There are a few key things you need to remember when storing dry dog food long-term. The most important is to keep the food in an airtight container, in a cool, dry place. This will help preserve the food and keep it from going bad.
You may also want to consider investing in a vacuum-sealed storage system, which will remove all the air from the container and help keep the food fresh for longer.
Another thing to keep in mind is how often you’ll be using the food. If you’re only going to be needing it for a short period of time, it’s better to store it in the packaging it came in.
However, if you plan on using it over a longer period of time, transferring the food to an airtight container is a better option. This will help keep out any moisture or pests that may try to invade the food.
How to store dry dog food long term
Dry dog food can last for a long time if it is stored properly. The key is to keep it dry, cool, and away from pests. Here are some places where you can store dry dog food long term:
In an airtight container
Airtight containers are great for storing dry dog food because they keep out moisture and pests. Look for a container with a rubber gasket or silicone seal to ensure that it is truly airtight.
In the freezer
The freezer is a great place to store large amounts of dry dog food. It will keep the food fresh and prevent it from going bad. Just make sure to thaw it out before feeding it to your dog.
In the pantry
If you have a lot of space in your pantry, you can store your dog food there. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to protect it from pests.
In the basement
One of the best ways to store dry dog food is in the basement, as this area is typically cooler and darker than other parts of the house.
In order to store dry dog food in the basement, you will still need to find an airtight container that is large enough to hold food. Once you have found a suitable container, you will need to put all of the dry dog food into the container and then seal it tightly.
It’s important to consider these areas for storing dry dog food because you don’t want to inadvertently give your dog spoiled food.
5 effects of consuming spoiled dry dog food
Giving your dog dry food that has spoiled could have negative consequences for your dog. Here are 5 things that spoiled food can cause.
- Digestive problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea.
- Potentially fatal liver damage.
- Increased risk of developing cancer.
- Weight gain as well as a number of other health complications.
Read our related article on How to Tell if Dog Food is Bad. Discover the signs of expired dog food in this to-the-point guide.
Reasons why dry dog food may go bad
Implementing the best way to store your dog food means also understanding why dry dog food can go bad in the first place.
- Moisture can cause dry dog food to spoil or develop bacteria over time.
- Exposure to sunlight or heat can also cause dry dog food to spoil more quickly.
- The oils in the food can go bad over time if not stored properly.
- Insects and rodents can contaminate the food if it is stored improperly.
How do you store unopened dry dog food?
If you can’t get an air-tight container, then store an open bag of dog food in the coolest, dryest place in your home.
But if possible, try to keep it in an airtight container or a sealed bag until you need it. This will help to keep the food fresh and prevent any pests from getting into it.
Dry dog food can last for 6-12 months if stored properly. But once you open the bag, you should use it within 3-4 weeks. You can extend the life of the open bag of dog food if you store it in the fridge.
Opened or unopened, dry dog food should be used within 6 months of the manufacture date. After that time, the nutrients in the food will start to degrade and your dog may not get the nutrition he or she needs.
Is it safe to store dog food in a plastic container?
Yes, it is safe to store dog food in a plastic container as long as you follow some simple guidelines.
First, make sure that the container is food grade and BPA-free. Second, only fill the container up to 75% of its capacity in order to allow for air circulation.
Finally, make sure to wash the container regularly with hot, soapy water.
