The raw diet for dogs has become increasingly popular due to its potential health benefits, such as improved digestion and a shinier coat. However, before you jump on the raw food bandwagon, it's important to learn how to calculate a healthy raw diet for your canine companion. Let's take a closer look at some guidelines to help ensure that your pup gets the right nutrients each meal.
Calculating Your Dog's Daily Caloric Needs
Start by establishing your dog's daily caloric needs (RER), which can be done using an online calculator designed for canine dietary needs or by consulting with your veterinarian. After you have determined the daily calorie amount needed for your pet's optimal health, you can use this figure as the foundation of their meals.
Feeding twice daily is recommended because it allows for better absorption of essential vitamins and minerals from their food sources. Divide total daily calories among two meals – half in the morning and a half at night – always split evenly by protein-carbohydrate-fats ratio within each meal: 30% proteins, 30% carbs & 30% fats respectively.
Protein is the Foundation of Your Dog's Diet
Make sure that 50 - 70% of each meal includes proteins like fresh meat, eggs or fish (e.g., chicken quarter legs, sardines). Proteins are the foundation of your dog's diet and provide essential amino acids that help build and repair muscles, organs, and other tissues.
When selecting proteins, look for lean sources with a high nutrient density. This means that they contain a high amount of essential vitamins and minerals that are important for your dog's health.
Carbohydrates for Energy and Fiber
The remaining portion of your dog's meal should contain carbohydrates like leafy greens (e.g., spinach), squash or sweet potato. Carbohydrates provide energy and fibre which will make up about 5-7% of the total diet (can use ground flaxseed as a supplement).
Fibre is important for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and can aid in weight loss. Vegetables and fruits are excellent sources of fibre, vitamins, and minerals, so be sure to include them in your dog's diet.
Fats for Essential Nutrients
Fats are essential to your dog's diet and provide important nutrients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats help improve skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and support cognitive function.
You can include fats like nuts or oils in your dog's diet, but be sure not to overdo it. Fats are high in calories and can lead to weight gain if consumed in excess.
Vitamins and Minerals for Optimal Health
Include vitamins and minerals in the form of fruits and vegetables in your dog's diet. These essential nutrients help support your dog's immune system, promote healthy vision, and improve bone health.
When selecting fruits and vegetables, choose a variety of colours to ensure a wide range of nutrients. Dark leafy greens, berries, and cruciferous vegetables are all excellent choices.
Nutrient-Dense Supplements
You can also add nutrient-dense supplements like cod liver oil or kelp powder twice per week to ensure nutritionally complete meals for your pet. These supplements provide important vitamins and minerals that may be lacking in your dog's diet.
However, be sure to consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog's diet. Some supplements may interact with medications or have unwanted side effects.
Monitoring Your Dog's Health
Monitoring your dog's health regularly is important to ensure that their diet is balanced and nutritionally complete. Keep track of any changes in appetite, weight gain/loss or other physical behaviours that may indicate something is off balance with their diet—and adjust accordingly based upon advice from a licensed professional veterinarian.
A balanced diet will promote long-term healthy living and should not be overlooked when feeding any animal.
Final Thoughts
Feeding your dog a raw diet can be a healthy choice, but ensuring that their meals are balanced and nutritionally complete is important. Use these guidelines to help calculate a healthy raw diet for your furry friend, and don't forget to monitor their health regularly. Your dog will thank you for it!
Resources
Check Out: Healthy Recipe Maker for Dogs; By Dr. Dobias Natural Healing
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