讓狗狗受益終生的規律飲食

Food is paramount to a dog's health. What they eat and how they are fed not only affect their physical health but also determine their long-term quality of life. Below, GGH will share some scientifically sound feeding methods and foods to help you establish regular eating habits early on and prepare your dog for a healthy life.

Which is better for dog food: commercial dog food or homemade dog food?

In our minds, dogs fed leftovers in the past, with limited resources, seem to thrive. We might think homemade dog food, with its freshness, variety of delicious ingredients, and richness, is the ideal staple. However, researching dog food requires understanding its nutritional needs, including water, protein, vitamins and minerals, carbohydrates, fats, and collagen. Each nutrient needs a proper balance to maintain the dog's body and organs; long-term malnutrition or overfeeding can damage organs. Wild dogs hunt randomly, consuming whole animal parts and various plants, resulting in a more comprehensive nutritional intake. In contrast, guard dogs in the past generally had shorter lifespans, and even when sick, they lacked modern medical diagnosis and treatment. Pet owners choosing raw meat and bones must consider nutrient ratios and select food suitable for their dogs. Since homemade dog food requires specialized knowledge, high-quality dog food is more suitable for most pet owners. The nutritional ratios in dog food are supported by experimental and animal data, and some brands continuously adjust their formulas based on feedback. Homemade dog food can be used as a supplement, such as dried duck necks, pumpkin and egg custard, bananas, kiwis, blueberries, carrots, cauliflower, and boneless salmon, which can supplement vitamins, help dogs eliminate toxins from their bodies, and enhance their immunity. The earlier adult dogs are exposed to a variety of foods, the more accepting they will be, expanding their dietary structure and making them less likely to develop picky eating habits.

Which is better, dry food or canned wet food?

Both dry and wet food are nutritionally balanced staple foods. When buying canned food, dog owners should be careful not to choose treat cans, as only staple food cans contain all the nutrients a dog needs daily. Wet food provides hydration and is palatable. When feeding dogs wet food, it's essential to clean their teeth daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Also, wet food should be consumed as soon as possible after opening to prevent bacterial growth from exposure to air; uneaten food should be refrigerated. Commercially available dry food is mainly made through air drying or extrusion, resulting in low moisture content; therefore, it's crucial to ensure adequate hydration. Calculate your dog's daily water intake based on their weight, and consider increasing fluid intake by making chicken breast broth.

Regular and measured feeding habits

Regular, measured feeding is currently recognized as a more scientific method. This involves dividing a dog's daily food into two to three equal portions and feeding them at different times. This avoids overeating, which can damage the spleen and stomach, and prevents the bad habit of overeating that can lead to anorexia and obesity. Furthermore, feeding in smaller portions adds a sense of ritual; the dog anticipates its owner's return and will grow to love its owner more. Some automatic feeders on the market can dispense dog food at set times, providing comfort to the dog when the owner is not home.

What should I do if my dog comes to the table begging for food as soon as it's mealtime?

At mealtimes, some dogs rush to the table begging for food. If they don't get it, they become clingy, bark, and throw tantrums. When owners feel sorry for their dogs and give them food, the dogs become even more aggressive, going straight to the table… Some families now reserve a special spot for their dogs at the table, but maintaining clear boundaries is key to a dog's good behavior. First, adjust your dog's eating schedule to match human mealtimes, getting them used to eating at the same time as you. Secondly, strictly prohibit the dog from stealing food from your hands. Use commands, reprimands, isolation, and punishment to stop this behavior, establishing authority and training it to only eat food offered by people and from its own bowl. When eating at the table with your dog, prepare boiled, bland vegetables and meat for it. This not only prevents the dog from developing the annoying habit of begging for food from others but also avoids accidental ingestion of poisonous substances like onions and chili peppers.

Is your dog's picky eating habit caused by treats?

When puppies first try a delicious treat, they'll always look forward to more treats, showing less interest in their main food and only wanting snacks. This is especially true for younger puppies who haven't yet developed a habit of eating their main food; avoid frequently feeding them treats. Also, treats should not be a substitute for a full meal. Choose a variety of treats to prevent dependency. Some puppies are easily distracted while eating and will run off to play. Owners can set a 30-minute feeding timer. Remove the food when the time is up. After the puppy experiences hunger several times, it will develop a conditioned reflex to eat properly.

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