As a doting pet parent, you want the very best when it comes to feeding your dog but with the onslaught of choices at supermarket shelves and e-marketplaces, do you really know what ingredients are making their way to your dog’s bowl?
In the times of GMO food, we can’t stress enough about the importance of a diet with minimal artificial ingredients – additives, preservatives, and fillers. This is as true for humans as for dogs.
How to read dog food labels?
Avoid dog food that includes: significant preservatives – sugar and high salt (like propylene glycol, BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin) and dyes (added to give colour). A portion of healthy dog food will include meat for protein, vitamin-packed vegetables and fruit, and omega fatty acids for a shiny coat. It would have fewer fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy.
Dog nutrition as per the life stage of the dog
For pet food to be “complete and balanced,” it must meet nutritional guidelines as per the dog’s life stages.
Puppies and kittens need higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and calories to help their bodies grow.
Puppies require about 25-per cent protein in their meals, along with vitamins, minerals, and essential Omega 3 & 6 oils. These ingredients will help your puppy develop a strong brain, good joints, and a healthy coat. (You may consult your vet for breed-specific requirements).
Puppy meals must provide for:
- Well-balanced nutritional analysis that is fit for a puppy
- Small, easy to chew kibble
- High-calorie count
Adult dog food
Similarly, adult dogs tend to have a sedentary lifestyle as they age, the nutritional supplement they need must aid their bone health, bodyweight, large breed (or short breed) etc. About 18 per cent of protein content suffices for their needs.
For senior dogs with joint issues or arthritis, try opting for food ingredients that will help supplement good joint mobility without causing them further pain.
Foods with the below ingredients can help reduce inflammation in your dog’s joints.
- Zucchini
- Lettuce
- Apples
Pregnant and nursing pets also need additional vitamins and calories than other pets.
Food recommendations for dogs with urinary issues
Some dogs may be prone to getting urinary tract infections, or bladder stones if you aren’t careful. A dog’s diet can help foster good urinary tract health:
- Opt for slightly acidic food. (cranberries can help).
- Diet with a low protein, phosphorus, and magnesium content helps prevent large bladder stones from forming.
- Light salt content to help encourage your dog to drink more, which is great to help urinary health.
Dry dog food
Dry dog food, also known as kibble, is a convenient and shelf-stable option for feeding your furry friend. These crunchy nuggets are packed with essential nutrients like protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, formulated to support your dog’s overall health and well-being. Dry dog food comes in a variety of formulas to cater to different life stages (puppy, adult, senior), breeds (giant, small), and activity levels (active, less active). By understanding your dog’s unique needs, you can choose a dry dog food that fuels their playful spirit and keeps them happy and healthy.
Not all dry dog food is created equal. Go beyond online listings to decipher ingredient quality:
- Protein Source: The building block of muscles! Look for high-quality protein sources.
- Carbohydrates: Energy for adventures! Complex carbohydrates like whole grains are preferable to simple carbohydrates.
- Fats: Healthy skin, coat, and energy! Look for sources like chicken fat, salmon oil, or flaxseed oil.
- Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
Homemade dog food
The distinct advantage of preparing your dog’s meal yourself is that you know exactly the source as well as the quality of the ingredients. If you are opting for homecooked meals for your pet instead of commercial options, please ensure that it contains protein, fibre, and carbohydrates.
Wet dog food
Looking to add some moisture and variety to your pup’s diet? Wet dog food might be the perfect pawsome pick! Packed with succulent meat in yummy gravies, stews, or patés, wet food boasts a delectable flavor that can tempt even the pickiest eaters. But beyond the drool-worthy appeal, wet food offers a hydration boost, which is essential for senior dogs or those with urinary tract issues. It’s also generally lower in calories than kibble, making it a great choice for weight management. So, if you’re looking to tantalize your canine companion’s taste buds and support their overall health, consider incorporating wet food into their daily meals!
Best Dog Food For Overweight Dogs
We’ve all had a little extra weight on ourselves at one time or another, and dogs are no different. Like humans, some dogs are just prone to being overweight. From thyroid problems to overeating, there are many reasons that dogs gain too much weight.
Dog food for overweight dogs
Adjusting your dog’s diet and ensuring exercise regimen can go a long way in ensuring the prime fitness of your furry friend. If the weight gain is sudden and there’s uneven growth/lump in the body, please take your vet’s opinion.
While fixing your dog’s diet to help him lose weight, look out for foods which are:
- Rich in protein
- have less fat content and calories
Herbs good for dogs
- Jambira (Citrus Limon) is a natural deodorizer that has a refreshing citrus fragrance and is great for your dog.
- Aloe Vera is as good for your dog as for you. It can be applied in case of minor burns, skin irritation, etc.
- Ushira (Vetiveria zizanioides) is a root that has insect repelling properties.
- Tulasi (Ocium basilicum) is a herbal antiseptic and antibacterial which soothes and cools your pet’s coat.
- Calendula flowers have anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties and can be used to treat wounds.
- Ginger is effective to treat your dog’s upset tummy.
- Neem (Nimba) relieves itching, redness, and irritation. It combats bacterial and fungal skin infections, thus improving immunity against skin infections.
- Eucalyptus (Tailaparni) has antiseptic and germicidal properties, which keep insects at bay and promote overall skin health. The essential oil of Eucalyptus also heals superficial cuts and wounds quickly.
Dog food – what makes it good or bad for your dog?
If you are looking for commercially available dog food, we recommend Himalaya Healthy Pet food.
Healthy PET food – Puppy offers a unique blend of nutrition – Black Pepper – Oats – Papaya for puppies to help boost their growth and immunity.
Healthy PET food – Adult is a complete and balanced Food for dogs and contains the goodness of Popala – Tree of Heaven and Guduchi. It has over 20 nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which provides a perfect balance of nutrition and is fortified with herbs for additional health benefits for adult dogs.
Choosing the right pet food can be confusing. Here are some key things to consider:
About the Brand:
- Look for a board-certified veterinary nutritionist on staff. This ensures expertise in pet nutrition.
- Find out who develops the food formulas. Experienced pet food formulators with animal nutrition backgrounds are ideal.
- Learn about the quality control process. Look for companies that follow AAFCO or FEDIAF guidelines and conduct regular testing of ingredients and finished products.
- Research the company’s commitment to scientific studies. Brands that invest in research show dedication to pet health.
Understanding the Label:
- Check for a “Nutritional Adequacy Statement.” Ensure the food meets all your pet’s nutritional needs for their life stage.
- Consider the calorie content. This helps prevent overfeeding, especially if your pet is prone to weight gain.
- Look for contact information. Reliable companies offer easy ways to reach them for questions about ingredients or nutrient levels.
- Identify the manufacturer. Opt for companies that manufacture their own food or can clearly identify the manufacturer.
Remember: When in doubt, consult your veterinarian for guidance on selecting the optimal diet for your furry friend.