If your dog or any pet for that matter shows signs of being aggressive or just simple misbehaving then you should consider changing their diet. Many of these problems have been proven as a result of the type of diet that they are given. You will probably have seen how children become after a birthday party when they have had a few glasses of cola and some sweets, they seem to bounce off the walls. Well essentially it is the same with animals, a process of looking at different ingredients and determine which affects your dog.
A common issue that can be attributed to diet is coprophagia. Coprophagia is a compulsion to consume feces. It is a very unsanitary habit and if you see your dog exhibiting this behaviour often you must take steps to stop it. A dog may be attracted to feces because it is not fully digesting its food. Low quality foods that are high in fat and grain fillers are usually to blame. Switch your dog to a high protein diet. Training and diligent cleaning will also be necessary to fully control this.
There is research to support that anxiety and aggression in dogs is often related to their diet. Dogs will display abnormal response to discomfort or pain. This could be due to a lack of proper nutrition or from foods that are irritating their system. Some experts claim that the additives and colouring in commercial dog foods may also be contributing to the problem. Feeding your dog a premium food with quality ingredients can help promote positive changes. But a new diet is only one part of the solution. An aggressive or anxious dog will still require obedience training. It should also see a vet to rule out illness or injury.
A sudden change in temrament or condition may be due to food allergies. Symptoms can include lethargy, incontinence, hair loss, and skin infections. Most dogs with food allergies are reacting to grain. Grain free foods are now widely available in most pet stores. Sometimes the dog may be allergic to a specific type of meat. You may need to look in to more exotic options to meet your dog's needs such as salmon, duck, bison, or even kangaroo. You should consult a vet to diagnose dog allergies before you make any changes. These symptoms may also be signs of other illnesses.
Considering the consequences, choosing the right food for your dog's physical and emotional well-being can feel overwhelming. But it is as simple as knowing what your dog's needs are and taking a critical look at a brand's ingredients. Dogs need a diet that is high in protein and low in fat and carbohydrates. Look for foods that list whole meat products as one of the first few ingredients. Avoid foods that list too many grains such as rice or corn. Some owners prefer to take control of their pet's diet and prepare fresh food themselves.
Dogs are sensitive animals that will respond physically and mentally to the foods they consume. Sometimes a change in diet can make all the difference when dealing with a behaviour issue. Take the time to learn what types of dog food may be most suitable for your pet's individual needs
