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Puppy Basics: Selecting the Right Food
Puppy Basics: Selecting the Right Food

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Puppy Basics: Selecting the Right Food

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Dogs are as unique as people, but despite their differences, they all need a well-balanced diet for good health. However, dogs of different ages and sizes have different nutritional needs, and this is especially true for puppies. When you factor in developmental needs, ingredients and your puppy’s size and breed, choosing the right food can be difficult.

 

How to Select a Puppy Food

The energy requirements of a puppy can be nearly twice those of an adult dog. This means that a puppy might not have the stomach capacity to eat enough food to meet his needs unless the food is specially formulated.
 

When choosing a puppy food, select one that provides a highly digestible, nutrient-dense, 100% complete premium formula for growth. Such high-quality formulas contain the vitamins, minerals, protein, fat and carbohydrates your dog needs for sound and healthy development. With a premium formula, your puppy may have:
 

  • Exceptional muscle tone
  • A shiny, luxurious coat
  • Healthy skin, bones, and teeth
  • Clear, bright eyes
  • Small, firm stools
  • Playfulness
  • A happy, healthy attitude
     

Puppies grow fastest during the first six months of life, and because growth rates differ among breed sizes, you need a formula designed to address the needs of your puppy’s breed or size. Feed your puppy this formula based on the recommended amounts for his weight and age until he is an adult.

 

 

Large-breed Puppy Nutrition

Although large-breed dogs have bigger bones than medium or small breeds, large-breed puppies do not need more calcium. University studies have shown that:
 

  • Rapidly growing large-breed pups are more inclined to exhibit developmental bone problems.
  • Controlling the rate of growth is more beneficial than promoting rapid growth.
  • Moderating calcium, phosphorus and calorie levels in the diet of large-breed puppies promotes normal skeletal development.
     

Overfeeding and weight gain can contribute to developmental bone problems. This makes managing food intake even more critical. Puppies are at greater risk for developmental bone problems if they are overfed.
 

A formula with reduced fat and calories promotes optimum growth. Controlling the rate of growth to promote normal development is another reason to feed a large-breed diet, such as IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Smart Puppy Large Breed.

 

 

Medium-breed Puppy Nutrition

Medium-breed puppies have needs between those of large- and small-breed dogs. A medium-breed puppy’s nutritional demands can be satisfied by feeding a 100% complete and balanced formula that features moderate amounts of all the essential vitamins and nutrients, such as IAMS ProActive Health Smart Puppy Original.

 

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Small-breed Puppy Nutrition

Small-breed puppies have unique needs due to their small mouths and small stomachs, as well as the rapid growth spurt they experience when growing to adult size. That’s why it’s important to pack a lot of nutrition and energy into a small amount of food. A poor-quality diet might fill a puppy’s stomach before he can eat enough food to satisfy his nutritional needs. The result can be improper muscle and skeletal development and growth impairment.
 

IAMS™ puppy foods are formulated to be energy- and nutrient-dense to meet the needs of growing puppies. The IAMS™ formula for small and toy puppy breeds, IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Smart Puppy Small & Toy Breed, has concentrated nutrition for the lifelong health of your small- or toy-breed dog.

  • Vitamin E for Dogs - Benefits & Optimal Dosage
    Vitamin E for Dogs - Benefits & Optimal Dosage

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    Vitamin E for Dogs - Benefits & Optimal Dosage

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    In the realm of pet care and canine health, certain nutrients often take centre stage, and one such nutrient is vitamin E for dogs. While it might get as much attention as the other vitamins, the impact of vitamin E on your dog's well-being is significant. From bolstering their immune system to promoting a lustrous coat, this nutrient plays a crucial role in keeping your furry friend in top-notch condition. Join us as we delve into the world of vitamin E for dogs, exploring its multifaceted benefits and uncovering the sources that can contribute to your pup's overall vitality.
     

    What is vitamin E?

    Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, is a vital player in the health of both humans and our four-legged friends. Grouped into tocopherols and tocotrienols, this nutrient operates as a stalwart defender against free radicals, those troublemakers causing oxidative stress in the body. In simpler terms, it is a guardian of cells. Vitamin E for dogs supports immune function, maintaining skin health, and even contributing to good vision. The catch is that dogs cannot generate vitamin E in their systems, so it is on us, the providers of kibble and treats, to ensure they get their dose.
     

    Can dogs have vitamin E?

    Absolutely, dogs can and should have vitamin E as part of their dietary intake. Since our furry friends cannot produce this essential nutrient internally, it becomes crucial to incorporate it into their meals. Dog foods often include vitamin E, but if you are preparing homemade meals or noticing a lack in their diet, supplementation may be necessary. This vitamin is not only a defender against oxidative stress but also contributes to the maintenance of healthy skin, a shiny coat, and a robust immune system. While moderation is key in all things, ensuring your canine companion gets an appropriate amount of vitamin E can significantly contribute to their overall health and well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the right balance for your specific dog's needs.
     

    Is vitamin E good for dogs?

    Without a doubt, vitamin E is exceptionally beneficial for dogs. Its antioxidant properties play a pivotal role in protecting their cells from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to the prevention of various health issues. This nutrient is particularly crucial for bolstering their immune system, promoting skin health, and ensuring a shiny coat. Dogs experiencing deficiencies in vitamin E may exhibit symptoms such as dull coats, muscle weakness, and impaired vision. Incorporating an adequate amount of vitamin E into your dog's diet can be a proactive step in maintaining their overall health and vitality. However, as with any nutritional component, it is important to strike the right balance, and consulting with your veterinarian is advisable to tailor your dog's diet to their specific needs.
     

    Benefits of vitamin E for dogs

    Vitamin E is an essential nutrient for dogs. From fortifying cellular defences to enhancing skin and coat brilliance, it offers countless benefits. So, let us understand the crucial role of vitamin E for puppies and dogs in their well-being:

    • Cellular defense

    Vitamin E acts as a stalwart defender, neutralising free radicals that can damage cells over time. By doing so, it helps maintain the structural integrity of cells and supports overall cellular health in your dog.

    • Immune support

    A robust immune system is crucial for your dog's well-being. Vitamin E enhances the production of immune cells, fortifying your dog's defence mechanisms and aiding in the prevention of infections and illnesses.

    • Skin health

    Vitamin E for a dog’s skin is nothing short of magic, contributing to the maintenance of healthy skin. It helps alleviate dryness and irritation, making it particularly beneficial for dogs prone to skin allergies or dermatological issues.

    • Coat brilliance

    The link between a shiny coat and good health is well-established. Vitamin E for puppies and dogs plays a huge role in promoting skin health and hydration directly contributes to the vibrant, glossy appearance of your dog's coat.

    • Vision maintenance

    In the realm of ocular health, vitamin E plays a role in maintaining good vision in dogs. Its antioxidant properties extend to the eyes, helping to protect against age-related degeneration.

    • Muscle and nerve function

    Supporting the health of muscles and nerves, vitamin E for dogs benefits your baby’s overall mobility and vitality. This is particularly important for active dogs and those engaged in regular physical activities.

    • Reproductive health

    For breeding dogs, vitamin E is essential for reproductive health. It aids in fertility and ensures the healthy development of embryos, supporting a smooth reproductive process in females.

    • Anti-inflammatory properties

    In conditions like arthritis, where inflammation is a concern, vitamin E's anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial. It may help manage inflammation and alleviate discomfort in dogs with joint issues.
     

    Incorporating vitamin E into your dog's diet offers a holistic approach to their health, addressing various aspects from the cellular level to visible markers like coat condition. As always, consulting with your veterinarian ensures a tailored and effective approach based on your dog's unique needs.
     

    Vitamin E supplements and foods

    As we curate the perfect blend of flavour and nutrition for our furry companions, let's explore a canine culinary journey featuring vitamin E-rich ingredients. From eggs to safflower oil, each element not only tantalises your dog's taste buds but also delivers the essential goodness of vitamin E, contributing to their overall well-being in delightful bites.

    1. Eggs: Serve up scrambled or boiled eggs for your dog, a protein-packed treat that also delivers vitamin E, promoting a healthy coat and immune system when incorporated into their diet.
    2. Salmon: Cooked salmon is a canine delight, offering not only a burst of omega-3s but also a dose of vitamin E, supporting skin health and bolstering your dog's overall well-being.
    3. Trout: Grilled or baked, trout is a tasty option for your pup that not only satisfies their taste buds but also provides essential vitamin E, contributing to a shiny coat and robust immune system.
    4. Spinach: Lightly cook spinach to harness its nutrient-rich benefits, including vitamin E, but be mindful of moderation due to oxalates, ensuring a balanced addition to your dog's meals.
    5. Safflower oil: A drizzle of safflower oil not only enhances flavour but also introduces vitamin E into your dog's diet, conveniently supporting their overall health when used judiciously.
    6. Sunflower oil: Enhance your dog's meals with a touch of sunflower oil, a source of both flavour and vitamin E, promoting skin and coat health when incorporated in measured amounts.
    7. Soybean oil: Exercise caution due to potential allergies, but in moderation, soybean oil can be a vitamin E-rich addition, providing flavour and nutritional benefits to your dog's meals.

    In the nutritional narrative for our canine friends, vitamin E emerges as a hero, weaving a tale of immune resilience, skin radiance, and overall vitality. Its antioxidant prowess safeguards cells, ensuring a robust foundation for your dog's well-being. As you curate their meals, let vitamin E take the centre stage, offering not just nourishment but a key ingredient in the recipe for a thriving, tail-wagging companion.

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