What Type of Dog Food Does My Dog Need?

Dog ownership comes with big responsibilities such as proper vaccination and healthy feeding. Food serves more than a basic need for your dog, it can keep the pet healthy and give it a better quality of life. Which type of dog food does your dog need? The right dog food can depend on general health, activity level, dog breed and size.

The ideal food for your dog: Dry Dog Food
Dry dog food is ideal for your pet, and comes in a variety of flavors, formulas as well as kibble sizes. Dry food comes with nutrition a dog needs but is also ideal for bowl movement control. Commercial dry dog food is available at any pet store or supermarket.

Which type of dry food is best for your dog? Consider the breed type you have as well as level of activity of the dog. Hyper-active breeds such as Jack Russells and Beagles benefit from high-energy formulas such as Eukanuba Premium Performance Active Formula Dog Food and Pro Plan Performance Formula Dog Food. High energy food formulas come with more fat and protein, which serve as fuel for non-stop moving dogs. The high-energy food is also ideal for sporting dogs.

The general health of your pet can also determine ideal food formula. Dental care formulas help with tartar buildup, while sensitive formulas are hypo-allergenic and help with food-related dog allergies.

Weight control is a big concern with dogs, especially if there is a lack of physical activity. Formulas such as Science Diet Light Adult Large Breed Dog Food are ideal for pets that need to cut back on fats.

Breed size can also determine the ideal food your dog needs. Large adult breeds require more nutrition, and protein in order to maintain good health. Small or medium breeds can have similar maintenance issues but the dry dog food comes in smaller kibble sizes. Kibble sizes can often be overlooked but are extremely important when picking the right dog food for your pet. Large kibbles should not be fed to small breeds due to choking hazards. Formula such as Eukanuba Natural Lamb & Rice Puppy Formula has the right combination of protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals for puppies but also comes in soft and small enough kibbles for little mouths.

Flavor of dry dog food can be alternated which can help keep the dog from being bored. Boredom can discourage from proper feeding, which can lead to malnutrition or other health problems. Alternating dog food flavoring from beef to lamb and such can help determine the cause of food allergies. Salmon flavor is also good for the dog's coat and skin health, as fish oils help maintain a shiny coat with less shedding.

Canned Dog Food
Canned dog food is okay for feeding but it is not recommended due to bowel movement issues. Canned dog food is smoother, causing softer stools as well as irregularity. Dogs that spend a frequent amount of time home alone should not be fed canned dog food. Mixing dry dog food with a tablespoon or two of canned is acceptable and will help prevent messy accidents. Feed your dog canned food if you plant to be at home all day.

Human Food: Is it safe for your dog?
Certain types of human food are acceptable for dog feedings. Cooked starches (white rice or brown rice), fully cooked protein (hamburger, chicken, turkey, venison) and vegetables (carrots and peas) can be fed to a dog in what is referred to as a "bland diet". Bland diet is often suggested by veterinarians to dogs with allergies, vomiting, upset stomach or other health ailments. Although acceptable, it is not ideal for long-term feeding. A bland diet can be cooked at home by boiling the ingredients until fully cooked and cooling off. Mix the ingredients in a bowl and feed in small servings. Blend the human foods for a fine texture, especially if you have a picky eater.

Onions, fresh, cooked or in powdered flavor form, are vegetables that should never be fed to a dog due to toxicity.

Dog Snacks
Every dog owner wishes to reward their pet with snacks and treats. Dog snacks, much like human snacks, are okay in reasonable moderations. Dry dog snacks come in a variety of flavors and sizes, as well as adult or puppy types. Cut up fresh carrots for a healthy alternative and feed to your dog as an ideal snack.

Sources:

PetSmart Food Center

Tutorial: Feeding your puppy

Onion Toxicity