New Year, New Diet: Dog Edition
By Taya Hosking - 11/01/23
What to incorporate into your pet's food in 2023 to keep them healthy & happy
As the 2023 season starts, many pet owners may find themselves hopping onto the diet bandwagon.
Just as it is important to keep our own weight and health in check,
it's also important to ensure that our beloved pets are kept healthy too.
Pets are a member of the family and just like their human counterparts, they require a balanced and nutritious diet to stay healthy and happy.
Choosing the right diet for your pet can be a daunting task, as there are a wide variety of options available, each with their own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.
Age & Breed
One of the first things to consider when selecting a diet for your pet is their breed. Dogs and cats have different nutritional requirements, and there are also different diets available for different life stages, such as puppy/kitten, adult, and senior.
Feeding your pet a diet that is specifically formulated for their species and life stage will ensure that they receive all of the essential nutrients they need to thrive and that meet their requirements.
Wet Food vs Dry Food
Another important factor to consider when selecting a diet for your pet is the type of food. There are three main types of pet food: dry, wet, and semi-moist.
Dry food is the most convenient and cost-effective option, as it can be stored for long periods of time without refrigeration.
We recommend soaking your pet's kibble in combination with our supplements, to provide a tasty and nutritious dinner!
Wet food is a good option for pets who prefer a softer diet or have dental issues, but it is more expensive and needs to be refrigerated after opening.
Ingredients
When reading pet food labels, it's important to look at the ingredients. The ingredients of pet food are listed by weight, so the first few ingredients are the ones that make up the majority of the food. It is important to look for foods that list a source of animal protein, such as chicken, fish, or beef, as the first ingredient.
Grains like wheat, corn, and rice can also be included but it should not be the major ingredients.
Also, look for foods that contain vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients like protein, fat, fibre, and carbohydrates.
Homemade vs Store Bought
Another thing to consider when choosing a pet food is whether to feed a commercial diet or to prepare your own homemade meals for your pet.
Commercial pet foods are formulated to meet all of a pet's nutritional needs and are convenient and easy to use. Homemade diets, on the other hand, allow you to control the ingredients and tailor the diet to your pet's specific needs.
However, it's important to keep in mind that creating a balanced homemade diet can be difficult and time-consuming, and it's important to consult with a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist before making the switch.
Portion Sizes
When feeding your pet, it's also important to consider portion control. Overfeeding your pet can lead to obesity and associated health problems such as diabetes and joint issues. Be sure to read the feeding instructions on the pet food package, and adjust the portions accordingly based on your pet's size, activity level, and weight.
A good way to monitor your pet's weight is to weigh them regularly and consult with your vet if they are gaining or losing too much weight.
In summary, selecting the right diet for your pet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Factors to consider include species, life stage, food type, ingredients, and portion control. It's important to consult with a veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet's diet.
By providing your pet with a balanced and nutritious diet, you can ensure that they will be happy and healthy for many years to come.
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