Dog Diet Tips: Find Nutritious Food and the Role of Calcium
You want your furry friend to eat right. You are very aware of the numerous benefits of a healthy and nutritious dog diet, but where can you find the best food for your pet?
But do not overlook the obvious. Your veterinarian can consult with you about the best types of dog diets. He or she may sell specific brands or varieties right from their office. Once you have decided on a specific diet for your dog, consider picking it up when you bring your pet in for a checkup or while picking up your monthly heartworm medication. A trusted vet would not offer you food that is not suitable for your dog’s diet, so this may be a great place to start. If the vet recommends a particular type of diet for your dog, due to health reasons, your vet may be one of the only places to find the exact food your dog’s diet requires.
But never forget to always consult the veterinarian before making any changes or alterations. Once you have decided on a specific diet for your dog, take advantage of the healthiest and most convenient method available to you.
The role of calcium
It is possible to have too much or too little calcium in your dog’s diet. When a dog’s diet contains too little calcium, your dog may develop a condition called rickets. This condition creates soft bones that bend under the weight of your dog.
Calcium works together with phosphorus. A balance of the two nutrients calcium and phosphorus must exist in a healthy ratio to ensure a dog diet that will maximize the potential advantages for your pet. Studies involving animal nutrition show that a ratio of 1.0 to 2.0 parts calcium should be coupled with 1.0 part phosphorus. When calcium and phosphorus ratios vary greatly from this range, bone troubles result.
Dog diets consisting exclusively of meat will not provide the proper amount of calcium and phosphorus to create healthy bones. Such a diet results in a ratio of about 1.0 part calcium to 18 parts phosphorus. The range of absorption is where the trouble begins.
Avoid supplementing your dog’s diet with calcium or other nutrients without specific discussion with your vet. When calcium, for example, is out of balance, health can truly be affected negatively. Feeding your dog a balanced diet is essential. Reputable dog food companies have researched animal nutrition to ensure the best possible health for your dog. Providing your dog’s diet in a healthy, balanced formula may be the best way to take care of your pet.
