Dog food reviews appear on numerous websites, but how can you tell the difference between trustworthy reviews and those submitted by people who play favorites or have an ax to grind? These six tips will help you sift through the many customer reviews you find online so that you can read with a critical eye in search of the right product for your pup.
1. Check Website Policy
As you read various dog food ratings online, check the review policies for the site. Some websites do not monitor their ratings and allow anyone to post. Others carefully review all ratings left by users in order to screen out profanity, competing product pitches, and similar forms of spam from the more authentic customer feedback. Knowing the terms of the site publishing consumer content can help you discern genuine reviews from nonsense.
2. Read Multiple Reviews
No matter how great a product, someone, somewhere, will be disgruntled. Read a wide range of reviews to identify trends in the observations of each buyer. Whereas a dozen positive reviews and one negative review is probably harmless, complaints of a common issue across each testimonial can suggest the negativity is justified. Look for common threads rather than basing your decision on one profound remark. Remember, every dog is a little different, but if you see a common complaint, you may want to find an alternative dog food.
3. Assess the Reviewer's Credentials
Some websites screen reviews or only allow qualified professionals to comment on health matters pertaining to pet food. These domains are proud of their contributors and publish their credentials next to their name. So, when you see titles such as "DVM" (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) or Veterinary Assistant you can presume the reviewer has the nutritional insight into what quality foods should contain.
4. Watch Out for Unfounded Health Claims
Not all dog foods are created equal. Foods such as Hill's® Prescription Diet® brand provide nutrition-based solutions to specific pet health challenges and are only available via a recommendation from your veterinarian. Dog food reviews that claim a certain product "cured" a dog of a problem may simply be a pet parent ascribing improper cause and effect. Weight management foods, for example, often work differently depending on the breed and activity level of the canine.
Check the product information carefully on all dog food ratings, and trust only those companies and brands that back up their claims with scientific research. The opposite can also be true regarding to claims that a certain food harms dogs. If you find claims that a certain type of dog food caused dogs to get sick or die, it's worth reaching out to the manufacturer to see if any of the claims are substantiated; or consulting your veterinarian about your concerns is always a good idea. They research food choices as much as you do, and they will be able to give you good insight into whether a certain type of dog food could be harmful to your canine friend.
Tasty Tips
5. Read the Entire Review
People tend to glance at reviews and note the stars or numbers assigned to dog food reviews. But the text of the review itself can yield insight into potential misunderstandings from the reviewer that led to a skewed result. A pet parent may not understand how organic ingredients influence pet health, allowing him or her to judge certain ingredients on a false premise. Read the entire review, noting to yourself if the reviewer's comments are valid in this way.
6. Read Carefully
Dog food critiques, whether on a blog or branded website, may be misleading if the reviewer doesn't understand the product they are reviewing. A user who lumps organic pet food in with mass-produced varieties isn't properly comparing their worth to certain aspects of dog health. Each product is quite different. Assigning virtues to one over another is a strong indication that the reviewer isn't tuned into a product's ingredients, or is simply making a value judgment based on what they perceive their dog likes.
As a truly concerned pet parent, invest in the comments that carefully assess the nutritional content of your dog's food. Dog food reviews are all well and good, but you want to know exactly what you're pouring in your dog's bowl, and your vet is your best resource to meet your dog's specific nutritional needs. Only then can you be sure you're feeding your dog a balanced food supported by true observations of health and wellness at all stages of his life. It is also always a great idea to monitor his health after selecting a dog food for him. Each dog will react to his food differently, so he is also a good source for dog food ratings and reviews.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Rice Stew
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small Bites
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight with Joint Support Large Breed Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Barley Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Can Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Variety Pack
Related articles
Old Dog Syndrome: All About Vestibular Disease in Dogs
Learn about old dog syndrome, also called vestibular disease, which could be a reason your senior pup is having balance or dizziness issues.
Recognizing Common Signs of Aging in Your Dog
Aging is a part of life, and it is no different in dogs. Learn to detect the signs of aging in your dog, so you can be prepared to help ease the transition.
Transportation and traveling
If you're planning on transporting or traveling with your puppy any time soon, you should consider following these helpful suggestions to keep them safe.
Service Dogs Helping Other Dogs: Two Real-Life Stories of Pups Helping One Another
While service dogs play a huge role in helping people, they can also help other dogs with special needs. Read two true stories of these remarkable dogs.
Dog Enclosures: How to Keep Your Dog in a Safe Area
Are you looking for a way to keep your dog safe? There are many options for dog enclosures, and it's important to know what to look for.
Can Dogs Eat Eggs?
Learn whether dogs can eat eggs, including special concerns for dogs & raw eggs, and potential ways to prepare them safely.
Why Does My Dog Keep Burying Stuff?
Learn why dogs often seem fixated on burying all kinds of items, which dog breeds like to bury stuff the most and how to curb your dog's burying behavior.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Butts?
Are you wondering why dogs lick their butt? Learn why your dog might be licking their butt and how you can help them find relief from their discomfort.
Why Your Dog Won't Eat
Your dog has stopped eating, but why? Learn common reasons why he doesn't seem interested in food and how you can get him back to a normal eating routine.
Shelter Adoption or Dog Breeders: What's the Best Place to Get a Puppy?
There are several places to get a puppy, learn more about finding a puppy at a shelter, breeder, rescue organisations or local newspaper.
Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?
Watermelon is usually a healthy treat for dogs, but learn the tips about its safety, which parts are OK to feed your dog, and how much is a healthy amount.
Facial Paralysis in Dogs: Is Your Pup Looking Droopy?
Learn how to recognize the signs of facial paralysis in dogs, understand its causes and how the condition can be managed with the help of your vet.
A Spider Bit Your Dog: Identifying the Bite & What You Should Do
Learn helpful tips if your dog is bitten by a spider, including which spiders are most harmful, how to identify the bite, and what to do after spotting it.
Preventing Your Dog from Chewing Up Everything
Dogs use chewing as a means of discovery, but it can often be destructive to your property. Learn ways you can help correct this costly behavior.
Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog
Adopting a senior dog from a rescue shelter might seem like more work than reward, but it actually lets you better choose a dog for your lifestyle.
Your Dog in Pain: Recognizing & Relieving
Learn how to recognize the signs & symptoms if your dog is in pain, whether you should give him medication, and if you need to call a veterinarian.
Dog Devotion: Shining Examples of Dog Loyalty
Learn more about a dog's devotion and loyalty to you and how you can tell whether it is real or just a ploy for more treats.
Facts About Kidney Disease in Dogs
Learn what kidney disease is in dogs and what can cause it. Learn the signs of kidney disease in canines as well as potential treatment options.
Registering Your Dog as a Therapy Dog
Learn about therapy dogs, the training that therapy dogs go through, and what you need to do to register your pup with a therapy dog organization.
Tips for Feeding Two Dogs at Once
Learn how to manage feeding two dogs at once, including why separation is important and tips if you have one dog that tries to steal the other dog's food.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.