Keys to Dog Nutrition
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The food you choose to feed your puppy during the first year is critical to his adult development, health and growth. It is said that we are what we eat and if this is true for humans, then it is true for dogs as well. Therefore it is important for every dog owner to know what food is good for the dog and how much to give it.
Protein is the most important ingredient in the diet of a dog. Amino acid in protein is important in the structural make up of the immune system of the dog. They can also be burned as calories and the excess stored as fat. Fat and minerals like calcium and phosphorous help build strong bones and muscles. They also provide an abundance of energy for growth and play. We can prevent certain diseases through dieting of the dog; this helps them to live longer and have healthier lives.
Carbohydrate is another source of energy however if not fed correctly can course a lot of problems for the dog.
The addition of fiber in dog foods has many benefits. Additional fiber sources helps in the management of obesity. In this case, additional fiber in the food increases its bulkiness and makes the dog feel full without adding calories. Diarrhoea and constipation are controlled by the fiber absorbing extra moisture in the case of diarrhoea and releasing moisture in the case of constipation. A diet high in fiber helps control the sugar levels in the blood stream of the dog thereby helping to deal with diabetes mellitus in dogs.
Foods to avoid.
Chocolate: This is dangerous for dogs. These end up poisoning the dogs because once the dog eats one, it begins to crave for more and it may end up eating to such an extent that it poisons the dog.
Sweet biscuits: These are high in fat but low in nutritional value.
Raw cooked bones: These can splinter and may stick in the throat or intestine. They could also damage teeth and may cause constipation.
Grapes: These can be dangerous for dogs.
Finally, learn how to read the labels of dog foods so that you can determine which one is good for your dog. Know that there are different breeds of dogs and each one of them have different nutritional need. No single dog food may meet all the nutritional needs of your dog so simply choose the best among what is available.
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