Feeding 'Fido' the best healthful food and supplements, naturally

Better Nutrition, August, 1996 by Victoria Dolby

Our four-footed companions deserve the best, nutritionally. But ever since the first dog biscuits hit the market in 1860, dog owners have been overwhelmed by the ever-growing number of food choices, ranging from treats to dry, semi-moist, and canned dog foods lining the pet food aisle.

To add to the confusion, there are specialty products, formulated for weight management, skin and coat care, puppies, and mature dogs. How's a concerned dog owner to keep from "barking up the wrong tree" when it comes to choosing what to put in his or her dog's bowl?

Back to the basics

Too many owners make their dog's meal choices based on packaging and advertising, rather than on food nutrition.

Although the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine monitors pet food safety, many pet owners question whether processed dog food, being the equivalent to human fast-food, is really that safe and healthful for their Drecious Dooches.

Luckily, a growing number of pet food manufacturers are producing less-processed foods that include natural, wholesome ingredients. Unfortunately, the processing of dog food still destroys the live enzymes so important for healthy dogs.

The FDA also investigates manufacturers to make sure that the label on a can or bag lists all of the ingredients. In addition, any nutritional claims, such as the claim of being "complete and balanced," must be supported scientifically.

It is important to feed your dog with the highest quality dog food available (within a reasonable budget), because poor nutrition takes its toll on "man's best friend." Malnourishment is directly linked to the functioning of the immune system. And, as we all know, dogs need their immune systems to be in tip-top shape to battle the parasites and other infections they are often faced with. Poor diet also leads to impaired growth rates, lack-luster coats, an increased risk of skin diseases, poorer quality of life, and truncated life span.

Food allergies can also develop in dogs fed commercial food with artificial colors and flavors. "Premium" dog foods generally exclude these undesirable additives, and are more digestible for pets.

A dog's basic nutrition needs are generally met with a dry, moderately-priced dog food. Canned or semi-moist foods can be helpful for pets who may need some extra water in the diet or show poor appetite. However, canned food should not be used to the exclusion of all other foods, since it can contribute to tartar buildup.

Special foods for special dietary needs

Several health problems can indicate that your dog may need a specialized diet. For instance, if your pooch is rotund -- and as many as 50 percent of dogs are overweight -- he may benefit from a lower-calorie dog food.

Young and old pets also have unique dietary needs. Growing puppies require larger amounts of calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals than do adult animals. Pregnant or nursing dogs also have increased nutritional requirements for calories, protein, and calcium. Older dogs don't require as much protein as their youthful counterparts, but theirs should be of higher quality, for the sake of their kidneys.

Dry, flaky skin or a dull coat are the red flags of a nutrient-depleted pup. Switching to a higher-quality food source and giving your dog supplements can make a world of difference in his appearance and in his overall health.

Pets need supplements, too

New pet supplements hitting the market fill in the gaps of the all-too-often poor-quality canine cuisine fed to most dogs. Look for a green barley supplement that supplies antioxidant vitamins, amino acids (protein building blocks), B vitamins, minerals, and live enzymes.

Barley supplements, according to leading veterinarians, are especially helpful in boosting immune function and preventing arthritis, skin disorders, lackluster coats, cancer, and digestive problems. Do your "best friend" a favor, give him a pet supplement and a consistently healthful diet.

REFERENCE

Ackerman, S.J., et al. "Pet Cuisine; Feeding Galloping

Gourmets," FDA Consumer, 25(2):28-32, March 1991.