Tips For Your Dog's Balanced Diet

Think about asking your dog, "What do you want to eat?" Their eyes will probably say, "Everything!" 

But eating everything isn't good for them. 

If you’re a new dog parent, this article will explain what you need to know about dog nutrition. Make sure you know how to feed your dog the right way and what it needs to be healthy.

What Goes Into A Balanced Dog Food?

A healthy diet for dogs includes proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. While it sounds straightforward, knowing how these nutrients work in a dog’s body and how much your dog needs at different ages is actually quite complicated. 

There is even a special branch of veterinary medicine focused on pet nutrition. BUT, as dog parent, the main things you need to know about dog food nutrition are: 

• The guidelines for pet foods were created by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
• The nutrients in your dog’s food and what they do. 

It is important to remember that your pet’s nutritional needs change over time. Age, health status, and activity level dictate your dog’s specific dietary balance. Puppies require different diets than senior dogs and overweight pets may benefit from a dietary change. However, dogs do have consistent, common needs regardless of age or lifestyle.

A High-Quality Meat Source

Your dog needs good food to stay healthy, and meat is a big part of that. Giving your dog high-quality meat, like muscle meats, is a great way to make sure they're getting the most from their meals. This kind of meat is easy for them to digest and is packed with protein, which is super important for your dog's health.

Protein

Protein is a must-have in your dog's diet because it helps with lots of things in their body. Without protein, your dog couldn't stay healthy. The protein in their food gives them essential amino acids, which are building blocks that they can't make on their own.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Don't forget about fruits and veggies, either! They're full of vitamins, minerals, and other good stuff that helps keep your dog in tip-top shape. Some good choices are apples, carrots, and spinach. These aren't just fillers; they help your dog grow and stay healthy in ways meat alone can't.

💡 BONUS TIP: Here’s a list of vitamins your dog needs and what they are for.

• Vitamin A helps with seeing, skin, and fighting off germs.
• Vitamin D makes bones and teeth strong.
• Vitamin E is good for skin and helps protect the body from getting sick.
• Vitamin B12 is important for blood and brain health.
• Calcium and Phosphorus make bones and teeth strong.
• Iron helps blood carry oxygen, giving energy.
• Zinc and Selenium help with skin, healing, and keeping the body healthy.

Healthy Fats

Fats might seem bad because we often hear about obesity in people and pets. But, healthy fats are super important for your dog's growth and making their food taste and smell good.

Healthy fats are an important source of energy in your pet’s diet. In fact, they carry twice the amount of energy as carbohydrates and proteins. If your dog gets more energy than they use on a daily basis, you may begin to see it reflected in weight gain. An appropriate amount of fat in combination with exercise promotes a healthier pet.

Remember, feeding your dog right is important for a happy, healthy life.

Eating well and getting exercise, like walks with a good harness, are great for your dog. It's all about loving care and finding the right balance. Cheers to lots of joyful meals and fun times with your dog!

At Joyride Harness, we care about every aspect of your dog's health. Nutrition is important for a happy, healthy dog. So is exercise! That's why we make the best harness for dogs that makes it easy for them to exercise safely. It fits all sizes and shapes of dog, and it doesn't put them at risk of injury like a collar.

Shop the Joyride today and get out there with your furry friend!