Feeding your dog the right amount of food is essential for their health. Too little and they can become malnourished, while too much and they can become obese.
There are several factors that determine how much your dog should eat, including their age, weight and overall activity level. The guidelines on a commercial pet food label are a good starting point for your dog’s diet.
Salmon
Salmon is a high-protein fish that can help keep your dog healthy and happy. It’s full of Omega-3 fatty acids and helps to boost the immune system.
It’s a good whole food source of Vitamin D and it also reduces inflammation, which is useful for dogs with skin issues like itchiness or yeast infections.
However, there are risks associated with salmon if it’s not properly prepared. Raw salmon is very high in parasites and bacteria that can make your dog sick if it’s not cooked correctly.
Canned smoked salmon is a safe option for your dog but be sure to choose spring water and remove the bones.
Carrots
Carrots are a nutritious snack and delicious treat that dogs can enjoy. They’re packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin A, potassium and antioxidants.
They’re also good for your dog’s teeth. They can help scrape away tartar, which is essential for preventing dental problems.
You should feed carrots in moderation, however. Large amounts of carrots will lead to weight gain and obesity, which can lead to other health issues.
They’re also a great source of beta-carotene and lutein, which are known to protect eyesight and lower the risk of age-related eye diseases. They’re also very high in water, so they can improve your dog’s hydration levels.
Rice
Rice can be a healthy part of your dog’s diet, but it should be fed in moderation. Too much rice can lead to a build-up of extra carbohydrates in the blood and increase your dog’s risk of developing diabetes.
When it comes to preparing rice for dogs, the most safe method is to boil it until tender. Be sure to rinse it well before feeding it, and don’t add any seasonings or fats that might upset your dog’s tummy.
While white rice is easier for most dogs to digest, brown rice is also a good choice for sick dogs who have gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. It is high in soluble fiber and can promote stool formation for your dog with diarrhea.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a probiotic-rich food that can help restore your dog’s digestive balance. It also helps to relieve minor GI problems, such as diarrhea, in some dogs.
Ideally, you want to feed your dog plain yogurt that is free of added sugar and sweeteners. Be sure to check the label for ingredients that may be harmful or toxic, such as xylitol.
You can mix yogurt into your dog’s food, smooth it on a Kong toy or even use it as a baking ingredient for healthy homemade treats. It is best to serve it in moderation, as excess fat can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis.
Oatmeal
A popular breakfast food, oatmeal is a healthy addition to a pet’s diet. It is low in calories and contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Oatmeal is also high in fiber and a great source of soluble fiber which helps in regulating blood glucose levels and improves digestion. However, too much of this nutrient can cause stomach problems including diarrhea and vomiting.
If your dog has a sensitive digestive system, consider serving oatmeal with water, not milk. Dairy can be difficult for dogs to digest and can cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and bloating.
Cheese
Cheese is a delicious, nutrient-rich snack that many dogs love. It contains protein and fatty acids that help improve skin and coat health.
However, you should only feed cheese to your dog in moderation and only after consulting with your veterinarian. This is because it can be too high in fat and salt for certain pets, such as overweight or obese dogs, or those with kidney problems.
Cheese also contains lactose, a sugar that can cause intestinal upset in some dogs. For this reason, it’s best to give your dog low-lactose cheese or a dairy substitute.