Giving our pets a happy and, most importantly, healthy life is a high priority all dog owners share. Pets, like people, thrive and have a better quality of life when they are getting proper exercise and nutrition.  You should, therefore, be sure that you feed your four-legged friend a wide variety of healthy, quality foods in appropriate proportions. But how to find the right dog food? What is best for our dear friends?

Here is a few food tips for you:

The best dog food

How much and what you feed your dog depends upon its individual requirements and activity level. The age, body structure, weight and the urge to move are all important factors to consider when choosing the right food and the right amount. A chihuahua e.g. needs a different quantity and type of food than a Labrador Retriever. And, a puppy eating adult food will not get the high amount of calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals he needs for proper growth. Always be aware that the food you choose is appropriate for your dog’s stage of life.

Dogs don’t like the same kind of food, and just because a type of food is good for your dog it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe for your neighbor’s dog. Therefore, the best way to figure out what to feed your pet is to test different meals and products. When you choose food, you can always get a helping hand from the ingredients and feeding-advices on the food packaging.

With any change in diet, it is important to observe your pet for issues that can arise in response to the change. If your pet begins to show digestive or behavioral changes, stop feeding the new type of food and consult with a veterinarian. Once you have found a balanced food that your pet enjoys, stick with it.

Most important is that your dog’s food should always have a good quality and should meet certain nutrition requirements. Additionally, the amount of food should fit your pet. Too less food can lead to growing problems and too much food can lead to obesity, heart and respiratory problems. When that is said, dogs actually eat almost everything. Whether it’s meat, vegetables or cereals there is no harm in trying it out. But, avoid spicy or rich foods and uncooked meat.

Here is a brief list of healthy food that have been found to go over well with a lot of dogs.

Food which is good for dogs

  • dry food
  • puff or unsalted rice
  • Sweet potato – cooked, cubed or mashed without butter or seasoning
  • vegetables
  • dog pasta
  • Some fruits – e.g. strawberries, Watermelon (without seeds) and blueberries
  • cereals
  • bread

Food which is bad for dogs

  • cat food
  • table residues from human
  • spicy food
  • Fruits with pits, such as peaches, cherries, and plums – in some cases the pit can be toxic
  • Garlic and onions
  • biscuits with fish
  • stale food

Water

A healthy diet is not complete without the addition of water. Water is essential for eliminating waste from the body, transporting nutrients, and preventing dehydration. Your pet should, therefore, always have a source of clean water to go along with a healthy, balanced diet.

Simply keep in mind – A good health begins with proper nutrition!

What is the right food for you four-legged friend? We would like to hear from you!