Before the advent of ready made dog food, when humans first
domesticated dogs, we fed them scraps from our meals. Those early dogs
did just fine on that type of dog food. As our affection for dogs has
grown over the centuries, so has our understanding of what our canine
companions need to eat as food, to live long healthy lives. Research
conducted by veterinarians and dog food manufacturers over the last
decade have revealed more specific details about what a dog's diet
should contain.
Your dog food must be appropriate for her size,
age, state of health and activity level. As you stroll the isles of pet
supply stores or grocery stores, you'll find a variety of dog food
brands in a wide range of prices. A good basic rule of thumb is to buy
the highest quality dog food you can afford. If you buy the cheapest
food because you have a big dog that eats a lot, you must understand
that what you save in food will affect your pet's health.
It is
important that your dog always eats some dry dog food. The crunchy
pieces help keep her teeth clean and her gums healthy, and provide
necessary fiber. If you choose to give your dog moist dog food in
addition to dry, use it sparingly; a small spoonful mixed with warm
water makes a good gravy over dry kibble. Some devoted dog lovers feed
their pets home-cooked food. Dog-specific recipes can be found on the
Internet and in books, but understand that this is not just giving your
dog leftovers from your own meals. Homemade dog food is designed to meet
the nutritional and digestive needs of dogs. Spices, fats, and fillers
in human food often makes dogs ill.
Adult dogs should be fed two
meals each day. Puppies need to eat more often. They should be fed puppy
food three to four meals daily until they are 12 weeks old, then three
meals daily until they are six months old. Many dog trainers advise
against leaving dog food or puppy food available all day, to prevent
dogs developing picky eating habits. They suggest you allow 20 minutes
for each meal. After this time, whatever has not been eaten should be
picked up. Dry dog food can be held until the next meal, but moist food
should be thrown away. It is very important to make sure your dog has
plenty of clean water available at a all times.
The amount of dog
food you feed your dog depends on her age, weight and activity level.
Check the back of food or with your veterinarian to get an idea of how
much your dog should be eating. Monitor your dog's weight by running
your hands along the sides of her body. If she is at the right weight,
you will be able to feel her ribs without pressing. If you can't feel
her ribs, she is gaining weight and you should either slightly decrease
the amount of food or increase the amount of exercise she gets. If you
can easily see your dog's ribs, she is underweight (except in certain
breeds).
