Dog NutritionWhat to feed dogs?

What to feed dogs?

Feeding dogs can be approached in many ways, from dry kibble to raw diets, and everything in between. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right dog food to feed dogs.  Here’s how you must choose the right food for your canine friend when feeding.

How to choose the right dog food to feed dogs

feed dogs
Image-Source: allrecipes

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to dog food. Both you and your dog have to be prepared to try different options until you both find the suitable one. You’ll know you’ve found the right food when your dog has bright eyes, a shiny coat, and a healthy energy level. When you have chosen the right dog food, you’ll be able to see surprising changes in your dog. He feels more energetic and more active than during his food testing period. Try and try to find the best food that suits your doggy.

Commercial Dry Food

Dry kibble is convenient for your dog. You could assure commercial dry food as they have proven to be good to consume for dogs by extensive manufacturer research. It has a long shelf life and is easy to store. However, contrary to popular belief, dry food does not help keep your dog’s teeth clean. So, you will have to regularly brush your teeth.

Canned food to feed dogs

Canned dog food is known for its palatable taste, which dogs love Your dog may also love them. However, it contains a high water content, meaning you might be paying more for less actual food. You can use canned food as a flavor enhancer for dry kibble It is a cost-effective strategy.

Home-Cooked diets to feed dogs

Preparing home-cooked meals for your dog means you know exactly what they’re eating. However, achieving the right nutritional balance can be challenging because you have to add an adequate amount of nutrients that you get from other supplements to your doggy’s diet if it is homemade. Simply combining meat and rice won’t necessarily meet all your dog’s dietary needs. It’s essential to consult with a vet or a pet nutritionist to ensure a balanced diet.

Raw food diets to feed dogs

Raw food diets are often good for their health benefits but can be expensive and time-consuming to prepare. Thankfully, many companies now offer pre-prepared raw food options available online or in pet stores. Thus, if you are pet owner, you can now obtain pre-prepared raw food from pet stores and online.  However, the cost remains higher than other feeding options.

Vegetarian diets for dogs

To know that dogs can thrive on a vegetarian diet if it is properly balanced. But you have to ensure that they receive ample protein and essential vitamins and nutrients. Approximately half of your dog’s diet should consist of grains, with the other half being a mix of protein and vegetables. Good protein sources include lentils, cottage cheese, cooked eggs, and baked beans. Healthy grains include potatoes, brown rice, whole-grain cereal, and bread. You should not feed your dog onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, as these can be toxic. You have to be very concerned about these nutrients when feeding adult dogs. Vegetarian canned meals are also available in many pet stores.

How Much to Feed Your Dog

Feeding Adult Dog
Image – Source: worldanimalfoundation

You have to feed your dog based on its appearance and overall health, not just their appetite. Dogs can often act hungry even when they’re not. Here are some general facts that you have to consider in determining the right amount of food:

  • Activity Level: Highly active dogs require more food, or a higher-protein diet compared to less active dogs.
  • Size: Small dogs have higher energy needs than large dogs and require nutrient-dense food.
  • Individual changes: Dogs of the same breed, size, or age can have different dietary needs. Your dog’s feeding requirements can vary by as much as 30%, so monitor your dog’s condition and adjust accordingly.

Here’s how you have to determine the portion based on its weight

  • Less than 10 pounds: 1/4 to 1/2 cup
  • 10 to 20 pounds: 1/2 to 1 cup
  • 20 to 30 pounds: 3/4 to 1.5 cups
  • 30 to 40 pounds: 1.5 to 2 cups
  • 40 to 60 pounds: 1.5 to 2.5 cups
  • 60 to 70 pounds: 2.5 to 3 cups
  • 80 to 90 pounds: 3 to 4 cups
  • 100 to 150 pounds: 4 to 5 cups
  • More than 150 pounds: 4.5 to 6 cups

If the food is high-quality, you may provide your dog’s portion according to these measurements. Yet, if the food is low-quality, these measurements change.

When to Feed Your Dog

Feeding adult dogs is not as simple as feeding puppies. You have to be consistent when feeding your dog. Aim to feed them twice a day at the same times each day, as dogs thrive on routine. If your dog hasn’t finished their food within 20 minutes, remove the bowl to encourage them to eat their meals promptly. You may feel it is inhumane to treat your dog so. Yet, you do thus not for hate, but for the well-being of your canine. Thus, remove the plate, if your doggy does not finish off his portion in 20 minutes.

You have to look after your dog, not only when he is a puppy but when he is old too, he needs your assistance. As much as you were concerned when he was a puppy, you have to think of your dog when he has gone old. It shows your love and care towards your canine despite his age. It grows confidence in him to keep supporting you, to keep protecting you until the end of his life. You may also refer to “What Should I Feed My Dog” for more details on dog feeding.

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