Healthy Diet Equals Healthy Dog

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     We all want our dogs to be healthy. Thus, we provide the right kinds and amounts of exercise, foods and loving care to keep them healthy in the physical and mental aspects. Of all these basic canine needs, it is the diet that we must place as our first priority as responsible owners.

Health Benefits of a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet has its benefits, of course, which is true for both humans and dogs alike. You will observe the following:

?Your dog is able to maintain a healthy body weight. Keep in mind that obesity comes with a host of problems ranging from arthritis to cardiovascular diseases. Besides, your pet will not be able to move as easily with excess weight weighing him down. It can even lead to spinal problems in breeds like Daschunds as well as in older dogs.

?Your canine friend has lesser risks for illnesses caused by deficiencies of nutrients in the diet. For example, the absence of glucosamine in the diet hastens the development of arthritis.

?Your pet has more energy to exercise since the nutrients in his body are in sufficient numbers to provide for fuel. Exercise in itself also has its benefits like better bone growth, better cardiovascular health and better mental disposition.

So, if you are an owner of a puppy, ask the vet for recommendations on the right kinds and amounts of dog food to be provided for your pet. And while you are at it, also ask about potential dog poisons in the home.

Tips to Ensure a Healthy Diet

It is insufficient to just feed your dog the most expensive dog food in the market. You must also ensure that portion control is exercised. Keep in mind that anything in excess, even if it is a good thing, is dangerous to your dog and it goes for his food.

Plus, if you can limit portions, you are also ensuring a balance between maintaining a healthy weight and providing fuel for energy. Here then are tips toward portion control:

?Make sure to measure the food before servings. Look at the recommended amounts for each age, breed and physical condition. Ask your vet, if possible.

?Instead of 3 big meals a day, feed your dog 4 small meals. We recommend making a feeding schedule to achieve such goal.

?If you must switch to new dog food for whatever reason, you must do so gradually by mixing in the old with the new food so as to avoid digestive issues. At first, start with small amounts of the new food and then slowly mixing its ratio until such time that only the new food is being provided to your pet.

?Give treats low in fat and calories to avoid rapid weight gain and to avoid cardiovascular complications.
You should also ensure that only good quality dog food is served to your pet. Look at the labels to ensure that the dog is provided with the basic nutrients with each bowl although we must also emphasize the need for nutritional supplementation.