One of the questions we hear most often is, “What’s the best food for my dog?” The answer depends on many factors – including your dog’s age, activity level, health, breed, and, believe it or not, size. Here are the reasons that – for your dog’s food – size matters!
Growing Rate. Different sizes of puppies grow at different rates. Large breed puppies grow more quickly over a longer period of time. Some larger breeds take up to 18 months to grow to their adult size. Smaller breeds can take as little as only 9 months. So even puppy diets depend on the breed of dog. Large breed puppy food should contain lower levels of protein and energy so that their bones will keep up with their bulk. Smaller breeds should have a lower protein/fat ratio.
Less Needs More. It may surprise you that even in adulthood smaller dogs need more calories per pound than larger dogs as their metabolism is higher. They burn calories at a very high rate throughout their lives.
For example, a ten pound Maltese needs about 400 calories each day. That’s 40 calories per pound. A bulldog that weighs 100 pounds needs 2250 calories daily, and that’s only 22.5 calories per pound.
Lowest Common Denominator. When ‘regular’ dog food is formulated, it has to meet or exceed the needs of the animals that have the most nutritional demands, and that’s a small average, middle aged dog with average health and activity level. Your dog may fit this profile – or not. If not, we need to help you find a different food.
As you well know, your pet is unique. There’s not another pet like her. Your pet needs a type of food that will meet his unique nutritional needs. Ask us about it during your next visit.
Pro tip: Did you know you can set up for automatic deliveries of food to your home? Click here to find out more: https://townncountryanimal.vetsfirstchoice.com/
