Healthy Nutrition for Your Dog

Dogs are closely related to wolves and other wild canine species. It is thought that in the past, some individuals and packs would have stayed near human settlements because of the available food. In return, the wild animals would have helped to offer some security to the humans. This created a relationship between the two, and it became a very special relationship indeed.

In time, the wild animals would become increasingly used to being around people. Some would even become domesticated. We started to breed selected individuals with others to help encourage or discourage certain characteristics among their offspring. This selective breeding has led to the wide range of different dog breeds we see today. Due to this selective breeding, modern dogs have lost many of their original characteristics. Some have remained, though, and one characteristic that has remained with modern dogs is their carnivorous nature. In the wild, our dogs’ ancestors would hunt and scavenge other animals. Your pet still has the same internal digestive system and nutritional requirements of their ancestors.
 

Choosing the Right Dog Food

While most dogs in general seem to love scraps, it is important to give them a balanced diet. Giving them scraps occasionally is OK, within reason, but it is unlikely to provide them with the nutrition they really need. Companies that make dog foods spend a great deal of time and money on making sure the ingredients provide maximum nutrition. They have also created foods for specific types of dogs as their nutritional requirements can differ slightly. Some individuals might experience certain complications such as sensitive stomachs. Others might have difficulty maintaining a healthy skin and coat. Manufacturers have also made some dog foods with conditions such as these in mind.

Most dogs are happy eating pretty much anything, but some can be fussy. It can take some time and patience finding the right food for your dog, and they might insist on a more expensive brand, but it is worth your while to find the right one. Don’t forget also that you can mix dry food with wet food and this will help to provide a wider variety of nutrients. Some of the foods we highly recommened that do not contain grains is BARF, Ivory Coat, Black Hawk Grain Free and Vet's All Natural.
 

Dietary Supplements for Dogs

While dog foods do generally provide all the nutrients that your dog can need, it can be advisable to provide dietary supplements for optimal health. Certain vitamins and minerals may be missing from standard foods but these can be provided in other ways. Some supplements can be added to your dog’s food to give them the complete nutrition that they need. Some supplements can be provided by way of tasty treats that your pet will just love to eat and play with. Chews and sticks tend to be laden with nutrients that will help your pet to maintain a strong immune system and all round good health.

If your pet is suffering with complications, or you just don’t feel they’re as healthy as they could be, there is a good chance that their diet is to blame. Conditions such as irritated bowels, an unhealthy coat and lethargy could be symptomatic of an imbalanced diet. Remember, though, that if things look serious, a trip to the vet should be your priority. Your vet is also likely to be able to give dietary advice that will help make sure your four-legged friend is as happy and healthy as they can be.