Dogs

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FEEDING THE ADULT DOG

While dogs belong to the group of animals called carnivores they are omnivorous. Dogs prefer meat but they actually need a mixed diet with the same food groups we eat (though not quite in the same balance). Dogs can be vegetarian as long as they are getting enough protein in their diet however they aren't going to love the lack of meat; this is very difficult to balance and is not recommended. They also should not eat a meat only diet. Dogs are much more forgiving with their diets than cats and it is possible to feed a dog a home-prepared diet. However to do it well involves a lot of work and knowledge. If you are not willing to put in this effort then stick with the commercial foods.

Commercial foods come as canned and dry; supermarket brands and professional lines are available through pet shops and veterinary practices. There are also home delivered foods and pet shops often make up mixes. Not all foods are complete foods. Check the labelling for the words "balanced" or "complete". Ask if you are buying a pet-shop mix; if they can't tell you - then assume it's not. If it is not complete then don't feed that particular food as the bulk of the diet. Most commercial food allows some treats to be added without upsetting the balance.

Avoid restricting foods to one of two types of food and don't let him bluff you to feeding only his favourite food -chicken is not a balanced diet! If your dog refuses food then take it away, keep it fresh and appetizing, and offer it again later.

Over 60 % of dogs in Australia are overweight - avoid fatty foods or sugary treats. Avoid sudden changes to your dog's diet. Sudden increases in fats often cause diarrhoea. A fatty binge can result in pancreatitis, which must be treated by a veterinarian, and may be fatal. Garlic is thought to be beneficial but never feed onion. Some common foods we eat, like chocolate, can be very bad for dogs. If unsure about a food ask your veterinarian.

Offer your dog raw bones regularly to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Generally for small dogs lamb bones are good while for larger dogs beef leg bones are ideal. Have the butcher cut them open so your dog can reach the marrow. Hard biscuits and "rusks" (made by Exelpet) are an alternative where your dog buries the bones, and never eats them, or if your dog has problems with fatty foods. There are now dental kits available containing a toothbrush and toothpaste for those dogs that won't chew. Human toothpaste is not suitable, as it's designed to be spat out. Also most dogs aren't keen on peppermint-type flavours. Cooked bones can cause blockages and other problems and should be avoided.

Always have fresh water available at all times.

NUMBER OF MEALS PER DAY

Larger breeds need to be feed twice a day for longer than small breeds.

Some breeds of dogs are better fed less more often. For instance it is safer to feed the deep-chested dogs like Great Danes several small meals to decrease the risk of a disease called "bloat". Never exercise any dog directly after eating.

Old dogs have different dietary requirements than young dogs. Some dogs need less energy, as they are no longer active. Other dogs have trouble absorbing and metabolizing what they eat so they need more vitamins and high quality proteins and carbohydrates. Others again have diseases such as heart disease, which require special diets. Ask your veterinarian if you are unsure what to fed your aging dog, there are now many specialised pet foods available in your supermarket or pet shop that have been formulated for "senior" dogs.

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