Becoming a dog owner can be a delightful yet challenging experience. In the United States, 45% of households own a dog, and in Canada, 20% do. However, adjusting to this new role can often leave owners feeling overwhelmed, especially when it comes to choosing the right pet food for their furry friends. A recent survey by Royal Canin involving 1023 puppy owners across North America sheds light on these challenges and offers valuable guidance.

Key Considerations for Choosing Puppy Food

Consulting an Expert at the First Visit

In the survey, 82% of respondents stated they would change their dogs' food based on an expert's recommendation. This highlights the importance of seeking professional advice at the very beginning. A veterinarian can assess the specific needs of your puppy and guide you towards the most suitable food. They have the knowledge and experience to understand the unique requirements of different breeds and individual puppies, ensuring they receive the right nutrition from the start. 2: By consulting an expert, you can avoid the confusion and overwhelm that often comes with the plethora of pet food options. They can explain the differences between various types of food, such as dry, wet, and semi-moist, and help you make an informed decision based on your puppy's age, size, and health condition. This initial consultation can set the foundation for a healthy and happy life for your puppy.

Addressing the Unique Needs of the Puppy

It can be a daunting task to determine the specific nutritional needs of a puppy. However, a proper diet can play a crucial role in helping the puppy grow into a strong and healthy adult. Each puppy has its own set of requirements, and a well-balanced diet can address these needs. For example, puppies in their early stages of growth need more protein to support their development, while those with sensitive stomachs may require a specific type of food. 2: By focusing on the unique needs of your puppy, you can provide them with the essential nutrients they need to thrive. This may involve choosing a food that is rich in certain vitamins and minerals or one that is formulated to support specific health issues. A diet tailored to your puppy's needs can help prevent future health problems and ensure they reach their full potential.

Picking a Diet Based on Sciences, Not Trends

In today's digital age, it's easy to get caught up in social media trends when it comes to pet diets. However, 94% of responding puppy owners in the survey prioritize ingredient quality and scientific evidence in their nutrition choices. This emphasizes the importance of relying on scientific research rather than following fads. 2: Choosing a diet based on science means selecting food that is formulated with proven ingredients and nutritional profiles. It ensures that your puppy is getting the right balance of nutrients to support their growth and overall health. By avoiding trendy diets that may lack scientific backing, you can provide your puppy with a reliable and nutritious food option.Royal Canin, with over 50 years of science-backed research, is committed to providing pet owners with the confidence in choosing the right diet for their puppies. Their expertise and focus on the precise nutritional needs of dogs throughout their life stages make them a trusted brand in the pet food industry.As a pet owner, it's essential to take the time to understand your puppy's needs and make informed decisions about their food. By consulting an expert, addressing their unique needs, and choosing a diet based on science, you can set your puppy on the path to a healthy and happy life. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you make the best choices for your furry companion.

Fast food lovers often find themselves in a dilemma - the burger is delicious, but what about the fries? Well, there are some chains that don't take fries lightly. They go the extra mile to serve fresh, hand-cut potatoes that are a cut above the rest. Let's explore six such chains.

Uncover the Fast-Food Chains with Irresistible Fries

1. In-N-Out

California's In-N-Out is a beloved burger joint that prides itself on freshness. No freezers or microwaves here - the most advanced gadget is the potato slicer. In-N-Out hand-cuts its spuds in-house and fries them in 100% sunflower oil right before your eyes. While some may criticize the fries as "garbage" and the worst on the menu, regulars swear by them. Ordering them well-done and Animal Style, with melted cheese, grilled onions, and their iconic secret sauce, can turn them into a delicious treat.Another tip is to order the fries "well done" to achieve a more desirable crispness. It's not just about the taste but also the experience of watching the fries being prepared fresh.

2. Mooyah

Mooyah, a Texas-born burger chain, is committed to impressing with its fries. Using 100% Idaho potatoes, they cut them in-house daily and put them through a "24-hour six-step process" that combines science and fry meditation. The fries come out crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and are simply impossible to stop eating. Each step in the process is carefully executed to ensure the perfect texture and flavor.

3. Elevation Burger

Elevation Burger takes a healthier approach to fries. Instead of using traditional frying methods, they serve gluten-free fries cooked in heart-healthy olive oil. This makes them a great option for those who are health-conscious but still want to enjoy a delicious fry. The fries have a unique flavor and texture that sets them apart from other chains.

4. Five Guys

Five Guys is known for its polarizing fries. Some swear by their boardwalk-style spuds, while others dismiss them as an oversized, soggy mess. But the chain takes its fry process seriously. They primarily use premium Idaho potatoes, except during the two months when they are out of season and turn a little too soft. During this time, they switch to "gap potatoes" from Washington to maintain quality.Each potato is hand-cut and power-washed to remove excess starch, ensuring a non-gummy texture. The fries are then double-fried in nonhydrogenated peanut oil, which gives them a subtle buttery flavor. The first fry cooks them through, followed by a 15-minute rest. The second fry delivers that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture.

5. Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Since 2010, Hopdoddy Burger Bar has been on a mission to elevate the burger bar. And they do the same with their fries. Made from Chipperbec Potatoes grown by sixth-generation potato farmers specifically for chips and French fries, the fries are fresh and delicious. New batches are hand-cut every day.Last year, the chain scored extra points with health enthusiasts when it announced it was ditching seed oil in favor of cooking oil from the eco-friendly Zero Acre Farms. They also offer a variety of flavor options, ranging from truffle oil and Parmesan fries to old-school "stick-to-your-ribs" flavors like nacho cheese.

6. BurgerFi

As a relatively small and new chain, BurgerFi is getting a lot of praise for its fries. Using "fresh cut from real spuds" - Russet potatoes cooked in peanut oil, they offer a variety of flavors. The "Urban Style" fries, with Parmesan, herbs, and truffle aioli, are one of the most favored.The fries are cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. They complement the burgers perfectly and add an extra dimension to the dining experience.For more smart fast-food coverage and dining tips, please sign up for our free newsletters. This article was originally published on Cheapism.