With Thanksgiving around the corner, you may be wrapped up in planning the holiday yourself or just looking forward to the big meal. Whatever your turkey day future holds, it’s important that dog parents know what Thanksgiving foods are and aren’t safe to share with your pup.

Please note that salt, spices, and butter are not good for your dog. Some spices can even be toxic. If you want to give your dog Thanksgiving foods, you should cook them separately from foods prepared for humans on this holiday. It’s the easiest way to ensure your pup can enjoy the festivities safely.

Thanksgiving foods safe to share with your dog

Not all foods you think of as safe actually are for your dog. When in doubt, plain preparation of your typical Thanksgiving staples is the best course of action if you’re sharing bites of them with your pup this holiday.

Turkey

Plain turkey is perfectly safe and even nutritious for your dog. If you want to give your dog plain white turkey meat, go for it! Be sure to remove any skin that may have spices or oils. You can even sprinkle some leftover turkey in your dog’s meals. If you are preparing an alternative meat or vegan version of turkey, be wary of the ingredient list. Many contain spices which are not suitable for canine consumption.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes are an incredibly nutritious and low-fat snack for your dog. They are high in vitamin B6 and vitamin C, while also aiding in digestion. Be sure to cook your dog’s sweet potatoes, as raw ones are difficult to digest. Simply skinning, cutting, and roasting a sweet potato is a great way to give your dog a healthy treat. You can even cook them in the microwave after washing and piercing the skin with a few holes. Once cooked, carefully remove the skin. Your dog will likely enjoy them sliced, diced, smashed, and even leftover the next day.

Green beans

Plain, cooked green beans provide nutrition for your pup. You can absolutely give your dog a few of these on their Thanksgiving plate. You should not, however, feed your dog green bean casserole. Aside from the fat content, casseroles often contain onions and garlic, which are toxic for dogs.

Pumpkin

Plainly cooked pumpkin is another tasty snack you can share with your pup. This gourd is full of fiber, which aids in digestion. However, do not feed your dog pumpkin soufflé or pumpkin pie, as these desserts contain spices and sugars, which are not good for dogs. In particular, nutmeg — which is typically found in both pumpkin and sweet potato desserts — is incredibly dangerous to your dog.

Cranberries

Plain cranberries are a nutritious snack for your pup. They are high in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Plus, most dogs just like the way they taste. That said, some are not fans of the bitter flavor and will undoubtedly let you know that upon their first bite.

Thanksgiving foods you shouldn’t share with your dog

Just as there are several safe dishes to share with your dog, many Thanksgiving eats are riddled with hidden dangers. Don’t share these foods with your pup.

Bones

All bones — whether they are from a turkey, chicken, ham, or any other roast — are generally unsafe for your dog. They can crack or break off during consumption, which can lead to a scary emergency vet visit if you aren’t careful. That said, turkey meat is perfectly fine — just be sure to remove the bones and skin. Of course, there’s always the option of altogether skipping animal protein in your dog’s diet.

Cranberry sauce

Although cranberries are good for dogs, cranberry sauce is a different story. Loaded with sugar, this tangy, sweet sauce is a no-no for your pup. If your dog has eaten cranberry sauce, they will most likely be fine, save for a little stomach upset. However, if the cranberry sauce was made with a sugar substitute like xylitol, take your dog to the vet immediately. Xylitol is incredibly toxic to dogs. (As a heads up, be sure to check your peanut butter labels for this harmful ingredient while you’re at it.)

Stuffing

Aside from the fact that stuffing is too fattening for dogs, it often contains onions, which are toxic. If your dog has eaten stuffing with onions or garlic, take them to vet to be assessed by a professional.

Gravy

Gravy recipes differ wildly, but the main three components are fat (either from butter or cooked meat), flour, and stock (often beef, chicken, turkey, or vegetable). These ingredients won’t kill your dog, but they’re not great for them, either. If your dog consumes gravy with onion or garlic — even in powder form — they may be at risk for some negative side effects.

Rolls or biscuits

Rolls or biscuits are a staple of Thanksgiving meals. However, you shouldn’t share them with your dog. They are too fattening and provide no nutritional benefit for your pups. With that said, you can make your dog their very own Thanksgiving biscuits for them to enjoy.

Pies or other desserts

Across the board, desserts are not for dogs. Dogs shouldn’t be eating sugar like humans do — especially sugar substitutes. If your dog has eaten a dessert made with a sugar substitute, take them to vet immediately. Additionally, a lot of desserts contain chocolate, which is toxic for dogs. There are loads of Thanksgiving foods to share with your dog, but the apple pie isn’t one of them. (Plain apples are just fine, though.)

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We all want our dogs to be as healthy and long-lived as possible, so it makes perfect sense to feed them well. But can the same ol’, same ol’ food that we plop into the bowl every day fulfill 100 percent of our dogs’ dietary needs?

The short answer: it probably can, and probably does. Although there’s a lot of controversy about dog food, most vets and canine nutritionists agree that the major dog foods on the market do a very good job of meeting the average dog’s needs, and supplements aren’t necessary. So if your dog food is formulated for your dog’s age and weight, and your dog is healthy, chances are you don’t need to worry about supplements

When to consider supplements for your dog

There are some situations when dietary supplements might be worth a look. Are you seeing any of these warning signs?

• A dull and brittle coat
• Dry, flaky skin
• Radical and swift change in weight (up or down)
• Low energy level

If so, try changing dog foods first. If that doesn’t seem to help, visit your veterinarian to rule out any medical problems. And while you’re there, ask your vet if supplements might help. Make sure that your vet agrees with any plans you might have before you open your first bottle.

Why supplementation may (or may not) be necessary

The three most common arguments used to justify supplements are allergies, malabsorption, and cooked food. But consider these facts:

Allergies do seem to be on the rise in dogs, some experts say, but supplements would have little effect on the underlying condition. If you suspect allergies, get it verified by your vet.

Malabsorption is a rare condition that hinders a dog’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. Your veterinarian can test for malabsorption and prescribe special medications to treat it, but this isn’t something you should try to diagnose or fix yourself.

Cooked food doesn’t equal bad food. Many supplement manufacturers contend that the cooked food we give our dogs has lost some of its nutritive value or digestibility. Not so much. The predominant carbohydrate source in corn, barley, rice, and oats — the grains used in most dog foods — is starch, and when starches are cooked, they actually become more digestible, not less. Dogs can utilize nearly 100 percent of cooked starches, but just 60 percent of uncooked starches.

Making your own dog food

Some folks opt to make their own dog food instead of giving dietary supplements. If you decide to go that route, be sure to share your diet plan with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to make sure it meets all those minimum daily requirements.

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Your dog is looking at you with those big brown eyes. Your heart melts, and you reach for a treat. Their tail wags, and you feel content. But are you really doing your dog any favors if they become overweight? No! That’s why we’re going to help you reverse course with some dog diet tips.

The problem with using food to make your dog feel good

According to Ernest Ward, DVM, instant gratification comes in healthier forms.

“Instead of giving your dog a treat or refilling his bowl with extra food, why not give him a pat on the head, a hug, or make time for a quick toss of his favorite chew toy?” he says. “Most of us confuse affection with confection.”

Dr. Ward says, “I treat a lot of overweight dogs and cats in my practice, and the number of overweight pets continues to rise. Years ago, this problem really didn’t exist.”

More than 50 percent of dogs in the U.S. are overweight.

“It’s a serious problem,” Dr. Ward says of the pet obesity epidemic, “because there is a direct correlation between obesity and disease.”

“We have learned that being overweight is not healthy for humans. Why should it be any different for pets? It’s not,” Dr. Ward says. “Carrying around extra fat brings on heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure, and type II diabetes. It also shortens the lifespan of dogs and cats. I want my pets around as long as possible.”

A good diet can improve your dog’s health

On a positive note, these ailments are preventable and some are reversible with a good diet and a fair amount of exercise. Dr. Ward suggests starting your puppy on a healthy diet.

“In our culture, we have to change our way of thinking,” he explains. “We often reward ourselves, our children, and our pets with food. Why not take a walk with your dog? We have become couch potatoes and our dogs have become lap potatoes.”

Implementing healthy eating habits is much easier with a puppy than with a full-grown dog.

“Puppies don’t know they are not supposed to be eating treats,” says Dr. Ward. “Overeating is something that we all learn — dogs and people, which means that we can learn to eat healthy and to exercise. Talk to your veterinarian to see how much food your dog should get. Obviously, large dogs eat more food and more meals per day than small dogs.”

“You should also read the labels on the cans and bags of dog food. Look at the calorie count. Avoid dog biscuits. If you really want to give your dog a treat, feed him crunchy baby carrots, broccoli, peas, and asparagus — just a small handful of raw vegetables. They are filled with vitamins and are naturally sweet.”

It’s easy to start a puppy out on this regimen. It’s more challenging changing the behaviors of pet parents who have overfed their dogs over the course of several months or a few years. In those cases, your dog expects to be rewarded with extra food and treats.

Putting your dog on a diet

When Dr. Ward treats an overweight dog, he first checks for certain diseases like Cushing’s disease, which causes fat around the belly. (Cushing’s disease is an endocrine disorder caused by high levels of a hormone called cortisol.)

If he rules out disease, Dr. Ward will put his clients’ dogs on a diet. “Putting a dog on a diet is a process of retraining people and their pets,” he explains. “I have never found a dog that would prefer food over play. Dogs, like most of us, prefer attention. So, that’s an easy start. Instead of filling your dog’s dish, go for a walk, pet him, or give him a good brushing.”

Dr. Ward also suggests setting exact or near-exact times for meals. “Put down the food bowl in the morning and in the early evening,” he says. “If the dog doesn’t eat all of it, pick it up. Don’t let your dog graze.”

What you can feed your dog while on a diet

You can feed dogs plain ice cubes or ice cubes with tiny bits of fruit in them. It’s a good option on hot days. He also suggests refilling the water bowl often with fresh water. In addition, Dr. Ward gives his dogs vitamin supplements, like lecithin and omega-3 fatty acids (i.e. fish oil). Lecithin and omega-3 support brain health.

The importance of exercise

Remember that exercise is an important part of combating weight gain.

“Many people think that by letting their dog have access to their backyard, that the dog will get plenty of exercise,” says Dr. Ward. “That is so not true. When you first let your dog outside, he will run around. As soon as you leave for work, he will probably retreat to the dog house and sleep for the rest of the day.”

Dr. Ward adds: “Dogs are social animals, and they need human interaction. Take a walk with them — a brisk, long walk. You and your dog will both benefit by feeling fit and by bonding.”

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Dogs are dogs, right? Can’t you just feed the same food to any type of dog, no matter their age, breed, or size? Actually, no! Large and small breeds of dogs have very different nutritional needs. These nutritional differences are about much more than just how much food goes in the dog bowl. In fact, each pup is unique. Your dog will have different dietary needs based on their age, breed, and size.

Choosing the right dog food

When searching for the best dog food for your four-legged friend, you want to select high-quality food and give them the appropriate amount for their size. Too much food can lead to pet obesity, which can cause health problems down the road.

Always check the packaging for information on the proper serving sizes, and make sure to talk to your veterinarian when making decisions about your dog’s diet.

When it comes to nutrition, there are several significant food differences for small dogs versus large breeds, including the kibble’s size, the calories, and the ingredients. Let’s look at what is in your pet’s bowl and why you need to choose a specific food based on your dog’s size.

Why size matters

Dry food designed for smaller dogs will tend to have smaller pieces than food for large dogs. Smaller pieces will make it easier for them to eat. The little food bits are easier on their tiny jaws and easier for their gastrointestinal systems to digest.

Food for larger breeds will usually have much larger-sized pieces. Their jaws are better able to handle the larger nuggets of dry food, and the more significant elements are suitable for their teeth.

Nutritional needs of small dogs

Small dogs with a lot of energy will need more calories per pound of body weight than larger dogs. More calories are required to support their energy needs.

From the puppy stage to when they’re in their senior years, smaller dogs will require dog food designed to have the right amount of calories for their active lives. That doesn’t mean they need more food, though. The serving sizes on the bag will help you know how much to give your pet. Instead, correctly formulated puppy food will have a protein and fat ratio appropriate for your dog.

According to the American Kennel Club, small-breed puppies are at risk of low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, because of their high energy levels. Hypoglycemia occurs because the puppies have high amounts of drive but low body fat. Symptoms of low blood sugar include weakness, lethargy, muscle tremors, and seizures.

Most premium brands of puppy food for small breeds are designed to have the right ingredients to prevent this from happening; although, you should talk to your vet right away if you suspect your puppy has low blood sugar.

Nutritional needs of large dogs

On the other hand, large breeds of dogs will eat far larger food quantities, but the food is not as nutritionally dense. The reason is to make sure that larger dogs that are still growing and developing at the proper rate.

As research from Dr. Amanda Jondle on ThePets shows, dog food for larger breeds has been formulated to help keep your dog at a healthy weight. You want to select dog food with healthy lean proteins and a mix of vegetables, vitamins, and minerals that will help support your dog’s health.

Obesity in dogs is one of the leading causes of health problems, and some estimate that obesity can take as much as two years off your pet’s life.

Focus on nutrition and ingredients

Yes, even ingredients in dog food are different based on your pet’s size. For example, some food for large breeds will contain extra calcium, which helps with their bone development. Other brands will include supplements that larger breeds may need.

Some dog foods have specific nutrition to help keep the joints of larger dogs healthy and mobile. Others might contain additional fiber, along with pro and prebiotics to help maintain a healthy gut.

Studies have shown that improper nutrition for large breeds of dogs can lead to severe conditions like low bone development, which can cause lameness.

Nutritional needs at different life stages

Did you know that large and small breeds of dogs mature at different rates? Small dogs reach their physical maturity in about eight months; however, large breeds reach maturity much later, in about 18 months.

At the same time, large puppies grow a lot in those months. Just look at the amount of growth between a tiny teacup Schnauzer puppy versus a Great Dane puppy!

So that means you must choose a well-balanced, appropriate food based on your pet’s age, along with their size.

Puppy food

Puppy food for large breeds will be carefully formulated to provide the right nutrition for the proper growth of their bigger bodies.

Food for smaller breed puppies will have the correct calories and nutrition to support their growth. Fortunately, there are small and large breed puppy foods available.

For larger breeds, you want the food to offer complete nourishment, but at the proper rate. Too much food can lead to obesity. That extra weight isn’t supported yet by their growing bones. This can lead to problems later in life like hip dysplasia, inflammation issues in cartilage and bone, or issues with the development of their long leg bones.

Puppy food for large breeds will also have a carefully balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio to promote bone growth. Larger dogs are particularly predisposed to hip dysplasia. Two of the main culprits are rapid weight gain and excessive amounts of calcium. You want enough to help their bones grow, but not too much to cause overdevelopment.

Senior food

As your furry companion ages, they will need size-appropriate senior food. Both large and small breeds may need food containing supplements to keep their joints healthy in their old years. Another consideration is the amount of fiber. As dogs age, they are more prone to digestive complaints, and the right amount of fiber can help.

Senior dog foods also tend to use a very digestible protein source, so it doesn’t put too much stress on their liver, yet they will still need protein to help prevent muscle mass loss as they age. Small breeds tend to live longer than huge dogs, so they’ll be in the senior stage for longer. So choosing the right food is very important.

Talk to your vet

Now you know the importance of picking the best food for your dog’s size and life stage.

Some health conditions are genetic, and there’s not much you can do about them. However, you can prevent many health issues in your dog with proper care and nutrition.

If you’re concerned about specific conditions, be sure to talk to your vet. They can assist you with any questions you might have regarding food and your furry family member’s care.

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Question:

Is store-brand dog food as nutritious as it claims to be?

Answer:

When it comes to feeding your four-legged friends, choosing the right dog food is a big deal. With countless dog food options, is natural that you’d wonder if store-brand dog food truly delivers the nutrition it promises. Let’s dig in to see if these convenient options are a solid choice for your beloved pup.

The truth about store-brand dog food

Store-brand dog foods offer a quick solution for busy pet parents. Commercial dog food is easy to find and often budget-friendly. It may even appear to be tailored for different dog breeds and stages of life.

All wet and dry commercial foods ought to promote good health, as all are supposed to meet the same AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) nutrition standards. The big commercial companies test the products to make sure they have all the nutrients they need to support growth, reproduction, and good health.

But while commercial dog food packaging can be flashy, don’t let design alone persuade you to buy. Take the time to examine the ingredients and nutrition info. Quality matters! Good dog foods start with real animal proteins like chicken or beef. Avoid vague ingredients like “meat by-products.”

Also, look for the “complete and balanced” label on the package. This means it meets minimum nutrient requirements, according to the experts at AAFCO.

Remember that dogs differ, be it in size, age, and/or activity level. If you truly want food that fits your dog’s nutritional needs, ask your vet for advice and recommendations.

Pros of commercial dog food

• Budget-friendly: Grocery-store brands are often cheaper than specialty food or other types of diets.
• Convenience: They’re easy to grab while shopping.
• Basic nutrition: For dogs without special needs, commercial dog food does the job.

Cons of commercial dog food

• Ingredient quality varies: Some brands have lesser-quality ingredients.
• Fillers and additives: Some contain less-nutritious fillers.
• Little specialization: Specific needs might not be covered by these brands.

When it’s chow time, store-brand dog foods can be a lifesaver for busy dog parents. But, read labels carefully to ensure balanced nutrition. If you’re concerned about your dog getting the right nutrients, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation. Your pup’s health hangs in the balance, so make the call that keeps them happily coming back to their bowl day after day.

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Preserving health and physical fitness is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. A dog that is at an appropriate weight has a lower risk for a number of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and joint or muscle problems. If your dog is overweight or obese, you should consult a veterinarian to form a weight-loss plan specific to your dog’s needs. Caring for the well-being of your canine companion is an excellent way of strengthening your bond and promoting longevity. Here are three key ways to encourage your dog to lose weight, or prevent excessive weight gain.

1. Exercise and play

It is important to develop an exercise routine that burns calories but doesn’t overexert your dog. Take into account your dog’s breed and current health. Brachycephalic, or short-nosed, dogs may have trouble breathing if exercise is too rigorous. Also, some dog breeds are more built for distance than others. A French Bulldog will not be able to walk as far as a Border Collie.

Again, consult your veterinarian. Take it slow. Try going for a short walk or engage in a few minutes of play at a time. As your dog loses weight and gets accustomed to exercise, it may be time to increase the intensity, distance, or duration of the workout. It’s also a fun way to bond with your dog and build your relationship.

2. Cut back on table scraps and treats

It’s tempting to spoil your dog, but most human food is not appropriate for a canine diet. Feeding your dog snacks from your bag of junk food or leftovers from the dinner table adds needless calories to their diet. Dog treats are easy to overindulge in. Treats should make up for no more than 10 percent of your dog’s diet. Try sticking to a daily allotment. Stay strong and resist those puppy-dog eyes.

3. Choose an appropriate diet for your dog’s specific needs

In addition to reducing scraps and treats, you should make sure that your dog’s main food is measured and provides the right nutrients. Tailor your dog’s diet to both their size and breed. Each dog is an individual, so determining your dog’s unique food needs isn’t always easy. A 12-pound Shih Tzu isn’t going to have the same nutritional requirements as a 250-pound Mastiff. Also, choose quality dog food that takes your dog’s individuality into account. Some dog food brands make dog food specific to certain dog breeds and their unique needs.

If your dog is overweight, make sure you are going about weight loss in a safe, appropriate way. As much as your dog loves treats, they will be much happier if they can live a longer, healthier life with their best human friend.

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Good nutrition is one of the most powerful weapons against poor health in humans and dogs alike. Obviously, good nutrition is essential in preventing certain health conditions from developing in the first place, but it can also be used to improve existing health conditions.

In all cases, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian about proper nutrition for your dog, especially while managing a medical condition. But the good news is there’s a lot you can do to help your dog just by feeding them the right targeted foods.

Here are a few health conditions and how dog parents can help treat their pets through targeted nutrition.

Weight management

Ideal weight isn’t just difficult for humans to maintain; it can be tough for dogs, too, especially for certain breeds prone to obesity.

Sometimes, a dog’s history is to blame. They may have had to eat everything possible whenever they could because they didn’t know when they’d have access to food again. That can be a hard survival habit to break.

Portion control and limited meals — versus unlimited access to food — are key in good nutrition for helping your dog slim down. Sometimes, your dog just needs to learn or re-learn hunger cues from their body.

You can try decreasing their food with your vet’s supervision by 15 to 20 percent for one to two months and see if that helps. Your vet can guide you as to the exact amounts needed for weight loss while still maintaining adequate nutrient intake.

Diabetes

A common comorbidity with obesity in dogs, just as in humans, is diabetes. Specifically, diabetes mellitus is a condition in which dogs cannot properly manage their glucose levels.

While some controllable lifestyle factors can cause this, genetics also come into play for predisposition. Your vet will have to diagnose the condition and prescribe the proper insulin injections. But dietary choice is so important here, too, to maintain the best health possible for your dog.

There are several “therapeutic foods” designed to aid your dog’s glycemic control. These are only available through a vet, who will determine the proper formulation and amount needed for your individual dog.

With proper nutritional and insulin management, your dog can still have a wonderful life.

Arthritis

You can help your arthritic dog out a lot by keeping inflammatory ingredients out of their diet. These include added salt or sugar, as well as artificial ingredients. Foods high in grain, corn, fatty proteins, and omega-6 fatty acids (the less healthy cousin of omega-3s) are also good to avoid.

According to TopDogHealth.com, a dog’s body converts excess omega-6s such as linoleic acid to arachidonic acid, which is highly inflammatory to arthritis sufferers.

On the other hand, there are some great ingredients that can help your dog’s arthritis feel even better. The healthy cousin, omega-3, is a fantastic anti-inflammatory agent, along with other essential fatty acids, like DHA and EPA.

Antioxidants are also important and widely available in many ingredients. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs, like chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine) are found in many joint supplements and even foods. Several dog foods are specifically formulated with essential nutrients to help with arthritis.

Kidney disease

The kidney is responsible for filtering waste products out of the bloodstream, which are then excreted through urine. So when a dog has kidney disease, that means there will be a buildup of some of those waste products in the bloodstream, as the filtration isn’t working properly.

Luckily, there are several dog foods you can get from your vet that target problems associated with kidney disease. These foods can help maintain fluid and mineral balance while ensuring adequate nourishment.

Omega-3 fatty acids are, again, key in helping proper function. You’ll find them in abundance in kidney-support dog foods, which are also often low in sodium, phosphorous, and protein.

Acid reflux

Acid reflux is no fun for us humans or dogs. But our poor, four-legged counterparts don’t have quite as many options to help as we do. Luckily, there are some dietary tips that can decrease the occurrence of them.

It’s no wonder this condition is so uncomfortable. Acid reflux in dogs is actually the uncontrollable reversal of fluids from the stomach or intestines up through the esophagus. It affects many dogs, especially younger ones.

This can cause inflammation and even permanent damage, so it’s a good idea to find solutions that reduce symptoms.

There are some specially formulated dog foods for sensitive stomachs, but in general, you’ll want to stick to foods low in fat and low in protein.

The post How Good Nutrition Can Help Treat Your Dog’s Health Conditions appeared first on DogTime.

Question:

I feed my dog a mix of canned and dry dog food. She seems healthy, but I’m wondering if there are dietary supplements for dogs that she should take?

Answer:

Yes, you should add dietary supplements for dogs to your pup’s diet. Here are some easy ways to increase the nutritional value of your fur baby’s food.

Feed your dog more veggies

Dogs, like humans, are omnivores. That means we feel better and are healthier when we eat a variety of foods. Since most dogs eat food from a can or cup, they often aren’t receiving the healthy micronutrients found in raw or unprocessed vegetables. Carrots, spinach, green beans, celery, broccoli, and asparagus are great choices to give your dog. If your canine companion doesn’t like their veggies, try stuffing them inside a toy, freezing them in an ice cube, or mixing them in with their regular food.

Try nutritional supplements for dogs

While everyone likes to think they eat a “balanced” or “healthy” diet, the fact is that there are often sizable nutritional gaps. It can be even worse for pets. To help overcome any potential nutritional deficiencies, commit to giving your pet some basic supplements. A good multivitamin and an omega-3 fatty acid supplement are a great start. Mushroom extracts (especially maitake and reishi), flax seed oil, probiotics, CoQ10, SAMe, and many other supplements may be helpful based on your pet’s individual needs.

The many benefits of supplements

Just like humans, dogs can benefit from supplements. These nutritional supports address specific needs such as joint health, skin and coat condition, and immune support. Supplements for dogs often contain essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that may be lacking in their regular diet. However, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian before introducing any supplements. This consultation ensures the supplements are appropriate for the dog’s individual needs. When used correctly, dietary supplements can be a valuable addition to a dog’s diet. They help to enhance both your pup’s quality of life and their longevity.

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Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of a dog’s overall health and well-being. As a dog parent, you strive to provide your beloved canine companion with the best possible care, and that starts with their diet. The world of commercial dog food can be overwhelming, with countless options and conflicting information available. So, in this comprehensive guide to dog food and nutrition, we will demystify your furry friend’s dietary needs and help you make informed choices that will support their optimal health.

Understanding the significance of nutrition in a dog’s life is paramount. Just like humans, dogs require a well-balanced diet to thrive physically and mentally. The right combination of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals ensures their energy levels, growth, immune function, and overall vitality. Additionally, a nutritious diet can help prevent or manage various health conditions, including allergies, obesity, and joint problems.

In this guide, we will explore the key elements that make up a complete and balanced diet for dogs. From deciphering pet food labels and understanding different types of dog food to discussing portion sizes and feeding schedules, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure your furry friend’s nutritional needs are met.

When shopping for quality commercial dog food, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are providing your dog with a nutritious and balanced diet. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right food for your dog.

Shopping for quality commercial dog food

Reading dog food labels is something of an exercise in futility unless you know the arcane rules governing what they can say, but here are a few guidelines.

• Ingredients must be listed by amount in descending order. So if meat is the first ingredient (the ideal to strive for), technically the food contains more of that ingredient (i.e. chicken) than any other ingredient. In reality, chicken is a heavy ingredient because it contains a lot of water, so it’s easy for manufacturers to manipulate the label by listing chicken first and following it with various grains, such as wheat meal, wheat middlings, wheat flour, and so on. It’s all wheat, though, and if you were to put the wheat on a scale with the chicken, it would probably outweigh the fowl.
• The first ingredient on the label should always be meat with a name. By this, we mean chicken, lamb, or beef, as opposed to the generic “meat,” which could be anything.
• Food should have more meat protein than grain protein. Unfortunately, there’s really no way to tell that from the label.
• One or more types of meat, or high-quality dairy products such as eggs, should be listed among the first three to five ingredients. If the first ingredient is a type of meat, followed by only grains, or if the first ingredient is a grain, check some other brands before buying.
• Marketing terms such as “natural” or “premium” have no official legal definition. If you want to know what the manufacturer means by “human-grade ingredients” or “70 percent organic,” give the company a call and get some answers. Every can or bag of dog food must list the contact information for the manufacturer on the label.

Factors to consider when buying commercial dog food

When shopping for quality commercial dog food, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are providing your dog with a nutritious and balanced diet. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right food.

Read the ingredients

Check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging. Look for high-quality protein sources (i.e. chicken, beef, fish) listed as the first ingredients. Avoid foods that contain by-products, artificial additives, fillers, and excessive amounts of grains or carbohydrates.

Consider life stage and size

Dogs have different nutritional needs based on their life stage (puppy, adult, senior) and size (small, medium, large, or giant breed). Choose a dog food that is specifically formulated for your dog’s age and size to ensure appropriate nutrient levels.

Check for an AAFCO statement

Look for a statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) on the packaging. This statement ensures that the food meets minimum nutritional standards for dogs.

Research the brand

Research the brand’s reputation and history. Look for brands with a good track record of quality control, transparency, and a focus on using premium ingredients.

Consider special dietary needs

If your dog has specific dietary requirements or sensitivities, such as grain allergies, limited ingredient diets, or specialized formulas, choose a dog food that caters to those needs.

Consult with your veterinarian

Your veterinarian can provide valuable recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs, health conditions, and any specific dietary requirements.

Compare nutritional information

Compare the guaranteed analysis and nutritional information on different dog food products. Look for appropriate levels of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals based on your dog’s requirements.

Avoid marketing gimmicks

Be cautious of marketing gimmicks, such as trendy ingredient claims or buzzwords. Focus on the nutritional content and ingredient quality rather than catchy marketing phrases.

Consider your budget

While quality dog food may be more expensive, it’s important to choose the best option within your budget. Remember that investing in your dog’s nutrition can contribute to their long-term health and well-being.

Remember to transition your dog gradually to a new food. Do so by mixing it with their current food over a period of several days to avoid digestive upset. Monitoring your dog’s health, energy levels, coat condition, and overall well-being can help you determine if the chosen dog food is suitable for them.

The post A Complete Guide to Dog Food and Nutrition appeared first on DogTime.

To share food is to share love. Most dogs love to have a treat handed to them, and food that smells like your hand is a big deal. Your dog will also appreciate a variety of flavors and textures. You don’t want to go overboard, however, since treats count in your dog’s total daily caloric intake. Think moderation, or you’ll soon be taking away all treats and putting your dog on a diet. We’re going to help you choose the best dog treats and dog bones for your pup.

Top dog treats

• Go for small aromatic treats if you’re training your dog. You can break them into still smaller pieces for fewer calories and more rewards.
• Biscuits offer a good crunching experience. They also help remove tartar. Best of all, you can break them into pieces, the perfect way to say, “I love you, you are such a good girl.”
• Puppies and senior dogs do best with small, softer treats.
• Read the label. Some treats have a high salt or fat content. Most people don’t realize, for example, that rawhide and pigs’ ears or snouts are high in fat and calories and are frequent contributors to pancreatitis and obesity. Look for hypoallergenic treats if your dog has food allergies.
• Aggressive chewers need something large and tough. For those dogs, there are many treats and bones on the market designed just for them.
• Go with the knotted type. Power chewers who like to masticate rawhides into a soft, disgusting mess will be occupied longer with a knotted rawhide than a flat one.

Dog bone and dog treat safety

• Supervise your dog while they are enjoying a treat. Choking is a possibility, particularly with bones and rawhides. Some veterinarians might say that no one would buy some of these treats if they realized they might spend $1,000 on emergency surgery to remove the $2 treat.
• Never offer cooked bones. Chicken bones and others from the dinner table can splinter and damage the throat or intestines.
• Feed some treats outside. Basted rawhide or pigs’ ears can stain carpeting and make a real mess, especially if your dog has a beard.

The post How to Choose Dog Treats and Dog Bones appeared first on DogTime.