Formulation of low-cost dog food using locally available unconventional ingredients

Abstract

The trend of keeping pet animals is increasing gradually day by day which in turn raising the concern for the nutritional values of their food. The objective of the study was to assess the cost-effectiveness and nutritional sufficiency of laboratory-prepared dog food in comparison to pet food that is sold in stores (Pedigree). The study, which was carried out at Bangladesh's Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, involved proximate analysis of both commercial and lab-made dog food. Important conclusions from the chemical analysis showed that although the lab-made product's crude protein (CP) content was higher (24.22% vs. 21.13%), its ether extract (EE), ash, and metabolizable energy (ME) were lower than those of the commercial product. The commercial product had a mean ME of 3386 kcal/kg, while the diet made in the lab had a mean ME of 3273 kcal/kg. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) requirements for growing dogs, which call for at least 22.5% CP and 8.5% fat, were met by both products. In contrast to the commercial product, which costs 433 BDT per kg, the lab-made product was more affordable, costing only 201.08 BDT per kg. Though more refinement is needed to improve its nutritional profile, the lab-made product offers a feasible, inexpensive alternative to commercial pet food despite some dietary disparities. The results showed statistically significant (p>0.05) differences in crude fiber, ether extract, and ash content between the two diets. The study also notes the limitations in examining specific vitamins, minerals, and other vital nutrients that are vital to the health of dogs.