Like humans, dogs have a huge need for the right nutrition. However, it’s not simply a case of heading to the nearest Walmart and picking up whichever brand is currently on sale. Your pup deserves far better than that.
Nutrition arguably plays an even greater role in a dog’s life than yours, which is why you must cover all the bases. Here are the key elements that you need to consider.
Variety
You wouldn’t eat the same meal every single day, even if it was your absolute favorite. Guess what? Your dog requires a variety of different foods too. Not only will this ensure that they receive all the necessary nutrients, but it’ll keep them emotionally satisfied.
It’s still worth using a little trial and error to find your pup’s favorite brand of dog food. Nonetheless, a few doggy treats are sure to work wonders for their physical and emotional health. Likewise, you can treat some breeds to a little meat, bones, and other special meals. Just be sure to check that those dietary additions won’t cause any damage.
Your dog will eat any food you put out, so it’s very easy to fall into the trap of sticking with that go-to meal. Unfortunately, the impacts will gradually start to creep in. If you truly love your four-legged pal, you will not let this happen.
Stimulation
As already, food plays an important part in your pet’s life for many reasons. Apart from the nutritional aspects, you must remember that dogs naturally hunt and explore for their food. Therefore, that sense of working for their treats is crucial for their brain development.
So, how do you make your dog work for his or her food? Using simple games helps that reward them with a treat is the ultimate solution. There are many varieties that can be used, and mixing those up is highly recommended. Aside from providing the emotional excitement of getting closer to their food, this can work wonders for their memory.
Once again, embracing a variety of foods provides that stimulation due to the different tastes and textures. While this doesn’t necessarily change your outlook on certain brands or recipes that you may utilize, the impact on your dog’s happiness is huge.
Practicality
Eating should be an enjoyable experience for your pup. Those stimulating games and great tastes are a great combination to get things started. Just as crucial, however, is the practical aspect. Your dog uses its mouth for virtually everything. As such, discomfort in eating due to unsuitable textures will cause negativity.
Firstly, you need to consider the dog’s breed and the impacts that this can bring. More importantly, you must consider any oral health issues. If your dog is missing its teeth, for example, making choices based on those circumstances is essential. Likewise, issues like wearing a cone should be taken into account. Otherwise, your canine friend will be left feeling very frustrated, and it will show.
Those adaptations may be short-term changes or permanent moves. Either way, giving them the attention that they demand is the only way to ensure that eating remains enjoyable for your dog. Get it wrong, and they may start undereating.
Health
It’s great to satisfy the other needs of your pooch. Still, you must not forget that health aspects are the priority. Without the right nutrition, everything from joints and muscles to teeth and fur can be affected. Quite simply, if you aren’t going to take this matter seriously, you don’t deserve a dog period.
Many dog owners make mistakes in this area without realizing it. It’s not just about getting key nutrients, like Omega-3 and Omega-6, into your furry friend’s body. You also need to know that they are coming from the right sources. Choosing salmon oil for dogs is a great choice, especially when they come from sustainable methods. Meanwhile, a little research into where tinned foods are produced can help too.
Your dog may require supplements. This is especially true when there are known health conditions or dietary deficiencies. If you’re still worried, the vet should be able to give you more specific pointers about the best solutions for your best friend.
The Final Word
Nutrition isn’t the only important factor in your dog’s life but sets the foundations for a healthy and happy life. You already pay huge attention to what your human family eats. Given that the dog is a loving part of your family, it’s only fair that you get this right too.