WHAT TO FEED YOUR PET DOG?

       whenever a pet lover or the one who owns a pet approaches me, the first thing they ask  is what to feed a dog and when to feed and how to feed a dog? This is the major question i had came across in my 16 years of professional life . so ,i decided to give some suggestions for them which can help them feed the pet a healthy and balanced food. 
      Dogs are basically carnivorous animals which prefer meat and meat products, however domesticated dogs are adapted to omnivorous feeding habits, and can survive on a vegetarian diet as long as it contains sufficient protein and is supplemented with vitamin D.

    It is important that the diet you feed your dog is complete and balanced in every meal. Every dog’s unique nutritional requirement depends on its size, breed, stages in their life. 

     A better understanding of how dogs use the various nutrients in food and how much of them they need can help you choose a healthier diet for your pet.

      Dogs eat larger , less frequent meals. It is fine to feed an adult dog 1 or 2 times per day. Puppies however need 2 to 3 daily meals.

     Dogs need aminoacids from protein , fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, water to survive.

Here are some guidelines for feeding your dog.

COMMERCIAL DOG FOODS.

          In a variety of forms- dry,semi-moist, canned food. It generally contains much higher levels of animal products. It is necessary to see the pet food labels which contains the list of percentage of protein, fat, fibre, water in the food. Consult your veterinarian and get advice about the breed specific, age specific food for your pet.

 MEAT AND OTHER ANIMAL PRODUCTS.

         It should always make up atleast half of the diet. Meaty bones include chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, pork, venison, ostrich, buffalo etc. Be sure the meat is fresh. Feeding fish is occassionally good but not as a main food. Egg is also nutritious.

DAIRY PRODUCTS.

     Plain yoghurt, curd, is well tolerated by dogs. Cottage and ricotta cheese are also good options. Milk should be avoided.

VEGETABLES AND FRUITS.

      While this is not a significant part of evolutionary diet of the dog and wolf, these provide fibre that supports digestive health and can be used as treats for your pets.

       Vegetables like Pumpkin, carrot, peas, beets, sweet potato, green beans, zucchini, can be steamed, chopped and fed.

        Fruits include berries, melon, papaya, banana, apple are good option.

GRAINS.

      Good choices include oatmeal, brown rice, barley which must be well cooked. Use of rice, wheat, corn should be limited.

       Dogs lack the digestive enzymes to break down carbohydrates. so, it should be restricted to avoid the pets from diseases.