Let’s review some of the things you need to consider regarding pet wellness.
Most of the food we eat and the nutrition it provides make a big difference to our overall health. The same can be said for our pets, including our canines. Feeding our dogs the right food can help them grow properly, stay healthy, and enjoy an excellent quality of life. With so many different options available for pets, how can you what is the best diet for your canine? Let’s review some of the things you need to consider regarding pet wellness.
Your Dog’s Age
Did you know a dog’s nutritional needs change as they age? While they might depend solely on their mother’s milk until they are around 8 weeks old, puppies require a specific diet to enhance their growth and development. Pick a formula of feed that is meant for puppies since these contain the nutrients they need to ensure they grow into healthy adults.
Canines typically become adults between 12 – 18 months of age, with bigger dogs often considered adults in the earlier part of this timeline. They can consume larger meals less often, requiring fewer calories since they won’t be growing. Choose an adult dog feed that contains enough protein and nutrients to keep them energized and active.
Pet Wellness for Senior Dogs
The senior years normally start at around 8 years old for larger breeds. Since older animals are more susceptible to experiencing health conditions, your dog could benefit from consuming nutritional supplements, like glucosamine, which is recommended for canines with arthritis. Your dog’s teeth may worsen for wear too, meaning that softer foods could be preferable. Pay extra attention to pet wellness at this stage!
What’s Ideal: Dry or Wet Food?
One of the biggest challenges many pet owners experience is the choice between offering wet or dry food. While both types of food can provide the nutrition your dog needs, one might be better for your pet pal than the other.
Wet Food for Dogs
- Wet food has more moisture content than dry food due to a special gravy filled with vitamins, minerals, and grain that becomes protein.
- Dogs who don’t drink as much water as they should can benefit from wet foods
- Canines who suffer from issues with their urinary or kidney systems
- Dogs who have dental problems
- Wet food is considered to be more appetizing to dogs
Dry Food for Dogs
Rather than adding moisture in the form of gravy, dry dog food is made from crushed proteins known as kibble. Once the kibble is dried, it’s sprayed with minerals, vitamins, fats, and oils before packaging. Benefits of dry food for dogs include:
- Less expensive than wet foods
- Easier to store dry food and include it in slow feeders and puzzle dog toys
- Dry food gives your dog’s jaw a workout while eating
- Consist of an abrasive action that can help to clean your dog’s teeth
Here are some helpful sites and resources regarding pet wellness!
Support Your Pet’s Wellness at Alexander Animal Hospital
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment. We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, X, and Pinterest for all the latest updates!