NRC stands for the National Research Council, which provides science-based guidelines on canine nutritional requirements. An NRC-approved diet ensures that your dog's food meets or exceeds these established nutrient standards for optimal health.

A custom diet is tailored to meet your dog’s specific nutritional needs, taking into account factors such as age, breed, weight, activity level, and any health conditions. This personalized approach ensures your dog receives the right balance of nutrients for their unique requirements.

NRC-approved custom diets are created using the NRC’s guidelines for essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats. A professional canine nutritionist will assess your dog’s individual needs and formulate a recipe that provides a balanced diet according to these standards.

Many commercial dog foods may not provide the precise nutrient balance required for every individual dog. NRC-approved custom diets offer a more tailored approach, ensuring your dog gets exactly what they need, especially if they have special dietary requirements or health conditions.

Yes, NRC-approved custom diets can be designed to address specific health issues such as allergies, kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, or digestive problems. These diets can help manage symptoms and improve overall health by providing nutrients tailored to your dog’s condition.

It’s recommended to review your dog’s diet at least every 6-12 months, or sooner if there are significant changes in their health, weight, activity level, or life stage (puppy, adult, senior). A professional should re-assess the diet to ensure it continues to meet your dog's evolving needs.

Yes, NRC-approved diets can be formulated for all breeds, sizes, and life stages—from puppies to seniors. The diet will be customized to ensure it meets the specific growth and maintenance requirements for your dog.

To avoid digestive upset, transition your dog gradually over 7-10 days. Start by mixing a small portion of the new custom diet with their current food, gradually increasing the amount of the custom diet while decreasing the old food until the transition is complete.

An NRC-approved custom diet is designed to meet your dog's nutritional needs with minimal supplementation. However, some dogs with specific health conditions may benefit from targeted supplements, which should be recommended by a professional.

Yes, with a recipe provided by a qualified canine nutritionist, you can prepare the custom diet at home using fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s crucial to follow the recipe exactly to ensure nutrient balance.

The cost can vary depending on the specific needs of your dog, the ingredients used, and whether you prepare the food at home or opt for a pre-made service. While it may be more expensive than some commercial dog foods, the benefits to your dog's health can make it worthwhile.

When formulated by a qualified professional following NRC guidelines, a custom diet is generally safe and beneficial for your dog. However, DIY diets without proper guidance can lead to nutrient imbalances, so always consult a canine nutritionist.

Yes, custom diets are ideal for picky eaters because they can be formulated using ingredients that appeal to your dog's taste preferences. The diet can include a variety of textures, flavors, and fresh, high-quality ingredients to entice even the most selective dogs. With NRC-approved guidelines, these diets ensure that your picky eater still receives the necessary nutrients for optimal health.