Dogs, unlike cats, are not strict carnivores. While meat makes up the majority of their diet, domestic dogs can also get nutrients from grains, fruits, and vegetables. These non-meat foods aren't just fillers, but they can be a valuable source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A good food for dogs will contain meat, vegetables, cereals, and fruits.
The best dog foods contain high-quality versions of these ingredients that are appropriate for your dog's digestive system. Many of the foods people eat are safe for dogs. And some are even healthy additions to your dog's diet. Give Fido the right foods and he'll get health benefits, such as better immunity, stronger joints, and even fresher breath. As Lindsay-Jean Hard reports for Food52, there are some general guidelines that can help you determine what you should and shouldn't feed your dog. For example, be careful with foods that are high in sugar and fat.
As Hard explains, “Chances are, if you know you should eat something in moderation, your pet should, too. You should also avoid spicy foods, which can wreak havoc on a dog's digestive system. Dog foods that are sold commercially are designed to provide your dog with a healthy and balanced diet. Are you curious to know what foods you can share with your dog? Read on to see some of the best foods to give your dog. Pork meat is a highly digestible protein and is full of amino acids. In addition, pork is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in some pets, compared to other meat options.
It should also be noted that pork contains more calories per pound than other meats, meaning it should be added sparingly to your dog's diet. Another protein option that the AKC recommends feeding your dog? Eggs. Eggs are safe for a dog's diet as long as they are fully cooked. They are a great source of protein and they can even help calm down an upset stomach. Just make sure the eggs are thoroughly cooked, as eating raw egg whites can cause a biotin deficiency in your dog. Natural yogurt is a good snack for dogs because it is rich in protein and calcium.
In addition, the active bacteria in yogurt can help strengthen your dog's digestive system. Just don't feed your dog yogurts with added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Mother Nature Network reports that plain yogurt is an ideal snack for dogs, especially if your dog has digestive problems. And Modern Dog points out that plain frozen yogurt can be a great summer treat for your dog. Mother Nature Network also recommends oatmeal as a good snack for dogs. It is a great source of fiber, making it ideal for dogs with bowel irregularity problems.
It's also a safe source of cereal for dogs with wheat allergies. Mother Nature Network recommends that you cook it thoroughly before serving oats to your dog. Modern Dog points out that oats can be fed together with probiotics to help dogs maintain bowel regularity.Cashew nuts are packed with useful nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, antioxidants, and proteins. They contain less fat than other nuts such as walnuts, almonds or pecans.
But giving your dog too many can lead to weight gain and other fat-related conditions. So let your dog eat only unsalted cashews in moderation. The best food to feed is a high-quality commercial kibble designed for puppies. This ensures that all the nutrients your puppy needs for growth and development are present. Salmon, shrimp, and tuna are safe for dogs to eat and are good sources of protein. As with other human foods that can be served to dogs, chicken should be served unseasoned.
It is essential that no bones or chicken fat are served. Boiled chicken bones pose a danger of suffocation as they can break and clog or even tear the trachea or digestive tract. Properly prepared chicken can offer the following health benefits: improved digestion; increased energy levels; improved coat condition; stronger bones; better muscle tone; improved immunity; and better overall health. Also refrain from giving dogs any products that may contain these foods such as fruitcake or malt bread. Your vet can help narrow down your options and will be happy to help you find the answers to your questions about your dog's food. The amount of food your dog needs will largely depend on the size, breed and age of your dog as well as on how often you exercise. Small breed dogs on the other hand can choke on large kibble and have their own nutritional requirements that can be met with a food for small breed dogs. For every 10 pounds your dog weighs you can give him a quarter of a teaspoon of ground pumpkin seeds in his food daily.
Wet foods contain higher amounts of fresh meat poultry fish and animal by-products along with more textured proteins derived from grains. The pet food industry defines a large breed puppy as one whose adult weight is expected to exceed 70 pounds. Chicken prepared without spices or condiments is also an excellent option if you suddenly run out of dog food and no time to run to the store. Chicken can be given to your dog as an additive to their regular food or even as a temporary replacement. The best wet food for your dog just like dry dog food depends on your dog's life stage breed and any special dietary needs or allergies your dog has. Feeding a large breed puppy with food can help as their growth must be carefully monitored to avoid bone and joint problems. If your dog produces firm healthy stools is active and fit and has a healthy appetite then dog food is probably working well.
