10 Toxic Ingredients to Watch Out for in Your Dog's Food

6. Rendered Fats: A Hidden Hazard

Rendered fats are often found in dog food as a source of energy and flavor. However, the rendering process involves cooking animal tissues at high temperatures, which can degrade the quality of the fats and introduce harmful compounds. These fats may also be sourced from low-quality or unidentified animal parts, increasing the risk of contamination with toxins or pathogens. The use of rendered fats in dog food is concerning because it can lead to oxidative damage, contributing to inflammation and other health issues. Additionally, the high-fat content can exacerbate conditions like obesity or pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. To provide a safer and more nutritious diet, look for dog foods that use named animal fats, such as "chicken fat" or "salmon oil," which offer essential fatty acids and support overall health.