Ensuring Quality and Safety for Your Furry Friend
When it comes to our beloved pets, we want nothing but the best. One crucial aspect of their well-being is the food they consume. You might assume all dog food in the pet store or the supermarket will meet the dietary needs of your dog. But unfortunately, this may not be the case.
Many dog owners don’t realise that the standards covering pet food in Australia are entirely voluntary for the manufacturers. The main standard to be aware of is the Australian Standard for the Manufacturing and Marketing of Pet Food (AS5812:2017). For the rest of this post we will refer to this as the Australian Standard. Choosing a food that adheres to this standard offers several advantages. Let’s explore them:
1. Nutritional Integrity
The Australian Standard sets guidelines for ingredient sourcing, processing, and labelling. Pet food manufacturers following this standard ensure that their products contain the necessary nutrients for your dog’s health. From vitamins and minerals to amino acids, these foods are formulated to meet your pet’s specific needs.
2. Safety and Hygiene
The standard covers good manufacturing practices and hygiene requirements. This means that pet food produced under the Australian standard undergoes rigorous quality control. It’s processed in a safe and controlled environment, minimizing the risk of contamination or harmful substances.
3. Transparent Labelling
Pet food labels provide essential information about the product. When you choose Australian standard compliant food, you can trust that the labelling accurately reflects the ingredients, nutritional content, and feeding guidelines. Transparency helps you make informed decisions for your furry companion.
4. Animal Welfare Considerations
The Australian standard also addresses the sourcing of raw materials, including meat. It ensures that pet meat meets specific standards for retail sale and hygienic production. By supporting these practices, you contribute to animal welfare and ethical sourcing.
5. Peace of Mind
Knowing that your dog’s food meets industry standards provides peace of mind. You can confidently feed your pet, knowing that the manufacturer follows best practices and prioritizes safety.
6. Supporting Sustainable Practices
Many pet food ingredients come from by-products of the human food chain. The Australian standard encourages sustainable practices by utilizing these resources without compromising food availability. By choosing compliant products, you indirectly support a more sustainable food system.
Things to Look For
It is not always easy to confirm if a specific dog food meets or exceeds the standards, but there are a few things you can look for. Some products simply state that they are manufactured in accordance with AS5812 like this statement on Lifewise packaging.
Some pet foods will carry the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia (PFIAA) Tick of Approval logo, which also indicates it is manufactured in accordance with the Australian standard. 
If you are particularly interested in the nutritional profile of the food, as opposed to labelling and manufacturing, then you can also look for the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) logo on the packaging. AAFCO provides globally recognised nutrient profiles which are regularly updated. These were used as a reference for the nutritional profiles in AS8512:2017 so this is also a good indication of a high-quality product, nutritionally.
However, if you are still confused there is a shortcut you can take. At Dogonality we only carry foods that are Australian made and which meet standards for quality and nutritional integrity. We are less interested in having a wide range and focus instead of having quality products we would be happy to feed our dogs.
Conclusion
Selecting dog food manufactured in accordance with Australian standards ensures that your furry friend receives high-quality, safe, and nutritious meals. It’s a choice that benefits both your pet and the broader community. Until the Australian government sees fit to make the standards mandatory, it pays to be aware of these standards so you can give you pet the best.
Remember to consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your dog’s specific needs. Happy feeding! 🐾
Disclaimer: Always consult with a veterinarian before making any dietary changes for your pet. This blog post provides general information and should not replace professional advice.