1. Quality

Quality is always an important consideration. You have to pay attention yourself to how the food looks, how it smells, and so on. I mean, my dogs will eat toilet paper and my cats will eat dog food, so they basically have no taste. Sometimes it's up to us to decide when something is a little too gross for our pets to eat.

2. Price

At the onset, this might seem selfish, but it's really not. One thing to remember is that most expensive is not always better. Just because a pet food costs an arm and a leg doesn't mean it is the best kind available. Another thing to remember is that there is no reason to make yourself go broke over pet food. Some of that money will be better spent taking your animals to the vet, buying them toys – or, you know, getting the little guy a new jacket because he ate his last one.

3. Brand

That being said, there is something to be said about the brand. You may not want to go with a super off-brand because heaven knows what is going into the food. Then, too, the best top brand won't necessarily be the best food choice for your pets. Take branding with a grain of salt and instead focus on what seems to work for your pets.

4. Size of Food

This one is really important, and for my purposes, it's targeted mainly for dogs. I have a little dog, a miniature dachshund, and I think everybody has also heard about my surrogate diva, the little princely boy mutt who belongs to my mom. Both dogs have little tiny baby mouths, so they can't eat dry dog food if the pieces are too big. If you've got a big one and a little one, like the BH and I as well as my parents, either choose a softer dry food or something with pellet pieces that run the middle ground.

5. Ingredients

Naturally, you have to pay attention to what goes into your pet's food as well, for a variety of reasons. If your dog or cat has any digestive problems, you'll want to make sure a food's ingredients are good for it. You'll also want to make sure your pets are also getting all the nutritional value they need.

6. Online Reviews

The internet makes lots of things easier, and that includes getting others' opinions on food. If you have a Siamese cat or a little Yorkie, it's easier than ever to check out a forum and see what people think about certain types of foods for these breeds. Naturally you can also see what people think about different brands in general, which can help you make a decision as well.

7. Vet's Opinion

Finally, you might want to talk to your vet about what you should feed your pet. He or she probably knows your pet as well as you do, especially if that's been your vet all along. He or she can give you tips about your dog's digestion and nutritional needs that can help you pick the right food.

You don't have to spend a fortune to give your pets what they need, you just have to be knowledgeable. That includes the kinds of toys and treats you buy for them, whether it's a dog, a cat, or a bunny. What kinds of pets do y'all have?

Top Photo Credit:  Jany 