Dog Food
Variety is the Spice of Life

Good Dog Food affects every aspect of your dog's health. Too much makes them fat and that it the biggest mistake any loving dog owner can make, too little, however, does not even bear thinking about. Your little angel going hungry is inhumane and cruel, so it is essential we get the balance right.

The big question is on going.. dry or wet food, home made or commercial food. A dog's diet has major impact on their health and happiness. Ultimately you reap the rewards from a healthy and happy pet. The general rule of thumb though is the best you can afford. If you have a happy and healthy dog and there are no serious health issues, then there is no need to change the dogs diet.

How often should you feed your beloved animal?  A very old fashioned belief was once a day, as dogs in the wild were lucky to eat once every 2 or 3 days. But our dogs are not wild, just as we no longer live in caves and eat roots!   Your dog's food "ration" for the day should be split into at least 2 meals, possibly a third if you are at home during the day to do this.  Another good reason for not feeding just once a day is "bloat" a potentially deadly digestive condition often caused by eating too rapidly.

Keeping your dog's weight correct is vital, the number one cause for diabetes, heart disease, orthopedic problems as well as respiratory trouble, besides a shorter lifespan.  Just 15 percent over the ideal weight and your dog is clinically obese.

Your small dog breed is particularly prone to being overweight.  An obese dog that should weigh just 10 lbs is clinically obese at 12 pounds.  Our little lap dogs get far too many "human" snacks, and too little exercise.

If you love your dog, you will keep all "human" snacks to a minimum, you will provide a balanced dogs diet, not necessarily only pet food, you will keep quantities correct for your dog size and type.  The quantity you feed your little pooch will also depend on whether or not your dog is a active two year old or a loving lap dog in an apartment. 

A well balanced diet for your dog - is made up of a combination of commercial pet food, home made pet food, scientific dog food formula. Even their "after dinner" snack should be factored in to their daily intake of food. Dog nutrition involves not just a full tummy for your little pet.  High end dog food usually has a higher nutrient content than non-premium, marginal dog food brands, but check the labels. 

Many snack options for dogs nowadays have a side benefit in that they provide periodontal care essential for some small dog breeds who are prone to gum disease and "smelly" breath.  When giving your dog a snack or a chew when you leave home for a while, bear this in mind as the snack can be twofold.

It is important to note that a dog's digestive system is not the same as us humans. Our small dog breeds should not be given fat laden snacks or human food as their digestive system is simpler but very sensitive to changes in diet. Read our article: dog digestive system to see why their diet is important to their health and longevity.

Snacks should be Multi-functional