52 



CONTROL BULLETIN NO. 79 

 Analyses of Dog Foods. 



(Calculated to a Dry Matter Basis.) 



Interpretation of Chemical Analyses. 



Protein. High protein indicates high meat content. 



Fat. High fat indicates an admixture of considerable animal fat. 



Nitrogen free extract. When high, indicates a high vegetable or cereal con- 

 tent; when low, a more liberal meat or meat product content. 



Fiber. Found only in the vegetable or cereal products used. 



Ash. Derived from meat, bone, or to a lesser degree from the cereal and 

 vegetable products used. High ash content indicates a liberal admixture of bone 

 or the addition of mineral substances in an attempt to create a better mineral 

 balance. 



Chemical Guarantees. Of the twenty-five samples of dog food examined, 

 fourteen carried protein, fat, fiber and carbohydrate guarantees. It is doubtful 

 if the analysis of the product is a deciding factor in its purchase. The dog owner 

 will probably tend to base his conclusions as to relative desirability upon price, 

 palatability, and the resulting condition of the animal fed. On none of them was 

 there a statement of maximum water content, which is probably as important 

 as any other one factor in fixing their real value. 



Weights. The net weight of the contents of each can was determined by 

 weighing on delicate scales, cleaning and drying the empty can which was then 

 weighed and the result deducted from the original gross weight. On the whole 

 the cans were found to contain full weight, although the water-free weight showed 

 wide variations. The practice of putting up slightly less than one pound in a can, 

 although the weight is correctly stated on the label, is not to be commended. 



