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Pet Food Shopping And Preparation: Learn What Your Dogs Need

27 12:00:55
Pet food is the source of energy and vital nutrients for our beloved pets, not just any old thing to feed them.Animals, like humans, need proper care and nutrition in order to be healthy and fit. Man's best friends, our beloved dogs, are often given foods that we eat without knowing that these are detrimental to our pets' health. Vitamins and minerals are important in a dog's diet and the development of their physical and mental health.Most importantly, these will strengthen your dog's immune system to ward off bacteria, parasites and other viruses.



Aside from vitamins and minerals, the essential parts in a dog's diet include protein, carbohydrates, fiber and fatty acids. In their regular meal, one-third of a dog's food must contain protein, which they usually get from whole meat, eggs and fish, because it helps build strong muscles and a healthier coat, nails and skin. And fat isn't always bad for your dogs because it helps boost their metabolism and it transports vitamins into their system.And, of course, they need carbohydrates to remain active and energetic, and have a healthy digestive system.



As keepers of our pets, it is important to know which foods we should be careful not to give our dogs. The quality and quantity of meals they take can lead to malnutrition, obesity and other health disorders such as cancer, kidney and bladder malfunction, skin diseases and arthritis, among many others. Long time dog owners know, as new dog owners should, that many dishes and snacks in your home should not find its way into your dog's mouth, namely: chocolate, cooked chicken bones, beans, dairy products, garlic, onions and pork. To personally monitor their pet's food intake, many owners end up preparing homemade dog food themselves.



Homemade dog food offer a lot of benefits such as ensuring your dog's good health and it saves you a lot of money.It takes time and research in educating yourself how to make a delicious homemade treat for your dogs but it pays off seeing your buddies all healthy and energetic. As long as you keep in mind not to add preservatives and added spices to their meals, you are free to mix and match their food and add variety.Cooked good grains such as brown rice and whole wheat can be included as small portions in their meal. The difference between the generic dog food and the premium dog food is that latter normally uses high quality ingredients - hence, it is also more expensive. It has no added fillers and by-products and, although more expensive than the regular kind, offers variety in shape, color and taste.



But before you start concocting your own recipes, you should see your pup's veterinarian to understand exactly what your pet needs.



In knowing your dog's dietary needs and what food they also enjoy eating, one should always consult a veterinarian. It doesn't matter whether you purchase dog foods or make them yourself, knowing more from professionals is the way to go.You will learn that every dog requires a specific diet because their needs vary depending on size, breed, age and their activity level. In addition, it is good to note that when you change your dog's diet don't shock your dog with the change. They are, after all, similar to humans who doesn't take drastic diet change with open arms.