Product identity and intended species
Begin with what the product says it is and which animal it is intended for. Dog food and cat food are not interchangeable just because both are sold in the pet aisle. Treats, supplements and complementary products also serve different purposes from a complete main diet.
Ingredient list and guaranteed analysis
The ingredient list tells you what ingredients are present in descending order by weight before processing, while the guaranteed analysis reports specified nutrient values. Neither section by itself tells the whole nutritional story. Avoid judging a complete food solely because one ingredient appears higher or lower than you expected.
Nutritional adequacy
AAFCO consumer material emphasizes the nutritional adequacy statement because it identifies whether a dog or cat food is complete and balanced for a stated life stage or purpose. That statement is more decision-useful than vague front-label language.
Feeding directions are a starting point
Feeding directions help translate the product into portions, but individual needs vary. Age, activity, body condition, reproductive status and health can change requirements. Do not use a website calculator as a substitute for individualized veterinary advice when weight or health is an issue.
Keep the lot information
Before discarding a bag or outer package, consider keeping the lot code, best-by date and product identifier until the food is used. Those details can be important when checking a recall notice or reporting a product concern.