How to feed my dog?
They may be man's best friend, but dogs should never eat the same way as man! Sometimes it's hard to resist your four-legged friend's sweet eyes, especially if he's still a puppy and wants a piece of your dinner. However, it's important to establish good habits and the basics by feeding him properly from the start. This is not only to ensure that your puppy follows the rules of the house, but more importantly, to ensure his own health. How, when and what to feed your dog, we share our valuable tips with you!
When to feed your dog?
Unlike cats, dogs are not capable of rationing. This is why it is not advisable to leave his food on a self-service basis. For an adult dog, it is recommended to feed him at fixed times, once or twice a day in the morning and in the evening and three times a day for a puppy. Separating the food into different meals helps to spread out the dog's daily intake to facilitate digestion. However, be sure to wait half an hour after feeding before taking your dog for a walk or engaging in strenuous activity, otherwise your dog's stomach may become distended.
Where to feed your dog?
Like most humans, dogs generally like to eat in a quiet place, away from the hustle and bustle of noise. This is especially true of the more reserved and shy dogs, who may even refuse to eat when they find themselves in an atmosphere that seems unsafe. Some dogs, on the other hand, will not be at all disturbed by noise or people walking by. In any case, it is important to respect your pet's needs as much as possible and to choose a quiet place to feed your dog, if you can.
What foods should you avoid for your dog?
If you are the happy new owner of a dog, you should know that there are certain mistakes you should not make when it concerns the food. It is not recommended to give your dog the following foods:
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Leftovers. Your dog will tend to put on weight and his health will decline since it is not a balanced food that is normally intended for him.
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Raw meat. If you ever want to give your dog a small piece of meat as an exception, make sure that it is well cooked. Raw meat may contain bacteria that could be harmful to your dog's health.
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Chocolate should not be given to your dog. This food is toxic and even fatal for your dog.
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Contrary to popular belief, you should never give your dog bones. They could injure the inside of its mouth and perforate its organs once ingested.
What to give to your dog?
For your dog's meals
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Industrial food
Industrial food in the form of kibbles is ideal (provided it is of good quality and preferably made from 100% natural ingredients) for providing meals that are both balanced and adapted to your pet. It should be served to your dog in a bowl morning and evening. Choose kibbles that are adapted to your pet's breed and health and don't change them if they are suitable for your pet. Dogs appreciate regularity!
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Homemade food
Homemade food is excellent for your dog's health and is ideal for covering all his daily nutritional needs: 35% meat, 30% cereals, 25% vegetables and 10% nutrients. For puppies, the following amounts are recommended: 50% meat, 25% rice, 10% vegetables and 10% nutrients. However, making these daily home-cooked meals requires some preparation time each day!
Treats for dogs between meals
Snacks or treats are essential to give your dog in between meals for several reasons.
They can be given as a reward, to encourage good deeds and obedience from your four-legged friend.
Treats can also be given to your dog when you leave your home, to keep him occupied after you have gone and avoid the loneliness he may feel when you leave.
Finally, snacks can also be beneficial to your pet's health, especially when they are made from natural ingredients. The treats sold by Marly & Dan, for example, are made from 100% natural ingredients, including plants, and provide your dog with the benefits of these. For example, there are chew bars with turmeric, a natural antioxidant that helps to strengthen your dog's immune system. Tender bites with chamomile, a plant that has properties to help calm your dog's anxiety. Dental sticks with green tea extracts, which are good for your dog's oral health, and many other snacks that are good for your four-legged friend's overall health!
