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Tuesday, December 1, 2009

DOG DIETARY NEEDS AND CALORIE INTAKE

A nutritious, well balanced diet ensures a strong-boned, well muscled, healthy shiny coated dog. Ensure that the food you provide is part of a well balanced diet.  If your dog is overweight reduce its calorie intake and increase its exercise.

Correct feeding methods.

Obtain food from a reputable pet food manufacturer.
Don't give spoiled or stale food to your dog.
Control what your dog eats. Don't feed your dog cat food. It is too high in protein.
Always serve your dog's food at room temperature.
Uneaten food should be disposed off.
Watch your dog's weight. Prevent obesity. Feed according to manufacture's instructions.
Bones and chews help to exercise jaw muscles and is also good for dental hygiene. Don't give your dog brittle bones.
Take note of your dogs eating patterns. Consult a vet if your dog refuses to eat.
Provide separate bowls for different dogs.
Drinking more water than usual may be and indication of an internal disorder.
Protein, which maintains the metabolic processes, should not form more than half of a dog's diet. 
The remainder of his daily calories should come from carbohydrates, which ensure regular bowel movements. 
Remember to include the calorie count of treats when calculating his daily intake. 

Supplements
Ensure that the correct amount of calcium and vitamin tablets as prescribed by a vet form part of your dog's diet.

Approximate daily calories required for adult dogs.

Dog type                                     Calories required

Toy 5 kg ( 11 lb )                                210 calories          
e.g. Toy Fox Terrier

Small 10 kg ( 22 lb )                            590 calories
e.g. Pomeranian

Medium 20 kg ( 45 lb )                        900 calories
e.g Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Large 40 kg ( 88 lb )                             1680 calories
e.g. French Mastiff

Giant 80 kg ( 176 lb )                             2800 calories
e.g. Tornjak

You should feed about 60 percent of the calories required for your dog's ideal weight. Since each dog has its own requirements the above indications should only be regarded as a guideline.