The right nutrition for your dog!
Dogs are considered man's best friend - and as such they should be healthy and lively for as long as possible. Feeding your four-legged friend can be a science in itself - there are even entire books about it. Here is an overview of the most important facts about dog nutrition so that you can relax and enjoy your everyday life with your dog while filling the food bowl!
Vitamins from fruit and vegetables for dogs
Some dogs steal the carrots from the rabbit's cage, others eat carefully around the lettuce leaf decoration in their dog bowl. Just like humans, every dog has its own preferences. Some vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers and leaf lettuce are very healthy for your dog - you should never feed your dog nightshade plants such as tomatoes or peppers. You can also remember a simple rule of thumb for fruit: Dogs cannot tolerate citrus fruits or grapes, other types of fruit are safe.
If you feed your dog fruit and vegetables, always make sure they have a small amount of fat so that your dog can absorb the nutrients. Coconut oil, linseed oil or even a knob of butter are suitable for this. If your pet does not accept vegetables and fruit on their own, try mixing several varieties together.
Important: Fruit and vegetables must always be pureed, as chunks are worthless for dogs as they cannot absorb the vitamins. If you freeze the fruit and vegetable puree , you will always have a healthy food supplement to hand - and in summer, a delicious dog ice cream too!
Is meat part of a species-appropriate dog diet?
Eating meat is part of a dog's diet. Dogs are carnivores and their entire organism is geared towards breaking down and digesting meat and getting the maximum amount of nutrients from it. This does not mean that you have to feed your dog raw meat - but you should at least give your dog a piece of meat from time to time or use our organic wet food, which is available in several types of meat.
Can dogs tolerate carbohydrates?
Most dogs can tolerate potatoes, pasta, rice and the like, but cannot utilise them well - so they don't benefit much from them. However, it is advisable to use wet food that is mixed with brown rice or similar products so that your dog gets to know a wide range of foods. This way he is less likely to develop preferences or allergies.
Yoghurt, cream and milk for dogs?
Dairy products for dogs should be as "old" as possible. Fresh milk is not easy for dogs to digest, often resulting in diarrhoea or flatulence. However, if your dog is too thin, you can easily add calories by adding a little cream to their food - and cottage cheese or yoghurt are a welcome addition to their diet.
Our tip: Puree banana with yoghurt and freeze it in portions! This makes a tasty, cool snack for your pet and you!
Chewy treat for dogs: Bones
The most important rule when feeding bones: Never without supervision!
Every dog will do everything you want with great enthusiasm - the main thing is that they get the fresh (never cooked!) bone! However, you should always keep an eye on your dog - dogs often try to swallow the bone whole or awkwardly lock it in their own jaws. After half an hour, you should take the leftover bone away from your dog - his gums and teeth are usually very stressed.
Vegetarian and vegan dog food
If you don't eat meat yourself or animal products in general, you may want to do the same for your dog. However, as a dog would never decide for itself to stop eating meat, you should think carefully about this in the interests of your dog's welfare. Have your pet's blood work done at the vet so that you can really tailor the vegetarian or vegan dog diet perfectly to your furry friend. Some vets also offer consultations on this topic.
Conclusion
A hungry dog will usually eat anything it can tolerate. Trust your dog's good nose a little - if he won't touch one type of food, it may simply not be the right variety for his organism. If you give him new food, introduce it slowly - mix only a small amount into his usual food at the beginning and then gradually increase the mixing ratio in favour of the new food.
Our recommendations for your four-legged friend:
Related products
Bio Hundefutter Adult
Contents: 2.4 kg (€9.23* / 1 kg)
Hundefutter Sensitiv
Contents: 2.4 kg (€9.73* / 1 kg)
Bio Hundefutter Junior
Contents: 2.4 kg (€9.48* / 1 kg)
Frequently asked questions about the right diet for dogs
What should I do if my dog no longer likes its food?
It can happen that your dog's favourite food has suddenly become boring - feed it something else. However, it is also possible that this particular portion of food is spoilt, even if you can't see it. Under no circumstances should you feed the dog the food it has spurned again. Leave it for 10 minutes and then throw it away.
When should you feed dogs so they don't have to go out at night?
If you feed your dog dry food in the evening, you often have to get up at night: Dry food often makes dogs thirsty, which means they have to go for a walk at night. Good organic wet food (LINK) with a carbohydrate source ensures relaxed nights!
When and how often should I feed my dog?
How often you should feed your dog depends on the breed and your personal habits. A Great Dane, for example, is very susceptible to gastric torsion and should therefore not be fed the entire amount in one meal. If it fits into your daily routine to feed the dog three times a day, this is the best solution. If possible, however, you should vary the times so as not to establish a routine.
Important when feeding your dog: Always feed your dog in such a way that there are no romping or walking sessions afterwards. First they romp and chase, then they eat, then the pack rests.
My dog gobbles down the food, what can I do?
Hide the food in the bowl between balls or teething rings. This way your dog has to work for the food. Specialist shops also sell special food bowls that prevent gobbling.
How much variety does a dog need in its food?
The more variety you offer, the less risk there is of your dog developing allergies or preferences. You can primarily feed your dog organic wet food. However, your dog should also be given dry or fresh food from time to time so that he can eat everything if necessary.