We all love our dogs and want to give them nothing but the best. When it comes to feeding our best friends, it is easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices in the market. It is important to feed your dog quality food that suits them and provides them with all the nutrients they need. This can be a struggle for most people as dogs are just as complicated as us. But with a little effort, you’ll be able to nail this seemingly difficult task.
So here are 4 simple ways to determine the best type of food for your dog.
1. Age
The first thing to consider when selecting food is the age of your dog. Young dogs and puppies are constantly growing and so require lots of essential nutrients and protein to help with muscle and tissue development and overall well-being. They also use up a lot of energy running around so their diet should be carbohydrate heavy. As for older dogs, they require the right nutrients to help reduce inflammation and bone loss. Since they are less active, their diet should not contain a lot of calories and fat which can lead to weight gain.
2. Breed
The next thing to consider is the breed of your dog. Smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas have very active metabolisms and require a diet rich in energy content. Their food should be full of protein, carbohydrates, and fats and should be consumed in small amounts throughout the day. Larger breeds such as Great Danes often suffer from joint and bone problems particularly as they age. They, therefore, require a diet full of omega fatty acids, calcium, and other nutrients that promote healthy bones and joints.
3. Wet or Dry Food
The most commonly available dog food is dry dog food. It is easy to store as it doesn’t require refrigeration. Dry dog food is usually made up of cooked meats and grains. There are numerous varieties available so make sure to do a little more research in order to find the best dry dog foods. Wet or canned dog food is a more appetizing alternative to dry dog food. Wet dog food contains higher quantities of fresh ingredients and is great for dogs who are picky eaters.
4. Special Needs
It is also important to consider any special needs your dog might have such as allergies, intolerances, breathing problems, dental issues, and obesity. Tailor their food to suit these needs. Wet food, for example, is a better option for dogs with dental problems as it is easier to chew. While for dogs with allergies, it is best to avoid foods with hypoallergenic ingredients like certain meats and carbohydrates.
Feeding your dog the right type of food is very important as dogs often have adverse reactions to food. If you notice your dog is having stomach problems like gas or diarrhea, excessive shedding, low energy, or dull eyes then it might be time to find something new to feed them. Read dog food labels carefully and try to understand what each listed ingredient is so you can know what to look for and what to avoid. Always keep these 4 things in mind when finding the right food for your dog.
