Article Title: A Healthy Diet For Dogs
Author: Janie Knetzer
Most dog owners rely on dry or canned food as the mainstay of
their dog's diet. However, in spite of commercial claims to the
contrary, most dogs on the traditional dog food diet are
nutritionally deprived.
A Diet Of Convenience
Due to the domestication of dogs over the years, a commercial
dog food diet such as kibble has replaced the canine natural
diet. Their food has gone from that which they could obtain as
predators and foragers to one that is highly processed and a
matter of convenience for humans. This, in turn, has not only
caused nutritional deficiencies, but many health problems for
our furry friends.
Although, most dog owners would never do anything intentionally
to harm their dog, their lack of nutritional awareness is
causing many chronic health and skin problems for the family
dog. By understanding the importance of a quality diet, dog
owners can save themselves hundreds even thousands of dollars in
vet bills.
Digestive difficulties and other health problems such as skin
irritations are often related to nutritional deficiencies and a
poor diet. By simply changing to a "premium all natural dog
food" skin and digestive problems as well as chronic gas can
often be eliminated.
All living things, whether plant or animal, have enzymes
naturally within their cells. This is also true of dogs.
However, when a dog is not receiving adequate nutrition, he
becomes prone to many health problems, including skin
conditions, excess gas and a lack of energy.
Again, because dogs have become domesticated throughout the
years, their food has gone from one of a completely natural
state (i.e., animal prey and naturally growing plants, such as
grasses) to one that is highly processed, as in today's modern
dog food diets. They have lost a lot of nutritional value in
their diets, including enzymes that would normally and naturally
occur.
Because digestive enzymes are naturally found in the body,
introducing them back into a dog's diet can aid and balance his
digestive system. Enzymes themselves set off chemical reactions
that will help digest food. There are two different types of
enzymes. One is a protein called apoenzyme. The other is a
nonprotein, which can either be a coenzyme or cofactor.
Enzymes added to the diet are necessary to replace a raw diet
for dogs and balance the canine digestive system. Usually
introduced in a powder or tablet, enzyme supplements help the
dog to absorb his food. Dogs that receive what they need
nutritionally will feel better and have more energy and a
healthier coat.
Dogs that are fed the B.A.R.F. (raw) diet seem to be amongst
the healthiest. Keep in mind that even top-quality premium
kibble dog foods often need the help of an added enzyme.
Commercial foods are far removed from what a dog would naturally
eat in the wild. However, if this is your diet of choice for
your dog, you must add back the necessary digestive enzymes he
needs to replace what he is not getting. It generally takes six
hours for a dog to digest a raw diet and fourteen hours for him
to digest kibble.
Wolves eat a raw diet by killing their prey and consuming the
major organs first. The organs themselves contain vitamins and
nutrients that the canine needs. Among these vitamins and
nutrients are the digestive enzymes they need to help digest
their food.
Unfortunately, domestic dogs cannot always get the necessary
vitamins, minerals and nutrients from a dry kibble diet.
Therefore, they must be replaced, unless the owner makes a
special effort to give the dog a raw diet.
Enzymes are important for all dogs, but especially for older
dogs and those with a weakened immune system. Also, dog owners
with large deep chested dogs that are susceptible to the deadly
"Bloat" should seriously consider adding enzymes to their dog's
diet to replace the raw food diet. Puppies should also receive
digestive enzymes as early as possible to promote good health
and nutrition throughout his life.
About The Author: Comparing Dog Foods:
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