This topic is very controversial, everyone including pet food companies claim they have the best food for dogs.
The truth is, it depends on the individual dog. As long as your dog likes it and has no allergies to the ingredients in the food, it’s fine to give it to them.
If you have a puppy, stick to puppy food. Which brand? With so many brands to choose from, that would be your choice. You can discuss it with your breeder or your vet. An alternative is sometimes getting samples or small bags from different brands to try. See which food brand your puppy does well on. Because puppies have very delicate stomachs, its best to stick to commercial brands that are out there. Again always check with your vet or breeder if unsure. With adult dogs you can go with commercial brands or raw or if you want to cook for your dog you can. Make the change gradual, when starting a new food.
Don’t be fooled with the eye catching beautiful bags that dog food is sold in, it’s for you not the dog. Your dog only cares what’s inside. Also another marketing technique used is by placing or advocating a breed by picture or stating it was made for that breed. It’s all marketing to get pet owners to buy it.
Remember you can always add some water or broth over the dry kibble if needed. That would soften and make the kibble tastier.
How much to feed is another issue many dog owners face. You can start by simply looking on the bag and what it recommends, and start from there. You must also take in consideration many factors, is my dog active or very active? Is my dog a couch potato? The activity level of the dog plays a big part in the amount of feed. If your dog is always outdoor running playing then Fido needs more intake.
Use common sense, if you notice your dog is getting fat, which means you are over feeding according to his level of activity. If he is under weight then more food is required.
Think of it this way, this is an example; an office worker does not need to consume the same amount of calories than that of a football player.
As for treats you can either buy or make your own, most budget friendly treat is cheerios cereal. You get a lot for the price and easy on their stomachs. You can also buy bacon cut it to small quarter size and microwave it, take or use the amount you need. Cheese or hot dogs sliced to dime size is another alternative.
You can use different fruits sliced up and in the summer freeze the slices, they will enjoy it. Vegetables also are good as long as your dogs like it and if they do freeze the slices and offer it to them. An assortment will make them happier.
The topic of dog foods or treats can be pages and pages, with pros and cons according to every house hold. It can be time related, quick and easy, availability and much more…
Best is to discuss this topic with your vet, breeder, nutritionist or your trainer. This way they can ask questions of the dog’s life style the activity level and so on. Then they can guide you down the right path. There is no right answer only what is best for your dog and you.
Fruit for thought; what do you think your great grandfather fed his dog…
Always remember: Patience, Persistence, Consistency & Repetition will be your key to Success.
“Failure is Not an Option” If you are willing to put the time and effort.
Have a woof woof of a month.
Harry Kalajian
All Aspect of training, Behaviorist, Ethologist & Psychologist
Executive Dog Training Inc.
941-447-8234
www.executivedogtraining.com
