Natural Dog Health Food
The Natural Food Dog
More and more dog owners have realised that there are many alternatives to buying commercially prepared dog foods. They are taking the time to investigate how to provide their pet with natural dog health food, as a way of keeping him healthy and full of life.
Following the pet food recalls in the US, it was revealed just what ingredients some rendering plants are sending to dog food manufacturers. Pet lovers were justifiably horrified to learn that euthanized pets were included in the list, along with hide, feet, hooves, beaks, feathers and blood.
These ingredients are then bulked up with fillers, usually grains, which are difficult for dogs to digest, and lack the vitamins and minerals needed by healthy dogs.
By preparing their own natural dog health food, owners believe they are giving their much-loved pet the best possible diet. And provided they consult with their veterinarian regarding the composition of the diet, they are probably correct. The vet will advise on the right ratio of meat protein, vegetables and carbohydrates, for your particular dog. They are also the best people to advise if any supplements are needed by your pet for any health issues it may have.
Fresh vegetables are key ingredients in a natural dog health food diet, and should comprise 25% of each meal, as they provide antioxidants and vitamins. Garlic is great to add as well because dogs love it, and it is excellent for keeping fleas at bay.
The most popular carbohydrates are potatoes and rice.
Choose fresh lean meat as the basic protein source for your dogs new diet. Just about any meat will do – beef, lamb, chicken, turkey or fish. Port is perhaps best avoided as it can contain parasites that attach to the dogs intestinal walls.
A dramatic change in your dog’s diet to natural dog health food is a big change, so don’t be surprised if he resists initially. Many people find it easier gradually introduce the new food with food that the dog is used to, increasing the ratio day by day.
It is a good idea to cook up the dog’s food in bulk and sore it in meal-sized portions in the refrigerator, or the freezer if a large quantity has been prepared.
Pet owners report that having full knowledge of what their dog is eating helps them manage conditions like overweight much better, and they believe their dogs coats are shinier, they have less allergies and they are more alert.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter for More Tips, Special Offers, and Coupons.
Got something to say?
Carolin Shadler’s Blog
