NUTRITION & DIET

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TIPS FOR DOG NUTRITION

Ensuring proper nutrition for your dog is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you provide the best nutrition for your furry friend:

  1. Balanced Diet
  • Complete and Balanced:
    Look for commercial dog foods labelled “complete and balanced” by the MPI (Ministry of Primary Industries). This ensures the food meets nutritional standards.
  • Variety:
    Incorporate a variety of proteins (chicken, beef, fish), vegetables, and grains in your dog’s diet to provide a range of nutrients.
  1. High-Quality Ingredients
  • Whole Foods: Choose foods with whole, natural ingredients rather than those with fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.
  • Protein Sources: Ensure that the primary ingredient is a high-quality protein source like chicken, beef, or fish.
  1. Portion Control
  • Follow Guidelines:
    Feed your dog according to the guidelines on the food packaging, adjusting for their age, weight, and activity level.
  • Avoid Overfeeding:
    Overfeeding can lead to obesity and related health issues. Measure out food portions and avoid free-feeding.
  1. Fresh Water
  • Constant Supply:
    Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water.
  • Hydration:
    Monitor your dog’s water intake, especially during hot weather or after exercise.
  1. Avoid Harmful Foods
  • Toxic Foods:
    Avoid feeding your dog chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (found in some peanut butters and sweets), alcohol, and caffeine.
  • Human Food:
    Be cautious with table scraps and human food, as many can harm dogs.
  1. Treats and Snacks
  • Healthy Treats:
    Choose healthy, low-calorie treats. Treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
  • Natural Options:
    Consider natural treats like carrots, apple slices (without seeds), and green beans.
  1. Special Dietary Needs
  • Life Stages:
    Adjust your dog’s diet based on their life stage (puppy, adult, senior) to meet their specific nutritional needs.
  • Health Conditions:
    If your dog has specific health issues (allergies, kidney disease, diabetes), consult your vet for a specialised diet.
  1. Regular Vet Visits
  • Check-Ups:
    Schedule regular vet check-ups to monitor your dog’s health and get professional dietary advice.
  • Weight Management:
    Discuss your dog’s weight and diet with your vet to ensure they maintain a healthy weight.
  1. Homemade Meals
  • Balanced Recipes:
    If you prefer cooking for your dog, use balanced recipes that provide all the necessary nutrients.
  • Vet Consultation:
    Consult with a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to ensure homemade meals meet your dog’s nutritional needs.
  1. Gradual Changes
  • Slow Transition:
    When switching foods, do so gradually over a week to avoid digestive upset. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with the old food each day.
  1. Supplements
  • Vet Approval:
    Only use supplements as recommended by your vet, since unnecessary supplementation can cause health issues.
  • Common Supplements:
    Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health, glucosamine for joint health, and probiotics for digestive health are commonly recommended.
  1. Monitor Your Dog’s Condition
  • Coat and Skin:
    A healthy, shiny coat and clear skin usually indicate good nutrition.
  • Energy Levels:
    Consistent energy levels and overall vitality are good indicators of proper nutrition.
  • Stool Quality:
    Regular, firm stools indicate a balanced diet and good digestive health.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your dog maintains a healthy and balanced diet, leading to a long, happy, and active life.

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