Sunday, October 28, 2007

Are You Feeding Your Dog Quality Food?

Article Title: Are You Feeding Your Dog Quality Food?
Author: Joann Henry

Vitamins and minerals are essential to a healthy diet, not only
for humans, but for our dogs too. Are you feeding your dog
quality food? How does a pet owner decide which food on the
market is best for their beloved dog? In addition to vitamins
and minerals, dogs require the proper intake of fats, proteins,
carbohydrates and water in their daily diets. Just as human
beings benefit from eating healthy foods, dogs will be healthier
and more active if they are eating a quality dog food containing
everything they need.

Luckily, there are several top-notch commercial dog foods on
the market today from which to choose. Look for a quality food
that is nutritionally complete; meaning that it will provide a
balanced diet for your dog. If you are unsure of which dog food
is high quality, your veterinarian is sure to have a few
recommendations. The least expensive dog food, while still being
healthy, is dry food or kibble, which is nutritionally balanced
and it will help to keep your dogs' gums and teeth in good
shape. Many pet owners supplement their dog's dry food with a
canned, wet food, but if the dry kibble is of good quality, it
should be sufficient.

There isn't any proof as of yet that organic dog food is any
better than the high quality commercial brands, but if cost
isn't a concern and you feel better about it, that is another
avenue.

As you look for a dog food for your pet, make sure to read the
labels on the bags and understand what it is your pet requires
in his diet. Some dog foods use preservatives that are
unhealthy, so be on the watch for those as you read the list of
ingredients.

Your dog's age may determine which food you choose too. Puppies
obviously have a different set of needs than middle-aged or
mature dogs. Puppies are growing, so they require a higher level
of calcium, phosphorus, and Vitamin D with protein that is
easily digested. As an adult dog, a few vegetables now and then
(no more than 10% of their diet), would be beneficial since they
contain fiber and vitamins and dogs typically love them. A
senior dog will have more of a restricted diet, but still needs
protein that absorbs easily, a good level of carbohydrate for
energy and possibly a small amount of glucosamine to help with
joint function. Get a quality dog food that meets them where
they are nutritionally and they'll be healthier for it
.
The healthier your dog is, the less money you'll give your
veterinarian each year. If your pet gets the vitamins, minerals
and other content he needs from a good dog food, the only time
you'll need to see the veterinarian is for yearly check ups and
necessary shots.

Overall, do your research and get recommendations from other
pet owners and your veterinarian, and choosing a high quality
dog food won't seem like such a difficult task. By giving your
dog the food that is best for him, you are helping him to live
longer and be healthier all the way around.

About The Author: Joann Henry operates "Doggie Health Care"
http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com, a blog all about our pooches
health. Sign up to receive her newsletter, & not only will you
get some free tips to keep your dog healthier, but FOR A LIMITED
TIME, she'll give you a FREE ebook.
http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com

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