Essential Dog Nutrition Guide: Feeding Your Dog for Optimal

Understanding the dietary needs of your dog is crucial for maintaining their health and happiness. This guide provides dog parents with straightforward rules and advice on crafting a balanced diet that supports their pet’s overall wellness.

The Basics of Dog Nutrition

1. Diverse Protein Sources

• Variety is Key: Rotate between 3-4 different meats to provide a spectrum of nutrients. Include fish like mackerel, sardines, or salmon a couple of times a week to supply essential fatty acids.
• Organ Meats: Integrate organ meats regularly into your dog’s diet. These are nutrient-dense and act like natural multivitamins.

2. Raw Meaty Bones

• Offer raw, meaty bones several times a week. These are not just a source of calcium and other minerals but also help in keeping your dog’s teeth clean and gums healthy. Ensure the bones are size-appropriate and raw, as cooked bones can splinter and cause harm.

3. Fruits and Vegetables

• Select fruits and vegetables that your dog enjoys. These should be a staple for their fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Steaming vegetables can make them easier to digest.

4. Carbohydrates in Moderation

• Carbohydrates should constitute no more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Opt for cooked, digestible options like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and occasionally white rice.

5. Fats for Energy and Health

• Fats are a vital energy source and are necessary for the absorption of certain vitamins. However, balance is crucial; too much fat can lead to weight gain. Include a mix of lean and fatty meats, and consider adding fish oil or coconut oil for extra energy and health benefits.

How Much Food Does Your Dog Need?

1. Weigh Your Dog:

   • Stand on the scale with your dog.
   • Stand on the scale without your dog.
   • Subtract the second weight from the first to get your dog’s weight.

2. Calculate Food Quantity:

   • Use the guide below to determine the percentage of your dog’s body weight for daily food intake:
     • Giant Dogs (over 45 kg): 1.5% - 2% of body weight
     • Large Dogs (20 kg - 45 kg): 2% - 2.5% of body weight
     • Medium-Small Dogs (5 kg - 20 kg): 3% - 3.5% of body weight
     • Miniature Dogs (under 5 kg): 3.5% - 4.5% of body weight

3. Adjust Based on dog:

   • Puppies (up to 1 year old): Add +1.5% to the chosen percentage.
   • Active Adult Dogs: Add +0.5% to the chosen percentage.
   • Chubby Dogs: Subtract -0.5% from the chosen percentage.
   • Skinny Dogs: Add +0.5% from the chosen percentage.

Detailed Meal Planning

Creating Balanced Meals:

• Meat and Fish: 70%-80%
• Organ Meat: 10%
• Vegetables and Carbohydrates: 15%
• Supplements: Such as eggs, coconut oil, or specialized dog supplements like Pro Belly, according to dosage recommendations.

Meal Ratio Example:

• Part 1: Chicken or lean meat (70%-80%), organ meat like heart or liver (10%), and boneless cooked fish (1 portion).
• Part 2: Combine different meats (40% each), organ meat (10%), and boneless cooked fish, with vegetables making up the remaining 15%.

Transitioning Foods:

To introduce new foods, use a gradual transition schedule over a week, adjusting based on your dog’s digestive response:

Transition Time	New Food	Old Food
Day 1-2	20%	80%
Day 3-4	50%	50%
Day 5-6	80%	20%
Day 7	100%	0%

Final Thoughts

Balancing your dog’s diet with a variety of meats, adequate amounts of raw bones, and the right mix of fats, carbohydrates, and vegetables will ensure they receive the nutrition they need. Monitor your dog’s health and adjust their diet as needed to keep them at their healthiest. Always consult with a vet before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have specific health conditions.