As your trusted dog daycare in Adelaide, our top priority is keeping our furry friends happy and healthy while spending quality time with them. But health can be complicated. In today’s blog, we’ll discuss the significance of maintaining your dog’s vitality with a well-balanced diet and share some helpful tips on making treats and where to purchase high-quality dog food.
The Key to Health and Vitality
Properly nourished, dogs radiate health from the inside out, often displaying the telltale signs of soft, glossy coats, bright eyes, and a fresh scent. The famous saying, ‘You are what you eat’, applies to our dogs, as the food we choose for them will impact their overall well-being.
Ideally, dogs need a combination of “complete” proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. While this may sound simple, understanding each nutrient’s function, metabolic processes, and appropriate amounts for different life stages can be complex.
Wet Food Or Dry Food
Dry food labelled as “complete” is convenient and contains essential nutrients. It aids in dental hygiene and allows for smaller portions while meeting dietary needs.
Wet food, on the other hand, is a more fitting choice for dogs in recovery from injuries or surgeries, and it can provide specific benefits for certain health conditions.
A common approach among dog owners is combining dry and wet food to accommodate their pets’ preferences. Despite the occasional mess, many dogs thoroughly enjoy the taste and texture of wet food.
Regardless of dry or wet food, most dogs prefer a delicious and well-made meal. Consistency is key, so sticking to your chosen feeding routine is essential. Explore our range of premium dog foods. Your dog deserves the best!
Choosing the Right Food for Your Dog
Choosing something your dog will love that’s good for their health and happiness is a game changer. By visiting your local pet nutritionist in Adelaide, you’ll get professional advice with a customised eating plan to suit your needs. This means balancing their intake of proteins, fats, fibre, minerals, and vitamins to promote their overall well-being.
A Delicate Balance
Rewarding your dog’s behaviour with treats is a good practice, but it’s important to exercise moderation. Opt for treats low in sugar and carbohydrates. Treats should make up about 5-10% of your dog’s diet. If you have larger treats, break them into smaller pieces, allowing your dog to enjoy a few tasty rewards without excessive amounts.
Tips for Homemade Dog Snacks and Treats
Introducing variety and enrichment to your dog’s diet doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some cost-effective ideas using everyday kitchen items:
- Sweet potato or pumpkin: These ingredients provide a touch of sweetness and supply beneficial beta carotene for their well-being.
- Freeze plain yogurt or low-sodium broth in ice cube trays: A refreshing and tasty summer treat.
- Peanut Butter Snacks: While delicious, they also provide an extra dose of protein, vitamin B, and heart-healthy fats. Additionally, it’s a great treat to have with enrichment activities like filling rubber dog toys for engaging playtime.
- Homemade Pupsicles: Blend frozen berries rich in antioxidants and fibre into a refreshing frozen treat. However, removing the stick from the popsicle is essential to prevent choking hazards and ensure the berries are free from syrups or sugar coatings.
- Homemade Jerky: Make your jerky by thinly slicing lean meats, like beef or chicken, and drying them in a food dehydrator or oven at a low temperature.
Your Canine Nutrition Partner
At Dogwise Daycare, we believe a well-balanced diet is the key to a happy and healthy dog. Our Adelaide dog daycare founder, Daniel Barrile, brings a cognitive-relational approach to our understanding of canine behaviour, informing our approach to canine nutrition. Our dog nutrition consultation service equips pet parents with the knowledge and resources to provide their dogs with the best nutrition.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards improving your dog’s diet and overall health.