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Pet Food 101: Every Dog Owner's Guide in Feeding Your Pooch

by Melinda Smith

Pet food is the source of energy and vital nutrients for our beloved pets, not just any old thing to feed them.Being a dog owner, it is our responsibility to care for them properly and feed them nutritious and delicious food.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.

Dogs also need carbohydrates, protein, fiber and fat in their diet. 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. Fat transports vitamins in our pet's system, boost metabolism and is a known source of energy. Carbohydrates are essential for a dog's energy, digestion and body cells as carbohydrates supply it with glucose.

As keepers of our pets, it is important to know which foods we should be careful not to give our dogs. Like humans, dogs can fall victim to malnutrition, obesity and health disorders such as cancer, arthritis, bowel disease, bladder and kidney stones, diabetes and skin problems, to name a few. 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. And since many owners doubt the sincerity of commercial dog foods, they resort to feeding their dog homemade dog food they prepared themselves.

Homemade dog food has many benefits, the most important of which is that it ensures that your dog will get the proper nutrition he needs. While it takes time and effort to learn what to feed them, making your dog's food is economical and results-oriented as you will see good changes in their health. The generally idea is to avoid using preservatives and added spices, and incorporating in his diet the good, high protein foods mentioned above. Feel free to also include cooked good grain in their bowls, like brown rice and whole wheat, to complete their protein meat and vegetable meal. There are many kinds of dog food in the market, and one is the premium dog food that promises dog food using only the best ingredients.These kinds are known to use ingredients without fillers or by-products and, known for its sophistication, these kinds of dog food often come in different shapes and color.

These premium food comes in various shapes, colors and flavors which might appeal to pet owners but it is still important to discuss to a veterinarian your dog's nutrition needs.

In knowing your dog's dietary needs and what food they also enjoy eating, one should always consult a veterinarian. This, backed by your own research, will guide you when buying ingredients and food for you dog, as well as when making meals for them. They can tell you what your pet dog needs based on its size, breed, age and level of activity.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.

Pet food and snacks should not only tame your pup's hunger, it must also meet their body's nutritional needs. Many owners rely on premium dog food to deliver these to their dog, while some make homemade dog food as a way to ensure and monitor their dog's health. Giving your dogs foods that provide sufficient vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein and fat will keep them strong, healthy and happy.

Published May 25th, 2010

Filed in Family


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