Your dog adores you. It follows you everywhere. It quivers all the way to the tips of its ears as soon as you say its name. When you take out its leash, it is the happiest day of its life. More than anything, it trusts you. We obviously want the best for our little pets, but it's not always easy to figure out what is good and what is simply hype. What is good for us is not always good for your furry friend. This is the first in a series of articles that will give you the keys to a dog’s diet for a long and healthy life.
Not just the basics
A dog's diet should consist of protein, carbohydrates and fat. This is because dogs need food that is rich in protein. But that's just the basics. Your unstoppable little animal also needs vitamins and minerals to strengthen its immune system and to keep its body functioning properly. If its daily diet is not pre-fortified according to its needs, dietary supplements are a great way to make sure it doesn't miss anything.
Why give your dog food supplements?
Whether your dog is anxious, carefree, nervous, young, old, grumpy or crazy-happy, one thing is certain, it needs a balanced and complete diet. Nutrient deficiencies or excesses can be harmful to its health. To avoid this, you can check with your pet healthcare professional who can suggest supplements tailored to your dog's specific needs.
Supplements can be used on a preventive or curative basis, for example, to prevent oral health problems or strengthen the system during a recovery. Supplements help puppies' growth and are particularly beneficial for the digestive system. They can also relieve joint pain and limit inflammation in older canines. In short, there are many good reasons to use them.
The benefits do not appear overnight. You will only see results by maintaining good habits and making sure you give your furry friend an adequate daily dose of the supplements.
Superfoods for our favourite omnivores
Superfoods have made an entry into our diets, to say the least. People add them to their smoothies, salads, energy bars. Superfoods can benefit your overall health, skin and even your mood. Superfoods’ high nutritional value and very low calories make them the stars of our kitchens. But did you know that many of them are a great addition to your pet's daily diet? They help prevent and fight disease, help maintain better overall health, and enhance the beauty of the coat. Bananas, rich in fibre and potassium, regulate blood pressure and heart rate. Camelina oil is packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Quinoa, rich in protein and amino acids, has exceptional nutritional value. Pumpkin, in addition to being rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals (magnesium, calcium, potassium), appeals to the most refined palates. The important thing is to use the proper doses!
A trick, a treat and a pat
Superfoods are quietly marketed in the form of dog treats or cookies. The advantage is that you can give your pet the ideal dose of supplements every day. And why not take the opportunity to practice yourself? Like dog, like owner!
