Some thoughts on nutrition
Some thoughts on nutrition
During the first year of a dog's development, proper nutrition is essential. Nutrition has a huge impact on the development of strong bones, strong teeth a shiny coat and whether the dog reaches its potential size for the breed. Poor nutrition can cause stunted growth, joint problems and a multitude of other problems. Even the best commercial dog foods can loose vitamin potency due to age and storage conditions. All dog owners should consider supplementing their pet's diet in order to assure the proper diet requirements are satisfied.
It is generally agreed that some defects are caused by heredity. Diet plays an equal role.
Vegetables, Vitamin C and Calcium are examples of dietary oversights. Some dog food manufacturers are starting to make up for these shortages and now include vegetables in their products. If you are unsure, there are simple ways to start supplementing your dog's diet today. The high costs associated with many commercial additives can be offset or avoided altogether since essential ingredients are readily available in our homes.
- When preparing your own dinner, set aside a small portion of vegetables to mix with your dog's dinner. Chop them into small pieces (if veggies are frozen, simply let thaw or warm slightly)
- Vitamin C in capsule form such as Ester-C can be opened and the powder sprinkled on the food.
- Calcium can be added by adding plain yogurt or powdered nonfat dry milk to food. Either follow the package directions or simply mix the powder with the dry food. Try 1/2 cup powdered milk, during one feeding per day.
- Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium and provides amino acids necessary for digestion. Try feeding 1/2 cup plain yogurt once a day. Calcium tablets are also available from your pet supplier.
Things to avoid
- Whole milk, including 1 or 2%. It will cause diarrhea
- Onions, tomatoes, potatoes, bread
- Chocolate and other sweets
- Fried food, pork including bacon or bacon grease
- Chicken bones and other bones other than large marrow bones
- Toxic house plants such as pothos and poinsettias
If all of this seems troublesome, it is far less trouble than the associated vet bills that can be a result of misfeeding
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