How to choose dog food?

According to the age

The nutritional requirements of dogs of different ages are different.

There are separate diets for puppies, adult animals and aging pets. For example, it is important for a puppy to get more calories from food than an adult dog. And vice versa: diets for animals older than 8 years should take into account that aging dogs need 20% less energy than an adult.

The ratio of vitamins and minerals for each age is also different. In particular, the puppy needs a significant amount of amino acids, calcium, phosphorus, zinc. Older dogs require more B vitamins, copper and again zinc.

To size

The nutritional needs of a dog also depend on its size. Miniature pets are prone to obesity, oral diseases, skin and coat problems. Accordingly, these dogs are recommended forage of moderate caloric content for weight maintenance, with special calcium compounds for teeth, with a special combination of linoleic acid and zinc for the skin and coat.

In turn, large breeds have sensitive digestion and are more likely to suffer from diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Therefore, large dogs are shown diets rich in fiber from easily digestible ingredients containing a complex of fatty acids and glucosamine that is beneficial for the joints.

It is equally important that manufacturers who produce diets for dogs of different sizes take into account the size of the animal’s mouth. Someone gets small granules, and someone, as expected, large ones.

By features

A dog receiving a standard balanced diet, subject to the norms and diet, does not experience problems with the absorption of diets. However, there is a small group of animals with a particularly sensitive digestive system. For such pets, special feeds have been developed.

Diets for dogs with sensitive digestion differ from universal diets in the presence of more prebiotics that improve the intestinal microflora; the presence of omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids that reduce inflammation; easily digestible rice, which acts as a source of carbohydrates. This food relieves the dog from the unpleasant symptoms of indigestion.

By breed

There are also breed-specific foods on the market. In the food line Royal Canin there are diets designed for Labradors, Chihuahuas and so on. These feeds take into account the specific characteristics of the breeds. For example, Labrador Retrievers have a unique water-repellent coat structure, so fatty acids and a special protective complex of substances are recommended for them to maintain healthy skin and coat. Chihuahuas are prone to the formation of tartar, which is saved from the appearance of special food with calcium compounds. There are also breed-specific foods. Eukanuba, Advance Affinity.

Manufacturers of ready-made rations are attentive to the needs of pets, trying to satisfy any need in their assortment.