Are all dog foods the same? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Avoiding allergies, disease, obesity, and energy levels begins with understanding the proper way to feed your dog.
I probably say to my clients the most often, just like every human is different, every dog is different in their nutritional needs. Yet, when it comes to putting fuel in the tank we want to aim for good quality. I can’t stress this enough; ALL DOGS ARE DIFFERENT! Professionals and dog experts say that dogs should consume two meals daily; and depending on the size and breed of your dog will determine the amount of feed. I want to break this down as factually and easy to understand. In my ten years of working daily with dogs, they will tell you how much they need. I strongly believe in free feeding your dogs. Humans eat when we are hungry; dogs will to. However, there are some dogs that will eat a whole bag of dog food if you let them. Talk about an expensive meal! To figure out how much quality food you should be feeding your dogs can be a struggle. Here is a chart that might relieve the headache.
- The toy and small breeds can consume anywhere between ¼ cup – 1 ½ cups of kibble per meal.
- The medium breeds can consume around 1 cup – 2 cups per meal.
- The large and x-large breeds can consume around 2 cups – 3 cups per meal.
- Puppies – depending on their age, breed, and weight gain; offer them good quality puppy food at least 4 times a day gradually decreasing down to 3 times a day; then to 2.
- Your senior dogs, depending on the breed should consume a little less than what you normally would give them.
Raw diet is the most natural and good-quality way to feed your dog. Raw diets for canines includes a large range of fruits, vegetables, meats, grains, even flowers! Have you seen your dog chewing on plants or grass? First assumption is the old wives tale of “Aw, Fido has a belly ache.” Well, be that as it may, Fido is eating your backyard grass because he could be lacking nutrients that he is craving. Adding a Let’s talk about something very important that isn’t spoken about as often as I feel it should. B-L-O-A-T. If you are familiar with or have worked with horses before, you may have stumbled upon this condition that is fatal not only to horses, but cattle, sheep and yes, dogs too!
What is Bloat? Gastric dilatation-volvulus or GDV occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, or fluid then consequently twists. This condition does not have much warning or obvious symptoms and can develop rapidly. If untreated, your dog can die from bloat. If you notice Fido having a difficult time relaxing or pacing don’t immediately assume it’s bloat. Feel your dog’s belly, if it is ballooning outward and is uncomfortable to touch; look for more symptoms. Is your dog appearing to be in distress, panting, drooling, or curling over to look at their belly? Have you noticed your dog trying to go to the bathroom but can’t poop or is pooping significantly less than usual? Difficulty in walking or standing? It’s a good idea to give your vet a call.
There are just a couple SIMPLE things you could do in the daily dog-care routine that can help prevent bloat. Figuring out how much to correctly feed your dog so his/her tummy is not super full is typically a good place to start. Also, looking at the ingredients, a bag of kibbles that is high in fat or contains citric acid; if you can avoid it, DO NOT BUY IT! Remember that good quality I mentioned? All mammals should get a good amount of hydration with each meal. Soaking your pups kibble in warm water for 15 mins before each meal has many benefits. Not only does the kibble taste and smell better for your dog, but it also aids with digestion! If you have a dog that is gulping their food down in less than 10 seconds, giving them soaked kibble allows them to slow down and enjoy their meal. Dogs that consume their food quickly are more prone to suffering from bloat. Using a“Emily, that’s a lot of information to remember…”
Friend, I promise you, these simple steps into feeding your dog right are worth it! Your canine companion is worth the time and effort, and they will thank you. You will see a quality and thriving difference in furry friend.
