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Dog Health and Nutrition

Dog health and nutrition go hand in hand. Choosing the right diet for your pet is very important. Just because something is packaged nicely or tastes good to you does not necessarily mean that it is good for your dog.
The nutrition your dog gets determines the state of his health and well-being. An optimal diet can mean the difference between barely surviving and thriving.

Every dog is different. Just like with humans dogs may require a different diet than that of the neighbor's diet. Dogs don't come with instructions and directions on how to feed them. This is something that you will have to determine through both trial and error and education in knowing the best choices.

The best place to start in determining your dog's diet plan is to talk with your veterinarian. They have your pet's health as one of their top priorities. They are the expert when it comes to dog health. And who better than someone who has been educated with how your dog's body works. They will set you up with a plan to start out and give you choices as you nail down the best diet plan for your dog.

Research the different brands of dog foods on the market. There are brands that are excellent but not advertised, so you may not have heard of them. Most dog food brands have websites and experts on hand to answer questions. Ask and read about the benefits of any brands you are considering.

There are many different types of dog foods available. Select a type that fits with your dogs age, weight and breed. Puppies have different nutritional needs from an older senior dog - as do active adults versus unactive adults. Pregnant or lactating dogs require special nutrition too.

It's very important when you do decide on a diet - be it commercial dog food or homemade dog food, that you pay special attention to the portions your dog needs daily. Dogs are not like humans where they need three meals a day. Most dogs, especially the smaller ones, will eat considerably less proportionately than the amount we eat. We may be tempted to feed them more thinking they will be hungry. If you over-feed your dog they can become overweight and this will bring a whole new area of health problems.

Never think of table scraps as being healthy. Excellent dog health thrives on good nutrition, and proper nutrition means sticking with a healthy diet. Offer supplements if the veterinarian suggests it. Visit with your vet and discuss the nutrition and health issues. Heed to their advice for the best chances at a healthy life for your pet.







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