Dog Nutrition

The well being of a dog depends on its health status, the exercise of the animal and mostly, nutrition. Since many companies are producing various commercial foods for your dog, The requirement of energy, and other nutrients can be calculated by the following guidelines.

According to the size of the dog, the guidelines are:
Body weight (kg) Kcal ME/kg BW/day
> 10 kg85
10-35 kg 60
Over 35 50

When the dog reaches the third trimester of pregnancy, it requires 125% as opposed to 100% of the calories intake it normally receives, while lactating, the needs for calories increases to 200-300%. Histidine, methionine, phenyl alanine, threonine, tryptophan, valine, arginine, lysine, isoleucine  and  leucine are the ten essential amino acids required by dogs. In what minerals are concerned, calcium and phosphorus require prime considerations.

Major dog food companies compete to offer balanced food for your dog and provide them in a usable form. You must also include in your dog's diet vitamin and mineral supplements in a balanced concentration. Be advised that canned foods contain as much as 75 percent water and dangerous color enhancers, while semi-moist foods contain chemicals that makes them unhealthy options for your dog's diet.

Recently, the BARF diet seems to win more and more followers. Written by Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst, the book recommends whole chicken, fish parts, chicken necks, yogurt, raw eggs and leftover fruit and vegetables. This type of diet leads to a longer life and more energy, as well as a healthier being.

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