Nutrition is the process of consuming food and drink to gain everything that is required for health and growth and providing us the energy we need to go on with our day-to-day lives. Just like humans, dogs also need good and balanced nutrition as a basic necessity in their daily lives. As responsible owners, it’s important to provide for their basic needs so that they can stay healthy. It will also improve the dog’s behavior because this has a direct effect on their physical and mental capabilities.
What should my dog’s food include?
Our dogs give us happiness and joy and deserve the best. The first basic need is the dog’s food. Their foods should have natural ingredients that are not harsh and harmful. Dogs have different nutritional needs that can vary by breed, so it is very important to have the basic knowledge of their individual needs to keep them healthy and strong. Speak to your dog’s veterinarian to find out the best formulation and places to purchase. Some of the essential ingredients for all dogs are listed here for easy reference.
Essential nutritional needs for your dog:
- Proteins. Body tissues are made of proteins. Your dog’s body makes only 13 of the 23 amino acids that are building blocks of protein so the other 10 must come from their foods. What foods are high in protein for dogs? These include poultry (chicken, turkey, and duck), beef, pork, and fish. Protein allows your dog’s body to function properly this contributes to healthy hair and skin, muscle development, and tissue repair. If your dog has a balanced protein they are more active, and has improved coordination and behavior.
- Carbohydrates. This is one of the most important parts of a dog’s diet because it supplies energy. Carbohydrates are needed in a dog’s daily diet as they provide energy in the form of glucose and are the main source of dietary fiber. Oats, grains, rice, corn, and potato. But remember that too many carbs for dogs are dangerous so it’s best to provide them according to their needs.
- Vitamins and Minerals. These are needed for many of the chemical reactions in your dog’s body, such as building bones and keeping them strong. These essential vitamins and minerals provide your dog’s energy level and help its immune system. Your dog can get all the vitamins and minerals they needed in a balanced food including:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- B-Complex
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
Dogs don’t need vitamin C because their body makes it. When they eat nutritious food, your dog doesn’t need supplemental vitamins or minerals since it is already incorporated into their food. It is better to give them proper foods that contain vitamins and minerals because without supervision supplements can be dangerous to a dog’s body.
Are dog’s nutrition and behavior related?
Yes, dogs’ behavior is a reflection of their nutrition. Diets that are deficient in essential nutrients can lead to serious health issues. If a dog doesn’t feel well because they are weak or feeling pain, it can certainly impact its behavior. Poor nutrition can lead to serious disorders in dogs like obesity, allergies, and fur loss. If your dog’s nutritional needs are not met they can experience stunted growth, sickness, diseases, and even death. A well-balanced diet is very important and it is very important to know the nutritional content that can be given to dogs without harming their bodies.
But you should not only focus on their food intake only here are some other essential needs that you should consider:
- Water is the most basic of all needs, not only for humans but also for dogs. Water makes up more than half of an adult dog’s body weight. When it comes to your dog’s nutrition, water is more important than protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Water carries important nutrients in and out of the cells of the body, aiding in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Water also regulates the dog’s body temperature, and improves cognitive function and digestion. Most dogs should drink at least 1 ounce of water for every pound they weigh every day.
- Love. Regardless of their age and breed, all dogs need love, affection, and emotional interaction. Dogs are kind, loving, and compassionate, especially to their owners. That is why we sometimes say that dogs don’t deserve us because they tend to give all they have and are loyal despite their circumstances. Your love for your dog can make a difference in their behavior. For many of us, they are a huge part of our lives, and our dogs see us the same way. Showing them attention and affection makes a big difference in their overall behavior and demeanor.
About DelmarvaK9
Having a hard time training your dog? Difficulty not following directions or won’t obey your directions? Well, don’t worry because The Delmarva K9 Board & Train Program is here to help you and teach you a leadership approach to training that emphasizes rewards and is geared to both pups and adult dogs.
What is Delmarva K9? We offer programs targeted to instilling essential skills and behavior in your canines. We offer obedience training for your furry family member; additionally, for your furry pet, we offer behavior modification and specialty training. For working law enforcement dogs, we offer aggression training, narcotics training, explosives training, and tracking. If you don’t have the time or knowledge to train your furry pet, schedule your dog’s training today. To learn more, visit our page www.delmarvak9.com to learn more about dog boarding and training.