Royal Canin Dog Food Guide: Vet-Recommended Nutrition for Every Breed

Royal Canin dog food is widely recommended by veterinarians due to its precise, science-backed nutritional formulas tailored for specific breeds, life stages, and health needs. Each diet is developed through extensive research, focusing on optimal nutrient profiles rather than just ingredients, ensuring your dog receives the exact support required for their unique well-being. Always consult your vet to choose the best formula.

Choosing the right food for your dog can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s tough to know what truly benefits your furry friend. Many dog owners worry about allergies, weight, or simply ensuring their pet gets all the nutrients they need. You want the best for your dog, and you’re in the right place to find clear, practical advice. This guide will walk you through why Royal Canin stands out as a vet-recommended choice, helping you understand its specialized approach and how to pick the perfect diet for your beloved companion.

Why Royal Canin? A Vet-Recommended Approach to Pet Nutrition

Royal Canin has built its reputation on a foundation of scientific research and a deep understanding of canine physiology. Unlike many pet food brands that focus on marketing trends, Royal Canin prioritizes precise nutrition tailored to specific needs. This commitment to science is a primary reason why veterinarians frequently recommend their products.

Science-Backed Research

At the heart of Royal Canin’s philosophy is its extensive research and development. They employ a team of veterinarians, nutritionists, scientists, and breeders who collaborate to understand the unique dietary requirements of dogs. This isn’t just about general dog nutrition; it’s about identifying the specific amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that a particular breed or dog with a certain health condition needs to thrive. Their research facilities conduct rigorous studies to ensure that each formula delivers optimal health benefits.

Nutrient-Centric Approach: Royal Canin focuses on the nutrient profile rather than simply listing ingredients. This means they select ingredients based on their ability to provide the precise nutrients required, in the right proportions, for a dog’s specific needs.
Digestibility and Absorption: A key aspect of their research involves ensuring high digestibility and nutrient absorption. A food might contain all the right nutrients, but if a dog cannot properly digest and absorb them, they won’t receive the full benefit.
Palatability: While nutrition is paramount, Royal Canin also invests in making their foods highly palatable to ensure dogs readily consume their prescribed diets.

Targeted Nutrition for Unique Needs

One of Royal Canin’s most distinguishing features is its specialization. They recognize that a tiny Chihuahua has vastly different nutritional needs than a large German Shepherd, and a growing puppy requires different support than a senior dog. This leads to their extensive range of:

Breed-Specific Diets: Formulated to address the unique needs of specific breeds, considering their jaw structure, coat type, predispositions to certain health issues, and energy levels.
Life Stage Nutrition: Diets specifically designed for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs, catering to their changing metabolic and developmental requirements.
Health Management Diets (Veterinary Exclusive): Therapeutic diets formulated to support dogs with specific health conditions such as digestive sensitivities, urinary issues, skin allergies, or joint problems. These are typically available only through veterinary clinics.

Veterinary Partnership and Trust

Royal Canin works closely with the veterinary community. Their products are often used and recommended by vets because they trust the scientific rigor behind the formulations. Veterinarians understand that precise nutrition can play a critical role in managing diseases, promoting recovery, and maintaining overall health. The availability of their specialized veterinary diets further solidifies this partnership, as these diets are crucial tools in a vet’s arsenal for treating various medical conditions.

The Pillars of Royal Canin’s Specialized Nutrition

Royal Canin’s approach to pet food is built upon several core principles that differentiate it from many other brands. These pillars ensure that every bag of Royal Canin food is designed with a specific purpose in mind.

1. Breed-Specific Diets

This is perhaps Royal Canin’s most famous innovation. They recognize that each dog breed is unique, not just in appearance but also in their genetic predispositions, energy levels, and even the shape of their muzzle and jaw. For example:

Kibble Shape and Size: The kibble is designed to suit the specific jaw and bite patterns of a breed. A Labrador Retriever’s kibble might be larger and have a specific shape to encourage chewing, while a brachycephalic breed like a Pug might have a smaller, easier-to-pick-up kibble.
Nutrient Profiles: Formulas are adjusted to address common breed-specific health concerns. For instance, a Golden Retriever formula might focus on skin and coat health, while a German Shepherd formula might emphasize digestive health and joint support.

2. Life Stage Nutrition

A dog’s nutritional needs change dramatically throughout its life. Royal Canin offers distinct formulas for each stage:

Puppy: High in calories and protein for rapid growth, with specific nutrients for brain development and immune system support.
Adult: Balanced nutrition for maintenance, energy, and overall health, with formulas varying by size (small, medium, large, giant).
Senior: Tailored to support aging dogs, often with nutrients for joint health, kidney function, and maintaining muscle mass.

3. Health Management Diets (Veterinary Exclusive)

These specialized diets are a cornerstone of Royal Canin’s veterinary partnership. They are formulated to help manage specific health conditions and are only available through veterinary clinics or with a vet’s prescription. Examples include diets for:

Urinary tract issues
Digestive sensitivities
Kidney disease
Liver disease
Allergies and skin conditions
Joint problems
Weight management

These diets are not simply “better” versions of their retail lines; they are therapeutic tools designed to work in conjunction with veterinary medical treatment.

4. Palatability and Digestibility

Royal Canin places a strong emphasis on ensuring their foods are not only nutritionally sound but also appealing to dogs and easy for them to digest. This involves:

Aromas and Flavors: Using specific natural aromas and flavors to entice even the pickiest eaters.
Optimal Nutrient Absorption: Ingredients are carefully selected and processed to maximize the absorption of nutrients, reducing the amount of waste and improving overall digestive health.

Decoding Royal Canin: How to Choose the Perfect Food for Your Dog

With Royal Canin’s extensive range, finding the right formula can seem daunting. However, by following a few key steps and working with your veterinarian, you can confidently select the best diet for your dog.

Step 1: Consult Your Veterinarian

This is the most crucial step. Your vet knows your dog’s complete health history, lifestyle, and any predispositions. They can assess:

Current Health Status: Any underlying conditions, allergies, or sensitivities.
Life Stage: Is your dog a puppy, adult, or senior?
Breed and Size: This influences metabolic rate and specific nutritional needs.
Activity Level: A highly active dog will need different caloric intake than a couch potato.
Weight Management: Are they overweight, underweight, or at an ideal weight?

Your vet can recommend whether a retail formula or a veterinary exclusive diet is most appropriate. For instance, if your dog has recurring urinary issues, they will likely recommend a specific Veterinary Diet formula like Royal Canin Urinary SO, which requires a prescription.

Step 2: Understand Your Dog’s Unique Needs

Even without a vet’s immediate input, you can start thinking about your dog’s characteristics:

Breed: Do you have a purebred or a mix? If a mix, consider the dominant breeds in its lineage.
Age: Puppies (up to 12-24 months depending on size), Adults (1-7 years), Seniors (7+ years).
Size: Small (under 22 lbs), Medium (23-55 lbs), Large (56-100 lbs), Giant (over 100 lbs).
Activity Level: Couch potato, moderately active, working dog, highly athletic.
Coat Type: Long-haired, short-haired, double-coated (some breeds have specific skin/coat needs).
Known Sensitivities: Does your dog have a sensitive stomach, itchy skin, or joint issues?

Step 3: Read the Labels and Understand the Formulas

Once you have a general idea, you can explore Royal Canin’s product lines. Each bag is clearly labeled to indicate its target audience:

Breed Health Nutrition: Look for your specific breed (e.g., Royal Canin German Shepherd Adult).
Size Health Nutrition: If your dog is a mix, choose based on their adult size (e.g., Royal Canin Mini Adult, Maxi Adult).
Life Stage: Clearly marked as Puppy, Adult, or Senior.
Health Nutrition (Retail): Some retail lines address common sensitivities (e.g., Digestive Care, Skin Care).
Veterinary Diets: These will have specific names like “Urinary SO,” “Gastrointestinal,” “Hypoallergenic,” and will state “Veterinary Exclusive” or “Prescription Diet.”

Pay attention to the feeding guidelines on the bag, which are typically based on your dog’s ideal weight and activity level. Always use a measuring cup to ensure accurate portions.

Royal Canin’s Breed-Specific Formulas: Tailored Excellence

Royal Canin’s breed-specific nutrition is a testament to their commitment to precision. They develop unique formulas for over 40 different breeds, each designed to support the breed’s specific health predispositions, jaw structure, and coat type.

Here’s a table showcasing a few examples of Royal Canin’s breed-specific formulas and their key features:

Breed	Key Features & Benefits	Specific Kibble Design
German Shepherd Adult	Supports digestive health (highly digestible proteins), strengthens natural defenses, promotes healthy skin & coat, supports bone & joint health.	Designed for the German Shepherd’s long muzzle and strong teeth, encourages chewing.
Labrador Retriever Adult	Helps maintain ideal weight (controlled calorie intake), supports bone & joint health, promotes healthy skin & coat, enriches digestive health.	Donut-shaped kibble to slow down ingestion and encourage chewing.
Chihuahua Adult	Highly palatable (small, very aromatic kibble), helps reduce stool odor and volume, supports dental health, reduces tartar formation.	Very small kibble adapted to the tiny jaws of Chihuahuas.
Golden Retriever Adult	Supports healthy skin & coat (EPA & DHA), helps maintain ideal weight, supports healthy cardiac function, helps maintain joint health.	Unique kibble shape and size adapted to the Golden Retriever’s bite.
Pug Adult	Supports skin barrier function, maintains muscle tone, helps maintain ideal weight, kibble adapted for brachycephalic jaw.	Cloverleaf-shaped kibble, easy for Pugs to pick up and chew.

Deep Dive into Specific Breed Formulas:

Royal Canin German Shepherd Adult

German Shepherds are magnificent dogs, but they are known to have sensitive digestive systems and are prone to joint issues. Royal Canin’s German Shepherd Adult formula addresses these specific concerns. It contains highly digestible proteins and specific fibers to promote a balanced intestinal flora, which helps reduce digestive upset. Additionally, it’s enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin to support bone and joint health, crucial for a large, active breed. The kibble is designed to suit their long muzzle and strong teeth, encouraging proper chewing and slowing down ingestion.

Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult

Labrador Retrievers are notorious for their hearty appetites and a tendency to gain weight, which can put strain on their joints. The Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult formula is designed with a controlled calorie intake to help maintain an ideal weight. It’s also enriched with EPA and DHA to support healthy bones and joints, which is vital for this active breed. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specifically designed to encourage the Labrador to eat more slowly, promoting better digestion and satiety.

Royal Canin Chihuahua Adult

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with delicate jaws and often picky eating habits. The Royal Canin Chihuahua Adult formula features a very small, highly palatable kibble that is easy for them to pick up and chew. It’s also formulated to help reduce stool odor and volume, a common concern for small dog owners. Nutrients are included to support dental health, helping to reduce tartar formation, which is crucial for small breeds prone to dental issues.

Life Stage Nutrition: Feeding Your Dog Through Every Phase

Beyond breed specifics, a dog’s nutritional needs evolve significantly as they age. Royal Canin offers tailored diets for each life stage, ensuring optimal health from puppyhood through their senior years.

Puppy Formulas (Growth and Development)

Puppies are in a critical growth phase, requiring a dense nutrient profile to support rapid development. Royal Canin puppy foods are designed for different sizes (Mini, Medium, Maxi, Giant) to account for varying growth rates and adult sizes.

High Energy and Protein: To fuel intense growth and activity.
Digestive Health: Highly digestible proteins and prebiotics to support a developing digestive system and healthy stool quality.
Immune System Support: A patented complex of antioxidants, including Vitamin E, to help build a strong immune system.
Bone and Joint Development: Balanced calcium and phosphorus levels for healthy skeletal growth.

Example: Royal Canin Mini Puppy is designed for small breed puppies (adult weight up to 22 lbs) up to 10 months old, focusing on intense growth and immune support.

Adult Formulas (Maintenance and Vitality)

Once a dog reaches adulthood, their growth slows, and their nutritional needs shift to maintenance, energy, and overall vitality. Royal Canin’s adult formulas are also categorized by size, recognizing that a small dog’s metabolism differs from a large dog’s.

Optimal Energy Levels: Balanced calorie content to maintain ideal weight based on activity level.
Muscle Tone: Adequate protein levels to maintain strong muscles.
Skin and Coat Health: Specific nutrients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for a healthy skin barrier and a shiny coat.
Digestive Health: Continued support for healthy digestion.

Example: Royal Canin Maxi Adult is formulated for large breed adult dogs (56-100 lbs) from 15 months to 5 years old, focusing on digestive health and bone & joint support.

Senior Formulas (Aging Support)

As dogs age, they may experience changes in metabolism, joint health, and organ function. Royal Canin’s senior diets are formulated to address these common challenges of aging.

Joint Support: Often includes glucosamine and chondroitin to support aging joints.
Kidney Function: Adjusted phosphorus levels to support kidney health.
Digestive Comfort: Highly digestible proteins and fibers for sensitive digestive systems.
Cognitive Health: Some formulas include antioxidants to support brain health.
Appetite Stimulation: Highly palatable to encourage consumption in older dogs who may have reduced appetites.

Example: Royal Canin Mini Ageing 12+ is for small breed dogs over 12 years old, designed to support healthy aging with nutrients for vitality and kidney health.

Veterinary Exclusive Diets: Addressing Specific Health Concerns

Royal Canin’s Veterinary Diet line is a crucial component of their offering, designed to be prescribed by veterinarians to manage specific medical conditions. These diets are not just for general wellness; they are therapeutic tools formulated with precise nutritional profiles to support recovery, mitigate symptoms, and improve the quality of life for dogs with health challenges. They often work in conjunction with medication or other treatments.

Here’s a look at some common categories of Royal Canin Veterinary Diets:

1. Digestive Health

Many dogs experience digestive sensitivities, from occasional upset to chronic conditions. These diets are highly digestible and often contain specific fiber blends to support gut health.

Gastrointestinal Low Fat: For dogs with conditions requiring fat restriction (e.g., pancreatitis, lymphangiectasia). It’s highly digestible and low in fat.
Gastrointestinal: For acute or chronic digestive disorders, featuring highly digestible proteins, prebiotics, and specific fibers to support intestinal health.
Hydrolyzed Protein: For dogs with food allergies or sensitivities causing gastrointestinal signs. Proteins are broken down into very small components to minimize allergic reactions.

2. Urinary Health

Urinary stones (calculi) are a common issue in dogs. These diets help dissolve existing stones and prevent new ones from forming.

Urinary SO: Formulated to help dissolve struvite stones and reduce the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation. It achieves this by promoting a healthy urinary environment (appropriate pH) and increasing urine volume.

3. Skin & Coat Health / Allergy Management

Food allergies, environmental allergies, and general skin sensitivities can cause significant discomfort for dogs. These diets aim to reduce inflammatory responses and strengthen the skin barrier.

Hypoallergenic: Features hydrolyzed proteins to minimize allergic reactions, making it suitable for dogs with food sensitivities leading to skin or digestive issues.
Dermatology Support: Contains a blend of nutrients, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, to support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation associated with various dermatological conditions.

4. Weight Management

Obesity is a growing concern in dogs, leading to various health problems. These diets are designed to help dogs achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Satiety Support: High in fiber to help dogs feel full, reducing begging and overeating, while being lower in calories.
Weight Control: Lower in calories and fat, but still provides essential nutrients for healthy weight loss and maintenance.

5. Joint & Mobility Support

For dogs with osteoarthritis or other joint issues, these diets provide targeted support.

Mobility Support: Enriched with EPA/DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) and glucosamine/chondroitin to support joint health and mobility.

6. Other Specialized Diets

Royal Canin also offers veterinary diets for a range of other conditions, including:

Renal Support: For dogs with kidney disease, with restricted phosphorus and protein levels.
Hepatic: For liver conditions.
Cardiac: For heart conditions.
Diabetic: To help manage blood glucose levels.

It cannot be stressed enough: these Veterinary Diets should only be used under the guidance and prescription of a veterinarian. They are powerful tools, and their improper use could potentially harm your pet or fail to address their specific medical needs effectively.

Transitioning Your Dog to a New Royal Canin Diet

Switching your dog’s food, even within the Royal Canin brand, should always be done gradually. A sudden change can upset your dog’s digestive system, leading to issues like diarrhea, vomiting, or a decreased appetite. A slow transition allows their digestive enzymes to adapt to the new formulation.

The 7-Day Transition Plan

The generally recommended method is a gradual introduction over 7 days. If your dog has a very sensitive stomach, you might extend this to 10-14 days.

Day	Old Food Percentage	New Royal Canin Food Percentage
Days 1-2	75%	25%
Days 3-4	50%	50%
Days 5-6	25%	75%
Day 7 onwards	0%	100%

Tips for a Smooth Switch:

Monitor Your Dog: During the transition, closely observe your dog for any signs of digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea, gas, constipation) or changes in appetite.
Adjust as Needed: If you notice any issues, slow down the transition. Stay at the current ratio for an extra day or two until their system adjusts before moving to the next step.
Consistency is Key: Try to feed at the same times each day.
Fresh Water: Always ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh, clean water.
Avoid Mixing Too Much: Once the transition is complete, avoid mixing the new Royal Canin food with other brands or excessive table scraps, as this can disrupt the carefully balanced nutrition.
Consult Your Vet: If your dog experiences persistent digestive issues or refuses to eat the new food, contact your veterinarian for advice.

Understanding Royal Canin Ingredients and Nutritional Philosophy

Royal Canin often faces questions about its ingredient list, particularly regarding common trends like “grain-free” or “human-grade.” It’s important to understand their unique nutritional philosophy.

Focus on Nutrients, Not Just Ingredients

Royal Canin’s core belief is that dogs need specific nutrients, not specific ingredients. While many brands market based on “whole foods” or “novel proteins,” Royal Canin selects ingredients based on their ability to deliver precise nutrient profiles for a specific health outcome. This means:

Ingredient Variability: They may use different sources for the same nutrient (e.g., various carbohydrates or protein sources) to ensure consistency in the final nutrient analysis, depending on global ingredient availability and quality.
Digestibility: They prioritize ingredients that are highly digestible to ensure maximum nutrient absorption.
Functional Ingredients: Ingredients are chosen for their specific functional properties (e.g., prebiotics for gut health, specific amino acids for skin barrier).

For example, corn or wheat are often used as carbohydrate sources because they are highly digestible and provide necessary energy, contrary to some popular misconceptions about grains in pet food.

Quality Control and Safety

Royal Canin has stringent quality control measures in place, from sourcing raw materials to the final product. They conduct numerous tests at every stage of the manufacturing process to ensure:

Ingredient Safety: All raw materials are tested for contaminants.
Nutritional Accuracy: Each batch is analyzed to confirm it meets the precise nutrient specifications.
Product Safety: Finished products undergo microbial testing and other safety checks.

Their commitment to research and strict quality control protocols are key reasons for their trusted reputation within the veterinary community. You can learn more about their quality and safety standards on the Royal Canin official website.

Common Questions and Misconceptions About Royal Canin

Is Royal Canin “natural” or “grain-free”?

Royal Canin does not market itself as “natural” in the same way some brands do, nor do they typically produce grain-free diets unless medically necessary (e.g., for specific allergies). Their focus is on precise, scientifically formulated nutrition, which often includes grains as a highly digestible source of carbohydrates and other nutrients. They emphasize nutrient delivery over ingredient trends.

Is Royal Canin too expensive?

While Royal Canin can be pricier than some generic brands, many veterinarians and owners consider it a worthwhile investment. The cost reflects the extensive research, high-quality ingredients selected for nutrient delivery, rigorous quality control, and the precise tailoring of formulas. For dogs with specific health needs, a specialized diet can often save money on vet bills in the long run by managing conditions effectively.

My dog is a picky eater, will they like Royal Canin?

Royal Canin invests heavily in palatability research. They develop specific aromas, textures, and kibble shapes to appeal to different dogs and breeds. While no food is universally loved by every dog, many picky eaters do well on Royal Canin due to these efforts. For extremely finicky dogs, a veterinary consultation can help identify underlying issues or suggest strategies to encourage eating.

Where to Purchase Royal Canin Products

Royal Canin products are widely available, but the specific line you need will determine where you can buy it:

Pet Specialty Stores: Retail lines (Breed Health Nutrition, Size Health Nutrition, Life Stage Nutrition, some Health Nutrition formulas) are readily available at major pet retail chains like PetSmart, Petco, and independent pet stores.
Online Retailers: Websites such as Chewy, Amazon, and the official Royal Canin store also carry their retail lines.
Veterinary Clinics: The full range of Royal Canin Veterinary Diets is primarily available through licensed veterinary clinics. These diets require a prescription from your vet, ensuring they are used appropriately for specific medical conditions. Some online pet pharmacies also carry prescription diets, but still require vet authorization.

Always purchase from reputable sources to ensure the authenticity and quality of the product.

The Unwavering Importance of Veterinary Guidance

Throughout this guide, the emphasis on consulting your veterinarian has been paramount. This is not just a recommendation; it’s a critical component of ensuring your dog receives the most appropriate and beneficial nutrition. Your vet can:

Diagnose Underlying Issues: Before recommending a specific diet, your vet can conduct a thorough examination and diagnostic tests to identify any hidden health problems.
Tailor Recommendations: They can precisely match a Royal Canin formula to your dog’s unique needs, considering breed, age, size, activity level, and health status.
Prescribe Veterinary Diets: For therapeutic diets, a prescription is legally required and ensures the diet is part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Monitor Progress: Your vet can monitor your dog’s response to the new diet and make adjustments as needed.
Provide Holistic Advice: Beyond food, they can offer advice on exercise, supplements, and overall wellness.

Think of your veterinarian as your primary partner in your dog’s health journey. Their expertise is invaluable in navigating the complex world of pet nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is Royal Canin considered vet-recommended?

A1: Royal Canin is vet-recommended because its diets are developed through extensive scientific research, focusing on precise nutrient profiles tailored to specific breeds, life stages, and health conditions. Veterinarians trust their rigorous quality control and the efficacy of their therapeutic (Veterinary Diet) lines in managing various medical conditions.

Q2: How do I know which Royal Canin formula is right for my dog?

A2: The best way is to consult your veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s breed, age, size, activity level, and any specific health concerns to recommend the most suitable Royal Canin formula, whether it’s a retail diet or a prescription-only Veterinary Diet.

Q3: Can I mix different Royal Canin formulas?

A3: While it’s generally best to stick to one specific formula to ensure precise nutrient intake, minor mixing might be acceptable under veterinary guidance (e.g., combining a breed-specific diet with a life-stage diet if your vet approves). However, mixing a therapeutic Veterinary Diet with other foods is usually not recommended as it can dilute the diet’s specific therapeutic properties.

Q4: Is Royal Canin food suitable for dogs with allergies?

A4: Yes, Royal Canin offers specific Veterinary Diets like “Hypoallergenic” or “Hydrolyzed Protein” formulas designed for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. These diets use hydrolyzed proteins to minimize allergic reactions. Always consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and prescription for these specialized diets.

Q5: What’s the difference between Royal Canin retail and veterinary diets?

A5: Royal Canin retail diets (e.g., Breed Health Nutrition, Size Health Nutrition, Life Stage) are for healthy dogs with general needs. Royal Canin Veterinary Diets are therapeutic formulas designed to manage specific medical conditions (e.g., kidney disease, urinary issues, severe allergies) and require a veterinarian’s prescription due to their specific nutritional composition.

Q6: How long does it take for my dog to adjust to new food?

A6: It typically takes about 7 days for a dog to adjust to a new food. You should gradually transition by mixing increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old food over this period. For sensitive dogs, this transition might need to be extended to 10-14 days.

Q7: Is Royal Canin expensive compared to other brands?

A7: Royal Canin can be perceived as more expensive than some mass-market brands. This is due to their extensive research and development, precise formulation, high-quality ingredients selected for nutrient delivery, and rigorous quality control. For many owners and vets, the investment is justified by the targeted health benefits and potential long-term savings on vet care for diet-related issues.

Choosing Royal Canin means opting for a brand that prioritizes scientific research and tailored nutrition. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can unlock the full potential of Royal Canin’s specialized diets, ensuring your dog receives the precise nourishment needed for a healthy, happy life. Your dog’s well-being is a partnership, and informed nutritional choices are a cornerstone of that care.