food, though, why not look for one that might help with the most common health issues related to Goldens? Check out these tips to choose the right food that will help address their needs.
Related: Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic Dogs?
What to Look for in Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Goldens
Goldens are only at increased risk for a couple of health concerns, and only one of those is a biggie. Fortunately, some of the following things to look for in hypoallergenic dog food for Golden Retrievers serve double duty in the health department.
Related: Best Golden Retriever puppy names
Reduced Calorie
All dogs should be on a reduced calorie food, in my opinion. Obesity in dogs leads to an increased risk of diabetes and cancer, so all dogs should be lean. Remember those health concerns I mentioned earlier? Well, cancer is one those concerns. That means it’s even more important to feed your Golden Retriever a reduced calorie food to help keep him in top shape.
In addition to reducing his risk of cancer, a reduced calorie food also serves to help protect him against joint issues and reduce the impact of hip or elbow dysplasia – two conditions to which Goldens are prone. dysplasia of the joint is a condition in which the joint is deformed or doesn’t work correctly. Over time, it can lead to arthritis, pain, and possibly surgery. Keeping your Golden thin helps with this, as well.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are an important part of hypoallergenic dog food for Goldens. Antioxidants battle free radicals, which can contribute to the risk of cancer, as well a general cellular damage. A dog food which includes berries or an antioxidant complex can help improve whole body health, as well as reduce your dog’s cancer risk.
Omega Fatty Acids
Omega fatty acids serve double duty for Goldens. Fist, omega fatty acids are excellent for joints. The reduce whole body inflammation, which helps reduce wear and tear on joints. Secondly, while not an antioxidant, studies have shown that omega fatty acids lower free radical levels and may increase antioxidant enzyme activity, both of which help antioxidants to further help reduce your dog’s risk of cancer.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine can be found in many foods these days. Glucosamine has been shown to improve joint health by promoting cartilage growth, preventing the loss of cartilage, and increasing joint lubrication. All of these make it an important ingredient to look for in any food for Goldens.
Pick the Best Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Your Golden
The key to picking the best hypoallergenic dog food for Goldens is vet consultation. Chances are you’ll be working with your vet to find the right protein and carb sources for your guy anyway. While you’re at it, use your vet’s knowledge to help you find a hypoallergenic dog food with as many of the ingredients above as possible. These ingredients can help keep Goldens healthier longer, so talk with your vet, and good luck!
