Dog Food - Are You Getting It Right?

Before the advent of ready made dog food, when humans first
domesticated dogs, we fed them scraps from our meals. Those early dogs
did just fine on that type of dog food. As our affection for dogs has
grown over the centuries, so has our understanding of what our canine
companions need to eat as food, to live long healthy lives. Research
conducted by veterinarians and dog food manufacturers over the last
decade have revealed more specific details about what a dog's diet
should contain.
Your dog food must be appropriate for her size, age, state of health
and activity level. As you stroll the isles of pet supply stores or
grocery stores, you'll find a variety of dog food brands in a wide
range of prices. A good basic rule of thumb is to buy the highest
quality dog food you can afford. If you buy the cheapest food because
you have a big dog that eats a lot, you must understand that what you
save in food will affect your pet's health.
It is important that your dog always eats some dry dog food. The
crunchy pieces help keep her teeth clean and her gums healthy, and
provide necessary fiber. If you choose to give your dog moist dog food
in addition to dry, use it sparingly; a small spoonful mixed with warm
water makes a good gravy over dry kibble. Some devoted dog lovers feed
their pets home-cooked food. Dog-specific recipes can be found on the
Internet and in books, but understand that this is not just giving
your dog leftovers from your own meals. Homemade dog food is designed
to meet the nutritional and digestive needs of dogs. Spices, fats, and
fillers in human food often makes dogs ill....

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