Essentials of a Dog's Daily Diet

As with their human companions, dogs need a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. But, unlike us, the recommended 2,000-calorie diet for humans doesn't translate to our pets. Dogs, because of their varying weights and body types ultimately require more or less food on a normal basis and dogs with certain deficiencies might need supplemental food to keep them healthy. If you happen to be adopting a dog, it can prove to be helpful, to keep a strict doggy diet.

So, the hard questions is, what should your dog be eating anyway? Begin with the four items listed below that can be found in almost all premium-style dog goods. A good thing to look for when looking for that great dog food is to look for the Association of American Feed Control Officials' stamp of approval on the package.

1. To begin, your canine companion should always be drinking plenty of water. As with all mammals, our pets require water depending on the level of activities, but should realistically be drinking water on a regular basis to remain hydrated. For the most part, dogs are great at drinking water when they're thirsty, so keeping a full and fresh water dish is essential.
2. Second, you dog and any dog needs plenty of protein. Most dog food is developed to include a mix of animal and vegetable proteins, animal protein being much easier for a dog to digest. Most vets suggest that a dog eat a minimum of 18% protein in their daily diet. That number should increase to around 22% while they grow, become pregnant or begin to nurse.
3. Next, your canine will need a good portion of vitamins. Similar to children and the elderly, your dog may not be able to produce the correct or digest the correct amount of vitamins, so providing your pooch with the extra nutrients not available in dog food is suggested.
4. Finally, your dog should consume a good amount of fat as well. Vets recommend that a minimum of 5% of fat in your dog's daily diet will keep their coat shiny and provide the right amount of energy to play an endless amount of catch in the back yard.
But, since dogs aren't all equal in terms of body size or exercise level, you should control daily food allowance for your dog - based on, mnre or less, 2 levels. Weight and activity levels. DogFoodAdvisor.com has a great dog food calculator that I insist will help you understand what your specific dog needs. Happy feeding!
Remember though, just like humans, dogs will not portion control themselves. What you provide your pooch in term of culinary delights will be consumed with no argument. If your dog has become overweight and sluggish at an early age, serious health issues will ultimately arise. They can range from arthritis to hip dysphasia.

Isaac Macalister is a frequent contributor for Hartz and has written many articles pertaining to cat and dog needs. Including anything from dog training to summer fun with your dog including tips on Hartz UltraGuard Flea Control