The Importance Nutrition Plays in Your Dog's Wellbeing
Just like humans, dogs need to have a healthy diet in order to live a long and happy life. The right balance of nutrition will help keep your dog's coat healthy, their energy levels up, and their minds sharp. But the choices are almost as endless as the choices we face when it comes to our diets, it can be tough to know what the best dietary choices are for your best friend.
Dogs are carnivores by nature, which means that their diets should consist mostly of meat. However, most commercial dog foods contain only a small percentage of meat - the rest is made up of grains, fillers, and other cheaper ingredients. While these ingredients might be fine in small quantities, they should not make up the bulk of your dog's diet. Grains can cause digestive issues for dogs, and fillers provide little to no nutritional value. That's why it's important to choose a high-quality dog food that contains mostly meat - preferably from multiple sources.
In addition to meat, dogs need certain vitamins and minerals in order to stay healthy. Some of these nutrients can be found in fruits and vegetables, but the majority of them are found in animal-based products. Many commercial dog foods should contain some form of essential vitamin or minerals - without these supplements, your dog's diet would be lacking in vital nutrients. However, it's important to check the labels of any pet food product, as some may contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous for your dog. A vet approved product is always a good place to start!
It's often advised to add additional supplements to your dog’s diet to complement their food and ensure they are getting everything they require to stay healthy and thrive. Not sure where to start or which supplements are right for your dog? Here are our top 5 picks.
#1: Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can offer a variety of health benefits when consumed. They can improve digestion, boost the immune system, and even decrease diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal issues. When it comes to picking a probiotic supplement for your dog, look for one that contains both prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics act as food for probiotics, helping them to survive the trip through the digestive system so they can reach the gut alive. Some good prebiotic sources include chicory root extract, garlic, and banana powder. For probiotics, look for strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animalis.
#2: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that offers a host of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, supporting cognitive health, and maintaining a shiny coat. These fatty acids can be found in fish oil supplements. When choosing a fish oil supplement for your dog, make sure it is highly refined and has been tested for heavy metals. You'll also want to avoid products that contain ethoxyquin, a preservative that has been linked to liver disease and cancer.
#3: Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B is actually a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that play an important role in energy metabolism, brain function, and red blood cell formation. Common signs of vitamin B deficiency in dogs include poor appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. A vitamin B complex supplement can help to prevent these problems and keep your pup feeling his best.
#4: Antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances that help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can lead to cell death and play a role in the development of chronic diseases like cancer. Antioxidant supplements can help to reduce the risk of these diseases by neutralizing free radicals before they cause cell damage. Vitamin C and vitamin E are two common antioxidant supplements used in dogs.
#5: Glucosamine & Chondroitin Sulfate
Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is produced naturally in the body and plays an important role in cartilage formation. Chondroitin sulfate is a sulfur-containing compound found in cartilage tissue that helps to keep it elastic and resist damage from compressive forces. These two substances work together to support joint health and protect against conditions like osteoarthritis. Glucosamine & chondroitin sulfate supplements are often used in dogs with joint problems or those at risk for developing joint problems later in life.
When it comes to choosing the right food for your dog, nutrition is key. A diet rich in meat and vitamins will help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. If you're unsure about what kind of food or supplement is best for your dog, consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. They will be able to help you choose a food and/or supplement that meets your pup's specific dietary needs.
