A common query from pet owners is “what diet should I feed my dog?”.

With so many dog food brands available to choose from, a decision can be hard to make.

It is important to know about the ingredients required in a dog’s food for optimal health and wellbeing. This not only has an impact on their digestive system but also how shiny their coats are, as well as their energy levels.

It’s crucial to remember that a dog’s diet will vary by individual. Pet dogs are predominantly carnivores that also eat omnivorous foods. However, a dog’s food should be both complete and balanced to ensure it meets its daily nutritional requirements.

How much food does a dog require?

The amount of food in a dog’s diet primarily comes down to its size, breed and age. A vital factor in a dog’s diet is to ensure that they are fed the correct portion of food. If a dog is underweight or overweight, it can lead to health issues throughout their life.

When determining a dog’s size and weight, it is essential to look at their body shape more than weight. You should be able to feel a dog’s ribs when you run your fingers over their side and see a defined waist.

Food Intolerances and Allergies

Pet owners often misunderstand food intolerances as an allergy, as well as interpreting an intestinal upset as an allergy. It is believed that under 10% of all allergic reactions are a consequence of a food allergy. A true allergy is an immunological response to a protein allergen, generally resulting in itchy skin, infections and even hair loss. Most allergies seen in pets are due to fleas, dust mites and environmental issues.

Veterinary practices will be able to offer allergy testing in order to try and identify the potential causes of allergies.

What foods shouldn’t be in a dog’s food?

When it comes to a dog’s diet, not everything is safe for them to eat. Below is a list of common household foods that can cause problems for dogs.