As responsible dog owners, we play a crucial role in our dog’s health and well-being, from their diet to their activities. But have you ever considered the possibility of dog food spoiling? Understanding the signs of spoilage and the shelf life of dog food is a key part of our responsibility. Whether the bag of kibble is half empty or the can of wet food is open in the fridge, we must keep our dogs safe and healthy.
We will discuss the shelf life of dog food, how to identify spoilage, and the serious health risks associated with feeding your dog spoiled food. We will also discuss the best practices for storing your dog’s food to prevent unpleasant surprises. Let’s get started!
How Long Does Dog Food Last After Opening?
Only so much time is left on fresh dog food after you open the bag or can. Even though dog food is made to last a long time, that doesn’t mean it will last forever if it gets wet or airy.
- Dry dog food
Dry food, also called “kibble,” usually stays fresh for 4 to 6 weeks after opening. However, as soon as it comes into contact with air, it can lose nutrients and taste. Depending on the packaging, dry food that has yet to be opened can last up to a year or more.
- Wet Dog Food: Conversely, damp food only lasts briefly. It should be kept in the fridge after opening and consumed within 3 to 5 days. Cans that have not been opened can stay in your pantry for months or years, but check the date on the can!
What Are the Signs of Spoiled Dog Food?
So, how can you tell if your dog’s food has gone wrong? There are a few clear signs that dog food has gone wrong. If you learn to spot them early, you can take proactive steps to keep your dog from eating something harmful, demonstrating your responsibility as a pet owner.
Look:
Dry dog food spoilt may look darkened or have fungus spreading on top of it. When food is too wet, it can get slimy, and the ingredients may separate or change color.
Smell:
The smell of spoilt dog food is a reliable indicator. Food that is still fresh for dogs smells earthy and meaty, while food that has gone bad usually smells rancid or sour. If something smells ‘off,’ you should get rid of it.
Texture:
Dry kibble that feels soft falls apart quickly or has a strange texture, has probably soaked up water, and is about to go wrong. Another red flag is food that is wet and feels slimy or sticky.
If you pay attention to these signs and promptly dispose of any spoiled food, you can be confident that you won’t accidentally give your dog anything that’s no longer safe, providing reassurance about your pet’s well-being.
Can Spoiled Dog Food Make My Dog Sick?
Dog food that has gone bad can be bad for their health, just like food that has gone bad for people. Feeding your pet food that has gone bad can cause many symptoms, from minor digestive problems to more severe illnesses.
Health Risks:
Unfortunately, food that has been spoiled may contain poisonous bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria. If you fail to do something about it as soon as possible, this can cause vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and even dehydration.
Symptoms to Watch For:
If your dog eats food that has gone bad, they may vomit, cough quite often, have diarrhea, or lose their appetite. In the worst cases, you might get a fever or other signs of an infection.
If you think your dog ate terrible food and they show any of these signs, you should take them to the vet right away.
Does dry dog food spoil faster than wet dog food?
The answer depends on the situation, but most of the time:
Dry Dog Food:
Store dry food in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This keeps bugs, air, and water out. Many people store food in their original bag, which usually has a special coating that keeps the food fresh, and then put that bag inside another container.
Wet dog food:
With its high water content, wet food can spoil faster after being opened. If not stored in a cool place or consumed within a few days, the risk of bacteria growth increases, making it crucial to be cautious and attentive to your pet’s food safety.
Remember, both dry and wet food can spoil in different ways and situations. Wet food exposed to air can lead to increased bacteria, while dry food can go bad quickly. Understanding these key points will give you confidence in managing your pet’s food safety.
Conclusion:
In a nutshell, yes, dog food can go wrong. To keep your dog from eating old or rotten food, you should know the signs and how to store it properly. Whether it’s dry kibble or wet food, storing it correctly, checking it often for spoilage, and keeping an eye on the expiration date will reassure you that you’re feeding your dog safe, healthy food, promoting their well-being and longevity.
Actionable Tips:
- Always check expiration dates before buying dog food.
- Store dry food in airtight containers and wet food in the fridge after opening.
- Pay attention to changes in smell, texture, or appearance.
- If your dog shows any signs of illness after eating, contact a vet.
By staying proactive, you can keep your dog happy, healthy, and well-fed with fresh, safe food!
FAQ’s
How can I tell if my dog’s dry food has gone bad?
There are many signs that dry dog food has gone bad, such as a bad smell, changes in color, mold growth, and changes in texture (like becoming soft or crumbly). The dog food may have gone bad if it won’t eat or shows signs of being sick.
What happens if my dog eats spoiled food?
If a dog eats food that has gone bad, they might vomit, have diarrhea, and feel tired. Food poisoning from bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria can be very bad, so you should take your dog to the vet if it seems sick after eating.
