Dog Food

The dog food you choose and how much you feed your dog will depend on a number of factors, such as:

• Your dog's life stage
• Your dog's activity level
• Breed
• Recommendations from your veterinarian
• Price
• Palatability

Whether you choose to provide a commercial dog food or a homemade diet, the goal is to ensure that the food meets the nutritional needs of your pet.

Rules for Feeding your Dog

• Maintain a healthy weight. You should be able to feel your dog's ribcage and backbone with your fingers, but not see them.
• Read the label. You want to ensure that the product meets the nutritional requirements, and that the overall diet is suitable for your pet.
• Choose a dog food that you know will be available consistently at your pet supplies store. Changes can affect your dog's health if not introduced gradually.
• Never feed processed cat food to your dog. Each has unique nutritional needs.
• If feeding a commercial diet, limit total supplements to no more than 10 to 15 percent of your dog's total daily intake. Supplementing with extra vitamins and minerals, dog treats and 'people-food' treats can upset the nutritional balance that your dog is getting from its regular dog food.
• Never feed your dog chocolate or onion. They are toxic and can cause serious health problems.
• Always have plenty of fresh water available. Water is essential to all of us!

Next: Your Dog's Life Stages