Dogs Diet and Nutrition
Written by Russell SavigeTraining Dog Breeds
Meat:
Dogs are not strict meat eaters. Because they are decended from
omnivores, they are well adapted to a wide range of food types. Their
first preference is for animal based protein - meat - but dogs have proven
to do well on a vegetarian diet. That being said, the vegetarian dog does
certainly require a source of protein.
A fully grown dog requires a balanced diet of carbohydrates and
proteins. More mature adult dogs may need significantly more protein than
younger adult dogs.
Fiber
Fiber in the diet is good for a dogs insides just as it is good for ours.
However too much fibre can cause loose stools. A dog needs about 4
percent fibre in the diet. Cheaper dry dog foods contain high amounts of
fibre, causing loose stools until the dogs system adjusts. An side benefit
may be weight loss. Rice and potato based dry foods have less fibre
than dry foods based on corn, bran and barley, and are recommended
for dogs that can't digest dry foods properly.
My Dog Is Overweight
Obviously you should feed your dog less. The quickest way to get weight
off a dog is to reduce the calorie intake and up the exercise. While you
can find prepared dry foods that are low in carbohydrates - low-calorie -
the best method is to feed a diet high in protein - raw meat - and low in
carbohydrate - bread or kibble. Feed your dog only once a day, in the late
afternoon, with a biscuit or bone in the morning.
Water
Fresh water should alway's be available to your dog. Dogs require a lot
of water, especially in warm to hot weather, and when exercising.
© Copyright 2004 Russell Savige and
Training Dog Breeds
All Rights Reserved.
Written by Russell Savige
Training Dog Breeds