Dog food is a staple in a dog’s diet. Rich in proteins and nutrients, it helps keep him healthy and gives him energy for the whole day. However, it must be adapted to his needs and any specific problems he may have. In this complete article, discover how to choose the right food for your dog.
Why feed your dog food?
To be healthy, your dog needs a balanced diet. However, dogs sometimes have trouble regulating their diet, so it’s up to the owner to step in and make sure they get all the nutrients they need. Dog food has several advantages.
Indeed, it is a wet food, unlike kibble which is considered dry. This high water content protects the urinary tract, kidneys and liver, and prevents the development of various health problems such as kidney stones.
On the other hand, some dogs have difficulty drinking regularly, and the high water content of this food helps them stay hydrated.
In addition, this food has a high protein content, as it is composed mostly of meat. The dog is a carnivorous animal, so this characteristic is particularly adapted to its digestive system and is very close to what it could eat in the wild.
Finally, this food is low in carbohydrates, which is beneficial for animals that need to lose weight or suffer from certain diseases, such as diabetes.
What criteria should I use to choose my pet food?
Composition
First, it must have a high proportion of meat to cover the dog’s protein needs. Generally, it is at least 60% and can go up to 100%. In addition, the carbohydrate content must be reduced. There are ranges of grain-free pâté, particularly suitable for dogs with weight problems. Finally, there should be very few colorants and preservatives. To be sure to offer your pet excellent quality food, you can opt for organic food.
Your dog’s age
As your dog’s nutritional needs change over the course of his life, so must his diet. Puppy food provides important nutrients for growth and muscle development. Because young dogs need a lot of energy, it is rich in vitamins and minerals. The transition from puppy food to adult food is an important step. Once a dog reaches its full size, its metabolism slows down and it needs a balanced diet to stay healthy. Finally, senior food is suitable for preventing problems in older dogs, such as poor teeth or less efficient digestion.
Your pet’s specific problems
If your dog suffers from specific problems such as being overweight or suffering from any kind of illness, it may be useful to give him veterinary food, after consulting a professional. These foods contain various supplements that will help maintain your dog’s good health.
How to feed your dog?
The food should be introduced into the dog’s diet as a supplement to the kibble. The amount of food should be adapted to the size, age and physical activity of your dog. Pâté is often appetizing to the dog, especially because of its texture and smell. It is a way to please your dog, but be careful because there are also some negative points. On the one hand, it can promote tartar build-up. It is therefore important to regularly check the good oral health of your companion. On the other hand, wet food doesn’t last as long as dry food. It is therefore important to change it regularly if your dog has not finished his ration.
Wet food is therefore an excellent food to incorporate into your dog’s menu. It should be chosen according to his age and possible problems, and should have a good composition with a large proportion of meat.
