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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dog-aafco-sole-diet

A dog food label says 'complete and balanced.' What does the FDA say that means?

It is meant to be a dog's sole diet.

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  1. It is meant only as an occasional treat
  2. It is meant to be a dog's sole diet ✔
  3. It is meant only for puppies

Why: A complete and balanced food is meant to supply all of a pet's nutrition by itself. The nutritional adequacy statement on the label tells you whether it meets that bar.

Huh, didn't know that: The FDA says treats, snacks and supplements are often not complete and balanced.

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What did the dog say to its teacher when it forgot its homework? My human ate my homework.
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References

Answer: It is meant to be a dog's sole diet. A complete and balanced food is meant to supply all of a pet's nutrition by itself. The nutritional adequacy statement on the label tells you whether it meets that bar.

  1. FDA CVM, Complete and Balanced Pet Food www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/complete-and-balanced-pet-food
    the product is intended to be fed as a pet's sole diet and should be nutritionally balanced
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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