Keeping your pet healthy and happy is important. How can you tell when it’s the right time to alter your dog’s diet? Where can you go to get more info on your pet’s diet and to find out which elements need to be changed? You might think that your dog is doing just fine with whatever can or bag of dog food you’ve been throwing into your cart at the supermarket, but how can you be absolutely sure that your dog is getting all of the nutrition that he needs? Consider a few basic things about your pet. Every aspect of your dog’s life will be affected by his diet, so carefully observe your dog before making any rash decisions.
Following are a few important questions that you should ask when attempting to determine whether you should change your dog’s diet. How is your dog acting? Is your dog constantly on the search for scraps and crumbs? Is he able to rest comfortably after having eaten?
When dogs are full, they’re unlikely to go scrounging around for scraps and they can usually take long, comfortable naps once they’re done eating.
Does your dog produce firm, solid stools or loose, runny ones? A dog’s stool can be significantly impacted by his diet. You can tell whether or not your dog is eating the right foods by simply monitoring his stools when he goes potty.
If your pet always seems to be battling one illness or another, this could be related to the foods that you’re putting in his dish. A dog’s diet feeds his immune system and plays a major role in keeping him healthy. If this diet does not provide sufficient nutrients, then your pet will have a very hard time functioning optimally.
As your dog grows older, it may be necessary to change his diet. Puppies have different nutritional needs than older dogs. Many older dogs require senior diets to moderate their body weights and combat a variety of common health issues.
Does your pet have enough energy? Is he high strung or lazy? What he eats could be affecting his energy levels. If you and your dog often go on walks that span for miles, it could be necessary to adjust his diet in order to account for the additional exercise.
Whether your pet stays inside or goes out can also have a hand in determining the right diet. Pets who remain outdoors during the colder months of winter often need additional calories in order to maintain acceptable body temperatures.
If you ever have any concerns or confusion about the right diet for your pet, be sure to reach out to a professional. Your vet should be kept abreast of any health or medical issues. This professional will be happy to talk about the different diets that dogs can maintain along with the benefits and drawbacks of each of these. No one knows your pet better than you and your regular veterinarian. Work with your vet to see whether your dog is exhibiting signs that it’s time for a dietary change.
A number of factors can create the need to alter your dog’s diet. Age, health issues, and even the outside weather can all be cause for you to make changes in this area. Talk with your vet about finding the right diet for your pet. Diligent observation and knowledge will help you ensure that your dog’s nutritional needs are always being met.
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