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The Best Food for DogsImprove a Dog’s Energy and Health with Proper Nutrition
Fido depends on his humans to provide the right foods for health, energy and a long life.
Here’s how to ensure that a dog’s nutritional needs are met. Commercial FoodsPrepared commercial foods are usually acceptable but read the labels. Look for pet foods labeled nutritionally “complete” or “balanced,” a statement determined by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) testing which has found them nutritionally adequate. U.S. law requires ingredients to be listed in order from most to least but even if it says the food includes lamb and rice the percentage could be just 3%. Also, the label should show the exact name of the meat such as lamb or beef. If it merely says “meat,” “byproducts” or “animal meal” it could come from meat rejected for human consumption, have ground bone meal, or unidentified parts. Some grains are difficult for dogs to digest and can trigger allergies. Rice, barley, oats, unprocessed whole grains and sweet potatoes seem to work well. Even though soy is often used as filler, it can cause gas. Dogs love canned food. It’s expensive but good for aging dogs whose teeth can’t handle kibble. Semi-moist or dry food can provide good nutrition, is less expensive, and the crunch is good for teeth. The Health Food CrazeSpecialty food stores sell natural, organic and hypoallergenic foods for pets but a dog shouldn’t be a vegetarian. Proteins from animal sources such as eggs, meat and fish are complete proteins while grains and veggies are incomplete. In fact, puppies, pregnant or nursing females, and hard working dogs even need a greater ratio of protein for growth. Putting Fido on a DietA dog is the proper weight when his rib cage should able to be felt but not seen. The dog should be larger in front and not pear shaped. If the dog’s belly is obviously hanging, then it’s time for a diet. Start by cutting down on treats and verifying that the dog isn’t stealing another pet’s food. An owner can also cut the dog’s usual amount of pet food or feed the pet a low-calorie dog food that often includes fiber to help the dog feel full without a lot of calories. Protein, however, helps a dog feel full for a longer period of time and may actually enhance weight loss. For snacks, biscuits help scrape tartar off teeth but contribute extra calories. Substitute low calorie snacks such as carrots, green beans, small pieces of apple or ice cubes. If you’re feeding a dog less and it doesn’t lose weight, see the vet. It could be a medical problem. What NOT to Feed a DogChocolate - Theobromine, a compound in chocolate, can cause vomiting or diarrhea – even coma leading to death. Bones - They can splinter easily and lodge in the throat or puncture the intestines. The worst offenders are poultry bones. Choose alternatives such as rawhides, Nylabones or pig ears. Onions - Dogs get more than bad breath; onions can destroy red blood cells in a version of doggy anemia. Raw Meat or Eggs - Just as with humans, these can carry virulent bacteria, such as E. coli Grapes or raisins - In high amounts they can be toxic for dogs. Plants. -You won’t feed your dog a poinsettia, mistletoe or oleander on purpose but avoid having them in the house or yard. They are poisonous.
The copyright of the article The Best Food for Dogs in Dog Care is owned by Rosanne Knorr. Permission to republish The Best Food for Dogs in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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