Choosing the right dog food for your beloved pup can be tough. Trying to balance what your dog loves to eat with his health needs is a challenge. Dogs are largely carnivores, of course, and love to eat meat as a main protein source. But you may have a dog who has high cholesterol, an allergy or just loves the taste of fish.
Many commercial dog foods have created blends with cod and other fish as an alternative to red meat and poultry. Cod is low in calories and fat, but loaded with other nutrients, making it a good choice to help your pup get fit and trim. As always, ensure there is a balance of protein, carbohydrates and fats in your dog’s food, along with a blend of nutritious fruits or vegetables for optimal health.
Best Dog Food with Cod
Here are our dog food with cod reviews.
1. Farmina Natural & Delicious
Farmina Natural & Delicious is a tasty blend of cod and orange with ancestral grains such as spelt and oats. This adult dog food can also be used as a meal topper with wet food.
- Mixed with fresh vegetables and fruits
- Perfect for medium to large dogs
- Also available in a puppy blend with cod, salmon and herring
2. Annamaet Ohana Puppy Formula
Annamaet Ohana Puppy Food is a grain-free blend made with Wild Alaskan Cod. Perfect for your growing pup, this mix also contains prebiotics and coconut oil for gut health and nutrient absorption.
- Gluten-free coconut flour and banana powder
- Certified sustainable fish source
- Fortified with DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid
3. Zignature Whitefish Formula Dog Food
Zignature Whitefish Formula is a premium dog food made from the whitefish in the Pacific waters of Oregan, Washington and Alaska. Contains low-glycemic carbs such as chickpeas and peas for fiber.
- Antioxidants from alfalfa
- Limited-ingredient formula
- Also available in a wet food option
4. Farmina Natural & Delicious Ocean Canine
Farmina Natural & Delicious Ocean blend is a delicious mix of cod, pumpkin and sweet potato. This high-quality wet dog food is gently steamed to preserve nutrients.
- No artificial preservatives
- Made without GMOs
- BPA-free aluminum can
5. Essence Ocean & Freshwater Dog Food
Essence Ocean & Freshwater Dog Food is made from 85 per cent fish ingredients, combining the health benefits from oily fish and the lean protein from whitefish.
- Variety of fish ingredients, including cod meal
- Grain-free recipe
- Pumpkin provides dietary fiber
Dog Food with Cod Buyer’s Guide
Choosing a dog food with either Atlantic or Pacific cod is a great choice because cod a high-quality source of protein that is rich in amino acids and other nutrients. Plus, it tastes great! Dog foods with higher-quality ingredients such as cod are often more expensive, but they usually have the added bonus of containing fewer additives, fillers and by-products. As with other large species of fish, cod can contain high levels of mercury. Ensure your dog eats cod only in moderation, or in a well-balanced commercial blend specifically designed for overall nutritional needs.
Our buying guide reviews the best dog foods on the market with cod so you can choose the right one for your dog. The health benefits of cod in your dog’s food are included below and will help you to choose the right dog food with cod for your dog.
Source of Protein
In general, cod is a great source of protein. Pacific cod has slightly more protein per serving than its Atlantic counterpart.An85-gram portion of Atlantic cod has19 grams of protein, compared to Pacific cod with 20 grams of protein for the same amount.Since cod is a lean protein, low in calories and fat, it is a healthy alternative to red meat and cheese, thus reducing the risk of diabetes and heart disease in your pup. The protein in cod also provides essential amino acids, which provide energy and keep the immune system strong.
Omega-3 and Vitamins
Along with protein, cod delivers a healthy amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which have a wide variety of health benefits. Consuming these fatty acids in cod can protect your dog’s cardiovascular health, along with supporting his immune, endocrine and cardiovascular systems. Cod is also rich in other vitamins including vitamins A, C, and E, and is a great source of vitamin B6 and B12. The B vitamins are essential in supporting brain development, as well as maintaining energy levels.
Minerals
The minerals in cod include phosphorous, selenium and potassium. These minerals are great for the overall health of your pup. Specifically, phosphorous is a critical component of your dog’s teeth and bones while potassium supports the muscle and nervous system. Selenium is important for DNA and helps prevent cell damage.
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