Years ago, feeding dogs meant sharing table scraps and leftovers, but today, we know that a balanced diet is essential for their health and longevity. Providing dogs with nutritious food helps them live a happier, healthier life—and there’s science to back it up. Nutrition experts and veterinarians have spent years researching what pets need in their diets, so let’s explore the key elements for your dog’s best diet.
Why Choosing the Right Food Matters
Feeding your dog the right type of food means selecting one suited to their age, size, activity level, and health needs. Ideally, dogs should eat a diet rich in raw, wet meats following the principles of the Balanced Raw Food Diet (you can find more details with a quick search). However, raw diets can be costly and time-intensive, so many dog owners turn to commercial dog food for convenience. When shopping, prioritize high-quality options, as lower-quality foods can impact your dog’s health negatively over time.
Key Elements of a Well-Balanced Dog Diet
- Dry Food for Dental Health: Adding a high quality dry food to your dog’s diet can help keep their teeth clean by reducing plaque buildup and supporting gum health. Dry food also offers fiber that aids digestion.
- Wet Food for Flavor: Wet food is nutritious but can be heavy, so try mixing a small amount into their kibble instead of feeding it on its own. Wet food adds variety and moisture, keeping your dog’s meals enjoyable and satisfying.
- Homemade Dog Food: If you want to prepare homemade food for your dog, look up dog-specific recipes online to ensure balanced nutrition. However, avoid feeding them table scraps, which often contain fats, fillers, and spices that could upset their digestive system.
Feeding Guidelines by Age
Puppies and adult dogs have different dietary needs:
- Puppies: Feed them three to four small meals daily until they’re around three months old, then transition to three meals a day until six months.
- Adult Dogs: Feed twice per day, and try to keep meals around the same times daily. Set the food down for about twenty minutes; if they haven’t eaten, remove the bowl. This schedule helps deter picky eating habits.
- Fresh Water: Always have fresh water available to keep them hydrated.
How Much to Feed: Portion Control and Testing for Health
Your vet can guide you on portion sizes for your dog, and many dog food bags offer portion recommendations as well. Wondering if they’re getting enough? Here’s a quick test:
- Run your hand along your dog’s side. You should feel their ribs without needing to press. If you can’t feel them easily, your dog might be overweight; if you can see them, they may need more food.
Reading Labels: What to Look For and What to Avoid
Dog food labels can be confusing, so here are some tips:
- Look for Specific Proteins: Labels should list specific meat sources like “chicken,” “turkey,” or “beef”. Avoid products with vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal by-product meal.”
- Avoid Fillers and Preservatives: Dog foods often contain fillers and preservatives that don’t add nutritional value. Stick to foods with natural, wholesome ingredients for optimal nutrition.
For more information on choosing dog food, consult trusted sources like Dog Food Advisor, which reviews dog food brands and ingredients in detail.
Bridging Nutritional Gaps with Supplements
Even with the best dog food, commercial options may lack some essential nutrients. Nutritional supplements help fill these gaps, ensuring your dog receives all the vitamins and minerals they need to thrive. Just as humans benefit from daily vitamins, high-quality pet supplements can make a noticeable difference in your dog’s energy levels, coat shine, and overall health.
Our Commitment to Total Pet Care
At NeVetica, we believe in total pet care, which means helping you care for your furry companion from the inside out. In our article above, we talked about the importance of supplementing your pet’s diet with high-quality vitamins and nutraceuticals. Below, we’ve curated links to some of our favorite pet vitamins—products we trust to support your pet’s health and happiness. When used consistently, these supplements can make a noticeable difference that shines from the inside out!
But don’t just take our word for it—check out the testimonials from other pet parents who’ve seen incredible results in their pets’ energy, coat shine, and overall wellness. Give your pet the health boost they deserve!
1. Eye Care: NeVetica Multivitamins
Support your dog’s overall health with NeVetica Multivitamins. This supplement promotes brain, heart, kidney, eye, and liver function, offering essential vitamins like A, B, C, D, E, and K, along with vital minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
2. Ear Care: NeVetica Digestive Support Chews
Is your furry friend experiencing a foul or yeast-like odor in their ears? NeVetica Digestive Support Chews can help reduce gas, allergy symptoms, and yeast-related disorders, ensuring your pet stays healthy and comfortable.
3. Dental Hygiene: NeVetica Water Additive
Maintaining your pet’s dental hygiene is easy with our NeVetica Additive. This effectively fights plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause bad breath. NeVetica Water Additive, featuring peppermint oil, supports healthy teeth and gums and may help soothe upset stomachs.
4. Skin and Coat Care: NeVetica Skin and Coat Formula
Our NeVetica Skin and Coat Formula is specially designed to nourish and strengthen your dog’s skin and coat from within. Packed with essential vitamins, nutrients, and fatty acids, this formula promotes a shiny coat and overall wellness.
5. Bathing/Skin Care: NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo
Keep your pet clean without the hassle of traditional baths! NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo allows for quick and convenient grooming, promoting healthy, moisturized skin and coat.
6. Paw Care: NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo
Ensure your pet's paws stay clean, especially during winter walks. Our NeVetica No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo effectively removes dirt, grime, and salt while nourishing the skin and coat.
7. Hip and Joint Care: NeVetica Hip & Joint Chews
Help your dog maintain mobility and reduce joint pain with NeVetica Hip & Joint Chews. These chews contain green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), a powerful source of Omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that improve joint lubrication and alleviate stiffness.
Visit our website to explore additional products!