Nov
18
2011
0

Read More About What Allergies Your Dog May Have

Allergies in dogs are frequently manifested by the never-ending itching craze your dog has indulged himself. Property pet care can minimize the relentlessness of allergies, generating your dog considerably a lot more at ease.

The telltale signs of allergies in dogs are itching of the skin either on 1 area or all over the dog. Your dog may well exhibit coughing, sneezing or wheezing. Occasionally, there could be an accompanying nose or eye discharges. Numerous dogs have vomiting or diarrhea. Why does this occur? In the hypersensitive state, the dog’s immune program “exaggerates reactions” to foreign substances known as allergens to which it truly is exposed.

Allergic reactions may possibly start out immediately soon after the get in touch with of inhalation of the allergen, up to a few hours post get in touch with.

Ranking very first within the most popular type of allergies in dogs may be the inhalant allergy or atop. The irritants that trigger allergic reactions are mostly pollens, dusts, molds and mildews. Yes, this allergy might be acquired by means of uncomplicated inhalation of the offending substance. The dog’s response generally produces severe, indiscriminate itching.

Most of our furry friends that have inhalant allergy respond to quite a lot of allergens. If the number is insignificant and are the seasonal sort, itching may well final for a couple of week’s time; this may possibly happen at the least two times a year. Allergies in dogs are quite disturbing; if the allergens are large in number, the dog may well itch year-round, continuously.

In humans and dogs alike, food allergies are prevalent on account of offending ingredients located in their food. Ranking as the second most typical allergies in dogs, it truly is regarded as one of the trickiest sort of allergy. Allergies in dogs most frequently create in reaction to the protein or carbohydrate element of the food; may it be beef, chicken, pork, poultry or dairy merchandise. These nasty food allergies are challenging to diagnose; patience is required when your dog has this one. Veterinarians that appear over itching mutts with food allergies typically suggest food elimination. Constant and strict adherence to the meal strategy must be observed for eight to twelve weeks; otherwise diagnosis will likely be futile.

A normal dog without any hypersensitivities experiences only insignificant irritation in response to fleabites, usually deprived of any itching. In contrast, the flea allergic dog has a severe, itch-producing response when the flea’s saliva is left within the skin of the dog by means of its bite. One bite has it all; it causes strong itching that the dog may rigorously scratch or gnaw itself, leading hair loss and development of wounds. On account of the bacteria present in the dog’s saliva, a secondary bacterial infection might create.

Our ideal buddies don’t know ways to speak or even convey that there’s something wrong with their body. Allergies in dogs are really essential to treat earlier upon detection so as not to develop further complications which will deter the top quality of your dog’s life. Be a responsible pet owner; let your furry friend really feel the mutual relationship between the both of you.

The author owns the website Hypoallergenic Dog Food. Go there now to learn more about topics such as Allergies in Dogs.

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Oct
10
2011
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Possible Things That Could Happen When The Dog Wont Wat

Common afflictions of your dog refusing to eat is either minimal or strong stomach irritation, this is more often than not the cause of compiled stomach acid when there isn’t any food in the stomach, this is likely to more than often result in vomiting, nausea a lethargic dog and it will definitely also without a question spark dehydration in dogs.

An empty stomach over a extended period may very well lead to the lining of the stomach to inflame and become irritable causing great pain and triggering vomiting which will reveal a clear yellow fluid, furthermore this vomiting will cause dehydration to rapidly increase. This will be absolutely stressful for your dog and they definitely will exhibit signs or symptoms of a lethargic dog.

Commencing to your dog neglecting to eat, blood sugar levels will lower, Hypoglycaemia can result in weakness dizziness and shivering, which might possibly be the answer to why is my dog shaking. These unfamiliar dog health symptoms will moreover cause your dog not to eat. These are generally very clear dog health symptoms that need to be looked out for. There are particular health supplements that can be given anytime your dog won’t eat, they might help make your dog feel much better to the point where their food cravings has returned.

Just what exactly to feed your pet whenever your dog won’t eat

It has to be reported that whenever you are in doubt the right resolution is always to consult with the vet. Nevertheless there are lots of options to aid your dog and reverse the effects of hypoglycaemia which embody feeding your pet Nurti-Cal which is a form of sugar that may aid your dog in eating again. One more formula which ought to be avoided is honey though this is seriously harmful and have the ability to trigger even further problems If it doesn’t work. If you have spotted this formula some place else you really should be alert it has its hazards and really should be avoided.

A sensible thought is to bring your dog a treat, specifically one you may have applied when you first started training your dog tricks, because if your dog won’t eat food he could be more enticed by some thing that is regarded as a treat, this could also liven up his day a little, triggering your lethargic dog to become excited even if for a brief period, exuberantly supporting the dog is a high quality idea too.

The threat of dehydration in dogs that will not eat

In a case where you realise your dog won’t eat it is most important to make sure they are drinking, the leading approach to evaluate this is by dispensing only one drinking supply and every so often check on it to see if the source has demised, if perhaps it is the case that the dog won’t drink as well, you have a potentially a dangerous problem as dehydration in dogs is as life threatening as it is in people. On top of your dog not eating not drinking will in addition inflame the problem and lack of hydration will defiantly result in death. A trip to the vet is a need in this circumstance. A really good strategy to trick your dog into drinking is to dab a soggy material on their nose, this will trigger your dog to instinctively lick their nose, just simply keep doing this, and if you’re lucky the taste will tempt them to seek out more.

On a ultimate note

Always seek out a licensed veterinarian whenever you are ever in doubt, if your dog wont eat for twenty-four hours, it is necessary. It is always better to seem irrational and troublesome than to have a lethargic dog showing obvious dog health symptoms.

If you find your dog wont eat or you have noticed other dog health symptoms then visit our website www.DogWontEat.com to learn more

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Oct
09
2011
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Dog Sickness Symptoms

Generally speaking we are certain our dog is feeling great the moment they gobble down their food, but also you can be sure that something isn’t proper when the dog won’t eat. It is an weird thing for a dog to forget about a meal and this is a telling sign that you have a lethargic dog on your hands.

If you find your dog hasn’t eaten in 24 hours it is time for a veterinarian visit. On the flip side if you have noted your dogs eating behaviours have gone the other way, for instance all of a sudden the dog has changed into a food thief and is raiding the bins this implies that something has altered within the dog, this behaviour will absolutely be listed as one of the dog sickness symptoms, and it ought to be checked out by a professional.

The dog is peeing a lot

If you identify your dog drinking water much more regularly than typically or urinating more or you find the dog drooling this could perhaps be a result of diabetes or alternatively kidney disease. It can be hard to determine if your dog is drinking needless water however you definitely will become aware of her immediate craving to go out in the open and you can certainly additionally start seeing more mishaps indoors in terms of peeing.

Do you have a lethargic dog?

discreet dog sickness symptoms is inactivity or more technically lethargy, this would include unwillingness to go on walks, or you may possibly identify that the dog wont eat despite this being the high light of their day, and abnegating to give you interest, this is a definite hint that something is wrong, most definitely if you have an older dog, it might possibly be a warning sign of death. If you do become aware of this then a journey to the vet is advisable.

Vomiting

An unsubtle cue is vomiting which can be accompanied by excessive drooling in dogs and quite undoubtedly dehydration in dogs. The act of throwing up is as dramatic in the dog world as it is for us, and just like us they could possibly be vomiting to get ride of anything disagreeable they might possibly have ingested. If this is the circumstance then it isn’t anything to be anxious about, on the other hand if the vomiting goes on then sure enough hop in the car and head to the vets as these are dog sickness symptoms that should really not be over looked.

Poo

As a last notice, poo. Yep you would be wise to check your dogs poo every now and again, you don’t need to poke and push at it but just make positive everything is typical, is it a familiar shade and dimension. If you find it is drippy or discoloured such as yellow this is a sign of malnutrition or he has ingested something unconventional at one point. The solution is the same as with people, just simply feed them tasteless food until such time as their stomach can reconcile, so simple rice is critical.

If you are overly bothered or there is blood in the stool then to the vets it is. And additionally take note that dogs have a tendency notably when young to eat their own poop, so if you start off realising there is a unanticipated diminishment in the quantity he secretes this can be the reason why the dog won’t eat, this might also be the reason you have a lethargic dog in the first place.

To find out more about why your dog wont eat and other dog health symptoms such as dog drooling and a frequent question we often receive why is my dog shaking. To learn more about your pets health visit our website at www.DogWontEat.com

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Oct
09
2011
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Do You Have A Lethargic Dog?

When ever one thinks about a dog endless degrees of energy is what one in general thinks of, but nevertheless , the regrettable truth is that dogs may become ill, these sicknesses can range from genuinely mild and unassuming to life threatening, this is the key reason why an on going partnership with a reputable vet is fundamental, and having a good understanding of dog health symptoms, because having a lethargic dog is in no way pleasant.

Finding a Veterinarian

It is essential that before you detect any dog sickness symptoms start popping up such as the dog won’t eat, excessive drooling in dogs and dehydration in dogs, you preferably should have a trusted vet on hand, so below is a manual to choosing one.

The first step to take is to consult pet owning neighbours and friends for a suggestion, secondly you must make contact with a vet as shortly as viable to get your puppy on their first check up and to question the vet on any issues that you find doubts about your dogs patterns such as the dog won’t eat, dog drooling or why you think you have a lethargic dog.

Communication is the basis of a good partnership with the veterinarian, you would need to come prepared with the health records which ought to be supplied by the shelter or breeder. Evident questions to ask and learn about are, feeding, shots, worm, flea control, toilet training and any dog health symptoms to look out for.

You must by no means worry about asking questions that you believe will make you look dumb, this point in time may be utilised to examine the veterinarians interest and care in the direction of you and your puppy, make sure you note that the vet has heard it all, so you will not look specially troublesome.

When to telephone the Vet

This is a short checklist of conditions a voyage to the vet is needed, as in some cases treatments can delay a while and other times it is required as soon as possible. Occurrences when a call is crucial are:

_ The dog won’t eat and hasn’t eaten in 24 hours, this is a pretty serious condition and may very well be the fault of bloat which is perilous to dogs and effects larger dogs more persistently, furthermore it will provoke dehydration in dogs which will further more worsen the issue.

_ Dislocation or cracks of any bones. _ Loss of consciousness _ High temperature _ Dog shaking, sneezing or dog drooling continually _ You have got a lethargic dog, by this we really mean they are uncharacteristically depressed, and lazy, even when it comes to walks and feeding.

If you find your puppy or dog is demonstrating any of these dog health symptoms it is imperative to call and make an consultation with the veterinarian.

To find out more about why your dog wont eat and other dog health symptoms such as dog drooling and a frequent question we often receive why is my dog shaking. To learn more about your pets health visit our website at www.DogWontEat.com

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Sep
27
2011
0

Discover How Dog Agility Training Can Be A Bonding Experience

A great approach to enhance your dog’s abilities would be to get him to undergo dog agility training. As well to helping grow a connection involving the canine with his superb trainer, dog agility training also presents canine owners with a decent probability to evaluate their dog’s toughness and degree of self-esteem. Bonding together with your very best friend throughout dog agility training will enable you to by means of tournaments; not merely that, your connection together with your pooch will surely mature.

When performing dog agility training, it really is incredibly important get the foundation of training appropriately. You need to choose whether you would like the practice to be executed by a skilled coach or even try it for yourself. Should you opt for the second selection, you must be particular that you know the dimensions and proper tactics and strategies. Initially, clearly recognize the aim of your agility training.

In the event you only choose to train for entertainment, then it is wise to attempt it yourself. You need to fully grasp the standard stages of the training and have arranged any essential paraphernalia. If can afford to apply, it really is greater to sign up in a basic course to ensure that you learn the correct manner to use kit and also the correct use of the courses methods on their very own. Beginner courses in agility training will show both of you to agility gear. This may be supportive as you initiate the early physical exercise tactics with your own dog.

It can be also vital which you train your dogs to react to guiding instructions including left or right, up or down. Teaching your dog with instructions in the beginning, assists him to react automatically to those identical orders inside the near future.

In addition to generating use of dog agility training, when it comes to techniques and paraphernalia, it’s also crucial to encourage your dog consistently. Applause and praise them for every right accomplishment that they are able to do. Finally, attempt to lessen the tension numbers of one’s dog by preserving a fun ambiance and continuously giving them prizes so they are able to be elated that it would be willing to do tricks over and over again! In due course, your pooch will create up more self-confidence and grow to be far more at ease as you develop your training to an advance stage.

“Doing agility is a relationship-builder, the journey as you both discover is just remarkable,” says instructor Barb Scalise, owner of Canine Care, Inc., in Bartlett, Illinois.

In competition, you take beside your dog and direct him through an obstacle course with precision and speed inside a set period. Skipped obstacles and time are faults. In competition, you will discover various winners, due to the fact dogs are grouped into comparable size and practical expertise.

On a different note, dog agility training makes your dog energetic and attentive. This fun-filled hobby even hones his intellect and instructs him to develop his own tactic concerning the very best way to finish the course successfully.

Agility training might also let your dogs to perform obstacles. Utilizing this kind of type of coaching, dogs can boost dexterity with the standard instruction workouts employed to instill leaping and ramp work.

Based on that, you can find kinds of dog agility apparatus that may total your friend’s training program. Each gear supplies exceptional development to your dog’s overall becoming and mindset. Even more crucial, you along with the dog can establish a more rewarding bond. This coaching teamwork assists create an excellent interaction among the pet owner along with the canine, which enhances their relationship.

Learning the sport of agility is often an enjoyable and thrilling adventure for you and your dog. No other sport requires such teamwork concerning dog and owner. You will be amazed at the bond of trust you will come across developing in between the each of you as you function and progress together. Even though it requires commitment, study, and a lot of efforts, the fun and total satisfaction is extremely rewarding.

The author is the owner of the website Hypoallergenic Dog Food. Stop by today to learn more about subjects like Dog Agility Training.

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Sep
20
2011
0

Discover More on Dogs and Allergies – Does Your Dog Have an Allergy?

Most of your readers may possibly have skilled allergies in dogs- seeing them suffer from this condition pinches our hearts out of pity. Nevertheless, at early stages of allergies in dogs, it can be important to arm ourselves with knowledge on allergy symptoms. Early detection will somehow alleviate the burden our finest buddies will carry. Recognizing allergy symptoms and eliminating these symptoms proved to be an efficient program against allergies in dogs. On the first time you suspect an allergic reaction, visit your vet for early intervention.

Several of the common symptoms of a suspected allergic reaction; itchy skin, bald patches, excessive hair thinning, gnawing on paws and legs and hives – typically observed in intense allergic reactions.

When you notice a lot more than 1 of these symptoms, your dog could possibly have hypersensitivity. At this stage the allergy could be food items or airborne. Those dogs are often allergic to quite a few airborne contaminants. If you notice that the symptoms are seasonal, meaning your dog suffers from the symptoms at times of the season and they’re not regular, then you could be coping with airborne hypersensitivity. Your vet can do an evaluation to ascertain what airborne allergic reactions your dog has.

If your dog experiences these symptoms regardless of season, you’re most likely to be dealing with a food allergy. Food allergies in dogs are definitely not one thing they’re typically born with, most of the time they create over time. Most food allergies create from foods that your dog has eaten already. If indeed it is a dog food allergy, your vet can perform tests to discover what foods your dog is allergic to and how strong their allergy is. Your canine could be allergic to much more than one food and is usually extra allergic to 1 food than a different.

When visiting a veterinarian for allergy testing make certain that you relay just about all the symptoms you have seen and if the symptoms are occurring all the time or just at certain times of the year. This will aid the vet correctly to diagnose which sort of allergy your pet dog could be experiencing. You need to fully grasp that your dog can have the two frequent allergies in dogs, either via airborne or commercial dog food.

Treating allergies in dogs will in all probability be less difficult if it truly is already diagnosed. Seek suggestions from your vet to identify what exactly is ideal for your dog. Switching to a brand new dog food your dog is non-allergic to will support your dog. You are able to also shampoo your dog with hair shampoo for itchy skin. Make certain you read the ingredients of the shampoo as the shampoo may contain ingredients your dog is sensitive to.

As soon as your dog has been switched to a unique food and treat you will get started to see the allergy symptoms lessen over time. If the symptoms continue, suspect an airborne allergy and contact your veterinarian proper away. Dog allergy symptoms generally are undoubtedly similar, in spite of the most important cause of the hypersensitivity, and this doesn’t support after you are attempting to find out the key trigger of the issue. Even so, you might discover small indicators you ought to appear out for allergies in dogs, understanding that could possibly be employed to figure out a likely trigger.

Dogs are no distinctive to humans on the subject of allergies, and dog allergy symptoms are pretty comparable to ours – sneezing, itching, and watering eyes. On the other hand, we humans usually come with a concept of what’s causing our allergy, and we’re conscious that we have 1, nevertheless your poor pooch does not have any thought what exactly is causing that awful itch. He sure cannot tell you, so look for much more facts on prevalent allergies in dogs and how they are able to be employed perhaps to decide what is causing them. ‘Perhaps’ is employed simply because dog allergies are notoriously tough to diagnose, nonetheless the dog itself can assist you.

The author is the owner of the site Hypoallergenic Dog Food. Go there now to learn more about subjects such as Allergies in Dogs.

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Sep
17
2011
0

Your Dog And Supplements

The right dog vitamins and supplements play an important part in dog care. The fact is, most pet owners are surprised at the satisfying, fantastic results of supplements such as trace minerals, enzymes and probiotics.

Like humans, dogs do also require vitamins and minerals for their every day routine. It has the identical effect for dogs; their body becomes a lot stronger, their immunity against sickness is a lot more dependable and this keeps us pet owners worry-free.

Adding dog vitamins is essential in particular if you believe there’s something wrong along with your friend. Naturally you might give dog vitamins for frisky dogs, too. For many pet owners, it is less complicated to give their greatest friend a multi-vitamin to create particular he’s receiving everything he wants. You will find lots of multi-vitamins available within the marketplace specifically formulated for dogs. However, if your dog has digestive problems, probiotics may well still be essential and are not a poor concept.

There are several dog vitamins having a tad lot of advantages for your furry friend. Digestive enzymes and probiotics, kelp and multi-vitamins (particularly vitamins A, D, E, and K) can maintain your best friend in beneficial shape. What are the rewards of which includes dog vitamins within your dog’s diet?

Kelp can aid in thyroid treatment for dogs. Surprisingly, it has high anticancer properties; it aids in digestion, and re-energizes aging animals. It is beneficial for dogs of the senior age that couldn’t get a lot exercise simply because of weakness.

Digestive enzymes and probiotics are a terrific tandem in supporting the digestive properties of the stomach. Four digestive enzymes are crucial to your dog’s tummy: Proteases which breakdown protein, amylases for carbohydrates, lipases digests fats and cellulose digests fiber and vegetable substance. Probiotics may well not support in digesting what you dog will eat, but it assists your dog’s body to generate enzymes that kill harmful bacteria inside the stomach. This is really an excellent bacteria; it even helps generate vitamin B. Lack in probiotics will result to poor performance of the digestive system.

Dog vitamins are necessary for dogs in their later years or in a state of illness. Adding dog vitamins to your furry friend’s diet may be incredibly helpful for a healthy and strong immune program. A healthy immune program is how the body defends itself from toxins and waste goods. Dog vitamins also help to break down the required nutrients in our dog’s daily diet.

We recommend products like Pet-Tabs Plus for Dogs, Canine Plus and Solid Gold Seameal Mineral and Vitamin Supplement for Horses, Dogs, and Cats. Consumers on Amazon.com gave satisfied reviews for these dog vitamins and supplements. If you’d like to give dog vitamins a attempt, consult your vet on what’s ideal for your precious pal. Some vitamins aren’t advisable for some dogs because of systemic troubles or some are even allergic to it. Right after consultation, you’ll be able to ask for other goods that are additional affordable and appropriate to your budget; maintenance could be really pricey but benefits is going to be noticed with continuous use of dog vitamins. We always want the ideal for our very best friends, correct?

The author ownsthe website Hypoallergenic Dog Food. Stop by today to read more about subjects such as Dog Vitamins.

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Sep
15
2011
0

Read About Wysong Dog Food

Although there are many different types of dog food on the market – this article is only talking about one of them. This is a showcase of one dog food – before making a decision, you should read up on many different types of dog food.

Wysong hypoallergenic dog food is formulated and manufactured by the Wysong Corporation, established in 1979. Because that time, the firm expanded to contain meal formulas for a lot of varieties of pets. At this time, Wysong delivers a product selection developed for dogs, ferrets, felines, horses and in some cases humans. Wysong strives to forestall illnesses in wildlife by providing an appropriately well-balanced, high-class diet strategy.

Wysong produces their own range of hypoallergenic dog food in their own facilities to sustain control over the techniques utilized to guarantee the highest quality. They’re pretty meticulous in relation to their ingredients; they store constituents like complete grains within their complete form and only mill it prior to use. In accordance with their investigation, roughly forty percent of the nutrients in processed grains are truly loss inside twelve hours. Milling their grains prior use may be a laborious method, but Wysong would often choose to give you using the quite finest for its consumers.

Most hypoallergenic dog food brand names store their kibbles in sacks or plastic-type material bags. Wysong’s entire dry dog food items are commonly contained in an exclusive package called “Nutripack” that may prolong shelf life; all oxygen is flushed from the bag prior to it becoming wrapped. Basically, it is termed vacuum-packing. It can be mostly only created out there in compact bags, which is also an effort to bring about that food does not spoil. Rather than utilizing preservative chemicals that could cause harm to your dog’s well being, Wysong takes counter precautions still to deliver the very finest quality for their customers.

Do you need to feed your furry friend some Wysong dog food? Most of them are hypoallergenic dog food merchandise; ensuring a scrumptious meal irrespective of limited ingredients supplied by Wysong. If you’re finding began, go pick Wysong Growth for the unique wants of growing dogs. Mature dogs that are a lot more than one year of age can gobble up some Wysong Maintenance. Require putting your dog on a hypoallergenic dog food diet? Wysong Anergen can be a dog food formulation with confined ingredients that could possibly be suitable for dogs that are experiencing food-based allergies. Is your dog sick and tired of meat or other protein-rich ingredients? Wysong Vegan is really a vegan dog food that is intended to be supplemented with a raw meat source. Your very best friend is growing old. Feed your pet some Wysong Senior; a dog food formula may be given to senior dogs which are over seven years of age. Lastly, Wysong Synorgon is actually a formulation which is chicken-based, with brown rice and flax seeds.

Most dogs usually adore Wysong, though some canines appear to come up with intestinal troubles or intolerances when swapped from other dog food formulations. However, numerous dog owners declare that they would endorse Wysong hypoallergenic dog food, and that they’ve not encountered some well being problems with their dogs. You’ll find varieties when you are thinking of dog food. Some are nutritionally sound whilst other people may perhaps even hurt your dog’s wellbeing.

Wysong Dog Food views health and nourishment really seriously. They have been a trailblazer in all-natural dog food and all-inclusive dog healthcare treatment and sustenance, especially on their hypoallergenic dog food products and solutions. Though some productions initially put earning possible, Wysong continues to be consistently profitable for the reason that it puts the superiority of its merchandises very first and foremost.

The author owns the site Hypoallergenic Dog Food. Stop by today to read more about topics such as Allergies in Dogs.

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Sep
17
2009
0

Nutrition For Dogs: What Your Dog Needs

Your dog’s health is largely dependent on the dog food you are feeding. Understanding your dog’s nutritional requirements will go a long way in keeping them healthy and happy.

In order for your dog to grow, they need essential nutrients. Without these nutrients, your dog may experience poor health, stunted growth, shortened lifespan, and allergy symptoms.

Dogs, like any other animal, need five basic nutrients to survive: protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients provide different functions and are necessary to sustain the health and well-being of your pet.

Proteins consist of amino acids and are the building blocks of your dog’s health. Although some of these amino acids can be synthesized by the dog, not all are. That is where your dog’s food come into play – they must contain the essential amino acids that the dog cannot produce.

You therefore need to have a satisfactory amount of protein in your dog food to help your dogs grow and stay healthy. But too much protein can be a cause of obesity, as excess can be stored as fat, and has even been linked to temperament problems in dogs.

Fats are used to deliver other nutrients to the body as well as a source of energy. So much bad press about fats in diets has most of us thinking to avoid them as much as possible. But this is not true. Fats are necessary in diets, for both humans and their canine companions. It’s the kind and amount of fat that can lead to health problems and obesity. Your dog needs the correct fats for proper kidney function, to transport fat-soluble vitamins to cells, and for a healthy skin and coat.

Carbohydrates are a main source of energy for your dog. But not all carbohydrates are created equal, and some are more common allergy triggers in sensitive dogs. Corn, wheat, and soy are common carb sources in dog food. By themselves, they are acceptable sources. However, if your dog is only getting by-products of these grains, they are not getting all the nutrients they need.

Vitamins and Minerals are the last area of necessary nutrients for your dog. These should be supplied naturally through your dog food. However, some dog foods will need to add in a lot of vitamins and minerals because they get destroyed in the manufacturing process of the food. But these vitamins and minerals will start to diminish in both quality and quantity the longer the bag of food is opened – so you won’t get as much by the bottom of the bag as you do when you first open it. To ensure optimal health for your dog, you should provide a specially formulated vitamin supplement.

Just like with humans, dogs need a balanced diet – the correct ratio of proteins, carbs, fats, vitamins and minerals. And it is up to you to make sure his dog food is healthy. To learn more about healthy dog foods and how to read dog food ingredients, visit the Healthy Dog Food blog – helping you learn how to keep your dog healthy through nutrition.

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Sep
05
2009
0

Pudgy Pooches – Should Your Dog Go on a Diet?

Is your pooch pudgy? Should he go on a diet? Many owners don’t really notice that their canine friends are gaining too much weight. Being with them every day, we may not really notice the changes that are taking place.

Veterinary nutritionists generally agree that 25 to 40 percent of pet dogs in the United States are overweight (defined as more than 20 percent heavier than their ideal weight). As with people, the more excess weight a dog has, the higher the health risk. Some of these risks include diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, spinal degradation and difficulty breathing.

How can you determine if your dog has put on too much weight? There are some very basic observations you can make. When standing over your dog do you see an hourglass shape? If so, then he’s probably doing okay. However, if you notice his sides protruding, then its likely that your dog needs to shed some weight.

Run your hand along your dog’s ribs. If you can easily felt then he’s probably not dangerously overweight. However, if you have to press hard to feel his ribs then he needs to slim down.

Its always best to take your dog to your veterinarian before making any significant changes to his diet. Consult with the vet so that you can make sure that your diet plan will still include nutrients the dog needs.

One thing is certain: eliminating high calorie treats and table scraps is an important first step.

Daily exercise such as taking your dog for regular walks and setting aside time for play and exercise will help both you and your dog.

Eliminating high calorie goodies and substituting lower calorie treats isn’t hard to do. A few healthy snacks include apples, carrots, green beans, cottage cheese and broccoli. And yes, in most cases, your dog will eagerly devour these healthier choices. How about preparing your own healthy homemade dog treats? (see below)

Adult dogs, like adult humans, don’t lose weight easily or quickly. A proper low calorie, healthy diet will result in a very gradual weight loss.

For puppies, it is very important that you keep a close eye on your pups food intake. We all know that it’s hard to resist those puppy dog eyes. However, in the long term, its one of the wisest things you can do for your pooch.

Veterinary nutritionists generally agree that puppies should be fed only dog food that is formulated specifically for puppies. For the first three months, they should be fed four times a day.Then, for the next three weeks, reduce feedings to three times a day. After six months, reduce feedings to twice a day and then to once daily feeding when he is one year old. At one year of age you should switch to adult dog food and monitor his weight regularly.

Dogs that are at the proper weight are usually happier and more energetic. At times, we may simply fail to pay attention and don’t realize the impact that our decisions about what we feed out dogs can have on their overall health and longevity.

Jim Navary has been a freelance writer and researcher for over thirty years covering a wide range of topics. He has also been fascinated with dogs for longer than he’d care to remember. :-) Check out his DogBurg web site for canine friends at http://www.dogburg.com. Once there, sign up for his newsletter for dog lovers and receive the free ebook, “Pamper Your Dog: 130 Recipes for Your Canine Friend.”

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