What’s the Best Food for Dogs? A Complete Guide to What Your Dog Should Eat!

June
Dec 31, 2024
9 min read

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! It’s me, June – your favourite Shih Tzu, here to tell you everything I know about food. Now, I’m no expert (though I am a pretty good taste tester), but I do know that a balanced diet is everything for a healthy and happy life. Whether you're a snuggly couch potato or an energetic zoomer like me, food plays a major role in how we feel, look, and live.

Let’s dig in (pun intended) and explore what makes the perfect meal for your dog, with a little Indian flavour sprinkled in!

Macronutrients: The Big Guns of My Diet

1. Protein: The Building Block

If you ask me, protein is the most important part of my diet. It helps me build muscles (yes, even my little legs need muscles for chasing the neighbour's cat), repair tissues, and stay strong. My favourite sources of protein are chicken, mutton, fish, eggs, and, of course, curd. In fact, curd is an Indian superfood for dogs – it’s packed with protein and probiotics, making it perfect for gut health.

Why it matters: Protein is like the foundation of a house – without it, everything falls apart. For active dogs like me, protein helps fuel our muscles for all that chasing, jumping, and running. So, I make sure to get my daily dose of chicken and fish.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Indian dogs love curd just as much as we love our walkies? The probiotics in curd are excellent for digestion – it's like a tasty treat and a belly-soothing snack in one!

Protein requirements: For us active dogs, about 30-35% of our diet should come from protein. I need more of it to keep my zoomies in check!

2. Carbohydrates: The Energy Boosters

While protein is the muscle builder, carbohydrates are the energy boosters that keep us going. We dogs don’t need as many carbs as humans, but they’re still important for keeping us energized. I love my rice and sweet potatoes, but I also get a kick out of a carrot or two. These carbs release energy slowly, so I’m not bouncing off the walls (well, not too much).

Why it matters: Carbs help provide a steady source of energy for all the sniffing and chasing I do. Good carbs like rice and sweet potatoes help release energy gradually, so I’m not sluggish or hyperactive.

Fun Fact: In India, rice is a staple in many households, and guess what? Dogs like me love it too! Just make sure it’s plain rice, no added spices – we like things simple and delicious.

Important Note: Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, but they also contain natural sugars and carbohydrates that can raise blood sugar levels. While they are a healthy choice in moderation, it's important to keep an eye on the quantity if your dog is prone to diabetes or weight issues.

Sources in India: Rice, sweet potatoes (in moderation), pumpkin, carrots, and lentils.

3. Fats: The Essential Nutrient for a Shiny Coat

Let me tell you something – fats are what make my fur shiny and soft. Healthy fats, like those in fish oil and flaxseed, are also good for brain health (so I can remember where I buried my bones!). Ghee, in moderation, also works wonders for my coat and skin. But trust me, I love the fish oil – it's like a spa day for my skin every day!

Why it matters: Fats are like the high-energy fuel that keeps my body running smoothly, help reduce inflammation and support cognitive function. They also help with the absorption of vitamins, especially the fat-soluble ones that keep me feeling great.

Fun Fact: The magical fish oil I’m talking about? It’s also a staple in many Indian coastal diets! Fish is not only good for humans but also keeps our doggy coats looking fabulous!

Sources in India: Fish oil, flaxseed, ghee (in moderation), and chicken fat.

Micronutrients: The Secret Weapons

Vitamins and minerals might be tiny, but they pack a punch. These little nutrients help keep my bones strong, boost my immune system, and keep me feeling like a superstar.

1. Vitamins: Tiny but Mighty

I get my vitamins from things like carrots, spinach, and eggs. Vitamin A helps my skin and eyesight, Vitamin D is great for my bones, and Vitamin E is a hero for boosting my immune system.

Why it matters: Without vitamins, we’d be sluggish and unhealthy. These little guys do wonders to keep my coat shiny, my muscles strong, and my energy up.

Fun Fact: Did you know that in India, carrots are a go-to snack for both humans and dogs? I’m not complaining – they’re crunchy, sweet, and packed with Vitamin A!

Sources in India: Carrots (Vitamin A), fish and eggs (Vitamin D), and leafy greens (Vitamin E).

2. Minerals: The Bone Builders

Minerals like calcium and magnesium are crucial for my bones and muscles. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do my zoomies! They also help with nerve function and keep my body in tip-top shape.

Why it matters: Minerals are essential for strong bones and muscle function. Calcium helps keep my bones strong so I can jump high to catch that frisbee!

Fun Fact: In India, calcium-rich foods like yogurt are common in many households. Lucky for me, yogurt is not just tasty – it’s also full of calcium, which is great for my bones!

Sources in India: Fish, eggs, green leafy vegetables, and yogurt.

Balancing Act: Putting It All Together

Creating a balanced diet for your dog is like being a MasterChef and a nutritionist rolled into one. Here are some key points to remember:

Age Matters: Puppies, adults, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs. Puppies like me need more protein to fuel growth, while adults need a bit less, and seniors need diets that support joint health.
Size and Breed: An Indian Pariah dog's diet looks very different from a Himalayan Sheepdog's. While I, a Shih Tzu, need smaller portions, larger dogs will need bigger meals and potentially more protein.
Activity Level: Working dogs and apartment-dwelling pets burn calories at different rates. I, for example, don’t need the same amount of food as a sled dog or a herding dog.
Health Conditions: Some medical issues require special dietary considerations. If your dog has allergies or other conditions, consult your vet for tailored advice.
Climate Considerations: In India’s varied climate, from the heat of Rajasthan to the cool hills of Shimla, your dog's dietary needs may vary. I need fewer calories in the cooler hills but more in the hot summer months to maintain energy levels.

Trust the Experts (That's Not Just Us!)

We know you want the best for your furry friend, and so do we! That's why we always recommend:

Consult Your Vet: They know your dog's health history and can provide personalized advice. My vet helps make sure I'm always at my best, especially with a high-energy diet!
Read Labels: If using any packaged foods (preferably, you must stop feeding us that!), ingredient lists, and nutritional information are your friends. Always check that the food contains good, natural ingredients – no hidden nasties!

Home-Cooked Goodness: The Natural Way

At The Barkology Club, we believe in the power of natural, home-cooked meals for our canine friends. Here's why:

Control Over Ingredients: You know exactly what's going into your dog's food. No mystery ingredients – just fresh, nutritious meals.
Freshness: No preservatives or artificial additives. My food is made with love and care, not packed with chemicals.
Adaptability: Easy to adjust based on your dog's needs and preferences. Want to add some extra chicken or cut back on carbs? It’s all in your hands!

Remember, transitioning to a homemade diet should be done gradually and under veterinary supervision to ensure all nutritional needs are met. Homemade Diet Tips

Treats: The Cherry on Top

Let's face it, we all love giving our dogs treats. But remember, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. Choose healthy options like small pieces of lean meat or dog-safe fruits and veggies. Indian options include:

Small pieces of boiled chicken or fish
Cucumber slices
Carrot sticks
Small cubes of ripe papaya (without seeds)

Wrapping It Up (Like a Doggy Bag)

A balanced, natural diet is key to your dog's health, happiness, and longevity. By understanding the roles of macronutrients and micronutrients and embracing the wealth of nutritious options available in India, you're well on your way to becoming a canine nutrition expert. Remember, every dog is unique, so what works for the Labrador next door might not be perfect for your Indian Spitz.

Keep exploring, keep learning, and most importantly, keep loving your furry friend. After all, a well-fed dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog makes for an even happier human!

Stay pawsome, and see you in the next article! 🐶💖

How Can You Trust This Information?

This article is based on guidelines from trusted organizations and contains references wherever applicable from sources such as:

National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 2006.
Bauer, J.E. "Therapeutic use of fish oils in companion animals." Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2011.
Michell, A.R. "Longevity of British breeds of dog and its relationships with sex, size, cardiovascular variables and disease." Veterinary Record, 1999.
Lauten, S.D. "Nutritional risks to large-breed dogs: from weaning to the geriatric years." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2006.
Association of American Feed Control Officials. AAFCO Methods for Substantiating Nutritional Adequacy of Dog and Cat Foods, 2014.
American Kennel Club. "How Many Treats to Give a Dog a Day." https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/how-many-treats-can-dog-have/
Sharma, A., et al. "Nutrient digestibility and gastrointestinal health of dogs fed a homemade diet." Journal of Nutritional Science, 2018.
Gopalakrishnan, L., et al. "Moringa oleifera: A review on nutritive importance and its medicinal application." Food Science and Human Wellness, 2016.
Adolph, E.F. "Physiological Regulations." The American Journal of Physiology, 1943.
Kumar, S., et al. "Effect of heat stress on physiological parameters and blood biochemicals in indigenous, crossbred and exotic breeds of cattle and buffaloes." Journal of Stress Physiology & Biochemistry, 2011.
Animal Welfare Board of India. "Guidelines for Care and Management of Pets." http://www.awbi.in/
Remillard, R.L. "Homemade diets: attributes, pitfalls, and a call for action." Topics in Companion Animal Medicine, 2008.

Discover the best food for dogs with our complete guide! Learn what your dog should eat, including the best dog food options, essential nutrients, and how to create a balanced diet for your furry friend. Whether you're wondering "what dog food is best?" or "what can dogs eat?" – we've got all the answers to keep your pup happy and healthy!