The Houndsley Brothers Guide to Clean Eating for Dogs Aug. 2016 | Page 4

F E E D I N G YO U R D O G
F O R L I F E L O N G H E A LT H
H O W T O C H O O S E W H AT ’ S B E S T F O R Y O U R D O G
INSIDE AND OUT
KNOW WHAT’S IN YOUR DOG’S FOOD
Don’t be fooled by healthy sounding ingredients and photos of glossy-coated dogs - these tell us very little about the nutritional
value of the food. We recommend a natural dog food, free from artificial additives and derivatives, which can negatively impact
your dog’s health and behaviour. Dogs require about 40 essential nutrients daily. The diet you feed your dog should provide all
of these in the right form and quantity - dog food that’s labelled ‘complete’ must contain them all.You can also combine a quality,
complementary dog food with a nutritious mixer to ensure your dog gets what it needs.
KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR DOG’S WEIGHT
You can check your dog’s weight easily by eye. Simply stand above your dog and look down. If your dog is at its ideal weight, you
should be able to feel the ribs quite easily but not see them.Your dog should also have a definite waist behind the ribs. Now look
at your dog from the side. It should have an obvious abdominal tuck. If you’re unsure, check with your vet.
DON’T BE TEMPTED TO OVERFEED YOUR DOG
Dogs are masters at persuading us they are hungry and need more food. Base the amount of food you give on how your dog
looks, not how hungry it acts.
CONSIDER AGE, BREED & ACTIVITY LEVEL
Watch the condition of your dog’s body and coat.Your dog is getting what he or she needs if energy levels are right for age and
breed, skin and coat are healthy and stools are firm and brown.

PUPPIES

A D U LT S

SENIORS

Puppies have very high demands
for nutrients as they grow, so
it is important to choose a
quality, nutritious food that’s
suited to your dog’s size. Small
breed puppies have much higher
energy requirements and smaller
mouths and teeth, so they need
energy-dense food that’s easier
to chew. Large breed puppies
that grow too fast are at risk of
joint problems, so they need less
energy-dense food to encourage
slow and steady growth.

Look for lots of high quality
animal protein at the top of
the ingredients list as well as
vegetables, whole grains and
fruits. Highly active dogs will need
more food or a higher protein
food. Small dogs need a
nutrient-dense diet.

As our dogs get older, joint
support such as glucosamine and
chondroitin is more important
than ever. It can be difficult for
our senior dogs to digest fat, so it
is crucial not only to consider the
fat level but also the type of fat
in your dog’s food. Omega-3 fatty
acids are best. Other supplements
to consider are vitamin B
complex, vitamin E and digestive
aids like pre-probiotics.

Keep in mind that it is best for
an adult dog to be on the slightly
lean side. On average, lean dogs
live two years longer than their
podgy friends.