Dog nutrition - What you need to know
What are the nutritional requirements for a dog?
Whether you opt for dry dog food, canned dog food, or raw food diets, meeting your dog’s nutritional requirements shouldn’t be left to chance. Although different from our own, a dog’s nutritional needs still require the basic building blocks; Protein, carbohydrates, fats like Omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamins, Minerals, and water.Human Food for Dogs
But what if you want to supplement your dog’s diet by feeding your dog the odd treat? Well, there’s nothing wrong with that. But how do pet owners make sure that they are giving their dog foods that are safe? Many foods that we can safely eat are toxic or dangerous to dogs. Even foods that are common in dog food can be dangerous in other forms like cooked bones. But while there are lots of things not to feed your dog, the good news is that you can share plenty of other common foods with your dog based on their needs.What is the healthiest human food for dogs?
Going out for a long hike with your dog and need an energy boost? Bananas are an excellent source of energy for you both and make a great low-calorie snack packed with vitamins and minerals. Perhaps you’re looking to help your dog with weight loss? Green beans are low in fat but full of fiber, keeping your dog from getting hungry. Maybe you want to support your dog’s immune system by providing essential nutrients or provide a cool treat on a hot day. There are many ways to add interest to dog food without interfering with a complete and balanced diet.Dog food and treats
Dog nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated. Make sure you start with the basics. There are so many high-quality pet foods on the market it’s not difficult to find one that provides a complete and balanced diet, including all the essential amino acids. Good quality dog food should meet all your dog’s nutritional requirements and guide you on how much to feed your dog based on age, activity level, and ideal body weight. There is plenty of homemade dog treat recipes available to tempt your dog. While not essential to feed your dog extras, treats can play an important role in motivating your dog in training and boosting essential nutrients provided by their usual dog food.
Can dogs eat broccoli – the hidden danger
Can dogs eat broccoli? Yes, broccoli is safe to give your dog in moderation. As a much under-valued member of the cruciferous family, broccoli is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw, stir-fried, roasted, boiled, and even hidden in a smoothie. So, while you may not naturally think of broccoli as a treat for
Can dogs eat beans – essential safety tips
Can dogs eat beans? While beans may not be the first thing you think about when deciding what to feed your dog, they have some nutritional advantages. Not only are beans packed full of protein, but they also contain reasonable levels of B vitamins, fiber, iron, folate, potassium, magnesium, and phytonutrients. As beans are low
Can dogs have carrots – the surprising benefits
Can dogs have carrots? The simple answer is yes! There’s a lot to like about the humble carrot. Not only are they nutritious, but in moderation, carrots provide a healthy, low-calorie treat for your dog. What’s more, a carrot offers an alternative to the usual dental chews. Given raw and whole, carrots are great for
Can dogs eat raw green beans
If you’re looking for a low calorie, healthy treat for your dog; then green beans might be a perfect choice. Nutritious and full of fibre, green beans are readily available fresh, frozen and canned and are safe for a dog to eat as long as they are plain. What’s more, green beans can play an
Can I give my dog Valerian? Herbal help for anxious dogs
Being the owner of an anxious dog presents very unique challenges. It can be distressing, can’t it? Watching your dog pace up and down, trying to hide under the bed, or even howling as you leave for work. Whether it’s fireworks, the vet, separation anxiety or thunderstorms, trying to comfort a distressed dog is tough. So
Are almonds bad for dogs? Fact or fiction?
Sharing food with our dogs is a great pleasure for many of us. But it can be challenging to know what we can and can’t split with our dogs. Almonds belong to this camp. There is a lot of debate as to whether almonds are toxic to dogs or not. So we’ve uncovered the facts
Can I give my dog Melatonin; Embracing the dark side
If you own an anxious dog, you may already know about melatonin and its benefits. Although still very much in an experimental stage the growing interest in its health and behavioural benefits is gaining momentum. So, what is it, how does it work and can I give my dog melatonin? What is melatonin? Melatonin is
Safe herbs for dogs, herby healthcare for happy hounds
Whether you’re a green-fingered gardener or a dried herb devotee, you’ve probably got a pot or two lurking in your pantry. Herbs not only enhance the flavour of food, but they also have nutritional and medicinal properties. But can we use these aromatic herbs to boost the health of our dogs? The answer is yes
Can dogs eat kale – the King of cruciferous veg
Love it or hate it, kale has become the poster vegetable for super-foods. Full of vitamins and antioxidants, it’s hard to beat kale regarding nutritional benefits. Not only does kale have a proven record in cutting cancer risk but it also helps prevent heart disease. As a member of the cruciferous family that includes broccoli
Are acorns toxic to dogs?
Are acorns toxic to dogs? Autumn has to be one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. But did you know that it can present unexpected dangers to your dog? As the leaves change color and begin to fall, they are joined by nuts and seeds looking to find a fertile place to take