Choosing the Right Dog Food in Lubbock, TX

Veterinary-Recommended Dog Nutrition from Lubbock Animal Medical Center

Picking the right food for your dog can feel overwhelming. With so many options—grain-free, organic, high-protein, low-fat, sensitive stomach, senior formulas, wet or dry—it’s easy to get lost in the pet food aisle. Prices and ingredient lists vary widely, and every brand claims to be the best.

At Lubbock Animal Medical Center, our veterinarians help pet owners make informed choices about dog nutrition. Here’s what you should know when deciding what to feed your dog.

Pet Food Quality Control: What to Look For

Dogs are omnivores, meaning they thrive on a balanced mix of meat and plant-based nutrients. A quality commercial dog food should include both, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

When choosing a food, look for a statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This certification indicates that the food has been tested and meets nutritional standards for a “complete and balanced” diet suitable for all life stages.

???? Tip: Pet food companies are not required to test their products through AAFCO, so this label is one of the easiest ways to confirm quality.

Dry vs. Canned Dog Food

Both dry (kibble) and canned (wet) foods provide complete nutrition, but your veterinarian may recommend one over the other depending on your dog’s needs.

• Dry food is generally better for dental health and weight control. The crunch helps reduce tartar buildup, and kibble diets tend to have fewer calories per serving.

• Canned food contains more water, which can help with hydration and is easier for dogs with dental pain or chewing difficulties. It can also be mixed with dry food as a tasty topper or treat.

As a general rule, our veterinarians recommend using dry food as the base of your dog’s diet and adding canned food occasionally for variety or specific health needs.

If you’re unsure which is right for your dog, ask one of our veterinarians at Lubbock Animal Medical Center for guidance.

Specialty Diets: Grain-Free, Low-Calorie, and Sensitive Stomach Formulas

With so many specialty diets on the market, how do you know which one your dog needs?

Even though AAFCO-approved diets meet general nutritional standards, certain health conditions may require targeted nutrition. Examples include:

• Grain-Free Diets: May help dogs with food sensitivities or gastrointestinal issues.

• Low-Calorie Diets: Ideal for weight management in overweight or less active dogs.

• Sensitive Skin or Stomach Diets: Formulated for dogs with allergies or digestive sensitivities.

Because every pet is different, your veterinarian is the best resource for selecting the most appropriate diet for your dog’s health, age, and lifestyle.

Commercial vs. Homemade Diets

Homemade diets can be healthy if properly balanced, but they require careful planning. Simply feeding chicken and carrots won’t meet your dog’s full nutritional needs. Dogs require specific vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that must be supplemented.

If you prefer preparing your dog’s meals at home, consult with our veterinarians for trusted recipes and resources that ensure complete and balanced nutrition. We can also recommend reputable websites and formulation guides designed by veterinary nutritionists.

Raw Diets: What You Should Know

Although raw diets have become popular, Lubbock Animal Medical Center does not recommend feeding raw food. While wild animals eat raw meat, domesticated pets are not adapted to handle harmful bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella.

If you choose to include lean meats or eggs in your dog’s diet, make sure they are fully cooked to eliminate bacterial risks and protect your pet’s health.

Making the Best Nutrition Choice for Your Dog

Choosing the right food is one of the most important things you can do for your pet’s long-term health and happiness. Our veterinarians are here to guide you through product options, life-stage diets, allergy considerations, and more.

If you have questions about what to feed your dog—or would like personalized nutrition advice—call us at (806) 794-4118 or book an appointment online below.

At Lubbock Animal Medical Center, we’re here to help your dog live a long, healthy, and well-nourished life.