Fur-parents undoubtedly wish to provide the best quality of life for their pets, so they can lead long, healthy, and happy lives with the family for years to come. Part of the most important aspect of a dog’s health is the food you provide, and just like any person, your furry babies need the right nutrition to grow into healthy pooches down the line.
Other than choosing the right dog-friendly food and treats that can delight your canine friend’s taste buds, providing the ideal nutritional formula according to your dog’s age is just as crucial. Matching the nutritional intake your fur baby needs in different stages of their development ensures they effectively maintain their health for years to come. With that in mind, what nutritional needs should you consider for your four-legged friend?
Nutritional Needs for Every Dog’s Life Stage
What Puppies Need for their Nutrition (0-1-year-old)
Puppies are sensitive, gentle creatures that need plenty of health boosters to protect their vulnerable state, so the best way to ensure they grow up strong and healthy is to provide meals with higher nutrient content. They’re experiencing extreme growth spurts and have plenty of energy to burn, so puppies will need food that has high proteins, fats, calcium, phosphorus, and calories to keep up with their zealous state.
What Adult Dogs Need for their Nutrition (1-7 years old)
As your pooch grows older, the little bundle of joy will need a new diet to match their growing needs. Adult dogs need to be more careful about their calorie intake as they’re more at risk of obesity, which can take a toll on their health in more ways than one. While adult dogs are stronger, they’re still vulnerable to developing chronic conditions, so providing a well-balanced diet is important.
Some of the important nutritional values you need to include for your older furry friends include animal-based proteins, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, fibre, and grains. In that regard, be sure to focus on dog-friendly dishes that support proper weight management and dental hygiene, too!
What Senior Dogs Need for their Nutrition (8 years old and above)
Senior pooches need plenty of tenderness, love, and care, especially since their activity levels and appetite often decrease the older they get. Elderly pets need more fibre to help maintain a healthy digestive function, plus it’s important to lessen their calorie intake as heavier weight can put unnecessary stress on an older dog’s joints.
The Bottom Line: The Importance of Providing the Right Nutrition to Your Dog Depending on Their Age
If you are what you eat, it’s safe to say that what you feed your dog can make or mar their health too! But a nutritious meal doesn’t mean it will effectively enhance your pooch’s wellness, especially if their needs aren’t particularly met depending on their age. The guide above should help clarify the right dog food and nutritional intake they need for every stage in their life.
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