There are literally hundreds of brands and types of dog foods available in supermarkets and pet specialty stores nationwide. As the incidence of pet obesity increases, many dog owners are becoming worried about their pets’ long term health and fitness. Finding the proper food and appropriate diet for your dog are essential to a long, happy, healthy life. Improve your dog’s diet now, and you can avoid costly health problems later.

First, you must reevaluate your dog’s stage of life, and whether or not his food fits that lifestyle. A puppy needs many more calories and fat than a mature animal. Most dogs over the age of three, with a normal activity level, can be fed a diet maintenance food. Working dogs, like those that hunt or perform search and rescue, should be fed a diet higher in protein and carbohydrates since they need much more energy than an average house dog. If your dog is overweight, (I’m sure you’ve heard about it from your vet if this is the case) put the animal on a weight-loss type of dog food. Many premium dry dog food brands offer such a style, so it should be easy to find. Feed your dog twice daily, approximately eight to twelve hours apart, and pay close attention to the recommended feeding amount provided on the food bag. Also, stay away from very cheap dog food. While these foods usually meet the legal specifications for protein, fat, and carbohydrate content, they are made with lower grade proteins that will pass undigested through the dog’s system. You will have to feed larger amounts to provide ample energy, so this type of food really offers no ‘savings.’

If you treat your dog like a living garbage disposal, stop! Most veterinarians feel that a dog being fed a balanced diet, like that from a quality dog food, does not need supplements of vitamins and minerals, and certainly does not need people food leftovers. People food is often high in sugars and fats, things that our dogs need even less than we do. Table scraps can contribute to obesity and diabetes, and are completely unnecessary for your pet to have. The next time you look into those sad eyes that beg for a piece of your pizza, say no. Think about your pet’s future. If you want to improve your dog’s diet, and have him stay fit and healthy for years to come, avoid feeding table scraps.

Although many dogs are fed dry dog food, semi-moist and canned food is still available. Semi-moist foods tend to be higher in sugar and salt content, which can contribute to dental problems. Canned foods can also cause more plaque and tartar build-up than a dry food as well. If your dog is mainly eating canned or semi-moist food, consider switching to either a mixture of canned and dry, or dry only. You will still be providing your dog with every nutrient he needs, but you may actually improve the condition of his teeth, gums, and breath. 

A common sense approach works best to improve your dog’s diet. A high quality dry dog food is essential, and fresh, high protein treats are a much better snack than table scraps. Do not forget that water is the most important nutrient for your dog, so make sure that fresh, clean water is available at all times. Remember, you are in control of everything your dog has access to eat; be smart about what he gets, and you will have your loving companion by your side for a long time to come.