Article Title: Your Dog's Nutrition
Author: Miss Debra Rae
Choosing your dog's food is an important decision. It's the
difference between a healthy, happy canine and an itchy,
flatulent, miserable one. There's a huge distinction between
living on preservatives & dog food fillers and feeding your dog
the best food available for their complete dietary needs.
You want the best for your dog. You certainly want your canine
family member to look good and feel good. When you see them
smile, it's a joy beyond words. Good nutrition is a basic place
to start. Let's face it; you want your dog around as long as
possible. They're an integral part of your life. A family member
for sure.
Your dog's nutrition can also help prevent some annoyances such
as itchy, flakey skin, hair loss, anal gland problems and more.
If your dog has allergies, is overweight, underweight, a senior,
has kidney problems or is just finicky, there's a food
especially for them.
Finding the perfect dog food can be challenging and is not for
the weak of heart. It may take some time and require many
experiments, but your dog is worth it.
Be patient. Be diligent. Do some research
Once you decide to change your dog's food, do it slowly. Spread
it out over a full week. If you change too quickly it's really
tough on their sensitive digestive system & your dog will
probably have diarrhea or at the least extremely loose stools.
This can be sudden & very messy.
The following method seems to work well for dogs when changing
their regular diet.
Day 1: 90% Old Food, 10% New Food.
Day 2: 80% Old Food, 20% New Food.
Day 3: 60% Old Food, 40% New Food.
Day 4: 50% Old Food, 50% New Food.
Day 5: 40% Old Food, 60% New Food.
Day 6: 20% Old Food, 80% New Food.
Day 7: 100% New Food.
You may notice a difference in only 3 days or it may take 3
months to know if the new dog food is the one for your unique
dog. I suggest giving new food at least 4-6 months before moving
on. You'll know by your dog's coat, their eyes, breath, & yes,
poop. Are your dog's eyes shiny & clear? Is their coat soft &
supple or coarse and dry? Is their skin flakey? Does your dog
still need a tic tac? (Note: bad breath can also be a symptom of
dental or other health related issues that require treatment).
For the sensitive or allergy prone dog, it's a good idea to not
give any treats during this trial period. You want to isolate
the allergy triggers and treats can throw this off. When you do
introduce treats, do something natural like carrots.
When you do introduce the carrot treat, be aware of your dog's
behavior after getting it. Are they scratching more? Was there a
dramatic mood shift?
Some reactions are an itchy pup, behavioral changes, they
quickly fall asleep, or become super energized. Keep a log of
the treats given and if there was a reaction of any kind.
I feed my dogs "Blue Buffalo". This is one of the best holistic
dog foods available today. It costs slightly more than other
brands, but the rewards are completely worth it. My dog's coats
are shiny & soft. Their eyes are clear. They have energy and
also sleep very well at night.
In good conscious, I can only recommend the following dog
foods: "APD Select Choice, Blue Buffalo Company, Canidae for
Dogs, Fromm Family, Halo, Purely for Pets, Holistic Blend,
Natura, Newman's Own Organics, & Wellness". Any one of these
foods is a fantastic healthy choice for you & your canine family
member.
As always, consult with your Veterinarian or Veterinary
Technician if you have questions or concerns. Whatever you
decide, be sure it's the best you can give your dog.
About The Author: Miss Rae has been a poet & writer since
college at UW, class of 1996. Click on over to her site for all
your dog's needs from training programs to nutrition to choosing
a vet, dental health and books galore. Visit
http://www.goodpoop
__,_._,___
