Mistakes in feeding our pets, especially dogs, are more common than we think. Many times, through ignorance or habit, we commit practices that directly affect your health and well-being. Provide a balance diet, adapted to your specific needs, is essential to ensure your quality of life and avoid health problems.
In this article, you will discover the most common feeding mistakes we tend to make with our dogs and how to solve them. You will also find important information that will help you better understand their nutritional requirements and improve your pet's well-being. Your pet will thank you!
Not calculating the correct amounts
One of the most common mistakes is not properly calculating the amount of food we provide to our dog. This can lead to problems such as overweight, obesity or, in extreme cases, malnutrition.
Why is it important to adjust quantities? Each dog has different nutritional requirements depending on its size, weight, breed, age and level of physical activity. The pet food label usually includes a guide table, but it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian for a specific nutritional requirement. more precise recommendationAlso, if your dog has had a particularly active day, you can add an extra serving, but this should not become a habit.
Being overweight is not just an aesthetic issue; it can cause serious diseases in our pets such as joint problems, diabetes and even cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, insufficient intake can lead to problems such as muscle weakness and deficiency of essential nutrients.
Change of food frequently
Many people tend to change food for their dogs constantly, either because they think they need variety or because they are looking to save money. However, this habit can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, vomiting or Food intolerances.
To avoid these inconveniences, it is crucial to make any food change gradually. Combine the new food with the old one for at least a week, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food until it is the only one consumed. This will allow the digestive system your dog adapts without any problems.
Not cleaning feeders and leftovers
Cleanliness is a fundamental part of feeding our pets. Leaving food scraps in the feeders can cause the proliferation of bacteria that could cause gastrointestinal infections and other health problems.
After each meal, wash the dishes your pet's food with hot, soapy water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any detergent residue. Also, avoid leaving wet food or leftover food in the dish for long periods of time, especially in hot weather.
Get them used to home cooking
Many times, out of affection or even because we feel guilty for not spending enough time with them, we tend to share our food with our dogs. Although it may seem harmless, this habit is not healthy for them.
Homemade food is not always balanced nor suitable for dogs. Many foods that we eat every day, such as chocolate, onions, garlic or grapes, are toxic for them. In addition, homemade food often contains excess fat, salt and seasonings that can seriously affect their health.
If you decide to include homemade food in their diet, it is essential that it is prepared specifically for them, following the recommendations from a veterinarian or canine nutrition professional. This will ensure that your pet is getting all the necessary nutrients and in the correct proportions.
The times they eat per day
A common mistake is leaving the food bowl full all day long so that the dog eats whenever he wants. This not only makes it difficult to control the amount he consumes, but can also encourage disordered eating habits.
Ideally, you should feed your dog at fixed times, dividing its daily ration into two or three meals depending on its age and needs. This routine not only facilitates digestion, but also helps prevent problems such as obesity or BingeAlso, make sure to remove the leftover food bowl after about 15-20 minutes, even if he hasn't eaten it all.
Lack of proper hydration
Water is as important as food for our dogs. Its importance is often underestimated, forgetting that dehydration can cause serious health problems.
Make sure your pet always has access to fresh, clean water. Change the water at least twice daily and use a container appropriate to your dog's size to prevent it from running out of liquid in a short time.
During hot weather, it is especially important to increase the frequency of water changes and consider offering additional ice or cool water to keep your pet hydrated.
Ensuring your dog is getting the right nutrition will not only help keep him healthy, but will also improve his quality of life. By avoiding these common mistakes and being attentive to his specific needs, you will strengthen your bond with your pet and help him live a happy and healthy life for many years to come.