diet and nutrition for dogs

Consistency of diet is important in dog nutrition. Changing foods often can cause stomach upset. If your dog stops eating their regular food, bring them to your vet as there are serious medical conditions that could change their appetite.

In the last few years, there has been growing popularity of grain free diets. With the science available now, there is no benefit for feeding a healthy dog a grain-free diet. In fact, they can be harmful. There have been some reports of cardiac conditions related to exclusive grain free nutrition.

Discuss with your vet the best diet for your dog and if there are any specific ingredients they would recommend avoiding based on your dog’s health.

Quality dog foods have a scientifically balanced ratio of ingredients that deliver key nutrients like protein, vitamins and minerals, critical carbohydrates, and more. The healthy choice for your dog is a food formulated to meet their nutritional needs, that they will happily eat, and that doesn’t cause digestive upset. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Dogs of different sizes and life stages have unique needs, but the seven basic nutrients they should get are critical carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fats, protein, vitamins, minerals, and water. Talk to your vet to see what kind of diet they suggest for your special pup.