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

I recently noticed my dogs reacting differently to their breakfast each morning, even though I continued to feed them the same flavor of chow from the same manufacturer. The brand and label didn’t change, and yet some mornings, my dogs gobbled up everything in a flash, while other days, they were less enthusiastic, looking at me as if they were thinking, “The chef must have had an off day.”

This change in reaction led me to wonder if some manufacturers varied what they put in their pet food. After investigating the issue, I discovered there are “fixed” formulas and “least-cost” formulas. A least-cost formula means that dog food recipes may fluctuate with the cost.

“The least-cost formulation could certainly explain the finickiness of many animals,” says Katy Nelson, DVM, a Virginia-based emergency veterinarian.

Least-Cost Formula Dog Food

Nelson likens the practice to human food preparations. “Usually, the things that cost the most are the most desirable, like filet mignon. So if a company is scrimping on the cost of the food, they’re likely to leave out or decrease the level of something that would greatly enhance the palatability, as it is likely to cost the most to add.”

Rebecca Rose, CVT, and a career advisor for the Colorado Association of Certified Veterinary Technicians, suggests the lousy economy and a desire for more significant profit could be to blame. “As with many companies around the world, [some pet food manufacturers] are pinching pennies and cutting their overhead or decreasing their services,” Rose explains. “When it comes to pet owners and pet foods, it’s buyer beware! Companies may be cutting costs, decreasing the percentage of quality ingredients even in pet foods.”

Fixed-Formula Dog Food

In contrast, fixed-formula dog food has a “stable ingredient profile.” This stability means the recipes don’t fluctuate with the cost of the ingredients. The proportions of those ingredients remain the same regardless of price.

“Reputable, quality pet foods will post their percentages, meet federal regulations and provide consistent delivery of a safe product,” Rose says. Both she and Nelson emphasize the importance of a company’s adherence to the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) requirements. Nelson explains that AAFCO requires a company to put on its labels a “Guaranteed Analysis” of ingredients, meaning that any sample of the food must, at minimum, have the guaranteed levels of vitamins, minerals, and more.

Ingredients must also be listed on the dog food label in the order of most to least amount included. “So if you pick up a bag of pet food and you see a vegetable-based protein (glutens) in the top few ingredients, it’s time to keep moving down the aisle!” Nelson advises.

Benefits of Fixed-Formula Dog Food

Aside from making mealtimes more pleasurable for your pet, feeding a fixed-formula food offers your dog numerous benefits:

• Nutritional Consistency 

Your dog will always receive the same level of nutrition.

• Flavor Constancy 

The odor, taste, and appearance of the food remain the same.

• Value For Money

With fixed-formula dog food, you get what you pay for instead of hidden fillers that may offer little nutrition to your pet.

• Trust 

When a manufacturer adheres to a fixed-formula policy, you can trust that it values your dog’s health and safety, even over monetary considerations. So when the economy takes a nosedive, you don’t have to worry about what you’re feeding your dog.

In the long run, choosing a fixed-formula food helps to maintain your dog’s health too. “As an emergency veterinarian, I think that having a fixed formula is essential,” says Nelson. He mentions that the chance of having a GI upset from different ratios of ingredients is significantly increased with variable formulas. The digestive enzymes and 

the normal flora of the GI tract can adjust to new things, but they need time. This wouldn’t be such a concern with a fixed-formula food.

Making the Right Choice In Dog Formula

Run an Internet search to see if your manufacturer adheres to a fixed-formula policy. Rose also strongly recommends reading the information posted on the bags of pet food and comparing the lower-cost foods to the premium foods. The process takes just seconds and could make a difference in your pet’s life.

Article written by Author:  The Dog Daily Expert

Vegan Amy Rader knows her dog, Henry, needs meat protein, but she hates that chemically processed additives are going into her 5-year-old Beagle’s food. The new “natural” label on pet foods — and what that precisely means — has also puzzled the Seattle-based social worker. “It’s similar to buying organic for myself,” explains Rader. “A lot of words that sound pretty good are on the packaging, but I’m not always sure exactly what they mean, and I end up spending way too long in the pet store.”

For dog owners like Carol Davis of Fairfax, Va., the sight of a synthetic or chemical ingredient listed on a pet food label leads to the following conclusion: I wouldn’t feed that to my dog. “I usually avoid it,” says Davis, who has a 5-year-old English Springer Spaniel named Lana. “I feel like if she eats healthy now, she’ll stay healthier, and we’ll have fewer vet bills later.”

Like Davis, you are probably more concerned about putting “natural,” or minimally processed, foods on your dinner table, and that standard now extends to what’s in Fido’s bowl. Davis says she looks for recognizable ingredients, such as chicken and carrots when choosing Lana’s commercial food. However, there’s still some confusion about what constitutes a “natural” dog food.

“Natural” Dog Food Labeling Rules

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) regulate dog food labeling in the United States. Companies can’t make claims about pet food products that are false. The FDA doesn’t define the term “natural” for the pet food industry. Still, the AAFCO definition says natural food is “… derived solely from plant, animal, or mined sources. It does not contain any additives or processing aids that are chemically synthetic except in amounts as might occur unavoidably in good manufacturing practices.”

Most commercial dog foods contain some synthetic sources of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that meet AAFCO’s requirements that the food is “complete and balanced.” These requirements are to satisfy a dog’s nutritional needs, says Dr. Amy Dicke, DVM, a Dayton, Ohio-based veterinarian who has worked with teams of nutritionists and researchers. “If a product says it is all-natural and has not pulled out ‘with the inclusion of vitamins, minerals and amino acids,’ when in truth, they may not be practicing proper marketing,” Dr. Dicke says.

Dr. Katy Nelson, DVM, an emergency veterinarian in Virginia, suggests that Rader try a different approach when selecting dog food. “Do your research before you go to the pet store,” Dr. Nelson advises. “Labels are confusing. I’ve spent hours lecturing about them to veterinary students, and even they still have questions when I’m done!”

Below, Dr. Nelson explains current industry standards for natural kibble and weighs whether this food is right for your pet.

How the USDA Define Natural Dog Food

Believe it or not, the federal government has taken an interest in protecting pet food consumers from misleading claims. Like food for humans, food for dogs must adhere to the United States Department of Agriculture‘s definitions of “natural.” According to the USDA, food can only be labeled “natural” if it is minimally processed and contains no artificial ingredients or added colors.

Minimally processed can be fine, but sometimes that means it has no preservatives, so you need to be careful with expiration dates.” If it’s preservative-free, buy less of it. Ideally, you’d choose food containing natural preservatives like vitamin C and vitamin E rather than no preservatives at all.

How the AAFCO Define Natural Dog Food

The American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides a more specific description of the labeling requirements, adding that chemically synthesized ingredients may not be present in vittles claiming to be natural. Two common chemically synthesized ingredients in pet foods are propylene glycol and BHA. They both must be listed as ingredients on the labels of pet foods that contain them.

Ingredients in a “Natural” Dog Food

Protein 

Dogs are classified as either carnivores or omnivores. Either way, they are best fed a diet high in animal protein. Meat and/or poultry sources — such as chicken, lamb, or eggs — should be listed within the first three ingredients in natural dog food, says Katy J. Nelson, D.V.M., an emergency veterinarian in Alexandria, Va., who has worked on dog nutrition. 

Byproducts 

This term has gotten a bad rap. Meat or plant-based byproducts fit the definition of “natural” under the AAFCO regulations. “Good, high-quality pet food byproducts don’t need to be a four-letter word,” Dr. Nelson says. Organ meat and tissue help provide dogs with needed minerals and amino acids. 

Grains 

Natural sources of carbohydrates, such as brewer’s rice, whole-grain barley, and ground whole grain sorghum, can provide energy for a dog’s active lifestyle, Dr. Dicke says. 

Fruits and Vegetables 

Spinach, tomatoes, and peas are rich in vitamin E and antioxidants to help your dog build its immunity; apples are a great source of fiber; carrots help keep your dog’s vision healthy. 

No Added Artificial Colors, Flavors or Preservatives

“Natural” dog foods should not have synthetic fillers, artificial colors or flavors, or human-made preservatives. Natural flavors and colors are okay. Some preservatives are naturally occurring, such as vitamin E and tocopherols (TCP), acceptable to help preserve food.

Veterinarian Recommendations For Natural Dog Food

While Dr. Nelson sees the value in natural pet foods, she also advises dog owners to proceed with caution, keeping the following guidelines in mind:

• Remember that “natural” is not the same as “complete and balanced.” Ensure any pet food you select has conducted AAFCO-endorsed feeding trials or satisfied AAFCO’s dog food nutrient profiles.
• When choosing food, give your furry friend’s health issues a top priority. “You can find natural foods that also address some common health problems like weight and joint trouble, but you may have to look a little harder,” says Dr. Nelson.  
• Talk to your veterinarian before choosing any diet for your dog. “Don’t rely on the 16-year-old stock boy to help you decide what your dog should eat,” advises Dr. Nelson.
• Don’t make a good deal, your top priority. “The most expensive brands are not necessarily the best, but the quality of ingredients — natural or otherwise — does tend to increase with price,” concludes Dr. Nelson.

Our Natural Dog Food Recommendations

• Purina ONE Natural Puppy Food
• Diamond Naturals Adult Dog Food
• Purina ONE Natural Dog Food

When deciding on a food, talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s individual needs. Also, some pet food companies list toll-free phone numbers on their packaging so you can call and speak to a nutritionist.

After consulting Henry’s veterinarian, Amy Rader found a natural food that satisfied her concerns. It also seems to be fulfilling Henry’s. “He gobbles it up,” she says. “So, I guess we both feel good about it.”

Experts caution that there is no scientific agreement that natural foods provide more safety or nutritional value than traditional dog foods. “I don’t want people to expect health miracles from feeding a natural food,” says Dr. Dicke. “It’s a personal choice. It’s another feeding option.” For some dog owners, however, “natural” is the way to go.

Article written by Author: Elizabeth Wasserman and Darcy Lockman

Selecting the right kibble for your dog can be an overwhelming task. After all, there are dozens of choices on the market these days. To help simplify your decision, ask yourself these seven questions:

1. What Life Stage is Your Dog?

This is an important initial question, as it will then help narrow your choices, says Korinn E. Saker, DVM, president of the American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition. Puppies, for instance, should be on a growth diet, which will contain the proper nutrients for their rapid development. An adult maintenance diet may be best for healthy adults, and senior dogs will thrive on food made specifically for their geriatric needs.  However, Only 11 percent of U.S. pet owners consider their pet’s age when determining which formula to feed their pet. “I always tell my patients that healthy checkups start on the inside,” says Dr. Katy Nelson. Dr. Nelson is an emergency veterinarian in Alexandria, Va., who is also a member of the Iams Pet Wellness Council, who encourages feeding a pet a high-quality diet specific to an animal’s age.

It’s essential to consider the stages of life for dogs when deciding on pet food choices. “Diet requirements — including protein levels, calories and vitamins and minerals — vary over the life of a pet,” says Nelson. “In turn, an animal’s needs change as he grows from a puppy to an adult into a senior.”

Nelson shares these basic guidelines:

• One To 12 Months 

Puppy formula at this stage should include DHA for brain and vision development. Dr. Amy Dicke, a technical service veterinarian, explains that DHA stands for docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. “The benefits of a diet rich in DHA starts in the womb, much like pregnant women taking prenatal vitamins,” says Dicke.

Our Puppy Kibble Recommendations:

• Hill’s Science Diet Dry Puppy Kibble
• Royal Canin Medium Puppy Kibble

Our Adult Dog Kibble Recommendations

• IAMS Minichunks Dog Kibble
• Hill’s Science Diet Dog Kibble

Our Senior Dog Kibble Recommendations

• Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Senior Dog Kibble
• Royal Canin Medium 7+ Dog Kibble

While you might think any size will work, buy one appropriately sized for your dog’s mouth.

7. Is Your Dog Overweight?

If your dog is a little heavy, the weight issue needs to be addressed. But don’t do it by cutting back on your dog’s regular food. “You’ll reduce calories, but you’ll also cut valuable nutrients,” says Dr. Saker. Instead, purchase a calorie-restricted food reduces the number of fat calories while still providing optimal nutrition. Be sure to follow the feeding instructions on the food’s packaging.

The ultimate test, however, will be passing your dog’s lip-licking taste bud evaluation.

Article written by Author: Karen Asp and Jennifer Viegas

With such various offerings in the pet food aisle, selecting the right food for your dog can feel complicated. Health issues and life stages may take precedence, but feeding according to breed-specific needs is also an important consideration, especially for healthy adult dogs. 

When George Kantor took his Pug Sadie to his mother’s country home for the holidays, the New York City psychologist forgot to bring his diminutive dog’s small-breed kibble. It was Christmas Eve, and the stores were closed, so he fed Sadie from the food bag of his mother’s standard poodle. “If you know pugs, they never turn down a meal, and Sadie is no exception,” says Kantor. But the pug’s holiday meal soon turned sour.

“She seemed to be having a hard time with the bigger pieces,” he explains. Unfortunately, the kibble didn’t stay down, leaving Kantor with a most unwanted “gift” to clean up. He surmises, “I guess she wasn’t able to chew the large chunks quickly enough.” Kibble size isn’t the only reason to feed your best friend food specific to breed size. Appropriate nutrient levels also vary based on whether your dog is small, medium, large, or giant.

Your dog’s weight at maturity determines its breed size, whether your pet is a giant purebred or a tiny mixed breed. A giant-breed dog may reach 90 pounds or more at maturity, while a large breed will grow anywhere from 51 to 90 pounds. A small/toy dog will weigh up to 20 pounds as an adult. Any furry friend between (21 to 50 pounds) is a medium-sized dog.

Below, veterinarians Trisha Joyce, DVM, of New York City Veterinary Specialists, and Katy J. Nelson, DVM, a Virginia-based emergency veterinarian, weigh in on the importance of size-specific feeding.

Adult Nutritional Differences in Dogs

Post-growth, different breeds still have different needs. “Caloric needs vary based on breed size,” says Dr Joyce. Small and toy breeds have higher metabolic rates (more than twice those of large breeds)and smaller stomachs. They, therefore, function best on energy-dense diets and small meals. Small-breed formulas have more calories per cup than medium- and large-breed foods, making an energy-packed diet most appropriate.

Large and jumbo dogs have special nutritional considerations, mostly related to joint health issues. “In adulthood, larger dogs are prone to orthopedic problems and arthritis, so you may want to select foods that have protective substances for their joints, like glucosamine,” says Dr Joyce. Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which are sometimes included in commercial dog chows, are thought to maintain your oversized pet’s cartilage.

Your Dog in Maturity

“The rate at which a dog ages depends on the breed,” explains Dr. Joyce. The larger and heavier the dog, the earlier the aging process begins. A large or jumbo dog should then start eating a “maturity” diet earlier than a small or toy dog. Larger breeds tend to have shorter life spans, so they might be considered seniors as early as six-years-old, while smaller dogs don’t generally reach senior status until ten years. Check with your veterinarian if you’re not sure when to start a mature diet.

The nutritional makeup of all senior diets should include immune-system-supporting antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene. But such diets also vary by breed size. Large and jumbo dogs are still in need of nutritional support for their sensitive joints, so glucosamine should be on the ingredient list in your large or jumbo pet’s formula. Similarly, small dogs continue to need energy-dense food, and the calories per cup should be higher than for medium and large breeds.  

As for Kantor and his Pug Sadie, they had to make do over Christmas. “I cut the kibble pieces in half before I fed her Christmas day!” he recalls laughing. “The next morning, the stores were open super early, and we were back to her small-breed kibble by breakfast.”

 

What is the Difference Between Toy Breed Dog Food and Regular?

Suppose your dog is a Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, Brussels Griffon, Maltese, Pekingese, Pomeranian, or Yorkshire Terrier or weighs 10 pounds or less. In that case, you could consider feeding him a toy-breed dog food formula.

“The vast majority of toy dogs are shaky and are always cold,” says Dr. Nelson. “They’re worked up all day long over nothing.” As with fidgety people, the constant movement of toy dogs means they burn energy all day long. They also have small stomachs that cannot hold significant portions, so they need an especially calorie-dense formula. Small dogs also tend to have poor dental health and may benefit from tartar-controlling dog foods, helping protect their teeth.

As there is a wide variety of toy dog foods on the market, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

What is the Difference Between Small Breed Dog Food and Regular?

If your dog is a Jack Russell, Shih Tzu, Pug, Lhasa Apso, Cocker Spaniel, Border Terrier, French Bulldog, or Dachshund or weighs between 10 and 20 pounds, you could consider feeding him a small-breed formula.

In the commercial dog food world, toy and small formulas are often one and the same, and with good reason: “A lot of small dogs are also high in energy and low in stomach capacity. Plus, they need bite-sized kibble for their relatively small mouths,” says Dr. Nelson.

However, small dogs are more likely than toy dogs to become overweight. To ensure that toy- and small-dog formulas do not pack the pounds on your dog, small-dog owners need to be particularly attuned to portion control.

Finding the right dog food for your dog is a significant first step; ensuring they are fed correctly is the second. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

As there is a wide variety of dog foods on the market for small dogs, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog for whatever their life stage.

 

What Should I Feed My Mid-Sized Dog?

If your dog is a Schnauzer, Beagle, Border Collie, Basset Hound, Irish Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog, or Shar-Pei or weighs between 20 and 50 pounds, you could consider feeding him a standard adult dog food formula.

Mid Sized dogs are considered standard by the pet food industry, and their needs encompass the needs of most dogs: high-quality protein dog food to maintain muscle mass, fiber to promote intestinal health, fish oil for healthy skin and coat, carbohydrates for fuel and vitamins and minerals for proper immune function.

“These are middle-of-the-road dogs,” says Dr Nelson. “In adulthood, there’s not a lot separating their dietary needs from large breeds.” Such dogs do, however, reach what is considered old age more slowly than bigger dogs. Mid Sized canines can safely remain on “adult” instead of a “maturity” formula through to age 7.

As there is a wide variety of dog foods on the market for standard-sized dogs, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog for whatever their life stage.

What is the Difference Between Large Breed Dog Food and Regular?

Suppose your dog is a German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Pointer, Great Dane, Bullmastiff, Newfoundland, Rottweiler, or weighs over 50 pounds. In that case, you could consider feeding him a large or giant-breed dog food formula.

Post-puppy-hood, large and giant breeds have the same nutritional requirements and the same concerns. “They have a lot more joint issues compared to smaller dogs,” says Dr Nelson. Foods for these oversized dogs should contain glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health and antioxidants like vitamin A and vitamin E to slow the aging effects, which larger dogs do more quickly.

Finally, they also require fewer calories. Large-breed foods have less fat and calories per kibble because, except for hunting dogs, the dogs they’re targeted at tend to be less active. The L-carnitine in these formulas will help large and giant dogs to burn fat more efficiently.

Large dog breeds can be more susceptible to conditions such as Orthopedic Disease and Bloat. Feeding your large dog a formula specifically designed for large dogs made by

a reputable company can help avoid the onset of these conditions. Consult with your veterinarian for any recommendations and advice.

Finding the right dog food for your dog is a significant first step; ensuring they are fed correctly is the second. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

No matter your dog’s breed, feeding the right formula will help maintain its health and longevity, an objective that all dog lovers can agree on, regardless of their breed preferences.

Article written by Author: Darcy Lockman, and The Daily Dog Expert

Mimi Ausland’s parents never have to nag her to feed the family dog. Mimi, a 13-year-old seventh-grader, takes care of her dog — and millions more.

Her Web site, FreeKibble.com, combines trivia with a charity to feed shelter dogs across the country. Since Mimi began her work in April 2008, FreeKibble.com and a companion site for cats, FreeKibbleKat.com, have provided enough food for an astonishing 1.9 million meals!

How Free Kibble Works

Visit FreeKibble.com, and you’re invited to play Bow Wow Trivia. Mimi and her father research dog-related questions for the game and offer multiple choices that players can click on. Here’s a sample of recent questions:

• “In their first few weeks, puppies sleep ____ of the day.” The correct answer is 90 percent. 
• “Which one of the following is the only dog breed whose evidence is accepted in a court of law?” The correct answer is a Bloodhound.

FreeKibble.com features a different question every day. Each day you play, your participation earns ten pieces of kibble for a shelter dog. It doesn’t matter if you answer the question correctly or not. Kibble is currently donated to 70 shelters across the United States. The game itself attracts visitors worldwide, from 137 countries so far.

Mimi’s Inspiration

Mimi got the idea from another popular Web site, FreeRice.com, which raises money to feed hungry people through online multiple-choice games involving vocabulary, art, and more.

“When we started, we were just planning on feeding our local shelter,” says Mimi, who also volunteers at her local animal shelter. “I’ve always loved animals since I was a little girl, and I wanted to do something more for them somehow.”

FreeKibble has now become a family project. The family found a Web designer to create the site, and now Mimi’s mother makes the whimsical, charming cartoons that appear on the site. Mimi devotes some time each day to important emails, then spends Friday afternoons catching up on her FreeKibble work.

How to Get Started

You might not be ready to feed millions of animals, but your smallest effort will be much appreciated by those who help animals. Here’s our experts’ advice on getting started:

• Check with your local shelter

Visit the shelter Web site to research volunteer opportunities and review a wish list of needs, suggests Carol Shiveley, humane education manager for the Oregon Humane Society in Portland. Many shelters offer formal volunteer programs with education or training components. In return, they may ask for a regular time commitment. The Oregon Humane Society relies heavily on young volunteers, who often walk the dogs. “Our youths are our best resource for open minds, willing help, and dedication to the OHS animals,” says Shiveley.

• Collect goods

If you can’t give your time regularly, consider a one-time drive to raise needed materials, such as food, paper towels, blankets, toys, leashes, and collars. “If you’re having a birthday party, ask for money or toys for animals at shelters,” suggests Mimi. “It is fun to get presents, but it does make you feel good to get things for the animals.” 

• Consider fostering a dog

Many shelters offer fostering programs that allow you to make a short-term commitment to taking care of a dog or another animal in your home.

At the Seattle Humane Society, foster volunteers attend an orientation, then agree to foster for a period of one to eight weeks. The Society provides supplies and any 

needed medications. “It just amazes me how generous our volunteers are with their time,” says animal care supervisor Virginia Dalton. “Many foster animals so that we can free up space to accommodate the incoming animals.” 

• Stick With It

Whatever you undertake, don’t get discouraged. The sense of need can be overwhelming in charity work. “One person can make a huge difference,” says Mimi. “I’m definitely going to keep this up. We’re just going to try to feed as many dogs and cats as possible and see where it goes.”

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

When shopping for dog food, pet food stores offer a wide variety of choices.

“There are foods on the market which are very easy and tasty for your dog but don’t provide the highest nutrition,” says Dr. Katy Nelson, a Virginia-based veterinarian. She has consulted on the nutritional makeup of dog food products. “Even though your pet may be excited about what’s in their bowl, it won’t necessarily glow afterward, just like people who regret those visits to fast-food restaurants.”

How can we tell the difference? Like with fast food for people, very inexpensive dog food may indicate a less nutritious meal.

“Generally, the higher-priced premium brands have higher-quality ingredients and specialized nutrients,” says Dr. Amy Dicke, a veterinarian who also consults on the nutritional aspects of pet food. 

1. As a general rule, it’s wise to feed your pet the best food you can afford.

“From foods which use human-quality sources, to foods which use the scraps off of the slaughterhouse floor, you truly do get what you pay for most of the time,” says Nelson.

2. After price, look at the list of ingredients.

Like we screen our food labels for unsaturated fats or high fructose corn syrup, there are things to look out for on dog food ingredients lists.

Because ingredients are listed in order of quantity, “always look at the first three ingredients on your pet food’s bag,” says Nelson. “If there is corn or something with the word ‘gluten’ in those first few ingredients, step away and keep looking.” Gluten, a vegetable protein, is a cheap alternative to protein from animal sources. But animal protein is more nutritious for your pet.

How to Find the Best Dog Food on the Market

Although it’s not a panacea, there is a seal of approval you can look for. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides pet food guidelines and regulates ingredients’ naming.

“AAFCO’s nutritional adequacy statement identifies the food is nutritionally complete and balanced and contains all of the required nutrients,” says Dicke.

Beyond that, there’s still variation. But Nelson recommends at least avoiding foods without AAFCO approval.

Special-Needs Dog Food

Many foods are tailored to particular circumstances, like a dog’s health or age. Dicke says AAFCO also regulates these claims. Choosing the right one for your dog involves matching your dog to the goal of the product, which typically falls into the following three categories:

1. Age
   

   Growing puppies (0 to 24 months), healthy adults, and senior dogs (5 years giant breeds and seven years and older for other breeds) all have different nutritional profiles.

Our Best Dog Food Brand Recommendations Based on Age

• Royal Canin Medium Puppy Kibble
• Hill’s Science Diet Adult Dog Kibble
• Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Senior Dog Kibble

2. Body Size/Activity Levels
   

   According to Dicke, “Pets that are overweight or underweight need different nutrition than those who are at an optimal weight. Pets who get lots of exercise also have different nutritional requirements.” These food labels include weight control, performance, or maintenance.

Our Best Dog Food Brand Recommendations Based on Size or Activity Levels

• Purina Pro Plan with Probiotics Weight Management Dog Food
• Purina Pro Plan Sport Dog Food

3. Health History
   

   Your dog may have a condition requiring a therapeutic or prescription formula. For instance, dogs with sensitive stomachs can benefit from foods containing prebiotics. These non-digestible food ingredients stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria that help the digestive system. Other blends are specialized for heart health, dental health, bone/joint health, and more.

Our Best Dog Food Brand Recommendations Based on Health Needs

• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin Adult Dog Food
• Hill’s Prescription Diet Heart Care Adult Dog Food
• Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care Adult Dog Food
• Royal Canin Joint Care Large Adult Dog Food

Ask Your Veterinarian About the Right Food For Your Dog

In the end, however, Nelson says the most important thing is to discuss your dog’s food options with your veterinarian. She says the most significant mistake people make when choosing food is seeking advice from the sales associate at the pet store rather than their veterinarian.

“Your veterinarian can help you find the food that’s best because they know the particular issues that your pet deals with,” she says. “Your veterinarian has the best interests of your pet in mind.”

 Article written by Author: Brad Kloza, Elizabeth Parker, and Darcy Lockman