It is important for dogs to get the right nutrition so they live long and healthy. The kind of food they eat will affect the quality of their lives. Dogs that eat unhealthy foods are prone to sickness. The results could be fatal. Just like humans, dogs have particular nutritional needs too such as:
Bones. The dog’s body system actually needs bones to be able to function properly. Bones are made up of living tissues which provide dogs with a variety of nutrients such as minerals, proteins and fats.
Meat. Meat should be given to dogs within limits. The healthy dog diet should not comprise mainly of meat and should include other important nutrients too like vegetables and fruits. Meat provides dogs with protein, methionine, potassium, sodium and Vitamin B.
Vegetables. These are necessary part of the dog’s nutrition because they promote the dog’s health. Vegetables contain omega 3 essential fatty acids, vitamins, phytochemicals and antioxidants necessary for them to stay healthy and fit. Avoid giving dogs onions and garlics though because these can cause anemia. Vegetables that are beneficial to dogs are: celery, spinach, cayenne pepper, broccoli and carrot.
Offal. These are internal organs of animals. They are needed in the dog’s diet but in small amounts. Liver provides a huge concentration of vitamin A. Kidneys are great source of protein, vitamins A,D,E,K, essential fatty acids, zinc, iron and B vitamins. Tripe is another animal organ that provides health benefits to dogs. Tripe contains essential enzymes, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, phytonutrients and probiotics. Heart is another animal organ that should form part of dog food. Heart is a great source of taurine, vitamin B, iron, essential fatty acids and vitamin A.
Fruits. Fruits should form part of the dog’s diet. These are energy foods like carbohydrates. They contain enzymes and antioxidants which keep the dog’s body healthy. Fruits can also slow down the degeneration and aging process. Remove the seeds, stems and leaves of the fruits before giving them to dogs. These can cause problems if not removed.
Fruits that are excellent for dogs include whole apple, whole pear, whole orange and whole grapefruit. Avocado should not be given to dogs because they contain persin which is toxic to them. Grapes and raisins should not be given to dogs either because these can lead to kidney failure. Macadamia nuts is a big no-no for dogs because this can poison them. Persimmons, peaches and plums are also dangerous to dogs because these can cause intestinal inflammation.
These foods provide dogs with energy, help maintain health of liver, brain, heart and nerve tissue. Glucose in meats helps the brain function better. It also helps build anti bodies that can strengthen the immune system and wards off illnesses. Deficiency in these nutrients can cause poor health and various health problems in dogs.