A dog's diet should be varied, and necessarily balanced, so that your beloved pet receives all the necessary nutrients, vitamins and microelements. Many owners at some point have a question about how and what oil to choose, because they are all filled with healthy fatty acids. Is there any benefit to it and will it cause harm? And which oils can be given and which ones absolutely cannot be given. Let's talk about this in the article.
Natural feeding (feeding using natural products rather than ready-made extruded food) for dogs includes a set of various food products. Among vegetable oils, there are useful and even necessary ones, as well as those that should not be given at all. If you stick to natural products when feeding your pet, then the inclusion of healthy fatty acids in the diet is mandatory. If you buy ready-made dog food, then there is no need to feed oil constantly, however, the presence of a small amount (a few drops depending on the size of the dog) is also necessary .
Omega-3 and Omega-6
Your dog's diet must contain oils containing omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-6 eliminates dry skin, makes the coat silky, and helps in the fight against infectious diseases. Omega-3 has a positive effect on the performance of the heart muscle, gives energy and good mood, helps the dog become more resilient, and also remember commands faster. No matter how beneficial the oils are, balance in feeding is important.
Of course, the fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E contained in the dog are useful, they improve the condition of the coat, strengthen the immune system, and help restore the nervous and digestive systems. When buying oil for your dog, remember that it will benefit him, and in no case should you give any oil in large doses.
Here is a list of oils that can be given to your pet:
Also included in the mixtures Bio-oil for skin and wool / Bio Fell & Haut Vital, Oil collection / Fit-BARF Futter-Öl, Vea Vet / Fit-BARF Vea Vet
Contains high levels of vitamin E, unsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols. It has cytoprotective, antioxidant ingredients, and is also distinguished by a variety of phytoactive substances.
Borage oil is considered one of the best sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids of the Omega-3 and Omega-6 families. Minerals, tannins, phytohormones, vitamins A, E, K, B and F ensure high activity of the oil both at the cellular level and in general biochemical processes.
Hemp oil / Fit-BARF Bio-Hanfnussöl
Also included in the mixtures Bio - oil for skin and coat / Bio Fell & Haut Vital O, Vea Vet / Fit-BARF Vea Vet
Due to its high content of essential fatty acids, especially omega 3 and 6, hemp oil is considered one of the most valuable oils. Contains quite rare gamma-linoleic acid, vitamin E, A, D, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, K; minerals, double and triple unsaturated alpha-linolenic acids.
Cod liver oil is a rich natural source of high-quality omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and D, which are very important for the formation of bone tissue and the regulation of calcium balance.
The essential Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids contained in black cumin oil help improve the functioning of the cardiovascular, nervous and digestive systems, restore normal hormonal balance and normalize lipid metabolism, prevent the development of inflammatory processes, and also have a beneficial effect on the coat and skin, play an important role in strengthening the immune system and cleansing the animal’s body of all kinds of harmful substances.
Digestibility is about 96%.
The valuable Sasha Inchi oil has its origins in the Peruvian Amazon. Thanks to its high digestibility of over 96% percent, it is one of the most valuable oils of all and is suitable for sensitive animals. Uniquely balanced, harmonious ratio of Omega-3 (50%), Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids.
Rich in natural vitamin E and A - when used daily, it provides nutritional support to the skin and coat, ultimately increasing the shine of the coat, stimulating blood circulation and metabolism.
Evening primrose oil / Singulares Bio-Nachtkerzenöl
Also included in mixtures:
A valuable source of essential fatty acids (linoleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid). Supports healthy skin, respiratory and reproductive systems in females.
Omega-3 fatty acids and their effects
Omega-3 fatty acids perform many different functions in the body. They are especially important during periods of growth in dogs and cats, as well as for the functioning of brain structures, skin and fur, metabolism, the immune system, and are important as hormone precursors. In animals, there are both physiological manifestations of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency and a number of diseases associated with increased consumption/deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids.
The most famous examples are inflammatory processes, allergies, stress, kidney diseases (acute and chronic), skin diseases, wound healing (even after operations such as castration and sterilization). It has now been proven that even in the presence of tumors and autoimmune diseases, there is an increased demand and consumption of omega-3 fatty acids.
Flaxseed oil is definitely worth buying precisely because it is extremely rich in B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, potassium, lecithin, and, most importantly, Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids. It is worth recalling that Omega-3 is not found in such a fair amount in any other product, including fish oil.
Contains a high proportion of valuable essential fatty acids (medium chain fatty acids) such as lauric acid, caprylic acid and capric acid. Coconut oil promotes metabolism, provides higher levels of energy and vitality, protects against disease and speeds healing. In addition, coconut oil improves the quality of your dog's skin and coat, improves digestion and reduces allergic reactions.
It has a positive effect and improves the nutrition of brain structures, reduces the accumulation of amyloid protein, which leads to brain damage in older dogs. Has a repellent effect on ticks, fleas and worms and has a positive effect on the intestinal environment
Pumpkin seed oil contains a large vitamin complex, as well as additional biologically active components, confirming how beneficial this product is. Pumpkin oil is beneficial for its high content of easily digestible proteins, vitamins A, E, F, C, P, group B. The composition includes important biologically active substances: phytosterols.
Salmon oil / Singulares Lachsöl
One of the main sources of EPA/DHA (omega-3, 3-polyunsaturated omega-6 +, 3-polyunsaturated). Contains docosahexaenoic acid, which is important for nourishing the brain, improving its development, memory, intelligence, attentiveness and thinking. This acid is not synthesized in the animal’s body and therefore its presence in the diet is very important. Salmon oil also contains Potassium, iodine, Vitamin D, B12, B6, which are important for the formation of strong bone tissue, and ultimately give strength to the entire skeleton.
Oils that are prohibited for dogs
Now let's look at the list of oils that should not be given to dogs, and also explain why this should not be done:
Peanut butter is very fatty, and is included in the list of dog treats, rather than healing and providing benefits. This oil often contains sugar and salt. Despite all the contraindications, it contains vitamin E and is rich in proteins and fats. If you often give this oil, it will lead to pancreatitis if the dog has a predisposition;
Cottonseed oil is absolutely contraindicated for dogs, since the cotton itself is treated with chemicals in the fields, so there is no benefit in the oil obtained from it. This oil is found in dog food, but only because it is very cheap in cost. In addition, cottonseed oil has a rancid taste and unpleasant aroma.
In addition, palm oil is dangerous for dogs. Palm oil is equally toxic to both humans and dogs. Separately, it should be noted cosmetic oils - peach, almond - although they contain vitamins A and E, they are not beneficial for dogs.
cdVet contains a complete range of oils that are beneficial for dogs. Each of them is produced using cold-pressed technology, which provides double the benefits in a dog's diet.
The dog's body also cannot produce unsaturated fatty acids on its own, but dogs need them. The catalog presents edible oils - in mixtures with the required concentration, so owners do not need to calculate the amount of each type of oil that is required daily. The convenient instructions contain indications for use - so taking care of your pet thanks to these useful supplements is even easier.
Under no circumstances should cocoa butter be included in a dog’s diet, as in extreme cases it can be fatal: the dog’s stomach will not be able to digest this product.
Is it possible to give a dog butter?
Butter for the dog too you can't give at all- it negatively affects liver health.
So, a storehouse of useful microelements for dogs is unrefined vegetable oils, which are produced by cold pressing. Essential fatty acids are best given to the dog every day in one feeding - morning, afternoon or evening. It is appropriate to organize courses on taking oils. For example, it is enough to include a course of oil in a dog’s diet for four weeks. Giving oil to a dog is not difficult - you can mix it into food or, most dogs just eat it in its pure form.
Vegetable oils are natural vitamins for dogs that increase immunity, which is why it is useful to practice courses so that the body does not have time to get used to them.
Oil is given to dogs in a small dose at a time: if it is a puppy, then a few drops are given, and for adult dogs - up to one tablespoon, no more, depending on what specific oil you are giving. The dose is always indicated on the package.
It is useful to buy deer antlers for a dog - they are like bones, and it is useful for the dog to chew them. In addition to calcium, they contain a lot of vitamins and microelements, and most importantly, they help the dog fight stress, because gnawing is how the dog gets rid of stress.
Proper inclusion of healthy oils in your dog’s diet will help make your beloved friend’s health even stronger. A common problem for dogs is intestinal disease, the treatment of which should be carried out using an integrated approach, and oils can play an important role here.
2.6. Common misconceptions about dog and cat food and nutrition
1. Food for older dogs and cats should be low in protein.
The benefits of low-protein diets for older dogs and cats were first proposed in 1960, based on experiments with rats and the observation that kidney disease was more common in older animals.
Modern research has shown that these claims are not confirmed. Scientific evidence shows that 65-90% of dogs seen by veterinarians do not show symptoms of kidney disease. Research also does not show that protein restriction will slow the progression of kidney disease. Recent studies have shown no differences in renal function, mineral content and most morphological parameters of two groups of elderly dogs consuming food with 18 - 36% protein content for more than 4 years. The duration of the study was approximately a third of the animal's average lifespan. More dogs (6 out of 16) died from naturally occurring diseases in the low protein diet group than in the high protein senior diet group!
Dogs between 10 and 12 years of age require more protein than younger dogs to replenish protein in their body tissues. This indicates a higher protein requirement in older animals. One study of a population of older animals found that wasting is as common (20%) as obesity.
All this indicates the need for an individual approach when prescribing a diet for older animals and the inadmissibility of systematic restriction of protein and fat.
2. Animals that consume a lot of meat products, especially raw ones, become aggressive and “bloodthirsty.”
Some trainers and veterinarians believe that aggressive behavior and excessive activity in dogs and cats can be eliminated by switching from a high (28 - 32%) to a low (16 - 20%) protein diet. There is little scientific data on this issue, however, one recent study concludes that reducing the level of protein in the feed does not affect aggressiveness and increased activity.
3. Carotene is beneficial for cats.
Studies have shown that carotene (provitamin A), which is found in plants, cannot be converted into vitamin A in the body of cats, for example, in humans. Therefore, cats can only source vitamin A from animal products - liver, small uneviscerated fish, eggs, butter and cream. Carotene supplements as a provitamin, i.e. future sources of vitamin A in the diet of cats are useless.
4. Regular consumption of the “wonderful drink” - vodka by your dog - will save it from plague and enteritis.
In my practice, there was a case when the owner gave his outbred and very funny dog several times a week for several months a tablespoon of vodka.
At first he resisted, but then he accepted the “bitter” with pleasure. However, he still fell ill with the plague. At the same time, when I put an IV on him, the seriously ill patient instantly ate the cotton wool with alcohol left near his nose, which I used to wipe his paw. Honestly, it's true! Fortunately, the animal was saved... but not by alcohol.
5. Dry commercial feed causes liver damage in animals.
Despite the fact that I myself am a supporter of feeding natural products, I responsibly declare that dry commercial food from the world's leading companies, when consumed for a long time by dogs and cats, does not cause an increased risk of liver damage.
When preparing the book, I was not able to find scientific studies proving the opposite, and one must be careful in trusting the personal unsystematized and therefore subjective experience of some specialists. Those isolated cases in which animals that consumed this food allegedly developed hepatitis, hepatosis or cirrhosis of the liver cannot be proven.
Since these diseases occur almost less frequently in animals fed diets made from natural products. However, in the latter case, no one categorically states that the animal became ill from eating boiled meat and porridge.
6. Oatmeal is a very healthy grain for dogs and cats.
Alas, oatmeal is the most useless grain for feeding dogs and cats. The fact is that oats contain the highest amount of fiber compared to other grains, such as rice or buckwheat. And the more fiber in the food, the worse it is digested. It turns out “not for horse feed”, but for manure.
Let pet owners who suffer from constipation eat oatmeal.
7. It is useful for dogs and cats to give grated vegetables (for example, carrots) for “vitamins”.
Plant foods are practically not a source of vitamins for carnivores, who, due to the lack of characteristic chewing molars, like omnivores and herbivores, do not grind plant foods well, and nutritious vitamin juice does not come out of plant cells. Carnivores do not have enzymes that digest fiber (the membrane of plant cells). Those. Most of the “vitamins” come out unabsorbed.
And yet, plant foods should be present; they improve peristalsis, “cleanse” the intestines, promote nutrition and the development of beneficial microflora in the large intestine. The actual grass that is eaten is a source of beneficial microflora that lives on it.
You may notice that the vegetables can be pureed in a blender. Yes, this mass will be absorbed well. But will she be eaten by animals, and is it worth accustoming her to this? The fact is that a deficiency of B vitamins and vitamin C, which are contained in plant foods, is not observed even in the complete absence of plants in the diet of animals.
If your pet is not happy to eat the puree and “salads” you have prepared, there is no need to torture him too much by forcing him to eat it by force or using blackmail.
8. Garlic is a very good anthelmintic.
The widespread belief that if you regularly give a dog a clove of garlic, you can remove all worms or prevent their appearance, forced me to find in books on folk medicine a recipe for removing worms from people with garlic, where, apparently, this recommendation was taken.
In order to almost guarantee the removal of worms from a person, it is necessary to ingest such a huge amount of this plant on an empty stomach that not a single dog would agree to repeat such a feat. And from one clove of garlic a week, the worms will probably only have more fun, they probably also need the sharpness of sensations...
We do not live in the Middle Ages or in the remote taiga, so buy modern and harmless anthelmintic drugs, and do not abuse the animal and yourself. For preventive purposes, animals should be given anthelmintic drugs at least 2-3 times a year.
9. Bitches should be given little meat during pregnancy, as its excess causes toxicosis in them..
I have heard the statement that bitches should be given little meat during pregnancy, otherwise they may develop toxicosis.
Foreign researchers conducted an interesting experiment with a group of Labrador bitches. All of them, from the moment of mating to weaning of the puppies, were fed a balanced diet, consisting only of meat products, i.e. no added grains or vegetables. All animals carried puppies normally, gave birth to and nursed completely healthy toddlers. No pathological abnormalities in the mothers' health were found.
10. Table salt is harmful to dogs and cats.
Pets need table salt no less than their owners. Therefore, you can salt prepared food for cats and dogs based on your own taste.
11. Butter is harmful to dogs and cats.
This stupidity is supported by a “weighty” argument - “it hurts the liver.” Butter is a unique product because, unlike all natural fats, it contains vitamins “A”, “D”, “E” and “F”, has a balanced composition of saturated and unsaturated fats and is easily digested. Thanks to these properties, it is irreplaceable for animals in the recovery stage, both from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastroenteritis) and from skin pathologies. Throughout my conscious practice I have recommended, recommend, and will recommend this product to my patients.
12. If a dog (cat) walks in the sun during the day, then a sufficient amount of vitamin D is formed in its skin, so the content of this vitamin in the diet does not matter.
Alas, as studies by South American veterinarians have shown, vitamin D is not formed in the skin of dogs, because The fur, especially of long-haired and medium-haired dogs and cats, does not transmit ultraviolet radiation at all. The exception is hairless breeds of dogs and cats.
2.7. Animal eating habits - are they always healthy?
Dogs and cats, like people, have their own eating habits and preferences, and sometimes they are exotic: one dog loves baked goods more than meat, another digs carrots straight from the garden and eats them with pleasure, some cat loves raw potatoes, another loves chicken cervix.
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It is widely believed that animals, due to their inextricable connection with nature, unlike humans, are able to choose what exactly is needed for their body. Alas, this is often not the case.
Therefore, it would be more correct if your pets have in their diet habits and preferences instilled in them by their owners, and not their own desires.
My colleague, a veterinarian, an experienced dog handler, once reproached me for being categorical and directive when advising on animal nutrition; she herself, apparently, was a supporter of greater liberties in the diet of her dogs. Well, her life experience apparently gives reason to think so.
I still remember well the tragedy that happened to my grandparents when I was in my third year at the veterinary department. They then had a small terrier-like mongrel named Lucy, amazing in appearance and character, with an expressive and cheerful face due to her white eyebrows and funny bangs. In her beauty she surpassed Tiny - her mother, who then lived with us. When the grandmother took the puppy, the grandfather was categorically against it and, apparently, it came to scandals... But not even a year had passed since she became the grandfather’s most favorite dog. He was a beekeeper, and from June to mid-August he lived in an apiary in the forest with his grandmother. Lucy, who loved traveling, became her grandfather’s faithful companion, both on the road by car and in the forest, walking with him for kilometers through cedar forests and swamps. The only thing she was afraid of were bees. She sat in the car for a day, not trying to get out of it. In the evening, when the bees stopped flying, she ran out to the fire and under the canopy.
Immensely loved, she quickly realized her importance and became spoiled - after the apiary season she ate only fresh raw meat. When grandma wanted to diversify Lucy’s diet, she spread butter on white bread or cookies... chewed it and then offered it to the capricious dog...
By nature, being a bitch, Lucy had the habit of giving birth to puppies (which, by the way, were instantly dismantled). And after the third or fourth pregnancy, such a diet of raw meat and chewed bread, poor in calcium and vitamin D, led to the fact that two weeks after giving birth the dog was... paralyzed. The fact is that during this period a lot of calcium is released from the female’s body with milk. And if an insufficient amount of this mineral is supplied with food, it begins to be mobilized from bone and muscle tissue. When the amount of calcium sharply decreases in muscle tissue, it becomes unable to contract. Lucy died in terrible agony...
The letter reached me after the fact...
This dog could be cured by three or four intravenous injections of a solution of calcium chloride with glucose, and 2-3 ml of tetravit subcutaneously. But it would be even easier to prevent this.
Believe me, I had to deal with more than one hundred dogs and cats who, due to their far from natural addictions and their master’s indulgences, drove themselves to pathology. So my further advice is somewhat categorical due to the fact that in practice the natural instincts and desires of dogs and cats do not always lead them to good health.
Sincerely, Veterinarian Secrets
To be continued....
> 82. Is it possible to add oil, such as vegetable oil, to dogs’ food?
82. Is it possible to add oil, such as vegetable oil, to dogs’ food?
Anna
Possible and even healthy (sunflower and olive)
Valeria
u nas Toychik, moj muzchina gde-to v internete vichital sto eto polezno dlia sersti i kozi, ja perezivaiu za zdorov´e sobachki:-S. On nalivaet maslo sto korm chut´ ne plavaet v nem, sobachke eto nravit´sia a ja dumaiu sto eto vredno kazdij den´ davat´
Anna
No, of course everything should be in moderation. You can take 1 tablespoon every day without harm to a large dog, less for a small dog.
Oksana
When the food almost floats, there is no need to pour oil, the stomach is also not made of iron, but what breed is it? In general, from a teaspoon to a tablespoon is possible, only for the benefit.
Natalia
I add oil-based vitamins to my food. They are added at the rate of one teaspoon for every 5 kg. weight. I think this also applies to vegetable oil.
And the fact that the food floats in oil - you kill the dog’s liver and pancreas.
IrynaP
Y MENJA PIT BULL I V MNOGIX TRENINGAX DLJA PITOV V DIETE K KAWAM YKAZANO 1 ST.LOGKY MASLA KYKYRYZU:-DPOSMOTRITE MOU SOBAKY Y MENJA V LI4KE JA DYMAU EE ETO TOLKO NA POLZY POWLO(Y)(Y)(Y)
Sabina
Every day I always give my dogs 1 tablespoon of olive oil in their dry food, this has a beneficial effect on their coat
Olga
I don’t give my dog dry food, he eats cereals, soups, cottage cheese, milk, and loves various fruits. This is fine? He is 3 months old.
Zhannavelichkosoro
Of course, if you do not give food, and give it from the common table. then it is advisable to add beef to this diet (meat consumption). We fed the puppy like this: oatmeal in broth, meat, liver, boiled fish (only boiled), buckwheat, low-fat cottage cheese with grated vegetables, kefir, I even gave baby formula (I had a small child, now more so), fruit if he eats, vegetables.
Zhannavelichkosoro
By the way, it’s generally better to vaccinate the food from a year old, if that’s what you want at all and only Royal Canin.
Valeria
Thank you very much for your advice;-)(Y), I feed my dogs only Royal Canin, we have Bordeaux and Toychik, I just couldn’t convince my man that such an amount of oil could turn out badly for Toychik *-)
Natalia
Valeria, would you tell him to try eating the same way, so that the food floats in oil, and let him see if it makes his stomach feel good?
Valeria
and I’ll offer him better scrambled eggs or a floating salad a couple of times ;-)
Sabina
Don't forget to put a vomit bag nearby))))
Oksana
Girls, relax...vegetable oil is necessary for dogs that are on natural food! Our kennel has been adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the dogs' food for its entire life (and this is since 1923), but not corn, which does not carry any load, namely sunflower! And about 1 tbsp per 5 kg of weight, this is the first time I’ve heard... for one bowl - 1 tbsp, for large dogs - 2 tbsp..
Natalia
Oksana, read more carefully. Not a tablespoon, but a teaspoon for every 5 kg of weight, and I didn’t write about vegetable oil, but about oil-based vitamins (if you want to be more specific, about Nutricoat from 8in1). Read also carefully the topicstarter post, which says that so much oil is added to the food that the food floats in it, and this is no longer normal.
1
What can't dogs eat? In this publication I will try to list The most dangerous foods for dogs' health and give an explanation of why they cannot be given to dogs.
Once on the pages of my blog, I already discussed the topic - In that article, I substantiated my position on why I decided to stop at dry food.
Photo by Victoria Makarova
However, I periodically pamper my tailed dogs with a small amount of natural food. It is given to dogs as a treat and an additional source of nutrients.
Currently, on the Internet you can find a huge amount of diverse and sometimes contradictory information about what not to feed a dog. Let's figure it out together - what is really dangerous, and what in small quantities will not only not harm the animal, but may even be useful.
Let’s just agree right away that this article does not apply to elderly, sick dogs, as well as animals prone to allergic reactions. I also make a special emphasis - if you have just switched your dog to natural food, or you have a miniature pet (and we know that such breeds usually have a very vulnerable pancreas) - it is better to refrain from food experiments!
Any natural diet for a dog should be based, first of all, on safety and taking into account the digestive characteristics of a particular animal.
So, 30 PRODUCTS PROHIBITED FOR DOGS— myths and reality:
1. DO NOT GIVE YOUR DOG RAW MEAT.
There is an opinion that some breeds lack the genetic ability to digest raw meat. A person is also afraid of the possibility of infecting a dog with all kinds of helminths and infections (for example, salmonella or E. coli). As a result of such conclusions, a recommendation is born - to subject the meat to serious heat treatment.
In fact- if you boil meat for about an hour, it significantly loses its usefulness for the animal - trace elements and vitamins are destroyed. At a temperature of about 60 degrees, protein denaturation begins, as a result of which its bioavailability is reduced by half!
Raw meat is good for any dog, regardless of age or breed. The most important thing is to process it correctly. It is believed that in meat frozen at a temperature of -18 degrees and below, all microbes and bacteria are killed. Therefore, I recommend keeping the meat frozen for about three days. If you introduce raw meat into your baby’s diet, at first you can cook it a little (not for long, about 5 minutes).
It is best to start introducing raw meat into your dog’s diet from puppyhood. If the baby or adult dog was not yet familiar with it, it is best to start with raw beef planed. You need to start introducing it little by little - a little bit, but every day. This also applies to dogs that eat dry food; they should also not be deprived of raw meat in their diet. This is especially important for large breed dogs and working dogs.
It is clear that fresh meat for dogs should only be taken from a safe place. I buy meat for my dogs in the same place as for myself, to be sure that it has passed all the necessary examinations.
Advice: No cut will bring as much benefit to your pet as meat containing various cartilages, films, veins, i.e. rich in connective tissues. Therefore, grade II lean soup beef, as well as its by-products, is the best choice for a person for his pet.
2. DOGS SHOULD NOT HAVE RAW FISH.
There is an opinion: If you regularly feed your dog fresh fish, this will certainly lead to undesirable negative consequences - decreased appetite, loss of vitamin B, and even urolithiasis. As a result of excess fish in the dog's diet, seizures can develop, and in rare cases, even death.
Actually: The enzyme thiaminase contained in some types of fish actually inhibits the synthesis and absorption of B vitamins (especially B1). Their deficiency leads to seizures and dysfunction of the central nervous system.
Other types of fish contain trimethylamine oxide, which prevents the body from absorbing iron and causes anemia.
In order to reach this state of health: 1. you need to feed the dog raw fish every day, 2. in fairly large quantities, 3. for a long period of time.
If you replace one or two meat meals per week with sea fish (because river and lake fish often contain helminths - tapeworm, etc.), the dog will will only be beneficial! Fish is an excellent source of vitamins A, D, B12, iodine and phosphorus. It has a beneficial effect on the condition of your pet's coat, skin and joints.
Advice: Fish it is advisable to feed a dog cleaned of scales, bones, entrails and gills.
3. DOG CANNOT HAVE PORK. 
Prerequisites:
1) Pigs can be intermediate carriers of the following diseases: nematodosis, taeniasis, helmitiasis.
2) Aujeszky's disease (latent rabies, rabid scabies, infectious bulbar palsy, pruritic plague) is a viral disease of farm animals of all types, fur-bearing animals and rodents. It is believed that people do not get sick from it, so meat is not tested for Aujeszky's disease viruses. For dogs, this disease is transient and fatal.
3) Fat content of pork.
In fact: Contrary to popular belief, your dog can sometimes be fed lean pork purchased from a reputable supplier (where the meat is subject to strict veterinary and sanitary inspection). Lean pork (lean parts) - tenderloin, carb, shoulder. You can also introduce pork cartilage (without fatty tissue on it), knuckles, ears and other parts of the carcass without excess fatty tissue into the dog’s diet.
Aujeszky's disease in some cases also affects humans. Secondly, carcasses with signs of damage characteristic of this disease are not allowed to be sold raw; they are sent for processing.
In addition, it is worth adding that pork, unlike beef and chicken, is hypoallergenic meat. Given its relatively low cost and wide availability, lean pork is an excellent option for owners of dogs with food sensitivities. (based on an article by veterinarian and veterinary nutritionist Valeria Ognevaya).
Personally, I think the best option is give the dog pork infrequently and exclusively low-fat.
Advice: Pork heart is much less fatty than, for example, veal heart. But the heart is a valuable product in the diet - it is a rich source of protein, fat, macro- and microelements.
Cause: The enzyme avidin, found in eggs, negatively affects the absorption of vitamin B and biotin, which can lead to coat and skin problems. There is also a risk of contracting salmonellosis.
Actually: The yolk is useful in its raw form, as it is more bioavailable and retains vitamins and microelements that are very valuable for dogs (D, lecithin), and helps reduce cholesterol levels.
For problems to occur, an animal must eat more than five raw chicken eggs per week. If you observe a sense of proportion and feed your dog 2-3 eggs a week, this will only be beneficial.
Quail eggs are especially useful; they are also best given raw. Feeding standards are as follows: for a medium-large dog, 2-3 quail or 2 raw chicken yolks. If you want to give eggs more often, then it would be appropriate to alternate raw eggs with a “lazy” omelette with cheese and vegetables.
Advice: Quail eggs useful to give along with crushed shells.
5. DOGS SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN ONIONS AND GARLIC.
Cause: Contain disulfides and sulfoxides, which negatively affect red blood cells and contribute to the development of anemia. Interestingly, cats are much more sensitive than dogs in this regard, and onions are much more toxic than garlic.
Fact: In order for a dog to develop iron deficiency anemia, it must be fed at least 6 heads of garlic per week regularly and over a long period of time.
Previously, in large nurseries, experienced breeders regularly gave dogs garlic. Onion - found in small quantities in almost all natural classic recipes for dogs. By the way, Savva Khokhrin’s garlic was recommended for service breed dogs in the autumn-winter period.
However, remember that garlic can irritate your dog's gastrointestinal tract (if given on an empty stomach) and can also negatively affect your dog's sense of smell. Personally, I don't give onions and garlic to my dogs.
6. DO NOT GIVE POTATOES TO DOGS.
Theory: This vegetable, in its raw form, is a source of solanine, a dangerous and poisonous substance for dogs. Therefore, you should not give it to puppies, even when during the period of teeth change they want to chew secretly stolen potato skins.
If we talk about boiled potatoes, they are a rich source of slow carbohydrates, which tend to be deposited in the fat layer, and starch, in addition to weight gain, also helps to increase the hypoglycemic index. If the dog moves little, then he is at risk of becoming obese. This vegetable is also poorly digested by the dog’s gastrointestinal tract and can cause diarrhea.
Actually: potatoes, pasta and many cereals are not species-specific food for canines and are poorly absorbed by their gastrointestinal tract, so introducing them into the diet is not recommended. But giving your dog a couple of slices of raw peeled potatoes (if your pet is not indifferent to them) will certainly not cause any harm.
Potato peelings and potatoes that have a greenish color when cut - give Absolutely forbidden!
If you do not want to harm your dog's health, better not to give boiled potatoes/mashed potatoes/fries for the dog.
Considering all of the above, it is surprising that potatoes and potato starch can be found in some very expensive feeds as the main filler.
7. IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO GIVE YOUR DOG BROCCOLI. 
Cause: The isocyanate contained in broccoli is a toxin for dogs, causing severe stomach irritation and can even cause death in large quantities. The amount of broccoli in the total mass of vegetables should not exceed 5%.
Objectively: In order for broccoli to significantly harm your pet, it must be given daily as the only vegetable. If you introduce broccoli into your diet periodically (a couple of times a week), this will only benefit your pet and enrich its menu.
The vitamin reserve contained in broccoli includes: A, E, C, K, B vitamins, as well as folic acid, copper, potassium and phosphorus. The amount of valuable beta-carotene in broccoli is on par with pumpkin and carrots.
Conclusion- introducing a small amount of broccoli into your dog’s diet will make it healthy and tasty for the animal.
8. NUTS ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR DOGS. 
Cause: Many believe that nuts should absolutely not be given to a dog due to the high risk of developing allergies and the danger of negative effects on the pancreas, because nuts are a very fatty, oil-rich food.
Nevertheless: If there is no individual intolerance, nuts are a very valuable product, containing many valuable microelements for maintaining the heart muscle and nourishing the brain, as well as easily digestible protein.
But not all nuts are good for dogs!
Can Calmly feed several grains at a time: almonds, pine nuts, chestnuts, cashews, limited peanuts.
Not recommended: walnuts, pistachios, acorns, hazelnuts, nutmeg.
Nuts are not part of the diet and are given sporadically, as a “treat” - no more than three times a week and little by little.
9. TOMATOES ARE PROHIBITED FOR DOG. 
Noticed: If you regularly and abundantly feed tomatoes, your dog may experience an upset stomach, tremors, disturbances in the functioning of the heart muscle, and rapid heartbeat. Allergic reactions to tomatoes are common.
However: Giving tomatoes to your dog as a treat (in small quantities) is beneficial! It is best to treat your pet to tomatoes before meals - this is an excellent prevention against tartar and plaque. They are useful fresh and poached; they are a strong antioxidant; tomatoes help fight cancer and inflammatory processes.
10. CERTAIN FRUIT IS NOT ALLOWED FOR DOGS. 
For example:
Grapes and raisins contain a little-studied toxin that can cause kidney failure, with vomiting, increased urination and increased thirst - potential symptoms of poisoning.
Persimmon- causes stomach upset, contains a high content of sugars, and its seeds can cause intestinal obstruction and enteritis.
Avocado- contains persin, which causes vomiting and diarrhea.
Bananas- promote weight gain and cause weakness.
Citrus- a strong allergen for many dogs. May cause vomiting.
Peaches,quince and plum- lead to diarrhea, and eaten bones can contribute to intestinal obstruction. The cyanide contained in the seeds can accumulate and cause poisoning in the body.
11. DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED BONES. 
Base: lead to slagging of the body, perforation and gastrointestinal diseases, and spoil teeth.
Actually: Boiled bones are harmful, as well as strictly prohibited there are hollow tubular chicken bones. The classic BARF is built on meat bones *.
*BARF(Bones And Raw Food diet or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food diet) is a dog nutrition system based on raw natural foods.
Bones should be given with meat, fresh and in small quantities.
A trained dog familiar with this system can be given: chicken, turkey and ostrich necks, chicken wings (with care and the first joint removed), paws without claws, heads without beaks, beef bones - sugar bone, chicken backs (frames), beef vertebrae, beef shoulders, soft meat cartilage, veal knees, beef tail.
Cause: food allergies and misconceptions about the impact on diabetes.
Answer: Honey is a very healthy product for dogs; it is introduced into the diet of puppies, pregnant bitches, and convalescent animals. This is a real storehouse of microelements. And the fruit sugars it contains do not pose a risk of developing diabetes. It is given 2-3 times a week, 1 teaspoon - 2 tbsp. spoons (depending on the size of the dog). It is recommended to add honey to cottage cheese and treats.
13. SALT FOR DOGS IS POISON! 
Very often, salt is included in the list of prohibited foods for dogs.
Cause: When eaten in excessive quantities, salt leads to electrolyte imbalance, edema, and provokes diseases of the cardiovascular system and kidneys.
Answer: In the wild, the ancestors of our domestic dogs obtained salt from the blood of the victim. In the modern world, all meat is bled. Nevertheless, salt is important in a dog’s diet, but let’s say right away that it is several times less than what a person needs.
Savva Khokhrin in his famous book “Feeding Dogs” wrote that a lack of table salt in a dog’s diet leads to loss of appetite, decreased secretion of gastric juice, deterioration of protein absorption, and stunted growth of puppies.
Sodium chloride (salt) is necessary to maintain osmotic pressure in cells and constant fluid volume in the body. Salt plays an important role in the mechanism of hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach and the proper functioning of the potassium-sodium balance.
To meet the salt needs of dogs, in addition to containing it in food, salt is used for puppies 530 mg per 1 kg of body weight, for adults 220 mg per 1 kg of dog's body weight.
The overall saltiness can be defined in words - barely salty. For this purpose, you need to use coarse, iodized or sea salt. It is not necessary to add salt to every dish. It is enough to do this periodically. Salt can be replaced by a small piece of herring or red fish, salted twice a week, as well as seaweed.
14. MILK AND OTHER DAIRY PRODUCTS ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR DOGS. 
Theory: From about 5 months of age onwards, dogs stop producing lactase, an enzyme that breaks down cow's milk protein (lactose). Therefore, milk begins to negatively affect the animal’s liver, especially fatty milk. It provokes serious allergic reactions - severe skin rashes and even vomiting.
On practice: The enzymatic system is very individual and flexible; many people over 35 years of age and dogs over a year old maintain lactase at a sufficient level throughout their lives to easily break down and absorb milk protein.
In terms of milk, the priorities are basically the same as for children. Optimal for puppies (after bitch milk, of course) would be diluted goat’s milk, because casein is a protein that is absorbed by the body better than others. You can, of course, feed your dogs lactose-free products, but they are less beneficial.
If you have problems with your bitch's milk supply, remember that baby formula and powdered milk are not recommended for puppies. If it is not possible to use a bitch milk substitute or goat's milk, you can dilute fresh farm cow's milk with warm boiled water in a 1 to 1 ratio. You can also cook porridge for puppies with milk.
My adult Jackies tolerate milk well and drink it with pleasure. If there is a deficiency of an enzyme in a dog’s body, it can be easily determined without testing. Give a little milk to an adult dog - you will immediately understand everything from the animal’s stool.
CHEESE, SOUR CREAM, YOGURT.
Cause: high fat content, danger of disrupting the pancreas and causing diarrhea.
In fact: These products are really better to exclude from the diet of mini-breed dogs and animals with weak pancreas. But for puppies, pregnant females and healthy young and active animals Can without fear, feed unsalted and low-fat cheese (preferably homemade), and also periodically use it in training along with other delicacies.
The same can be said about sour cream - in quantities of 1 tsp - 1 tablespoon, it is included in the diet, especially for fast-growing puppies, juniors, working dogs and kennel animals. It is also good to add sour cream to salads and chopped slightly stewed vegetables for more complete absorption of nutrients and microelements, in particular beta-carotene.
Yogurt is not given due to the high sugar content, but homemade yogurt without sugar or fillers can and should be given!
15. DOGS ARE ABSOLUTELY NOT ALLOWED TO HAVE ICE CREAM. 
In theory: contains milk fats, sugars, palm oil and promotes weight gain. In addition, dogs should not eat cold food.
Actually: Of course, ice cream is a treat and should not be given often. However, there is nothing terrible about pampering your pet with a regular waffle cup in the hot weather. Read the ingredients carefully - there should be no vegetable fats or palm oil.
The ban on cold food is more relevant for puppies or weakened animals; usually dogs practically do not get colds, only viral and bacterial infections.
There is even a practice of giving kennel dogs a bowl of clean snow in winter for drinking. However, you should not abuse cold food - it is harmful to the gastrointestinal tract. Canine food should be at room temperature.
16. DOGS MAY NOT HAVE BREAD. 
Actually dogs it is forbidden butter and yeast products, white bread, pastries, muffins and cakes.
Cause: These are slow carbohydrates that promote weight gain, cause fermentation, flatulence and allergies in dogs. As a rule, this is “dead food” that has no benefit and contains large amounts of sugars and dyes.
Actually: everything is true, but there are exceptions, for example, lightly dried wholemeal bread with bran (in small quantities) is a completely healthy product. You can also sometimes treat them with simple dry food, without additives, or with a piece of children's oatmeal cookies.
17. FAT 
Prerequisites: the occurrence of pancreatitis and other diseases of the pancreas and liver.
Important: This refers to fat that has been collected after frying meat, for example. Do not use any product you don't need for your dog's food.
For healthy young and energetic dogs, having enough animal fats in their food is very important. Especially when kept in open-air cages or working breeds, athletes, during periods of active physical activity.
For this purpose, fish oil/salmon oil is moderately introduced into the diet, especially in the autumn-winter period, butter (a small piece 2-3 times a week) and even sometimes homemade lard without salt and spices.
There is no need to specifically remove fat from the tripe or kidneys, but only if you feed them raw. Read about sour cream in paragraph 14 above.
It is also important to increase the fat content in the diet of small dogs and dogs with underweight; they are recommended to eat fattier types of fish, such as trout, pink salmon, halibut and products such as beef udder, lamb and even lean pork.
If you have a problem with excess weight, the amount of fat in food is reduced; excess fat is contraindicated if you have a genetic predisposition to problems with the pancreas.
The opinion that dogs are given low-fat cottage cheese and fermented milk products - wrong, there is no benefit in them, rather harm. However, for most dogs, a diet with moderate fat is more suitable, so cottage cheese can be taken at 3.5-9% inclusive, and kefir about 2.5-3%.
Prohibition 18.
Dogs should not eat many herbs and greens.: celery leaf, sorrel, parsley, rhubarb leaf.
Sorrel - contains oxalic acid.
Rhubarb Leaf: Contains oxalates that affect the dog's central nervous, digestive and urinary organs.
Read about onions and garlic above (point 5).
In principle, dogs can be fed any greens except sorrel and rhubarb.
But we must remember that seaweed stains the coat of light-colored dogs.
Suitable for feeding: all types of lettuce, dill, parsley, young nettle and dandelion leaves, squash, quinoa, celery stalk. Remember that parsley is not recommended for dogs with kidney problems and pregnant bitches.
Prohibition 19.
Pasta and cereals are prohibited for dogs
Cause: Slow carbohydrates contribute to weight gain; they are poorly digested.
In fact: Diet is an individual thing, some people feed BARF, others “mother’s porridge.” The three grains that dogs digest best are rice and buckwheat in the form of “friendship,” and sometimes puppies are given oatmeal. But the share of porridges should not exceed 15-20% of the diet, the basis is meat and meat by-products. The following foods are not recommended for feeding to dogs: semolina, pearl barley, sorghum, millet, maize, bulgur, oatmeal.
Pasta can be included in the diet occasionally for weight gain, but only from expensive durum wheat varieties and no more than 5% of other types of plant foods.
Ban 20.
Baby food. 
Baby food sometimes contains onion powder and a lot of starch, which is dangerous for canines and is not suitable for the needs of a growing puppy.
Prohibition 21.
Corn. 
Theory: The canine body is not adapted to digest and assimilate corn; it passes through in transit and can cause fermentation and flatulence. It is also a highly allergenic product containing gluten, which is dangerous for dogs. Whole cobs should not be given, they can cause obstruction and even lead to the death of your pet.
Fact: For dogs, canned corn is strictly prohibited, as it contains sugar and a large amount of preservatives and dyes. It is also completely indigestible, passing right through the dog’s intestines.
Legumes: beans, peas, beans.
Cause: They are not species-specific food for dogs and are practically not digestible by them; they cause flatulence, fermentation and create a favorable environment for the development of candidiasis and pathogenic intestinal microflora. The same is true for soybeans.
As an exception, you can give a small amount of young peas or green beans.
Prohibition 22.
Chocolate, candy, coffee, tea and other sources of caffeine.
In theory: Cocoa beans contain theobromine (an alkaloid of plant origin), which has an effect on cardiac function. For humans, small doses of theobromine are beneficial. For dogs, the opposite is true - theobromine is poisonous for them, it excites the central nervous system, causing arrhythmia and tachycardia.
The least that products containing theobromine, theophylline and caffeine can cause is severe allergies, hair loss, eye leaking, and allergic otitis media.
Dogs do not have enough insulin to process sugars into glucose and sweets lead to the development of diabetes and blindness, and if given frequently in large quantities, even to the death of the pet.
In fact: Regular human chocolate raises blood sugar and can cause leaky eyes, diabetes and blindness in your dog.
The toxic dose for a dog is approximately 7 grams of dark chocolate per 1 kg of the animal’s live weight.
That is, even half a bar of chocolate left uncontrollably can take the life of a Papillon, Spitz, pug and Jack Russell terrier...
The first signs of chocolate poisoning are as follows: vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat and breathing, agitation, and severe thirst. In such a situation, you need to urgently contact a veterinary clinic, otherwise convulsions, an epileptic attack, coma and death may develop. Keep in mind that dogs take longer to digest chocolate than humans, so your dog may not show signs of poisoning right away.
As an exception, chocolate is given to rescue dogs in the mountains before climbing. For this purpose, choose chocolate with a low percentage of cocoa beans or milk, as it is an invaluable source of quick energy and a natural adaptogen that promotes the production of seratonin.
Modern chocolate is dangerous not only because of the cocoa beans and theobromine in it, but because of the harmful “impurities” contained in chocolate - soy, palm oil, emulsifiers and vegetable fats. So from any point of view, chocolate for dogs is poison and evil!
Advice: Chocolate and candy are the worst treats for a pet; special “dog” chocolate is produced for this purpose!
Prohibition 23.
Eggplant. Radish. Turnip. Cucumber.
Cause: Eggplant is contraindicated in dogs with a tendency to allergies or kidney disease.
Answer: After checking individual tolerance, you can give it occasionally, but in boiled, stewed or baked form.
Radishes contain a lot of coarse fibers and are a natural toothpick. At the same time, it irritates the intestinal walls and increases peristalsis, which can aggravate existing gastrointestinal problems.
Turnips and cucumbers were included in the list of prohibitions absolutely wrongly. Turnip has a beneficial effect on the kidneys. Cucumber is also not only completely safe, but also healthy for dogs. The only thing, remember that when giving cucumber, it is important not to overdo it with the quantity, otherwise you can provoke loose stools. By the way, turnips can be given both raw and baked - your choice.
Prohibition 24.
Beet. 
In many breeds, beets are poorly digestible and cause persistent diarrhea, bloating and intestinal pain. However, it is a very healthy vegetable. It is recommended to give it stewed and boiled, grated or crushed in a blender. It must be borne in mind that beets give red fur a bright, rich shade, but it should not be given to white dogs.
Theory: Beetroot is a strong allergen that is poorly tolerated by certain breeds of dogs.
Fact: In the absence of an allergic reaction, as well as for dogs with red hair, it is a very useful and valuable product. Improves intestinal function, given with a spoonful of flaxseed oil and herbs.
It is a valuable source of fiber, contains vitamins A, B, C, and has a beneficial effect on liver function. It should be given sparingly, no more than 2 times a week.
Prohibition 25.
Cabbage. 
Cause: First of all, we are talking about white cabbage. The reason is that in its raw form it causes flatulence, bloating and pain in the intestines.
Answer: It should be given in limited quantities and in boiled form. Brussels sprouts, broccoli, Chinese cabbage and cauliflower are more beneficial for dogs; it is also better to lightly stew or boil them. Cabbage is good for vitamins A, C and beta-carotene.
Prohibition 26.
Many berries were unexpectedly banned: black currants, strawberries, wild strawberries...
In fact, in reasonable quantities and in the absence of allergies, you can and should feed any seasonal berries growing in your area, just do not forbid them to be eaten to your heart's content, at the request of the dog itself. The most useful: cranberries, blueberries and lingonberries.
Locked 27.
Mushrooms.
Theory: For canines, mushrooms are heavy food that they are unable to digest and assimilate. In addition, mushrooms often contain dangerous substances; they accumulate salts of heavy metals, carcinogens and toxins that can cause allergies, diarrhea and severe forms of poisoning, including the death of the dog.
Fact: It will be better if the dog does not know mushrooms as food, because the harm from them significantly outweighs the possible benefits for its body (mushrooms contain a lot of vitamin D, nicotinic acid and antioxidants). Dogs whose owners sometimes allow them to eat mushrooms can subsequently become poisoned by dangerous poisonous mushrooms.
Prohibition 28.
Alcohol. 
From the history: Previously, in the USSR, dog handlers were forced to give dogs alcohol due to heavy workloads. However, alcohol is not for dogs! Intoxication, coma or death are the consequences of drinking drinks with too much alcohol. The smaller the dog, the greater the effect.
Fact: Although we have all heard or know cases where dogs in villages were successfully treated for poisoning, distemper and even piroplasmosis with vodka or cognac with egg yolk, we absolutely should not risk the health of the pet. Dogs are unable to break down and remove ethanol and its breakdown product is acetaldehyde, it is completely and instantly absorbed into the blood, has a depressant effect on the central nervous system and leads to serious disturbances in the functioning of the liver and kidneys, and with frequent use, it can lead to poor health and even death of the pet. .
Prohibition 29.
Xylitol. 
A sweetener found in sugarless chewing gum, candy, and baked goods. Xylitol may be approved for humans, but it causes liver damage and lowers blood sugar in dogs to life-threatening levels. A 5kg dog only needs to eat one piece of sugar-free chewing gum to receive a potentially toxic dose. Low blood levels may develop within 10 to 15 minutes of taking xylitol, along with vomiting and loss of coordination.
Prohibition 30.
Broth and minced meat.
Cause: It is not recommended to give dogs broth, and even if the diet contains cereals, it is better to boil them in water; it is better to drain the broth before serving. The main reason is the fat content and the increased content of active substances, which provokes an excessive release of bile and gastric juice, as well as the high fat content of the broth. This leads to diseases of the pancreas and liver, as well as gastritis and cholecystitis. Often this diet leads to allergies, hair loss and diseases of the liver, kidneys and pancreas. And also gaining excess weight. The exception is unfortified diluted chicken broth for a convalescent animal.
This is not natural food for canines!
Store-bought minced meat is often made from stale meat, may contain emergency slaughter products, and often contains dyes and preservatives. In addition, eating minced meat leads to the formation of plaque, the jaw muscles do not work, and this is harmful to the dog. Even puppies are recommended to give meat in small pieces, and not in a pate consistency.
There are exceptions - this is beef jellied meat containing broth. It is very useful for growing puppies and large breed dogs, as well as for the period of rehabilitation after injury.
There are few strict prohibitions, but they are easy to remember. In moderation and with good tolerance, you can give your dog many controversial but healthy foods, which is why a natural diet is good.
And to remember, short list of truly forbidden foods for dogs:
spicy,
pickled,
fat,
fried,
smoked (sausage, frankfurters, shish kebab),
hot and frozen food,
spices, salt in large quantities,
sugar and its substitutes, chocolate,
canned food,
alcohol, tobacco,
Tea coffee,
carbonated drinks,
cat food,
mushrooms,
some human vitamins and medicines,
boiled and hollowed chicken bones,
spoiled food,
leftovers from the table, soups, cereals, cutlets and minced meat (not advisable),
many cereals (millet, pearl barley, semolina, maize, sorghum),
yeast dough, pastries and bakery products,
beans and corn,
chips,
ketchup, mayonnaise and sauces.
It is important to remember the main thing - diet is a purely individual thing, it must take into account a lot of factors, a sense of proportion and tolerance of certain types of products are especially important.
Never feed your dog food that you are not sure is safe.
Fatty, smoked, peppered, fried foods are definitely not for dogs!
And if suddenly something goes wrong, contact your veterinarian immediately!
Carefully observe the behavior of your pet after introducing a new product into its diet. Obvious signs of poisoning of the body may not appear immediately, but the success of treating the animal depends on how quickly you notice something is wrong.
In any matter of keeping a pet, the first condition should be safety, the second – the absence of fanaticism. You should not believe categorical prohibitions if they are not justified and supported by facts. It is worthwhile to be careful, but it is important to remember that we live in an advertising world that knows how to manipulate our consciousness and habits.
A diet based on natural food can be called more balanced, varied and nutritious. Still, no matter what the food was, even the most famous brand, “premium” or “elite” class, despite the balance and percentage of necessary substances, all industrial feeds contain preservatives, dyes, food additives, salt, harmful to the animal’s body, flavorings. If you think logically, all these not very useful additives ensure long-term storage of feed. Of course, by choosing natural feeding for dogs, you will not only need to purchase high-quality and varied products, but also spend time on preparation. But you are not indifferent to the fate of your pet, are you?
Natural dog diet
Representatives of the canine family, including your pet, belong to the family of carnivores, so when choosing how to feed a puppy or an adult dog, it is immediately worth noting that the basis of the animal’s diet should be meat products. There is no single diet for all dogs, but let’s look at what should definitely be included in your pet’s “menu”. As already noted in previous sections, the diet and the number of feedings depend on the breed, the general physiological state of the dog, and the level of activity. The main rule is that the dog’s diet must correspond to energy costs, since otherwise it is possible that metabolic processes will be disrupted and the functioning of the organs of the endocrine and cardiovascular systems (obesity, diabetes mellitus) may occur.
Meat for dogs
Meat and meat products are the main source of protein for animals, so 70-80% of the daily diet should consist of meat products. For meat, dogs are given horse meat, beef, veal, poultry (chicken, turkey), meat by-products (liver, chicken offal, tripe, spleen, liver). It is recommended to give by-products no more than two to three times a week. Since the nutritional value of organ meats is lower, they should be given twice as much as one serving of meat. It is preferable to serve meat raw, cut into portions. Before feeding, you need to pour boiling water over the meat. You can also give boiled meat and minced meat, but only in smaller quantities.
A fairly useful product in the diet of puppies and adult dogs is fresh blood of slaughtered animals, since it contains about 22% of easily digestible proteins. In addition, the blood contains a large number of essential amino acids. blood obtained within a few hours after the slaughter of animals is allowed to be given fresh, if after 6-10 hours the blood must be boiled before giving to the dog. It is important to maintain a strict dosage of blood and give it no more than twice a month, so as not to lead to protein poisoning. Pork, pork bones or long bones should never be given to dogs.
Can dogs fish?
Fish is given to dogs from four to five months of age, only boiled, preferably fatty varieties, after removing the seeds. Choose only ocean or sea fish to feed. Under no circumstances should you give your pet fish with bones, raw fish products, smoked fish, and especially raw river fish, which may be infected with dangerous helminths. You can feed your dog halibut, pelengas, trout, navaga, sea bass, bream, pollock, pike perch, and shrimp meat. Seaweed is very useful, since it contains a large amount of iron, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.
Tip: do not mix fish and meat in one serving. It is best to properly combine these foods in your diet. Eating fish too often can lead to the breakdown of B vitamins in the dog’s body, which in turn negatively affects the animal’s health.
Dairy and fermented milk products
The dog's diet must include dairy and fermented milk products - sour cream, kefir, whey, skim milk, natural yoghurts, yogurt, cottage cheese. Milk is given mainly to puppies and only if it does not cause stomach upset in babies. As dogs grow older, the number of enzymes that are responsible for the breakdown and absorption of milk proteins decreases. Yogurts are natural, without fruit or other fillers.
Vegetable fats in the diet of dogs
The source of fats are vegetable oils, butter, rendered beef fat, which also need to be occasionally introduced into the animal’s diet. Butter contains vitamins A and E, a large amount of polyunsaturated fats, which are necessary for animal fur and the cardiovascular system. The intake of fats from food must be strictly controlled, since their excess can lead to obesity and digestive disorders.
Also, the diet of dogs of any age should include eggs (boiled and raw). They are given as an additive to dairy and meat products or added to porridge. Adult dogs can be given one raw or two boiled eggs per week. It is best to give dogs only the yolk, since protein is less easily absorbed by the animal’s body and can affect the natural molting process. You can pamper your pets with an omelet cooked in milk or water.
Plant food
Your pet's diet must include plant foods, which are a source of energy, vitamins and fiber. Adult dogs need 40-45 g of fiber per day for the normal functioning of the digestive system. Dogs are given vegetables, fruits, berries, nuts, and seeds. Vegetables are fed raw, finely chopped, grated, boiled or stewed. vegetables can be stewed in water or weak meat broth. For better absorption of nutrients, raw vegetables can be given in the form of vegetable salads seasoned with a small amount of vegetable oil.
Boiled vegetables are added to porridge or meat products. You should also add fresh herbs to your food - celery, lettuce, parsley, dill, young nettle and dandelion leaves. In winter, it is very useful to add chopped garlic to the food. This supplement helps strengthen the immune system and is an effective anthelmintic. It is useful to feed peeled pumpkin seeds and add pumpkin pulp to porridge. Many dogs are very fond of fruits and berries (strawberries, cherries, cherry plums, apples, pears, watermelon, grapes, melon), so you should not deprive your pets of these tasty and healthy treats, but only after 2 months of age.
