The Role of Calcium in Your DOG'S DIET

It is important for your dog's diet to contain all of the essential vitamins to ensure excellent health. One of the important nutrients in your dog's diet is calcium.  When we think of calcium, strong teeth and bones come to mind. 

Your dog's diet should be rich in calcium to support healthy teeth and bones, but a delicate balance exists in relationship to calcium and your dog's diet.  

It is possible to have too much or too little calcium in your dog's diet.  When a dog's diet contains too little calcium, your dog may develop a condition called rickets.  This condition creates soft bones that bend under the weight of your dog.      

In contrast, too much calcium can create bone abnormalities, as well.

Large breed dogs, for example, who are given too much calcium as puppies in their diet, will develop large bones that are low in density.  Strength is a problem with such bones due to a large number of calcium supplements.  

When your dog's diet contains appropriate levels of calcium, such bone abnormalities occur infrequently.

This is just one more reason to carefully select an appropriate diet for your dog.  Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best amount of calcium in your dog's diet.  

Calcium plays an important role in your dog's diet, but other vitamins and nutrients work hand in hand with calcium.  Some minerals are interdependent.  Calcium happens to be one of such mineral nutrients. 

Calcium works together with phosphorus.  A balance of the two nutrients calcium and phosphorus must exist in a healthy ratio to ensure a dog diet that will maximize the potential advantages for your pet.  Studies involving animal nutrition show that a ratio of 1.0 to 2.0 parts calcium should be coupled with 1.0 part phosphorus.  When calcium and phosphorus ratios vary greatly from this range, bone troubles result.  

Dog diets consisting exclusively of meats, will not provide the proper amount of calcium and phosphorus to create healthy bones.  Such a diet results in a ratio of about 1.0 part calcium to 18 parts phosphorus.  The range of absorption is where the trouble begins.

Vitamin D is another nutrient that influences the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.  If a dog's diet lacks the appropriate amount of vitamin D, the other nutrients will not provide all the benefits to your pet.  Excessive amounts of vitamin D can have toxic effects on your dog.  It is imperative to maintain appropriate levels of vitamin D in your dog's diet.  Again, feeding your dog food from a reputable company will allow your confidence in knowing that your dog's diet is healthy.  

 

During pregnancy or when your dog is nursing, higher levels of calcium are important in your dog's diet.  At this time, feed your pet extra amounts of balanced dog food.  You should not have to supplement your pet at this time.  

Milk fever, or eclampsia, cannot be avoided with calcium supplements.  Eclampsia is not a nutritional deficiency, but a metabolic condition that affects the dog after the pups have been born and begin nursing.  

Avoid supplementing your dog's diet with calcium or other nutrients without specific discussion with your vet.  When calcium, for example, is out of balance, health can truly be affected negatively.  Feeding your dog a balanced diet is essential.  Reputable dog food companies have researched animal nutrition to ensure the best possible health for your dog.  Providing your dog's diet in a healthy, balanced formula may be the best way to take care of your pet.  

---

---

Obese PET DOGS

Photo by swong95765

Unfortunately, increasingly more dogs are becoming too heavy. Overweight dogs live shorter lives and often develop other related health problems. What can you do in case your dog is gaining weight?

The first thing to do is to have a look at how you interact with your puppy.

Do you feed the dog family table leftovers? Does he have between-meal treats? Does your dog have chips along with you while you are watching television?

These items can certainly be eliminated. Only feed your dog at his meal times. Your dog doesn't need to have all those excess calories. You don't need to be terrible, but you will have to cut down the number of doggie snacks he receives every day.

Observe just how many dinners you're providing him and examine your dog food content label carefully. You may be overfeeding the family dog. The majority of family pet foods list on the label precisely how much food a dog needs to be given each day. Be certain that you are adhering to these guidelines. Quite a few owners learn they have switched brands and didn't bother to read the content label and discover that the canine is receiving an excessive amount of food.

Do you have to give your puppy a treat to make him obey? If you do, you have to spend time training your furry friend. Dogs want to delight their masters and can work for praise by itself. Keep the canine guessing. Ask the pup to perform a trick but just reward him every second time. Provide the dog lots of compliments and pets as soon as he does respond correctly. Continue doing this and bit by bit eliminate the need for a food reward.

You also should look into the amount of exercise your furry friend is actually getting each and every day. Leaving the puppy outside in the backyard is just not adequate. Not many pets will workout on their own. They may be in the garden however they are probably not getting rid of unhealthy calories. It's good to get out and have fun with the dog or take him for a walk.

When the weather conditions or perhaps your situation doesn't allow for plenty of walks you have to consider various other workout solutions. Retain the services of a walker, find ways to get the dog active indoors, but get your four-legged friend active.

As a dependable pet owner looks at what and how the dog eats and your companion will live a lot longer and healthier lifestyle.

---

---

How much should I FEED my DOG?

A beagle puppy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many people will give different types of answers based on their experience with their dogs.  However, the scientific facts related to the feeding aspects in the case of dogs need to be given emphasis during the feeding activities maintained in the case of dogs.

Usually, the puppies should not be separated before they are eight weeks old. However, some times the orphaned puppies may exist. Usually, about five percent of the body weight may be taken as criteria for the quantity of food to be given to the puppies.  However, the amount that is consumed by the dog varies with the size of the dogs also.  

However, one can have a thumb rule of feeding the puppy goes until you see visible fullness of the abdomen to a moderate degree. If you are going on feeding the animal without giving emphasis to the animal’s stomach appearance, then the puppy may experience some kinds of digestive upsets and diarrhea may occur in them.

This may cause many inconveniences to the owner as well as the puppy.  Unlike adult dogs, the puppies need to be fed with restricted amounts of food but in more frequencies. However, once the age advances, the amount may be increased to some extent but the frequency of feeding is often decreased on many occasions. 

A dog on a raw diet may consume only two to four percent of their body weight.  Just observe closely the feeding pattern of the dog and the body condition of the animal. If the dog becomes obese, just reduce the quantity of food and if the dog becomes thin, then have an increase in the feeding items.  

As mentioned earlier, puppies and adolescent dogs eat more than adult dogs.  Likewise, the geriatric dog eats less than the adult dog due to the reduced movements of the dog. However, remember to restrict the amounts of protein during the feeding of diet to the aged dogs.

---

---

Is A RAW FOOD Diet Right For Your PIT BULL TERRIER Dog?

Poncho the Pit bull mix kissing his owner (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many Pit Bull owners are choosing to feed their pets a raw food diet rather than use the commercially formulated mass produced feeds. Others have never heard of the raw diet, also known as the bones and raw food diet, but are seeking more information about what this type of diet can offer their pet.

The raw diet entails feeding your Pit Bull or other pet mainly raw meat and meaty bones. The raw meat diet also includes some vegetables be added in as well. Leafy greens mixed in with the raw meat helps give your Pit Bull a nutritional meal. As an added bonus, finely chopped garlic can be added as a natural way to give added protection against fleas.

In the wild dogs are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and plant material. If you choose to try the raw diet, you’ll need to be sure and balance his diet by adding some vegetable material into each meal. Some owners who are fans of the raw diet like to add additional proteins like cottage cheese or eggs into the meat and veggie mixture.

It has been reported that dogs on the raw diet tend to lead healthier lives. Proponents of the raw diet say that canine allergies, as well as dysplasia and a wide range of other canine ailments, are mainly due to the commercial dog foods with their non-meat proteins and additives. The commercial market has also been accused of using the grain content in their feed simply because they are cheap fillers, and aren’t there for the true benefit of the pet.

Those who choose the raw diet also say that they feel they are giving their dog the diet that nature intended, and that commercial dog food kills any real benefits of the proteins in the cooking process. This, in turn, they say, can cause problems to the animal’s immune system and cause other health-related problems.

Raw diet advocates also state that the commercial dog food makers put special additives into the food which makes the food more appealing to the dogs so they get addicted to the commercial foods.

Of course, the commercial feed makers state that there’s no difference in cooking a dog’s food as there is to cooking a human’s food and that the nutritional value is still there. Commercial feed makers claim that dogs have very sensitive digestive systems and that the raw food diet can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

As a responsible pet owner, it’s up to you to decide on how your Pit Bull gets his nutritional needs met. If you have concerns about your Pit Bull’s nutrition, or before you change your Pit Bull’s diet, talk to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can give you more information on the raw diet, as well as recommend any changes which may need to be made.

---

---

Dog Food ALLERGIES

Food of Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Food allergies are something that is difficult to identify unless one is well aware of the baseline information with regard to this type of allergy. The main symptoms of food allergies in dogs include the facial itching, limb chewing, belly itching, recurrent ear infections or skin infections. 

Since the dogs consume a lot of prepared food materials including various kinds of proteins, fillers, coloring agents and more; in the commercial food materials, the incidences of food allergies are more than one can imagine. Allergic reactions mostly involve the skin or the gastrointestinal tract. 

If you come across your dog itching after the provision of specific food materials, then suspect the food allergy in this animal. However, conditions like fungal infections need to be ruled out in general before the conclusion of itching as a sign of food allergy.

There are many recorded incidences of allergies of dogs to corn or to wheat. However, the food allergies vary from dog to dog.  Read the labels clearly before feeding your dogs with pet food materials, in such occasions.  Too much-colored food materials may be avoided since they may cause allergies to your dog.

Food allergies are often linked to the hyperactive behavior noticed in the dogs. Added colors, preservatives, and high-fat diet might cause such food allergies in the dogs and hence, one has to be careful in providing new kind of diet to their dogs and closely monitor the dog for any signs of allergy.   

There are many occasions that food allergies might be diagnosed in the dogs but the dog may have other problems like pancreatitis. To rule out the food allergies, observation your dogs everytime you feed them, look for reasons to link the signs of dog with food given, specific signs encountered, differential diagnosis etc. are the important features to be given emphasis. 

---

---

Protein and KIDNEY Failure from Your DOG'S DIET

Early research indicated that higher levels of protein in your dog's diet would lead to kidney failure. Do you know if your dog's diet is safe?  Are you killing your furry friend by providing too much protein in your dog's diet?

The studies that showed a relationship to high protein levels and kidney failure that sparked concerns about protein levels in dog's diets were not sound.  The research was performed on rats, not dogs. Rats primarily eat plants as their natural diet.  Naturally, rats biological makeup would indicate trouble digesting diets containing high levels of protein.  The rats have difficulty excreting protein due to their specific dietary needs, not because the high protein diet causes kidney failure.

Still, where do we stand on protein and your dog's diet?  Dogs are naturally omnivorous.  In the wild, dog's would hunt or scavenge.  The dog's diet would consist of both plants and animals.  Naturally speaking, dogs are meat eaters, too.  For this reason, a dog can easily tolerate a diet consisting of 30% protein or more.

When protein intake is reduced in a dog's diet, the renal function does not improve.  Renal lesions are not less likely to form when a dog is fed with a low-protein diet.  It is not until a blood urea nitrogen, or BUN, the test indicates a level of 75, that a reduction in protein intake is considered for your dog's diet.  

If you have concerns about the amount of protein in your dog's diet, schedule an appointment to speak with a professional on the subject.  Your trusted vet can advise you on the specifics in regards to your dog's diet.

It is a myth that dogs cannot properly digest high levels of protein in their diet. Kidney troubles do not result from high levels of protein in your dog's diet. Large amounts of protein can be safely digested in your dog's diet, especially when they come primarily from animal origins.

Ten amino acids must be provided in your dog's diet through the protein.  Only twelve of 22 amino acids can be manufactured in your dog's liver.  For this reason, meat such as heart, spleen, and meat by-products all have a place in your dog's diet.

A high-quality dog food should contain meat as the first ingredient.  This will provide the proper amount of protein for your dog's diet.  You know you are on the right track when you turn to nature for advice.  Do you ever recall seeing a wild or stray dog happily grazing through the cornfield at mealtime?

Senior dogs should not be automatically placed on lower protein diets exclusively based on age.  In fact, some older pets require a dog's diet higher in protein than during their younger adult stage.  Unless medically indicated, provide your pet the benefit of quality protein in your dog's diet.

Feeding your dog protein should not cause you concern.  You want what is best for your dog and nature tells you that protein will help your dog to thrive.  If you have questions about the myth of protein and kidney failure in your pet, speak to your vet about your dog's diet.

---

---

BONES for Your Dog - Delicious Treat or A Deadly Snack?

Photo: Pixabay

There is a difference of opinion among canine experts as to whether bones should be given to a dog raw, cooked, hard, or soft, and even whether they should be given at all. On one point, however, there is total agreement, never give a dog splintering bones from chicken, pork, fowl, and rabbit, (although chicken bones that have been cooked in a pressure cooker until they are very soft can be quite nourishing and safe).

A marrow bone is the traditional symbol of a treat for a dog, and he obviously appreciates it. It may be too big and hard for small dogs. In fact, large breeds generally handle bones much better than small ones. Bones that are mostly cartilage, such as spinal and shoulder bones of veal, knuckle bones, and soft rib bones, are good chewing material that can be entirely consumed.

The real danger is intestinal compaction, especially in small dogs, if the masticated bone has not been mixed with another residue in the dog's stomach. A small amount should cause no trouble if it is given right after a meal. Chop and steak bones are more dangerous. Careful eaters simply clean off the meat and fat, but greedy gobblers run the risk of internal injury from jagged bone splinters. The same is true of a leg of lamb bone.

What is the best policy to follow with a dog of your own? A teething puppy between four and six months of age should always have a bone, real or imitation, to chew on. You might give an adult dog a suitable bone as an occasional treat - for example, once a week. It will give him enormous pleasure, will help to keep his teeth clean and free from tartar, and will occupy him for several hours. But a nylon bone offers the same advantages without the risk!

---

---

How To Obtain Organic Gourmet DOG TREATS

Photo   by Christian Haugen 

Certain animals are kept by lots of people as pets due to various reasons. Most commonly, the companionship which can be offered to such by these certain animals is wanted, especially when lonely or sad moments are experienced. For this matter, these pets have to be taken good care of and their basic necessities provided to them.

They need to provide them with shelter, clean water, and, most importantly, their food. Dog owners may like to give organic gourmet dog treats to their pets. There are a couple of things which these owners should take into consideration when they will purchase these foods for such pets.

To start, he could be requesting for some referrals from some groups of individuals. Such individuals may include his relatives, his friends, or his coworkers. These persons could be referring to a brand which he may be giving to his canine. The purchaser must be writing down the brand name of this commodity and also the certain source where he might be getting this product from. He might also need to really be conducting research about the brand which each individual refers to him.

The ingredients utilized by the manufacturers to get these commodities created are needed to be known by the persons. Different available ingredients can certainly be used by these manufacturers. However, some ingredients could also cause allergic reactions from the canines. The effects of some ingredients to the animals needed to get known by these owners.

They should locate the sources or the establishments where they can purchase these commodities. Primarily, they can get these foods from various pet shops that they can find in almost any region. They need to ensure that they will only choose those sources which hold positive reputations. This way, they would have assurances that they will receive good quality foods.

He might also be turning to the Internet in looking for such source. Nowadays, most establishments are already creating and managing their own web pages where customers could easily be contacting them when doing various different business transactions. If a person decides to be ordering his product online, he needs to receive his own order within an acceptable amount of time.

These buyers also need to consider the prices of the foods which they might buy. These prices may vary since there is competition present in this industry. The sellers typically set different criteria to establish these rates. The purchasers must choose the brands which will fall within the budgets that they will apportion for their purchases.

The expiry dates of the commodities must also be looked at. If products that already reached their expiry dates are obtained, certain consequences would be suffered from by dogs. Food poisoning or even other dangerous situations may be experienced by these animals. The expiry dates are usually found on the package labels.

At times, a canine might not be liking the food which its owner places in front of it. It could only be wasting the food which the owner will be giving to it. In this case, the individual must consistently be training the animal of consuming such a commodity. This way, he would not be wasting both the product and his money.

About the Author: Kathrine Franks

---

---

Foods to cure KIDNEY DISEASE in DOGS and CATS

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Kidney disease is something that no cat or dog owner would want their pet to suffer from. It is known as CIN- canine kidney failure in dogs and CRF- chronic renal failure in cats. It is more common in aging pets as compared to others. Though chronic renal failure occurs more in cats this problems has also been seen in dogs. 

Reasons are quite obvious, which is the usage of highly poisonous commercially packed pet food. Consumption of external toxins through these foods results in kidney failure. Besides the number of conventional medications and treatments, it is important that you pay special attention to your pet’s diet. 

It is recommended to give a low- sodium, low- phosphorous and low-protein diet to your dog or cat suffering from kidney failure. Studies have suggested that if you feed a diet which is low in phosphorous then it may help in slowing the development of kidney failure, as it reduces the mineral deposits in kidneys. However, low protein diets are somehow controversial as they generate less nitrogenous wastes whose high levels may result in vomiting and nausea. 

Though, diet for every dog or cat having a kidney disease must be customized to their particular requirements as specified by the diseases' stage along with urinalysis and blood tests results. For a lot of animals, a homemade high-quality protein diet would be healthier than a low- protein one. Dry food should be avoided for pets with this disease, especially cats considering the importance of hydration they need. 

Omega 3 fatty acids nutritional supplements from marine fish oil have proved to decrease this disease’s progression. Vitamin E with omega 3 oils are also recommended as they work synergistically. Vitamin C and B- complex will help refill the lost vitamins because of the failure of the kidneys for recycling and retaining these nutrients in their body. Before using any of these days, it is suggested to consult a veterinarian and be safe with medications.

---

Cost effective homemade PET FOOD

Pupcakes (dog-food cupcakes)  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In the middle of rising and fall in the economy, most of the people plan to cut on costs and pay more attention to saving money. For their furry friend, they have to fulfill many of its needs and in the present scenario of busy life; everybody finds it convenient to prefer ready to made pet food for their pets. The expenses that come with this convenience are quite difficult to be borne by many of you out there! 

To start saving money on their food, the best way is preparing meals for them at home. If you calculate the amount that you spend on your pet’s daily meals, you will be amazed to see that how much money it is taking from your pocket. Commercial pet food providing dry dog food, wet food, calcium and mineral/ vitamin supplements plus the hideous health hazards that come along with these is far more expensive than a home-cooked meal. 

Cooking for your bowwow buddy has countless benefits that include lesser additives and preservatives, more assorted and potentially superior ingredients along with your buddy’s interest in food.

The technique is simple. While shopping for the meals of your family, shop for your dog from the same store. It saves your time too. Like human beings, pets also require the six basic elements comprising of fats, water, protein, mineral, vitamins and carbohydrates. It is very easy to fix their meal by keeping into consideration the balance of these food items. 

Since there nutrient requirements are a little high or different and they are used to the market food, so incorporating some quantity of dog food supplements would also serve the purpose. Further, making high-quality pet food from a variety of recipes is the best way to save on money and at the same time providing high-end food to your pet for maintaining its health.

---

---

Human Food For Your GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Photo  by sally9258 

A lot of people wonder what type of human food they should feed their Golden.  Even though many prefer to stick with dog food and only dog food, there are certain types of human food that Golden Retrievers love - and is actually good for them.  Golden’s crave attention as we all know - and when they watch you eat it never hurts to give them a bite - as long as you know what they should and shouldn’t consume with their diets.

For your Golden’s health, feeding him foods such as chicken, raw vegetables, turkey, brown rice, fruits, and oatmeal are always great.  Even though we think of these type foods as “human food”, they are actually good for many animals as well.  All dogs have taste buds and noses, meaning that they get very excited when they see you with food.  

If your Golden Retriever runs to the refrigerator when you open it up, he’s trying to tell you that he smells something good.  Even though he may run to the refrigerator, he isn’t begging for food as many think, he is simply wanting to have some real food.  Once your Golden starts to do this, you should give him some of what he wants.  Although most real food is great for Golden’s, there are some that aren’t quite so good.

Egg whites

If you feed your Golden a large amount of egg white in his diet, he will get a deficiency in biotin, which is a B vitamin, due to the amount of avidin, which is a very destructive substance.  If you are feeding your Golden Retriever egg yolks, you shouldn’t worry as the effects of avidin will be offset by the high biotin levels that are found in egg yolks.  You can also feed your Golden egg shells as well, as they contain a large amount of protein.  If you want the best for your Golden - try feeding him raw eggs - with the shell intact.

Any form of Chocolate

We all know never to feed chocolate to any type of animal.  Chocolate contains bromine, which is very toxic to both dogs and cats.  Unsweet chocolate is by far the worst to feed to your Golden, as it contains a large amount of bromine. Bromine is a very harmful chemical, one that normally leads to the death of your animal should he be fed any type of chocolate.

There are other foods out there that can be good or harmful to your Golden.  If you have any questions, you should always ask your veterinarian.  Your vet will be able to recommend real food that is beneficial to your Golden, as well as foods you should avoid.  You can experiment with real food if you like - although you should never allow your Golden Retriever to consume any type of chocolate.

---

---

Life saving benefits of homemade PET FOOD

A supermarket's pet food aisle in Brooklyn, New York (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Earlier pets used to live a longer life because they were fed with home cooked food. However, in the last few decades, with the advent of commercial pet food, people found it easy to manage the health of their pet. Choosing convenience overwork is everyone’s tendency. Moreover, it is not harmful, right! The recent pet food recall has made it clear to every pet owner about the adversity that it can bring to your pet’s health. It may even die.

Starting from the year 1995, when owners complained about their pet’s vomiting and thus losing appetite till the recent past in the late 2000’s, pet food industry has been proved to be hazardous. False usage and amalgamation of chemicals in pet’s food led to many diseases in pets such as chronic digestive problems, obesity, kidney diseases, heart disease, urinary tract disease, bloat, dental disease, and hyperthyroidism. 

These diseases are a result of nutrition-free food produced by commercial pet food industry. So, what’s more important for you then? Convenience or little efforts for your four-legged furry companion whom you love! To start taking care of it in the right way, plan to prepare its meal at home. It is as easy as cooking for your whole family. 

All you need to bear in mind is to remember to gather thorough knowledge of the requirements of your pet in terms of the amount of meal, nutrients etc. to be given to it. Different breeds have different needs, plus giving it a wholesome meal is extremely important. Consulting a veterinarian is the best way to go about it or you can use online pet consultation services also. Don’t think more; just avail the benefits of feeding your pet with homemade food providing it a healthy life and long life.

---

---

A DOG'S DIET Influences Oral Health

Charcoal dog biscuit, marketed as Winalot Shapes (a mixture of biscuits). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Your dog is your very best friend.  Every single time you walk through the door your dog is so happy to see you that he wags his tail and practically smiles at you.  How can you show your pet how much they mean to you?  Well, one way is to take care of that smile for your pet.  Did you know that your dog's diet can influence their oral health?

Humans need to brush and floss their teeth regularly to keep their teeth, tongue, and gums in good condition.  Research has recently shown a link between good oral health in humans and a lower risk of heart disease.  If good oral health can have such a profound affect on people, then it only makes sense to consider the impact it can have on man's best friend.

It is important to brush your dog's teeth frequently to keep plaque and tartar from becoming an issue.  Even wiping his gums with a clean, damp cloth can be beneficial.

Your dog's diet also plays a role in your pet's oral health.  Do you typically feed your dog canned or dry dog food?  What kind of treats and toys do you provide for your pet?  All of these things can affect the likelihood of trouble with your pet's teeth.

When your dog's diet is nutritionally sound, containing essential vitamins, nutrients, and enzymes, your pet's oral health will be at its very best.  Feeding dry dog food rather than a moist canned variety is best for your dog.  The tiny kibbles' hard surface rubs against the teeth to remove and reduce plaque.  The simple act of moistening the dry dog food with water or gravy eliminates this property from dry dog food.

The treats you give your pet are part of your dog's diet just like snacks are part of a person's diet.  As humans, we tend to want to overlook our snacking habits, so it can be easy to overlook the treats you give your dog.  This is not a good idea.  Carefully consider any and all items your dog will consume.

Do you give your dog bones, rawhides, jerky treats, or dog biscuits?  Maybe your pet prefers greenies or corn starch chews.  You may not have considered it, but tossing Spot a rawhide chew is like giving him a candy bar.  The rawhide, for example, contains calories and is often provided between meals.

Many of the treats and snacks you provide in your dog's diet can be just empty wasted calories.  Some treats, alternatively, provide excellent opportunity to improve oral health.  Greenies, rawhides, bones, and hard dog biscuits all help to keep tartar at bay.  The softer snacks, such as jerky treats, do not provide much relief from plaque.  The healthy treat, on occasion, will also prevent your dog from having bad breath.

Your dog's diet must be healthy to ensure excellent oral health.  Dry dog food is best whenever possible.  Don't forget to select treats for your pet that will enhance your dog's diet.  Consciously monitoring your dog's diet will positively influence your  best friend's oral health.

---

---

Could A Homemade Diet Be Best for Your DOG?

Pupcakes (dog-food cupcakes) from Sprinkles Cupcakes, Beverly Hills (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A good formula for a homemade diet is one-half cereal, rice, or kibbles, and one-half meat, including its natural fat, with green or yellow vegetables, added from time to time. Since they can be made to measure for each individual dog, these combinations would be ideal if they weren't to much bother. Aside from taking more time and trouble than the other methods, a homemade diet requires a sound knowledge of canine nutrition.

Table scraps are definitely insufficient for modern pets who we want to thrive, not merely survive. They are often the direct cause of obesity and various allied skin disorders too. Dogs with unusually big appetites or with a tendency to obesity will keep their figures if you cut down on the starch and increase the vegetables, to the proportion of one meat, one-fourth kibbles, and one-fourth vegetables. Older dogs may need reduced protein to spare their kidneys the task of nitrogen elimination. 

Build your dogs meals around the foods that are highly recommended for dogs:

Beef: (ground or chopped for puppies in chunks for adult dogs, raw or cooked. Dogs prefer their meat a little tough, and they need the fat found in cheaper cuts).

Lamb and mutton
Chicken
Horse Meat
Beef Hearts and Kidneys
Beef Liver (no more than once a week, as too much or too often causes loose stools.
Eggs, hard-boiled or scrambled (The yolk may be given raw, but not the white, which in its raw state destroys biotin, a useful vitamin in the dogs intestine).
Rice, whole wheat, barley, oats, buckwheat
While wheat biscuits or toast
Carrots (cooked or raw, grated and mixed with his meal, or whole for chewing)
String Beans, spinach (chopped or mashed)
Cottage Cheese (excellent for weaning puppies)
Unfermented natural cheese, such as Swiss and Edam Apples and Pears

On the other hand, certain foods should be considered taboo:

White commercial bread
Cabbage (which causes flatulence and is difficult to digest)
Potatoes (hard to digest and not very nourishing)
Starchy Vegetables, such as dried beans
Spicy dishes and sauces
Uncooked egg white
Processed cheese
Pork (unless it is lean, well cooked, and served infrequently)
Raw fish
Delicatessen meats
Unboned chicken, rabbit and fish
Cake and candy
Alcoholic beverages
Chocolate of any kind

Whichever method you choose for feeding your dog, it is best to stick to it. Once he has become accustomed to a certain diet, he will be upset by any sudden change. The upset is apt to take the form of constipation if you change from prepared products to fresh ones and diarrhea in the opposite case. If a change is needed, make it gradual by mixing the old with the new until his body adapts to the change.

---

---

---

Best DOG FOOD

It's All About Quality Ingredients: Best Food for a Safe and Healthy Dog

CC Wikimedia

Identifying which food is the right fit for your beloved dog can be a daunting task for dog owners! There are thousands of varieties of dog food on the market that may claim to be “premium” and “all natural,” but there are very few regulations on what it takes to meet these qualifications. 

Bad ingredients are rampant in mainstream dog foods and misleading marketing tactics can make it difficult to determine which brands are safest. 

This is why the researchers at Reviews.com poured months into analyzing 2,223 formulas on the market to find the top 13 picks that offer optimal nutrition for our four-legged friends. 

Take a more in-depth look here: http://www.reviews.com/dog-food/

Glucosamine in a DOGS´S DIET

This is Shuskey the Samoyed that lives in sport 2000 in Villeneuve. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

As you stand in the store pondering the plethora of varieties of dog food for your dog's diet, your mind can truly become overwhelmed.  The numerous ingredients in dog food simply complicate things even further.  Who really knows what all of those ingredients really mean?  You see glucosamine on some of the dog food labels.  That sounds a bit familiar.  Haven't you heard of glucosamine in the news?  What exactly is glucosamine and why should it be in your dog's diet?

You have probably heard of glucosamine in the news.  Glucosamine has been beneficial to joint health in humans.  Research has also shown that glucosamine in a dog's diet can be beneficial to your pet's Health.

Glucosamine is a dietary supplement.  Glucosamine has been shown to encourage good joint health.  This supplement helps to maintain good joint cartilage.  Glucosamine is one of the key building blocks to produce joint lubricants.  The joint lubricant helps to keep the joints moving and functioning with ease.  Glucosamine in your dog's diet will ensure your pet's joints work at their peak performance levels for years to come.

How does glucosamine work to help your dog's joints?  Glucosamine hydrates and lubricates your pet's joints.  The added hydration and lubrication will help to prevent arthritis in your dog.  For this reason, glucosamine is a good supplement to your dog's diet.  Pet owners of large breed

Dogs that are predisposed to having joint and hip problems should especially consider adding glucosamine to their dog's diet.

Shellfish is a good source of glucosamine.  Another way to get glucosamine involves a unique process of fermenting corn.  This method to produce glucosamine creates a vegetable-based glucosamine.

Glucosamine is typically safe as part of a healthy and balanced diet.  Your dog's diet should include glucosamine to encourage joint health.  Your pet will not suffer from side effects or interactions with medications when glucosamine is part of your dog's diet.

Today, many high-quality dog foods, manufactured by reputable companies, have already added glucosamine to their food products.  Animal nutrition reports have discovered the benefits of glucosamine in your dog's diet and dog food producers have quickly responded.  If you find that your dog's diet does not contain glucosamine, or you feel your pet could benefit from additional supplementation in the diet, you should have no problem locating glucosamine supplements for your pet.

Glucosamine supplements come in numerous forms.  You can even give your dog a treat specially designed to supplement your dog's diet with glucosamine.  The tasty treat eliminates the trouble of dosing your dog with pills.

Of course, it is always best to talk to your veterinarian about any changes to your dog's diet.  He or she can give you advice about what supplements should be added to your dog's diet and in what quantity.  Ask your vet about the advantages of glucosamine.

As you consider your dog's diet and the ingredients, consider your dog's health.  Glucosamine is often added to high-quality dog food.  Talk to your vet to determine if additional glucosamine supplements would be beneficial in your dog's diet.  Protect your dog's joints by monitoring the amount of glucosamine in your dog's diet.

---

---

---

Related articles

• Make Your Own Healthy Dog Treats

WEIGHT PROBLEMS In Dogs: Is Your Dog Fat?

Photo  by Mr. TGT 

People may not be aware of this, but obesity is one of the greatest problems dogs are dealing with these days. Obesity, like humans, is also caused by excessive eating and unhealthy binges. Mostly, this situation is triggered by some environmental factors that when not controlled may just lead to more problems.

Like humans, dogs develop certain diseases too when they are overweight. These diseases will lead to more serious complications including death. So for people who wish to know the repercussions of obesity in dogs, here are some of the known consequences:

1. Arthritis

Obesity in dogs tends to put extra weight on their bones. In turn, the joints and other parts of the dog’s bones develop arthritis.

Excess weight in dogs may also initiate the development of other muscle and joint problems like spinal disc disease, hip dysplasia, and cracks in the joint ligaments.

2. Diabetes

Like humans, dogs can get diabetes too. We all know for a fact that overweight cause diabetes in humans, this can also happen in dogs. This is because the more fat is stored in the dog’s body, the greater its system will generate insulin in order to cope up with its growing mass. Hence, dogs have the tendency to resist too much insulin in the body. The end result is diabetes.

3. Skin problems

Obesity in dogs can cause some skin problems. This is because excess fat deposits are being stored in their skin; hence, their owners are having a hard time grooming them. When dogs lack proper grooming, there is a tendency to accumulate bacteria, dirt, or other elements that could cause harm to your dog’s skin. In the end, they develop rashes, skin ruptures, and infections.

4. Capacity to tolerate heat

With too much fat deposits accumulated in their skin, dogs are more inclined to problems concerning heat tolerance. This is because dogs find it hard to tolerate heat due to the build-up of fats in their skin. That is why most obese dogs are prone to heat stroke especially during summer time.

5. Respiratory problems and other heart diseases

Like humans, obese dogs have also the tendency to develop respiratory problems and heart diseases. This is because the chest cavity is already covered with thick fat deposits. Hence, whenever the dog breathes, the lungs are having a hard time to expand, so does the heart. The problem starts when the heart and the lungs can no longer produce the right amount of oxygen and circulate it within the dog’s body.

6.  Gastrointestinal problems

Obesity in dogs causes some problems in their intestines and pancreas. This problem results in the inflamed pancreas, which, in reality, is very painful to the dogs and can also cause death among them.

7. Liver problems

Fats are harder to strain and this can pose a great problem to the dog’s liver. Hence, when the liver can no longer function well because of the fat deposits that accumulated in the area, liver problems may occur and may even cause the death of your dogs.

These health problems are indeed life-threatening. And so, it depends upon the owner how to combat these problems in order to keep their dogs healthy.

One of the greatest ways in solving weight problems is a strict exercise schedule. So, it is a must that owners should create a healthy exercise schedule for their dogs. This can be done by tagging them for a walk every afternoon or letting him run through a field.

The best thing about this program is that not only the dogs get the chance to exercise but their owners as well. So, it’s a double result with just one purpose.

Next is to create a healthy diet for your dogs. Diet meals are extremely important for dogs so that they can still obtain the necessary nutrients they need in order to stay healthy. This should include the right combination of fiber, meat, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals.

However, dog owners should always keep in mind that when their dogs are taking fiber, more water should be employed so as to prevent constipation.

Alternatively, dog owners should also remember that before incorporating all of these things to your dog, it’s best to consult the veterinarians first. In this way, only the proper methods of dieting for dogs shall be employed.

So, for healthier and happier dogs, give them the best love and care you can give plus a great dietary regimen. As they say, a healthy dog is a happy dog.

---

---

---

Why Some Dogs Eat HAMBURGERS

A hamburger  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you ask my family or friends, they'll tell you my dog is a carnivore. He'll rip apart anything that's meaty; rib-eye steaks, Angus beef, ground pork, turkey all the meats of the world is my dog's buffet and it's all thanks to me. I love giving my dog meat; anything meaty in my hands, my dog will devour; anything meaty I have for leftovers, my dog will suck it up like a vacuum. It's conclusive that my dog is a carnivore thanks to me. Don't worry, he eats his regular dog food.

As you may know, beef patties are human food. They're used for hamburgers in most fast food restaurants and in barbeque cookouts. Beef patties are made of ground beef and are molded into the shape of patties. There's a heavy consideration to be feeding this to dogs because there are different types of patties that may be harmful to dogs. Some patties are made with preservatives; some patties are made with all-natural ingredients. There's not a single generic type of patty because people make all kinds of patties with a different recipe.

Raw food is what should be given to dogs. While it's just human food, giving dog's raw food is safe. They'll still be able to accumulate the protein from it. Also, tearing and ripping meat will strengthen the teeth of the dog so go for it. Don't be too sure about all patties. Some of them might be already expired. Some patties fed to dogs could cause the dog to vomit or poop out blood in their stool. The reason for this is there might bacteria left in the patty. Unlike humans who may be able to fight off the bacteria with their immune system, the dog's immune system might not be prepared for the bacteria so it will not be able to fend off the bacteria right away.

He suddenly groaned and moaned. I didn't understand at first then all of a sudden, I realized: he wanted the ham. He was sniffing out the ham. I took the ham and out of curiosity. I gave it to him. Miraculously, the Husky ate it. Then I gave him another slice and he ate it. Fast. From then on, I learned that Husky is a meat eater.

Depending on the factors and consideration, you may or may not give your dog patties. Always think about the kind of patty you'll give. If you want to let your dog live a healthy and happy life, always give him the best food that will nurture him without any complications.

About the Author: Lisa Jazmina Our company does medical billing for organizations in the United States. We love dogs and enjoy writing about them as well. Ideal Billing Solutions was founded over 10 years ago and we enjoy helping doctors to get higher returns. Please visit our website atwww.idealbill.com.

---

---