How to properly feed a dog

When we welcome the fluffy dog into our home, its trusting eyes and cheerful tail wagging instantly fill our hearts. From that moment on, how to feed it correctly becomes a heavy responsibility on our shoulders. Proper feeding is the cornerstone of a dog's healthy growth. It not only requires us to master professional knowledge of pet nutrition but also to pour in endless love and patience. Every feeding is a safeguard for its health; every choice of food carries our expectations for its future.

Different life stages of dogs have distinct nutritional needs. For puppies, they are like seedlings breaking through the soil, requiring sufficient nutrients to support their rapid growth and development. Within the first 3 months after birth, a puppy's stomach and intestines are very fragile. At this time, breast milk is the best source of food. The antibodies rich in breast milk can enhance the puppy's immunity and help them resist diseases. If breastfeeding is not possible, specialized puppy milk powder should be chosen and brewed strictly according to the instructions, and the temperature should be appropriate before feeding. As the puppy grows, it can start to try puppy food after 3 months. Puppy food has small particles, and its nutritional ratio is specifically designed for puppies, rich in nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. However, before feeding, the puppy food should be soaked in warm water to make it easier for the puppy to chew and digest, and to prevent hard food from damaging their teeth and stomachs that are not fully developed. Watching the puppy gobble up the soaked dog food and burp contentedly, we are filled with joy, as if we can see them growing strong.

When a dog enters adulthood, its physical development is basically mature. At this time, the focus of feeding is to maintain a healthy body and a balanced diet. There are many types of adult dog food, and the appropriate product should be selected according to the dog's breed, size, and activity level. Generally, small dogs have a faster metabolism, and dog food with a relatively high protein content and small particles can be chosen. Large dogs need to pay more attention to joint protection, and dog food with ingredients such as chondroitin and glucosamine can be selected. In addition to dog food, some fresh meat, vegetables, and fruits can be appropriately added to supplement the dog with richer nutrients. For example, cooked chicken and beef can be fed to the dog 2 to 3 times a week, and these meats are rich in high-quality protein. Vegetables such as carrots and broccoli can provide vitamins and dietary fiber. Fruits such as apples and bananas can supplement vitamins and minerals. However, attention should be paid not to feed too much fruit to avoid excessive sugar intake. Every time we prepare food and see the dog waiting expectantly with trust in its eyes, we know that every carefully matched meal is a commitment to its health.

When a dog enters its senior years, its physical functions gradually decline, its digestion ability weakens, and its teeth start to loosen. The feeding method needs to be adjusted accordingly. At this time, easily digestible senior dog food should be chosen. This kind of dog food usually contains lower fat and higher dietary fiber, which helps to reduce the burden on the stomach and intestines. The dog food can also be soaked in warm water, or wet food can be selected to make it easier for senior dogs to chew and swallow. At the same time, reduce the feeding amount and increase the feeding frequency, and adopt the method of feeding small meals frequently, which can not only ensure that the dog intakes enough nutrients but also avoid overburdening the stomach and intestines. Senior dogs may have some health problems, such as joint pain and kidney diseases. If necessary, under the guidance of a veterinarian, some health supplements can be given to the dog, such as joint protectants and kidney prescription food. Watching the dog that used to be full of vitality now walking slowly, we prepare every meal with extra care, hoping that these foods can make it live comfortably and healthily in its later years.

In addition to paying attention to the nutritional needs at different stages, the feeding time and amount are also crucial. Regular and quantitative feeding helps dogs develop good eating habits and also makes it easier for the owner to observe the dog's appetite and digestion. For puppies, they should be fed 3 to 4 times a day. As they grow older, adult dogs can be fed 2 times a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. The feeding amount should be determined according to the dog's weight, breed, and activity level, and generally, the feeding suggestions on the dog food packaging can be referred to. However, it should be noted that each dog is different, and the owner needs to observe carefully during the feeding process. If the dog still shows hunger after eating, the feeding amount can be appropriately increased; if there is a lot of leftover food, the feeding amount should be reduced. Every time we see the dog licking its mouth contentedly after a meal and its belly slightly bulging, we know that the feeding amount is appropriate, and our hearts are filled with peace of mind.

During the process of feeding a dog, the supply of drinking water cannot be ignored. Dogs need to intake enough water every day to maintain the normal metabolism of their bodies, especially in hot summer or after a lot of exercise, water should be replenished in a timely manner. Clean and fresh drinking water should always be provided for the dog, and the water bowl should be changed every day to prevent the growth of bacteria. Some dogs may not like to drink water. The owner can try to add a small amount of pet-specific goat milk powder to the water to increase its palatability, or appropriately feed some foods with high water content, such as cucumbers and watermelons (with seeds removed). Watching the dog drinking water greedily, we know that sufficient water is moisturizing its body and maintaining its health.

Properly feeding a dog is a practice that requires both professional knowledge and full love. From the gentle care at the beginning of its life, to the careful attention during its growth, and then to the attentive protection in its later years, every link embodies our deep love for the dog. When we see the dog growing healthily, lively, and happily under our feeding, all our efforts turn into full happiness and satisfaction. Because in our hearts, the dog has long been an irreplaceable family member, and its health and happiness are worthy of our spending a lifetime of time and energy to take every feeding seriously and accompany it through every stage of its life.