Published on April 7 by Julia
When shopping for dog food, you’ve likely noticed claims like “Meets AAFCO Nutritional Standards” on the packaging. But what does that really mean? Understanding AAFCO nutrient profiles and the role they play in dog food regulation can help you make more informed decisions about your pet’s nutrition.
AAFCO stands for the Association of American Feed Control Officials. It is not a government agency but a voluntary organization made up of state and federal feed regulators. AAFCO establishes nutritional guidelines and definitions for animal feed, including pet food. These standards serve as the basis for most pet food regulations in the U.S.
AAFCO does not approve, certify, or regulate pet food directly. Instead, manufacturers can formulate their food to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles or test their food according to AAFCO feeding protocols.
While the term “AAFCO approved” is commonly used, it's technically inaccurate. AAFCO does not approve products. Instead, pet food packaging may state one of two things:
Both statements suggest that the food meets minimum nutrient requirements, but the second offers stronger evidence of digestibility and palatability in real dogs.
AAFCO has developed specific nutrient profiles based on the life stages of dogs. The most common categories include:
Each nutrient profile outlines minimum and maximum values for dozens of nutrients, including protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, and trace minerals.
Feeding a dog food that meets AAFCO standards helps ensure that your pet is receiving essential nutrients in the right amounts. It is especially important for puppies, senior dogs, or pets with medical conditions, as nutritional deficiencies or imbalances can have serious health consequences.
That said, AAFCO standards are minimum guidelines. A food that meets them isn't necessarily the best on the market—it just meets basic nutritional adequacy. Quality of ingredients, sourcing, manufacturing practices, and the company’s safety record also matter when choosing the best food for your dog.
The AAFCO statement is typically found on the back or side panel of the dog food bag or can. It usually reads something like:
“XYZ Dog Food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance of adult dogs.”
Always read the full statement to understand if the food was tested or simply formulated to meet the standards—and whether it’s appropriate for your dog’s life stage.
Understanding AAFCO nutrient profiles can help you navigate the pet food aisle with greater confidence. While the “AAFCO-approved” label isn’t an official certification, it does signal that a product has met basic nutritional requirements for dogs. For the healthiest outcome, pair that knowledge with guidance from your veterinarian, and always consider your dog’s individual needs, age, activity level, and health status.
Discover More Content
