I got a whole bunch of free dog food and treats from MyMagazine Sharing Network. My pooch got one look at those meaty morsels and I couldn’t believe the things she would do for a taste. Take a look …

Tina is a Brittany Springer Spaniel. We got her when she was eight years old and she is the best pet I have ever had. Plus, she is highly motivated by treats. I had no idea she had so many hidden talents.

What would your dog do for a treat? …

All joking aside, the FREE food and treats were awesome. Tina LOVED them. I also had a bunch of coupons for free dog food at Smith’s. I was surprised by all the options to choose from. So, I did a little digging to figure out what food was best for my little pooch. Here’s what I found out:

What to look for in dog food

There are a TON of different foods out there. So, how do you know which one is the best or are they all the same? I asked my friend (who happens to be a veterinarian) that very same question and I was surprised by the answer.

First of all, not all dog foods are created equal. Some are loaded with preservatives and by-products. In the end, it is unhealthy for your little pooch. My friend told me that if your dog is pooping more than usual in the backyard, that’s a good indication that they are not getting the nutrients they need.

So, here’s the ingredients to look for in dog food:

• Natural preservatives (Vitamin C/E) or no preservatives
• Made in the U.S.A.
• Human-grade ingredients (although there are very few foods that can put this on their label and you won’t find this on any packages of kibble)

Here’s the ingredients to avoid in dog food:

• Corn and wheat gluten
• Meat and grain meals and by-products
• BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole)
• BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
• Ethoxyquin
• Food Dyes (Blue 2, Red 40, Yellow 5 and 6, 4-MIE)
• PG (Propylene Glycol)
• Rendered fat

For more info about the good, bad and healthy in dog food, click here.

What does my vet buy for her dog?

My veterinarian friend buys Science Diet, which is made by Hill’s. According to her, Hill’s the best dog food you can buy. However, she also emphasized that there are other very good dog food options out there such as Blue Buffalo Co., True Dog, and The Honest Kitchen. Check out this post on a full list of options.

As for treats, my friend recommends products that are low calorie and limit consumption. I like (I mean my dogs likes) Pupperoni and Nudges.

What would your canine do for some treats? Post your pictures of your pooch in the comments below.

Related link: 20 Ways to be an Amazing Grandparent