The term ‘raw meaty bones’ refers to many types of animal parts and organs with muscle tissue functions, including the heart, poultry gizzards, skin, tongue, stomach tissue, lungs, raw intestine, and throat, tendons, etc. These ingredients are readily available in supermarkets, and they can be a great addition to the usual meats provided to give your dog a more comprehensive level of nutrition.

Raw meaty bones are divided into Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods (BARF), and the other is called Prey Model Raw (PRM). No matter which one you choose, these meats, including bones, liver, and endocrine organs, are raw.

Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods (BARF)

Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods (BARF) is a raw meat diet that conforms to canine biology. This diet consists of 70% meat, 10% bones, 5% liver, 5% endocrine organs, 7% vegetables, 2% nuts and 1% fruit composition. Throughout long-term evolution, dogs have become omnivores for access to many essential nutrients, especially vitamin E. Meat for your dog can be selected from all meat varieties that we consume as humans, which can be particularly handy for those living in cities. 

Prey Model Raw (PRM)

Prey Model Raw (PRM) is a raw bone and meat diet based on predators. According to petfoodsherpa, this diet consists of 80% meat, 10% bone, 5% liver, and 5% endocrine organs. This type strives to restore a dog’s canine ancestors’ natural diet structure as closely as possible. It includes whole birds, hares, other wild animals, furs and feathers, etc., and the choice of species needs to be more abundant. In the United States, dog owners who live in rural areas or have a lifestyle that incorporates hunting habits are more suited for this method.

Why Feed Raw Meaty Bones to Dogs

Many people may believe that being that there are so many dog food choices these days, it’s unnecessary to go to the trouble of providing a raw meaty bones diet. Some veterinarians do not believe that a raw meaty bones diet for dogs is an unacceptable feeding method. There are many perspectives on this topic, and primarily it comes down to personal belief and preference. In this article, we’ll focus on the reasons you may want to consider this diet for your dog.

BARF Ingredient Ratios

70% Meat

Meat is an essential part of a dog’s diet. It provides a daily energy source for the dog and is also rich in various essential amino acids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Duck, turkey, pork, beef, and lamb are all excellent meat choices for dogs. Plus, if your sensibilities as a dog owner permit it, rabbit, quail, venison, etc., can provide them with further beneficial dietary diversity.

10% Raw Bones for Dogs

Raw bones are an essential source of calcium, which plays a significant role in your dog’s health – plus, it can clean their teeth to a certain extent as they chew. Although it only needs to contain 10% bones, this proportion of raw bones for dogs needs to be bones with meat. It can be tricky to ascertain the right proportion of raw bones to provide for your dog when you are new to this diet concept, but take your time to gradually learn and experiment to find the most suitable food habits and needs for your dog.

The legs, wings, necks, claws, and poultry skeletons are all very suitable ingredients for dogs of various body types. Small dogs are better to eat chicken, whereas, for medium dogs, you could choose duck or turkey. For large dogs, choose pig, cow, and sheep ribs and tails. Load-bearing bones, spine bones, and some bones with hard bone density (such as turkey legs) are not suitable for feeding and can easily damage your dog’s teeth. Any cooked and smoked bones are easily broken and are not ideal for feeding your dogs.

The presence of bones in such meats varies and must be considered when deciding which to use. For example, the proportion of bones in chicken feet and duck feet is approximately 50%, the proportion of bones in duck necks is around 60%, and in pig’s tails, it’s about 30%. It is better for older dogs to choose crushed bones, and for dogs who eat big mouthfuls, you should also choose ingredients that are not easily swallowed at once – alternatively, you can freeze the food to slow down your dog’s eating speed to avoid choking while eating.

5% Liver

Liver provides necessary fat-soluble vitamins and minerals. However, the proportion of liver you provide mustn’t exceed 5% of your dog’s food; otherwise, it may lead to excessive intake of vitamin A. For some sensitive dogs, it may be necessary to reduce the proportion and gradually introduce the liver appropriately. Chicken liver, pork liver, beef liver, etc., are very common in supermarkets and at reasonable prices.

5% Endocrine organs

The endocrine organs are also rich in nutrients, and there are many choices, especially in supermarkets where you can find a variety of the visceral tissues you need. Kidney, Spleen, Pancreas, Brain, Thymus, Testicles, Ovaries, etc., are all endocrine organs, and you can choose according to yours and your dog’s preferences.

7% Vegetables

There is no reason to avoid upping your dog’s daily vegetable intake for dogs who love vegetables. But for some picky dogs, it may be tricky to get them to eat any at all. However, the nutrients in vegetables are not provided by meat-only diets, so incorporating vegetables into your dog’s diet must be persevered with.

Vegetables include plant pigments, low GI, and starch. Plant pigments mean that dogs should eat vegetables of various colors, such as peppers, tomatoes (without any stems and leaves), carrots, cucumbers, eggplants, ginger, etc. These different plant pigments are essential to the health of dogs. Low GI vegetables promote low glycemic index and include green leafy vegetables, spinach, kale, etc., and starchy vegetables can provide energy for dogs. Some dogs cannot eat high-fat diets to maintain energy, and in this case, they need to supplement with starchy sweet potatoes, beets, and pumpkins appropriately.

A dog’s digestive system finds it very difficult to digest vegetables. If they are fed directly, they will be excreted directly without digestion. Therefore, you must do some preparatory work when feeding your dog vegetables to aid nutrient absorption. Green leafy vegetables are tough to digest. You can use a wall breaker to make a paste of raw vegetables and store them in the refrigerator. Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes and pumpkins are best steamed before serving.

Because there are different vegetables and your dog only needs to eat a small amount every day, you can make full use of what you can’t eat and prepare that for the dog! Carrot leaves, broccoli stems, and peeled vegetable skins can all be used for your dog.

2% Nuts

Nuts are rich in fat-soluble vitamins and essential fatty acids, and as we humans recognize, these ingredients hardly require any preparation. The easiest nuts and seeds you could buy for your dog are Chia, Ground Flaxseed, and Hemp Hearts, all of which can be added directly to your dog’s meal. 

1% Fruit

Fruits are rich in antioxidants. Although they are not essential foods for dogs, for many, fruits are incredibly delicious snacks. But what owners should remember is that it is not recommended to feed too much fruit to dogs because of the high sugar content. It is recommended to choose fruits with low sugar content such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. It is also important to avoid fruits with pits for obvious reasons.

Feeding Amount of Raw Meaty Bones for Dogs

The ideal amount of raw meaty bones to feed your dog every day is approximately 2% to 3% of body weight, which needs to be adjusted according to the amount of exercise your dog gets. If your dog exercises a lot, raw meaty bones should naturally be fed more. If your dog needs to lose weight, you can also reduce feeding, and if your dog starts to lose weight, you can increase it appropriately. This ratio of raw meaty bones for dogs can only be adjusted accurately after long-term feeding. Each dog’s health requirements are different, and for their owner, these ratios require some trial and error before perfecting.

Extra Fish and Shellfish

Fish and shellfish (such as shrimp) are also a great addition to your dog’s daily diet. Still, because fish typically provides a dog with very simple nutrition and very little energy, it should only be an accompaniment to their daily feed. Fish contains a lot of fatty acids, which can provide healthy skin and hair for dogs. It is recommended to choose sardines, mackerel, herring, etc. The lower the food chain, the less mercury is contained in the fish.

Shellfish are also very important. They can provide essential minerals and other elements for dogs. Mussels and oysters are more suitable for feeding, but it is necessary to remember that they must be shelled and cooked before they can be given. Buying canned boiled oysters at the supermarket is also a good choice. 

The Benefits of Raw Meaty Bones for Dogs 

1. Your dog will be healthier, and anal gland, skin disease, allergy, ear smell, and ear canal diseases will be significantly reduced. Your dog’s feces will also become far less odorous. Simultaneously, raw meaty bones for dogs can considerably reduce the dog’s body odor and breath. 

2. Balance your dog’s bodily energy. Cooked food calms the dog, while the raw meat makes the dog more active than before. 

3. Cooked food frequently causes dental problems. Feeding raw meaty bones will keep your dog’s teeth clean naturally, which can reduce dental diseases. 

4. Raw meaty bones for dogs significantly reduces their chemical intake, such as preservatives in processed dog food. 

5. Long-term feeding of raw meaty bones for dogs will ensure no lack of calcium. 

6. Raw meaty bones for dogs can provide maximum energy, complete vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, yeast, protein, and carbohydrates. After cooking, high temperatures destroy these vitamins, yeast, and antioxidants, cause protein indigestibility and cause the loss of amino acids.

Article written by Author: Elsa Smith

Dogs are creatures of habit and usually prefer to stick with their current food. But sometimes, it’s necessary to disrupt the routine and transition to a new food. Here are some smart strategies for giving your dog a brand new menu without much resistance.

Introduce New Food Gradually 

Gradually introducing new food is the most successful way to ease your dog into a change in diet. Start by mixing 25% of the new food with 75% old food. Slowly change the proportions over three days or so by gradually increasing the amount of new food and decreasing the original food.

Slowly change the proportions over three days or so by gradually increasing the amount of new food and decreasing the original food. At the end of this weaning process, you should be feeding 100% of the new food. You may encounter some difficulties, such as your dog choosing to eat only the old food or not eating at all. Not to worry, a healthy dog can miss meals for a day or two with no ill effects.

Make Your Body Language Positive 

Bringing a new food into your home, placing it into a bowl, and declaring that your dog had better eat it might cause your dog to go on an eating strike. Changing your dog’s diet is not the time to show who the boss is. It is better to introduce the new food to the dog using a pleasant tone of voice. Gently encourage the dog to try new food.

Handling Resistance From Your Dog 

It is essential not to give up too soon! During the initial two-day period, do not give your dog treats or table scraps! Dogs train us as much as we teach them. Giving in to their demands only reinforces refusal behavior and makes it more challenging to make a nutritious dietary change.

Going From Moist To Dry Dog Food 

Switching diets may be more challenging when changing from moist food to dry food. If your dog continues to resist eating dry food, mix a little warm water with the food. You may even want to put the moistened food in the microwave for a few seconds. If you combine the food with water, it is essential to discard the uneaten portion after 20 minutes. Discarding any uneaten food prevents spoilage. The same rule applies to canned food. After the dog has become accustomed to the moistened food, you can wean them onto the dry food. To do this, follow the same mixing instructions outlined above.

Feeding Your Dog For Lifestyle or Life Stage

As you change your dog’s diet, it’s a good time to think about portion sizes. Recommended feeding amounts are shown on every package. The guidelines are general suggestions for the amount of food you should feed your dog. Every dog is different and does not require the same amount of food. Your dog’s activity level and individual metabolic makeup are the determining factors. Start with the amount given in the feeding guidelines, add or subtract food, and observe your dog’s eating habits and weight.

When changing your dog’s diet, it is also an excellent time to review your current feeding method to make sure it is still appropriate for your dog’s new diet. One feeding option is called Portion-Controlled Feeding. To do this, divide the daily amount and feed at specific time intervals. It is essential to remove all remaining food after 15 to 20 minutes. This practice establishes a pattern for your dog to follow. The portion-controlled feeding method is recommended for giant and large breeds and also for overweight dogs. Portion-controlled Feeding is also a suitable method for dogs with special needs.

Another option is called Free-Choice Feeding. Free-Choice Feeding requires feeding the daily amount at one time and allowing your dog to eat at its own pace. This method is recommended for use only with dry foods. Remember, dogs eat to meet their energy 

requirements. Most dogs will quickly define their daily portions when eating free choice.

What Every Dog Needs

Regardless of which food you choose to feed, your dog must have plenty of fresh, clean water available at all times. Place the water three to five feet from the food. Keeping the bowls separate will help prevent your dog from gulping water and air in addition to food. Dogs need a routine. Feeding at the same time and place every day establishes a comfortable eating pattern.

And remember, your dog needs to visit the veterinarian regularly. Regular visits help to keep your dog happy and healthy!

Article written by Author: Mary Kirkland

A fast-growing, toy-chasing puppy has different nutritional needs than a slumber-loving, slow-trotting older dog. Feeding your three-month-old meals meant for its elders could mean your puppy’s not getting the right amount of calories or nutrition. When the problem is reversed, older dogs could consume too many calories, leading to plump pooches. According to the National Academies’ National Research Council, an obesity epidemic now exists among dogs and cats, so we need to better match foods to our pets’ needs.

Keep in mind that your dog will have different nutritional requirements at various stages within its lifetime. 

Given these fluctuating requirements, how can you best meet your best canine friend’s breed- and stage-specific nutritional needs? Here, The Dog Daily asks veterinarian Trisha Joyce, DVM, of New York City Veterinary Specialists, to answer the most crucial food-related doggie dilemmas.

Puppies need more calories than adult dogs.

TRUE 

Puppies grow rapidly, especially in the first months, and this requires the higher caloric intake of specially formulated puppy food,” says Dr. Joyce. A diet with antioxidants like Vitamin E also helps to support the developing immune system’s health and may improve your little love’s response to vaccinations.

Puppies are puppies. Large and small breeds can safely eat the same food.

FALSE 

“All puppy diets support growth,” says Dr. Joyce. “However, breed size does matter.” While small breed dogs can safely grow very quickly, the same is not valid for large breed dogs. “To prevent orthopedic issues (such as disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints, and ligaments), we try to slow down their growth.” To feed small-breed puppy food to a large breed puppy is to put it at risk for hip dysplasia, a gradual loosening of the hip joint that can ultimately be crippling, and other malformation problems. Joint protective agents can be important for large-breed little ones.

The Biggest health issue for today’s adult dogs is obesity.

TRUE 

“The food choices you make for your middle-aged dog largely have to do with whether or not it’s overweight,” says Dr. Joyce. “Owners should always be thinking about preventing obesity, and weight-control formulas can help with this.” Your veterinarian can monitor your dog’s weight, but you can also keep an eye on your canine’s physique. You should feel your dog’s spine and ribs and see a noticeable waist between the rib cage and hips from above.

Once puppyhood ends, large and small breeds can eat the same foods for optimal health.

FALSE 

Large-breed dogs should be fed a large-breed diet, says Dr. Joyce. For large-breed dogs, a diet that includes cartilage building-blocks, like glucosamine, can help maintain healthy joints and cartilage.

Male and female dogs have different nutritional needs.

FALSE 

“This is false, with one exception,” says Dr. Joyce. “Pregnant and lactating females need more calories.” You can provide this extra energy by feeding your pregnant or nursing dog puppy chow. However, make sure it’s small-breed puppy chow, whether or not your dog is small. It is higher in calories than the large-breed puppy equivalent.

Senior-specific diets should be fed after a dog reaches the decade mark.

FALSE 

“I’m a broken record, but it depends on the breed,” says Dr. Joyce. Veterinarians generally say that dogs in the last third of life are seniors. Larger breeds tend to have shorter life spans, so they may be considered seniors as early as six years old, while smaller dogs are not considered seniors until 10. New research also shows that a higher-protein diet can also be beneficial for senior dogs. Your veterinarian can tell you whether it’s time to start Rover on a senior meal plan.

You can prevent older dogs’ common health problems by feeding your dog an issue-specific diet — like food for dogs with kidney problems — before your dog is diagnosed.

FALSE 

“You shouldn’t feed a health-specific diet until a condition has been diagnosed,” says Dr. Joyce. Preventative diets focus on a dog’s general health, weight, and joint health, rather than specific conditions. That being said, weight-control and joint-health formulas are generally safe for older dogs. There are many mature foods on the market. Again, breed size should be a consideration in choosing these meal plans.

Though canine health food information may be harder to come by than the human variety, what you learn can go a long way toward helping your pet. With just a bit of dog food nutritional savvy, feeding your canine companion for optimal health is as easy as scooping out a serving of dog chow.

How Do You Know If Your Dog Chow Meets Your Dog’s Daily Nutritional Needs? 

Your dog can’t exactly take a taste test or raise a paw and tell you if he’s not getting his recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals.

As a dog owner, you can try to assess your dog’s health by behavior, activity level, outward appearance, and the consistency of your pet’s stool. You can also read pet food labels and opt for foods that meet or exceed pet food industry standards. But canine nutritional experts say there is a lot more you can learn. Take the quiz to find out.

1. What is the optimal amount of protein your dog’s food should contain?

A. 18 percent

B. 24-30 percent

C. 50 percent or higher

Answer: B

Protein is an important dog food ingredient because it helps your pup maintain lean body mass, bone integrity, and enzymatic system. Canine nutritional standards — established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials(AAFCO), the organization that sets pet food industry standards — require that dog foods contain a minimum of 18 percent protein for adults and 22 percent for puppies. But a growing number of pet foods exceed those minimum standards today, arguing that contents of 20, 30, 40, or even 50 percent protein make the food more evolutionarily sound since, in the wild, canines would eat more meat. Joseph Wakshlag, DVM, a clinical nutrition professor at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, doesn’t completely buy that argument. Many of the dog breeds people keep domestically are a far cry from their wild ancestors. The AAFCO minimum is “adequate,” says Dr. Wakshlag, but he advises feeding dogs food that contains “somewhere between 24 and 30 percent protein.”

2. Are all added fats and oils created equal?

A. Yes, fat is fat

B. Mineral and vegetable oils are better than animal fats

C. Fish oil can help add needed omega-three fatty acids

Answer: C

Added oils and fats can help keep your dog’s coat shiny and reduce flakiness and dryness to the skin underneath. Most foods add some animal fats for taste and vegetable fats from grains. The addition of fish oil can help balance out the fatty acids in your dog’s diet, says Dr. Wakshlag. The reason is that the industrial revolution has created a very grain-based world, not only for humans but also for our pets. Grains added to most commercial pet food provide our dogs with their necessary omega-six fatty acids. Still, they need additional omega 3s to better achieve a more natural balance to their diet, according to Dr. Wakshlag. Omega 3s also have potential health benefits aside from coat and skin health in that they may be able to help dampen chronic immune problems in your dog.

3. Should you supplement your dog’s food with table scraps?

A. Yes, add scraps to your kibble at every meal

B. A few pizza crusts or bits of protein per day can’t hurt

C. No, table scraps can lead to obesity and throw off the nutritional balance of prepared dog foods

Answer: C

Most foods that meet AAFCO nutritional standards don’t need to be supplemented, says Bonnie Beaver, DVM, past president of the American Veterinary Medicine Association and a veterinary medicine professor at Texas A&M University. “We can unbalance a diet by adding to it,” Dr. Beaver says. “The big problem we run into is obesity.” A good test to determine whether or not your dog is overweight is to see if you can feel its ribs through the coat without an effort. If you can’t, your dog may be overweight. However, if you can see the ribs, your pet might be too thin.

4. Should I look for a source of glucosamine in my dog’s food?

A. Yes, glucosamine may help keep joints healthy

B. No, this is just another myth

Answer: A

Glucosamine can be found in several dog food ingredients, such as poultry and meat products. This substance helps protect and maintain cartilage, which safeguards your dog’s joints and bones. Throughout your pup’s lifetime, your dog will naturally wear down some of this cartilage. Glucosamine can help prevent cartilage degeneration, Dr. Wakshlag says.

5. Are antioxidants, like vitamin E and beta-carotene, essential to boost immune system health? 

A. Yes

B. No

Answer: A

Antioxidants are naturally occurring nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. They’ve proven to benefit dogs in slowing the aging process, improving immune responses, and 

helping vaccines work. Antioxidants include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and compounds such as beta-carotene. Dog food ingredients such as tomatoes, spinach, peas, and carrots all contain antioxidants.

Ultimately, you may have to rely on your dog to communicate to you whether it is getting its nutrients. The best way to determine if your dog’s food is appropriate is to look at your dog, says Lisa Peterson, communications director for the American Kennel Club. “A shiny, healthy coat, clear eyes, pink gums, and ideal weight are all signs that speak louder than words.”

Article written by Author: Darcy Lockman and Elizabeth Wasserman

The best evidence that you’ve chosen the right dog food is your dog itself. Your dog’s inward and outward appearance is tangible, visible proof that you’re dishing up food that meets its nutritional needs.

While other factors can also affect your dog’s health and behavior, making sure your dog eats appropriately is fundamental to its well-being. Fortunately, there are several ways your dog reflects your food choice, say experts. 

Here Are Seven Signs Your Dog Is Thriving On Well-Balanced, Nutritious Dog Food:

1. A Shiny Coat and Healthy Skin 

If your dog has a dull, dry, and brittle coat with flaking skin, diet could be to blame, says Dr. Bart Iaia, DVM, who practices in Renton, Wash. Look for omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in dog food, says Dr. Iaia. Your pet needs these essential fats. Flaky skin could be a sign of a zinc deficiency, a problem with home-cooked diets.

2. A Healthy Digestive System 

Poop is more than the stuff you, ever the responsible dog owner, scoop regularly. Poop matters, say Dr. Iaia and Dr. Laird Goodman, DVM, a Beaverton, Ore., veterinarian who is on the board of directors for the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association. “You want good stools — firm, but not dry, and not loose,” advises Dr. Goodman. Note how often your dog poops as well, says Dr. Iaia. If your dog poops more than twice a day, that’s an indication your dog’s food might not contain enough protein in forms it can use. You can be reassured if your dog’s food has “complete and balanced” on the label.

3. A Resilient Immune System 

Vitamin E and antioxidants will help your dog stave off illness, building its immune system, says Dr. Iaia. Veterinary research has found that a diet rich in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, improves immune system responses. A robust immune system is vital as your dog ages since a dog’s ability to fight illnesses weakens as it grows older.

4. Strong Bones and Joints 

Calcium and vitamin D make for healthy bones in your dog, just as they do for you. Dog owners who feed their dog meat, rather than a well-balanced commercial food, run the risk of their pet suffering soft bones, resulting in fractures, experts say. Well-balanced dog food will include all such essential nutrients.

A veterinarian can use X-rays to evaluate your dog’s bone density if a problem is suspected, says Dr. Korinn E. Saker. Dr. Saker is a DVM, Ph.D., a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, and a clinical nutritionist at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. X-rays can also detect hairline fractures and other “less obvious” health problems caused by poor nutrition, such as urinary tract stones, adds Dr. Saker.

5. Healthy Teeth and Gums 

Your dog’s teeth should be firm and white, with healthy, pink gums covering the roots. If you notice a reddening of the gums, a buildup of tartar on the teeth, or bad breath, it can indicate dental problems, says Dr. Iaia. Some dry foods and dog treats are designed to slow any dental disease progress, so look for products that specifically mention dental care or tartar-fighting properties.

6. Strong Muscles 

Hourglass figures aren’t just for movie stars. Your dog should maintain good muscle tone, with an hourglass shape when viewed from above, says Dr. Saker. “Obese dogs have lost the tucked-up appearance just after the ribcage when viewed from the side,” she says. You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs but not see them. If your dog is eating a lot but looks too thin, you’re probably not feeding high-quality dog food, says Dr. Iaia.

7. A Healthy Heart 

A well-balanced, complete dog food will include protein, calcium, amino acids, fatty acids, potassium, and sodium to promote heart health. Your veterinarian can evaluate 

your dog’s heart health through regular checkups, and if needed, blood work.

Seven could be your dog’s lucky number in its future health if it exhibits these positive signs. Dr. Goodman advises that you avoid feeding your dog table scrap handouts and too many treat snacks. Instead, stick to a quality diet that both you and your dog can count on. And don’t be afraid to discuss the matter with your veterinarian, who may be able to provide additional nutrition-related advice. Dr. Goodman suggests, “Take the label from your food to the veterinarian to have a better understanding of what you’re providing your dog.”

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman

Glucosamine and chondroitin boost joint health; dental care additives reduce tartar buildup, L-carnitine helps metabolize fat, and a higher amount of antioxidants support a healthy immune system, says veterinary technician Jennifer Taylor. Dr. Amy Dicke, an Ohio-based veterinarian, shares more information about these and other ingredients.

1. Two Fibers Are Better Than One

Your dog needs fiber to clean out its system and promote a healthy digestive tract. Some dog foods now include a one-two fiber punch, doubling up on ingredients rich in fiber.

Look for beet pulp and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) on the ingredients list of dog foods. “Beet pulp, a moderately fermentable fiber, releases short-chain fatty acids, which are used as energy by the intestinal cells, thereby boosting their capability to absorb nutrients,” says Dicke. FOS, on the other hand, “selectively feeds the beneficial bacteria and promotes balance in the digestive tract,” she adds.

2. Antioxidants

Antioxidants help to prevent oxidation, a process that forms “free radicals” in the body. Free radicals are rogue oxygen molecules that can dangerously react with other molecules, leading to health problems. The same process may happen to your dog and other mammals.

As a result, some dog foods now contain antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene, the natural component that adds color to many vegetables. These antioxidants have been shown to improve immune function in dogs and cats, says Dicke. “A strong immune system is important in fighting and protecting against disease and invaders, such as bacteria and viruses,” she says.

3. Glucosamine and Chondroitin

The dynamic duo of glucosamine and chondroitin has eased arthritis patients’ minds because they play an essential role in nourishing and supporting joint health. These components occur naturally in your joints and the joints of dogs and other mammals.

4. Dental Care Formula

While nothing can substitute for regular dental cleanings and exams at your veterinarian’s office, what you feed your dog can help to prevent the formation of tartar. “Tartar is a hard, yellow-brown accumulation of minerals, which can cause gum regression, gum inflammation, and loss of teeth,” says Dicke.

Studies show that feeding your dog a food with a daily dental care formula can result in an impressive 55 percent reduction in tartar buildup.

5. L-carnitine

L-carnitine is a naturally occurring vitamin-like compound that plays a vital role in the metabolism of fat. Dicke explains that L-carnitine helps dogs and cats gain a desired body composition by promoting weight and fat loss while maintaining lean body tissue.

6. Prebiotics

A prebiotic, such as FOS, is a fiber. The enzymes in your dog’s digestive tract do not digest it. “Instead, the bacteria in the intestinal tract break the fiber down and use it for food,” says Dicke. “What makes a prebiotic different from other fibers is that it feeds, or supports, the good bacteria — not the bad — helping the good bacteria to grow.”

7. Natural, High-Quality Ingredients

The final enhancements are natural, high-quality ingredients. Sometimes what’s not included in dog food is just as important as what is on the ingredients list. In this case, you should look for dog foods that do not contain any added fillers, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Given the nutritional and medical benefits of the above ingredients in dog foods on the market today, you can rest easy knowing you are feeding your dog some of the best food available.

Article written by Author: The Dog Daily Expert

Some commercial natural dog foods include more ingredients from the same food groups that people serve on the family dinner table. These groups have meats and other proteins and grains for carbohydrates, healthy fats for omega fatty acids, and vegetables and fruits for fiber.

“It may not be exactly how humans look at nutrition in terms of the food pyramid, but the four essential food groups that I think can apply to dogs and cats are; proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and fibers,” says Dr. Amy Dicke. Dr. Dicke is a Dayton, Ohio-based veterinarian who has worked with teams of nutritionists and researchers.

Key Ingredient Groups In Dog Food

As far as the family pets go, dogs and cats have very different nutritional requirements. “Dogs are much more along the lines of people in that they’re omnivores. They do well with a balanced diet with carbohydrates, fiber sources, and protein all mixed,” says Dr. Katy J. Nelson, an emergency veterinarian in Alexandria, Va., who has worked on dog nutrition. 

Here are the main ingredient groups to look for in quality natural dog foods:

1. Proteins 

At least one protein source should always be in a top spot on the ingredient label of dog food to meet regulatory standards from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for a “complete and balanced” food for your dog. High-quality protein sources can include chicken, beef, lamb, and other meats, poultry, or fish. Also, by-products or meal from protein sources — such as chicken by-products or chicken meal — are also good sources of protein, says Dr. Joseph Wakshlag, assistant professor of clinical nutrition at the Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine. “Just because you don’t like eating liver or think hearts are yucky doesn’t mean that by-products aren’t good-quality sources of protein,” he says. Organ meats are something that dogs would eat in the wild.

Protein helps to maintain muscle mass, which shows up in a dog’s posture. Dogs require the animal protein found in meats and meat by-products — including blood, internal organs, and bones, which are what dogs in the wild consumed. To evaluate whether a food has a high-quality protein source, consult your veterinarian or breeder.

“The first thing listed on the ingredient label of a dog’s food should be an animal protein,” says Dr. Nelson. The label should specify which animal the protein comes from, such as chicken or beef; the protein descriptor can be followed by the words “meal” or “by-product.”

2. Carbohydrates 

For active dogs, carbohydrates can provide long and short bursts of energy, aid in digestion, and promote nutrient absorption. Good sources of carbohydrates include whole-grain sorghum, whole-grain barley, cornmeal, and rice, says Nelson. “Rice is good if you have an active dog that needs a short, quick burst of energy, but you need to have a backup carb source for your dog as well, or else once that wears off, your dog will be hungry again,” she adds. With its high glycemic index, rice provides a quick glucose and insulin spike that may be beneficial to working dogs, but a secondary carb source, which extends the energy curve, is useful for the run-of-the-mill house dog.

“As we all know from eating Chinese food and being hungry again two hours later, white rice causes a quick energy boost followed by a crash,” says Dr. Nelson. She recommends a food containing not only rice but also corn, barley, or sorghum. These ingredients have more moderate glycemic values that provide extended energy to keep your dog satiated all day.

3. Fatty Acids

According to Dicke, ingredients such as chicken fat and/or fish oil help your dog get critical fatty acids, like omega-3s and omega-6s. Fats can help a pup maintain skin and coat health, but fatty acids are vital in the brain and spinal cord function. “There has been documented evidence, especially among puppies, that having a diet higher in omega-3 DHA increases their ability to be trained,” says Dicke.

Together, omega-6s and omega-3s can help make the coat shiny and control inflammatory skin conditions that lead a dog to scratch and lick itself excessively. “You can tell a lot about a person’s health by looking at hair and skin, and dogs are no different,” says Dr. Nelson. “Skin and coat health are windows into what’s going on inside a dog. If they’re losing hair or have clogged pores, it may be a clue that something is lacking in their diet.”

4. Fiber 

Fruits and vegetables, as well as other natural fiber sources, can help dogs maintain proper digestion. Ingredients such as apple and beet pulp combined with some grains and prebiotics like fructooligosaccharides (FOS) in premium foods can help your dog remain regular, says Dicke.

Scientific studies are also starting to support the benefits of adding some vegetables to your dog’s food. Researchers at Purdue University’s School of Veterinary Medicine found a 2005 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.  That study showed that when Scottish Terriers were fed vegetables at least three times per week, they had a lower incidence of developing a deadly type of bladder cancer called transitional cell carcinoma.

A protein is only as good as its digestibility. A dog requires a fiber that helps it to digest and thereby absorb the nutrients in its food. The fiber source also needs to help the dog remove waste from its intestines. Dr. Nelson recommends a food containing beet pulp (the substance that remains after sugar beets are pressed) because it doesn’t produce much gas and is moderately digestible, thus encouraging nutrient absorption.

Vitamins and Minerals

Of course, mammals do not live on protein, fiber, and carbohydrates alone; they also require vitamins and minerals to look and feel their best. Vitamin A is an antioxidant that squashes free radicals and gives your dog a healthy glow. Vitamin E works similarly while also promoting the strength of the nail and hair cuticle. Copper further aids in the absorption of nutrients crucial to your pet’s appearance and overall health.

Dr. Nelson suggests checking the ingredients label on dog food bags to ensure they contain all of them. You can even visually detect if your dog is getting adequate nutrition. “When you see a dog on high-quality food, you recognize it immediately,” she says. “Balanced nutrition shows up outwardly.”

Before making any dietary changes for your dog, always talk to your veterinarian. “There are a lot of great foods out on the market, but some may not be great for your particular dog,” says Nelson. “Before you change the protein source or carbohydrate source, call your veterinarian and say, ‘I’m thinking of doing this. Is it good food? Is it OK for my particular pet?'”

Article written by Author: Elizabeth Wasserman and Darcy Lockman

In the not-so-distant past, there were two dog food options: puppy chow and everything else. Now, dog owners have more choices. Different foods for puppies, adult dogs, and the senior set have been in stores for a while. Newer to the market are foods geared to meet dogs’ requirements based on size, sensitivities to digestive ailments, skin issues, weight, and activity level.

Dogs That Benefit from Formulated Foods

Does the average dog need these new dog foods? “No, but they have been a godsend to owners with dogs that have certain problems or requirements,” says Dr. Bonnie Beaver, past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association and a Veterinary Professor at Texas A&M University. “It’s been beneficial to give good quality nutrition and meet the health needs of these animals.”

A Checklist for Dog Nutritional Needs

To determine which dog food is right for your pet, experts say you should talk to your dog’s veterinarian and consider the following:

• Age 

Older dogs tend to burn fewer calories than puppies, and normal adult dogs do. Therefore, nutritional needs differ based on age, says Dr. Katy J. Nelson, an emergency veterinarian in Alexandria, Va., who has worked on pet nutrition issues. In general, dogs are divided into the following age groups: puppies (0 to 12 months), adult dogs (1 to 7 years), and senior canines (7 years and older).

• Size of Breed 

Smaller breeds often eat less, but they frequently need more dietary fat to maintain a high energy level, as do larger dogs. Dogs are generally defined as small (1 to 20 pounds), medium (20 to 50 pounds), large (51 to 100 pounds), and giant (100 pounds and up).

•  Weight Issues 

Overweight dogs tend to develop a variety of problems, such as joint disease, a higher risk of cancer, and gastrointestinal issues, in addition to having a shorter life expectancy. To determine if your pup is overweight, Beaver suggests feeling its ribs. If you push through too much fat and cannot feel them easily, your dog could be overweight. Foods for overweight dogs often contain L-carnitine, a nutrient that helps the body turn fat into energy.

• Activity Level 

Dogs that get lengthy walks or do more strenuous exercise will burn more calories than couch potatoes, so you want food that promotes good digestion and properly energizes your pet.

• Pregnant/nursing/neutered dogs 

Dogs that are pregnant or nursing may need a higher caloric intake than other adult dogs. Dogs that have been spayed or neutered have lower energy requirements and metabolic needs. According to Nelson, “maintaining those sex organs takes a lot of the body’s energy and slows down a whole lot of processes.”

• Unique Issues for Your Dog

Healthy digestion may be maintained by feeding your dog food containing prebiotics, stimulating the growth of “good” bacteria in the gut. Dog foods that reduce tartar buildup can help your pup maintain healthier teeth. Dry, flaky skin may be alleviated by foods that contain essential fatty acids. To prevent joint and mobility issues, try foods containing glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and fish oil. Meanwhile, dog foods with novel proteins and carbohydrates are also available for canines.

Article written by Author: Elizabeth Wasserman

Mother’s milk may be the gold standard for newborn dogs, but when they wean at around 3 to 4 weeks of age, a new gold standard is required: a high-quality commercial puppy food. Luckily, it’s not hard to find one to feed your puppy.  So what do you feed a puppy?

When Daisy Lehman of Cleveland brought home her Pug puppy last summer, it was with explicit feeding instructions from the breeder. “He told me to transition slowly from the food he’d been giving her to the puppy formula I was planning to give her,” says Lehman. The advice was sound, but Lehman was still not sure what this new puppy food should be.

“The pet food companies do a remarkable job with products that address overall nutrition,” says Dr. James Cook, a veterinarian, and professor at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. “The science that goes into commercial dog food these days is comprehensive. It’s great as a veterinarian because it makes advising clients about food easy.” Read on to learn what other docs have to say about how to feed a puppy for growth.

What Should You Feed a Puppy?

“Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and senior dogs,” says Dr. Katy Nelson, DVM, a Virginia-based emergency veterinarian. “They need food specifically formulated for young dogs. They also have size-specific needs.” Small breeds need more protein and calories. Large-breed puppies must have less of both to avoid joint and bone problems as they grow. Below, Nelson offers more advice on what you should look for when choosing a commercial puppy formula to feed your puppy.

While breed size is an important food factor at every stage of life, it may be the most important during puppyhood, when proper nutrition sets future health. “All puppy diets support growth, but breed size matters a lot,” explains Dr. Trisha Joyce, DVM, of New York City Veterinary Specialists. “Small- and medium-breed dogs can safely grow very quickly, while the same is not true for large- and giant-breed dogs.” She adds, “To prevent orthopedic issues, such as disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints and ligaments, we try to slow down their growth.”

To feed small- or medium-breed food to a large-breed puppy could put the puppy at risk for malformations, such as hip dysplasia, a gradual loosening of the hip joint that can ultimately be crippling. Large-breed puppy formulas are a bit lower in calories and calcium, helping to prevent unhealthy growth spurts.

Introducing Solid Food to Feed Your Puppy

When puppies begin to wean at 3 or 4 weeks, they’ll consume both mother’s milk (or a milk replacement) and solid food, which should be mixed with water and initially provided once or twice daily. “Mix water with puppy formula to make gruel,” says Dr. Amy Dicke, a technical services veterinarian with Procter & Gamble. “Typically, more food will end up on them than in them. Slowly, they’ll make progress, and by five weeks, they’ll be eating more skillfully. 

What Can I Feed My Eight Week Old Puppy?

From around five weeks, slowly decrease the water as the puppy adjusts to eating kibble. By eight weeks, they should be ready for weaning and dry food consumption.”

The Key Ingredients For Your Puppies Diet

• High-Quality Protein 

Protein helps puppies maintain skin and coat health and lean muscle mass, but the jury is still out on what constitutes “high quality.  Nelson says that egg and chicken are the ideal protein sources to feed a puppy, followed by other meats and byproducts. “Puppies need a good-quality protein source, whether human-grade or directly below,” says Nelson. “There’s a bad feeling about byproduct meal in the world, but as long as it’s quality refined, it’s not bad. Skin, liver, and spleen are nutritious.”  

• Vitamins and Nutrients 

Like human infants, puppies have specific nutrient requirements. Calcium and phosphorus need to be in proper balance, so that bone development is healthy. The same is true for amino acids and vitamins. “The proper ratio is key,” says Nelson. Look for a commercial food that has been certified “complete and balanced” by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), the FDA of pet foods. 

Following her own veterinarian’s advice, similar to Dr. Nelson’s, Daisy Lehman ultimately chose for her Pug’s first year a complete and balanced puppy food formulated especially for toy breeds. She’s happy to report that her flat-faced friend has grown into an energetic and healthy pooch that’s now nearing doggie adulthood.

• Beet Pulp and Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) 

These fermentable fibers help to keep the digestive tract healthy. Beet pulp and Fructooligosaccharide (FOS) are moderately fermentable, which means they enhance nutrient absorption while also helping the puppy remove waste.

• Antioxidants 

These substances are thought to protect cells against the effects of disease-causing free radicals. These free radicals are produced when food is broken down, and when there is environmental exposure to toxins. Free radicals likely play a role in diseases like heart disease and cancer, among others. Puppies who take in antioxidants through food are thought to be less likely to have growth abnormalities and are generally healthier in the long run.

• Prebiotics

Prebiotics are non-digestible ingredients (oligosaccharides) that work in the digestive system to help good bacteria thrive. This is important because good bacteria help with digestion. Without them, the body loses nutrients and ends up with gastrointestinal tract irregularity. “We see it all the time in dogs, particularly puppies, because their immune systems aren’t sturdy,” says Dr. Nelson.

Prebiotics are especially crucial in pups because they are naturally nervous critters. Events like thunderstorms, vacuuming, or mom and dad going out of town cause quite a lot of stress. Stress leads to the release of cortisol, which changes bacteria in the system – prebiotics help to balance out your puppy’s system, promoting the good bacteria over the bad.

• Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids 

While proper training is essential in teaching your dog good manners, diet also plays a critical role in your puppy’s development. If you want a smart and healthy puppy, the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential component of your dog’s diet. Fish and vegetable oils rich in omega-3 and omega-6 and fatty acids may help you succeed.  Numerous studies show that when pregnant and nursing mothers take DHA, their puppies are more trainable. “It’s brain food,” says Dr. Nelson. These fatty acids also keep skin and coat healthy and benefit the joints and GI tracts by reducing inflammation. “They help with all body systems. I don’t think we’ve reached the tip of the iceberg in understanding their benefits,” adds Nelson.

DHA’s Essential Role For Your Puppy

DHA is a major structural component in the brains of all mammals, explains Dr. Amy Dicke, a technical services veterinarian with Iams. “Healthy brains are about 60 percent structural fat, and 30 percent of the fat in gray matter is DHA, the most abundant fatty acid in the brain,” says Dicke.

Just like a human baby, your puppy’s brain develops after birth. “Puppies have acquired only 70 percent of their adult brain mass by six weeks of age, and 90 percent by 12 weeks,” notes Dicke.

Pregnant dogs pass DHA to their unborn pups, aiding in their development. Dr. Tracy Dewhirst, a Knoxville, Tenn., veterinarian, recommends feeding puppy food that contains DHA to the mother during the last two weeks of gestation and then until the puppies are weaned.

Research shows that puppies fed high levels of DHA are easier to train than puppies with low DHA levels. The study highlighted a significant statistical difference, notes Dr. Nelson. “The puppies were given the same amount of training, the same interaction each day and were of the same breed and line,” adds Nelson.

What Are the Benefits of Feeding a Puppy a Commercial Food Containing DHA?

Feeding your puppy a commercial food containing DHA can promote:

• Better Socialization

Your pup is likely to adjust better to your home environment and your family.

• Faster Learning of New Skills

You’re more likely to be able to teach your furry friend new concepts and obedience challenges quickly.

• Less Destructive Behavior

Your pup is less likely to engage in the sorts of behavior that cause stress for you and your household.

Other Benefits of DHA For Your Puppy

Your puppy needs DHA for proper development in other areas as well. For instance, the omega-3 fatty acid is essential in developing your dog’s central nervous system and eyes.

“Omega-3s are also potent anti-inflammatory agents within the body,” says Nelson. “They help with inflammation in joints, gums, skin, the GI tract, and more. A dog fed a diet high in DHA is very likely to have a shiny coat, healthy teeth and gums, and normal stools.”

The Source of DHA For Your Puppies Diet

In commercial dog food, fish, fish-meal, and fish oil are sources of DHA. It’s difficult for dog owners to provide appropriate DHA levels and the right combination of essential fatty acids through homemade diets or the use of supplements. “Homemade diets have proved to be nutritionally deficient in most cases,” explains Dewhirst, “unless formulated by a veterinary nutritionist — especially for the percentage of protein, vitamins, and essential fatty acids.”

Feed your pet right from weaning and into adulthood (one year, in dog time), and you’ll ensure it has a healthy foundation to grow on.

Article written by Author: Darcy Lockman, Kim Boatman, Rose Springer, and The Dog Daily Expert