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Team Carson&Bear knows how important your dog’s health and wellness is. It’s why our founders started this movement. Before we share more about the movement we’re sharing insights about an important topic: your dog’s diet. Introducing our first of many blog posts to come below.
Creating the Best Dog Diet for Longevity: Beyond “Complete and Balanced”
As dog parents, we want what’s best for our pups. We want them to live their healthiest lives with us for as many years possible. Many factors can impact the life span and health of your dog, but one of the most important within your control is their nutrition. A well-balanced diet is crucial to their well-being and longevity, but knowing where to start can be complicated. How can you determine which food is best for your dog?
Unfortunately, not all dog foods on the market today are fit for the important role in your dog’s wellness with their “one-size-fits-all” approach. Your dog’s bark is their own, and their diet should be as well. That’s why they deserve meals that are not only fully nutritious, but also tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle.
We want to contribute to a world where healthier pets and people live longer together. Education is such a big part of wellness so as we prepare to launch a movement this fall, we want to share some important things (the first of many insights we’ll share soon) to remember when planning your dog’s meals.
Look beyond “complete and balanced”
Whether you’re a new or seasoned dog parent, you’ve likely found yourself staring into an ocean of dog food options, overwhelmed by the task of picking the right one. The variety of assurances and marketing lingo isn’t always straightforward and can leave you asking, “what’s really in the bag, and can I trust it? Is it made with quality ingredients?”
You may notice a common phrase on dog food bags – “complete and balanced” – a seal of approval that brands must earn by meeting the national standards of what’s considered “healthy” for a dog’s diet. It’s important to consider that some brands go above and beyond these standards, while others only meet the minimum nutritional requirements necessary for the label. While many “complete and balanced” options can be a good choice for many dogs, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are the best or only ones to consider for your dog.
Start by looking for dog foods with a high source of animal protein and a lower amount of carbohydrates. Many dry dog foods load up on carbs making the food less nutritious.
All food is flawed, switch it up
Every brand claims to be the best dog food brand, but just like one dog food doesn’t fit all dogs, one food doesn’t fit one dog forever. All food is flawed and one food source won’t have everything your dog needs to fully nourish them, which is why providing a variety of foods in your dog’s diet is key. By adding another food source, you’re filling the nutrient gaps presented by another and keeping your dog’s tail wagging longer and harder. A varied diet full of diverse dog food options also contributes to a healthy digestive system and keeps a dog’s gut microbiome diverse, making it easier to fight illnesses, prevent allergies and even improve behavior.
For example, diets that include an addition of salmon oil are packed with helpful omega fatty acids have been shown to promote healthier skin, improve heart health and boost the immune system.
Approach every food option with a mindset that each one is flawed in its own unique way – no matter if they’re dry, wet, fresh or raw dog food – and that a healthy diet should consist of varied options.
They should eat for their age
Just like humans, a dog’s needs change as they age, especially when it comes to their diet. The needs of rambunctious puppies running around with reckless abandon are different to those of old, wise adult dogs who need a nap after a couple laps of fetch. It’s important to know the different nutritional healthy grains requirements at each stage of life to keep them living healthier, happier and longer.
Puppies are in their formative years and need a diet to supplement growth and development, a phase best supported with more calories, proteins and fats. An adult dog’s diet should be lower in calories than one of a puppy’s and should focus on other needs such as maintaining a healthy weight. Senior dogs should also adhere to a lower calorie diet to avoid becoming overweight, but they also need nutrients that aid joint and cognitive health. Whichever stage of life your dog is in, be sure it’s reflected in their meals and supplements.
What you can do to create the best diet for dogs
Your dog’s well-being is priceless, and so is the extra time you’ll earn with them by making sure their nutritional needs are met. Doing your research and knowing what to look for will help you pick the healthiest diet for them, a fundamental ingredient for a happier, healthier pup.
At the end of the day, you know your dog best, but it never hurts to get a second opinion. When making changes in your dog’s diet, be sure to seek advice from veterinarians.
Like what you learned today? We’ll be sharing more content in the weeks to come. Stay up-to-date by visiting our website or signing up for email updates below.