Feeding Your Dog:
Feeding your dog seems easy—scoop the kibble, fill the bowl, done. But what and how you feed your dog plays a huge role in their health, behavior, and quality of life.
Whether you're a first-time pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, this guide will help you feed your pup with confidence.
Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs
🐶 Know Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs
Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to diet. Factors like age, breed, size, activity level, and health determine what your dog should eat.
✅ Puppies: Need more calories and protein to grow
✅ Adults: Require balanced maintenance diets
✅ Seniors: May need fewer calories, more joint support
✅ Active dogs: Often need high-protein, high-fat diets
💡 Tip: Talk to your vet about your dog’s unique needs.
Section: Choosing the Right Food
🥩 Choosing the Right Dog Food
With so many options out there, how do you choose? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Dry Food (Kibble)
Convenient and affordable
Good for dental health
Look for real meat as the first ingredient
Wet Food (Canned)
Great for picky eaters
Higher moisture content
Shorter shelf life once opened
Raw or Fresh Diets
Closer to a natural diet
Requires balanced planning
Not ideal for all households
Homemade Meals
Full ingredient control
Needs vet guidance for balance
🔄 Transition slowly when switching dog foods—mix the new food in gradually over 7–10 days to avoid tummy issues.
Section: How Often Should You Feed Your Dog?
⏱️ Feeding Frequency
Your dog’s age and lifestyle determine how often they should eat:
Puppies: 3–4 meals a day
Adult dogs: Usually 2 meals daily
Senior dogs: 1–2 meals depending on health
Avoid free-feeding (leaving food out all day), as it can lead to overeating and obesity.
Section: Treats & Table Scraps
🍖 Treats & Table Scraps: How Much is Too Much?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
🚫 Foods to Avoid:
Chocolate
Grapes & raisins
Onions & garlic
Xylitol (in sugar-free gum, peanut butter)
Cooked bones
✅ Dog-safe snacks:
Carrot sticks
Apple slices (no seeds!)
Blueberries
Green beans
🐾 Use treats for training and rewards, not as a filler between meals.
Section: Hydration
💧 Don’t Forget Water
Always provide fresh, clean water. Dogs eating dry food may drink more, while those on canned or raw diets still need access to water.
Hydration is key to healthy digestion, temperature regulation, and organ function.
Section: Weight & Body Condition
⚖️ Watch Their Weight
You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs without pressing too hard, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above.
If your dog’s gaining or losing weight unexpectedly, it’s time to:
Adjust food portions
Reduce treats
Visit your vet for a checkup
Conclusion
🐕🦺 A Well-Fed Dog is a Happy Dog
Feeding your dog isn’t just a daily task—it’s a commitment to their health and happiness. Choose quality food, feed appropriate portions, and adjust as your dog grows and changes.
📬 Have questions or want help choosing a dog food? Leave a comment below or talk to your vet today!
