Dog Nutrition: Why You Should Never Give Food Scraps to Your Dog

I tend to find the scene both funny and very cute and I bet most dog owners do too. Having your dog sit by your side at the table and look at you with those adoring and "I didn't do it" eyes usually makes anyone melt, but there is another side of the coin to know about because of its incredible importance in your dog's health and life.

I have known for years from friends, neighbors and all kinds of acquaintances that they give their dogs all kinds of foods these like, including sodas and even alcohol. Sometimes I have felt sick just listening to the amount of mistakes dog owners make believing they are doing the right thing.

Dogs' digestive system is definitely not like ours, so just using this as a starting point, it would be logical to believe dog nutrition cannot be the same. We season our foods to our tastes and needs, using all kinds of condiments, spices and everything imaginable to make them tasteful and good for us, but those same spices and other ingredients we put in our food can cause tremendous harm to our dog's digestive tract, causing for example, bad breath, gas and loose stools, among other complications. Why provoke distress to a being we say we love?

If we also consider the fact that giving our dogs the extra calories that come from fatty table scraps will certainly produce weight gain, it is important to remember that overweight dogs are always at a much higher risk of presenting complications such as diabetes, heart disease and other unwanted illnesses such as pancreatitis. Their healthy diets should be based on a high protein ingestion, although many dog foods also include vegetables today.

Also avoid giving your dog bones that can splinter like chicken & pork bones

If you suspect that your dog has eaten any of these foods consult your vet immediately

Many dog owners are not familiar with the fact that there are many foods they should never feed to their dogs, such as chocolate and dairy products. We typically use onions to make our foods taste better, but these can be poisonous to the dog, including the powder form. If we condiment our food with onions and then give our dog scraps containing it, what can be expected?

We may face difficulties sometimes digesting certain foods, and dogs are not different in that sense. They don't know that, so if you give corn or sugar, you can expect them to be tough on the dog's digestive system. This also includes potatoes, lunch meats and other condiments that are high in sugar content.

We are used to thinking dogs love bones, and that is true, but when we give them meat products that contain bones in them, these can break and puncture the throat, stomach or intestines. This happens to humans too, so keep it in mind. If they block the digestive path, constipation may be the result. Oh, yes, licking the bone is probably a very satisfactory experience for the dog, but that should be the end of it. If the bone starts cracking, that is the time to remove it.

Many dog foods are prepared for the dog's digestive system and give them the correct nutrition they need, but there are also special recipes you can prepare at home for your dog that have been said to even help them not only live healthier, but also longer lives.

Jumping from the physical to the psychological aspect of giving your dog the table scraps while you are having dinner, do remember that if you do it, the dog will interpret this as a reward for his asking, so you would then have to be prepared for this behavior to repeat itself every time you sit at the table. Although it may seem cute as I mentioned previously, that scene is not adequate and should not present itself. You have your time for dinner and they should have theirs, apart from each other.

We do use food as a way to reinforce the behavior we want from our dogs, no matter where we want it to manifest itself (home, neighborhood, shows, etc.), but this should always be used when we are training our dog and not just because. There are many good treats you can give your dog when doing this instead of feeding it what will undoubtedly produce harm, even if delicious.

Remember it is your responsibility to choose the right nutrition for your dogs. If left to them, there is no end to what they find attractive to their taste without knowing what the consequences may be.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Dog-Nutrition:-Why-You-Should-Never-Give-Food-Scraps-to-Your-Dog&id=8511392

Make Sure Your Dog Is Getting Enough Exercise

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What do you usually do on Saturday afternoons? Do you often find yourself sitting on the couch watching TV while your dog naps next to you? If this sounds familiar, you need to make a few changes to your lifestyle and exercise more. If you do not take action, you and your dog might end up overweight.

If you do not want to exercise, you should still think about the well-being of your pet. A huge number of dogs are overweight or even obese in the U.S. According to StopCanineObesity.com, it is estimated that 17 million dogs are either overweight or obese in the U.S. Most overweight dogs are out of shape due to their owners feeding them too much. Watching your pet's diet more closely and making sure they get plenty of exercise is the best way to prevent obesity.

Dogs need plenty of exercise for several reasons. A dog who gets enough exercise is usually happier and calmer. Dogs who do not get enough exercise might experience separation anxiety or misbehave. Exercise is good for your dog's overall health. Regular exercise can improve heart, lung, bone and joint health.

There are plenty of fun activities you can do with your dog. You could for instance go for a walk, jog, ride your bike or even go swimming. If you do not want to exercise, find a safe area where you can let your dog run off leash for a while.

It is best to exercise moderately. Your dog will not know when to stop exercising. You should never force your puppy to be more active. Too much exercise can be harmful to a puppy's development and actually hurt their bones and joints. Fun and moderate activities will have positive effects on your puppy's development.

Bicycle lead

If you plan on taking your dog for a bike ride or another activity, take the time to warm up first. Your dog can pull a ligament or a tendon if you do not warm up first. Make sure your dog does not exercise without preparing first and stop when your dog looks tired.

If your dog is used to being inactive, do not overdo it at first. Change your lifestyle one step at a time. Your dog will enjoy exercising but too much activity could have negative effects.

Your dog should have plenty of fun while exercising. Your dog will be happier and live longer if it gets plenty of activity and has fun. Remember that dogs have very different needs when it comes to exercising. For instance, a Golden Retriever will need to run every day while a Boston Terrier does not need to be as active as other dogs. Choose activities adapted to the breed and age of your dog.

Flyball

You can join a group of dog owners who want to help their pets exercise more. Contact the nearest kennel club, pet store or animal shelter and ask about local groups. Rally, flyball and agility are popular activities for dogs and their owners. You will also get the opportunity to make new friends and let your dog socialize with other animals.

Regardless of the activity you choose, your dog will benefit from being more active. Your dog will have a lot of fun, bond with you and live longer thanks to exercise.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Make-Sure-Your-Dog-Is-Getting-Enough-Exercise&id=8901686

5 Effective Dieting Tips For Overweight Dogs

Experts say that overweight canines have a higher risk of health problems such as arthritis, different forms of cancer, diabetes, kidney problems, heart disease and high blood pressure. As a dog parent, it is your responsibility to monitor what your furry friend eats and take care of their overall physical well-being. If your dog is overweight, there are plenty of tricks you can try to get him off too much food but still keep him happy.

Here are a few tips you could follow:

Measure your dog's food

Did you know that in small dogs, even 10 extra kibbles of dog food each day can amount to about 1 pound of weight gain each year? That's where the beauty of using a measuring cup comes in when it comes to giving food to your pooch. Consult your vet regarding how much calories per day your pet needs to stay healthy and stick to that number - no more, no less.

Walk and exercise

A healthy, fit body can be achieved with a combination of nutritious food and the right amount of exercise per day. The same goes with our pets - if all they do is eat and they don't sweat it out, there's nothing to gain but weight. Make it a habit to walk your dog daily, even just for 20 to 30 minutes. This does not only keep him fit but daily exercise has plenty of health benefits such as boosting immune function, improving heart health and reducing behavioral problems. Hire a dog walker if you can't commit to a daily walk with your dog.

Feed your pet healthy food

Most store-bought pet treats and snacks are usually packed with addictive sugar that only add to your pet's waistline. If you have time, make your own treats made out of fruits and vegetables to ensure that he eats healthy. Apples, banana, broccoli, carrots and other fresh produce can go a long way for your dog's health and weight.

Learn to read food labels

Canines are naturally carnivorous - they just love their meat and they can't live on fruits and vegetables alone. When buying dog food from the store, read food labels and opt for the low or no grain variety with a good source of protein. Be sure to consult with your vet first before making any dietary changes.

Consider supplements

Supplements are a great way to make your dog healthier and at the same time encourage weight loss. An omega 3 fatty acid supplement is ideal for most canines as its powerful oils help and treat many common dog health problems. Ask your vet which supplements are safe to take.

Follow these simple tips and your pooch will be on his way to slimmer, healthier body!