We all want our dogs to be healthy. Along with regular exercise, feeding our dogs healthy food is one best ways to help them live long, happy, healthy lives. With all of the dog food brands on the market, we can sometimes feel overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help make it easier to maintain your pet’s dietary needs.
Eating nutritious food is essential to any healthy diet. Our pets need the correct amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals for their bodies to function normally. Though we can certainly cook our own healthy dog food, the best and easiest way to give our dogs a balanced and nutritious diet is to feed them commercial pet food. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) – an independent organization working within laws and standards set by the FDA and USDA – has set trustworthy standards so you know which foods are “complete and balanced” and are safe for your pet (FDA, 2014). Make sure that the food your pet is eating is both healthy and safe by checking that an AAFCO nutritional claim is printed on the package or that the product has undergone testing by AAFCO.
When you are thinking about which variety of dog food is best suited to your dog’s needs, consider factors like your dog’s age, size, and weight. Puppy food generally has more protein and fat to help support a growing dog’s energy and growth. Overweight dogs need a dog food that is formulated to help them to manage their weight. There is even dog food for toy breeds that is cut into smaller pieces so that it is easier for dogs with smaller mouths to chew. Choose the food that is right for your dog.
Remember that it is the nutritional value of your dog’s food that actually matters when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet for your dog. Just because a product is expensive does not mean that it is healthier for your pet. And just because a product might be cheaper does not mean that is bad for your pet’s health. The nutritional completeness and quality of your dog’s food is what matters, not the name on the package. Choose a dog food that you can afford that meets your pets nutritional needs.
Following the chart on the back of your dog food package is helpful in determining how much food is appropriate for your dog. However, your veterinarian can help you to figure out the specific amount of food that is correct for your pet. They will take into account factors like your pet’s activity level, age, body condition score, and overall health.
Every now and then, we want to give our pets a special treat to reward their good behavior. Remember that treats are not meant to be a replacement for food. When we are already giving our pets a “complete and balanced” diet, treats should be special and occasional. In general, it is a good idea to avoid giving your dog “people food” or table scraps. People food can give your pet stomach problems, making them feel sick or uncomfortable.
When you feed your pet anything other than commercial dog food, be sure to check that what you are giving your dog is not allergenic or toxic. It is common knowledge that we should not give chocolate to dogs, but what else should we be aware of? You should also never feed avocados, Macadamia nuts, onions, or mushrooms to your dog because they are toxic to dogs. Also, do not give your pet raw meat, because you might expose your pet to bacteria like E.coli or parasites. If you are unsure whether or not a certain food item is safe for your pet, consult with your veterinarian.
It is important that your pet always gets enough water to drink. Water is essential for regulating a healthy temperature and digesting food, and for its nutritional value. Make sure that your pet has access to water throughout the day. If you and your pet are out in public or in warm weather, keep water and a water dish on hand so that you can keep your pet hydrated. If your pet shows signs of dehydration, such as acting sluggish, having a dry mouth, or being visibly wobbly or disoriented, contact your veterinarian right away.
In order for your pet to receive all of the nutrients that they need, they have to actually eat their food. If your pet does not like or refuses to eat the food you are giving them, do not give up. Instead, keep searching for a healthy dog food that is both healthy and tasty for your pet. If they continue to fast, it’s possible that there could be a health concern that is keeping them from eating. As always, if you have any questions about your pet’s health or dietary needs, contact your veterinarian.
References:
Basic Calorie Calculator. In The Ohio University Veterinary Medical Center. Retrieved from http://vet.osu.edu/vmc/companion/our-services/nutrition-support-service/basic-calorie-calculator
“Complete and balanced” pet food (2014, September 8). In Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/ucm047120.htm
How to choose a pet food. In Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center. Retrieved from https://cvm.msu.edu/hospital/services/nutrition-support-service-1/client-education/how-to-choose-a-pet-food
People food to avoid feeding your pet.In American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Retrieved from http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
(2015). In Association of American Feed Control Officials. Retrieved from http://www.aafco.org/
