Feeding
Feeding Management of Dog
Proper feeding management is crucial for a dog’s overall health and well-being. The right diet supports their growth, energy levels, and longevity. Below is a comprehensive guide on feeding management, including a diet chart based on age, body weight, calories, nutritional requirements, and a list of common dog foods.
1. Understanding Nutritional Needs
a. Calories: The number of calories a dog needs varies based on age, size, breed, and activity level.
b. Protein: Essential for muscle development and repair. Higher in puppies and active dogs.
c. Fats: Provide energy and support skin and coat health. Older dogs or less active dogs need less fat.
d. Carbohydrates: Serve as an energy source and should be balanced with proteins and fats.
e. Vitamins and Minerals: Necessary for various bodily functions, including bone health (calcium, phosphorus), immune support (vitamins A, E), and more.
2. Dog Diet Chart Based on Age, Body Weight, Calories & Nutritional Requirements
a. Puppies (0-12 Months): Puppies require higher calorie intake and a nutrient-rich diet for growth.
| Weight (lbs) | Calories/Day | Protein | Fat | Calcium | Phosphorus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
5-10 |
200-400 |
22-32% |
10-25% |
1.0-1.5% |
0.8-1.3% |
|
10-20 |
400-800 |
22-32% |
10-25% |
1.0–1.5% |
0.8-1.3% |
|
20-30 |
800-1200 |
22-32% |
10-25% |
1.0-1.5% |
0.8-1.3% |
|
30-40 |
1200-1600 |
22-32% |
10-25% |
1.0-1.5% |
0.8-1.3% |
b. Adolescent Dogs (6-18 Months): Adolescents are transitioning from puppyhood and need a balanced diet to maintain healthy growth.
| Weight (lbs) | Calories/Day | Protein | Fat | Calcium | Phosphorus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
10-20 |
400-600 |
20-28% |
10-20% |
0.8-1.2% |
0.6-1.0% |
|
20-30 |
600-900 |
20-28% |
10-20% |
0.8–1.2% |
0.6-1.0% |
|
30-40 |
900-1200 |
20-28% |
10-20% |
0.8-1.2% |
0.6-1.0% |
|
40-50 |
1200-1500 |
20-28% |
10-20% |
0.8-1.2% |
0.6-1.0% |
c. Adult Dogs (1-7 Years): Adult dogs require maintenance-level calories and balanced nutrients for sustained health.
| Weight (lbs) | Calories/Day | Protein | Fat | Calcium | Phosphorus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
10-20 |
300-500 |
18-25% |
8-15% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
|
20-30 |
500-750 |
18-25% |
8-15% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
|
30-40 |
750-1000 |
18-25% |
8-15% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
|
40-50 |
1000-1250 |
18-25% |
8-15% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
d. Senior Dogs (7+ Years): Senior dogs need fewer calories due to decreased activity but may require more fiber and joint-supporting nutrients.
| Weight (lbs) | Calories/Day | Protein | Fat | Calcium | Phosphorus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
10-20 |
250-400 |
18-23% |
8-12% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
|
20-30 |
400-600 |
18-23% |
8-12% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
|
30-40 |
600-800 |
18-23% |
8-12% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
|
40-50 |
800-1000 |
18-23% |
8-12% |
0.6-1.0% |
0.5-0.8% |
3. List of Common Dog Foods
a. Protein Sources
(1). Chicken, Turkey, Duck: Lean meats high in protein.
(2). Beef, Lamb: Rich in protein and fat.
(3). Fish (Salmon, Tuna): High in omega-3 fatty acids.
(4). Eggs: Excellent source of protein and essential amino acids.
b. Carbohydrate Sources
(1). Brown Rice: A good source of fiber and energy.
(2). Sweet Potatoes: Rich in vitamins and fiber.
(3). Oats: Provide energy and are easy to digest.
(4). Barley: A slow-digesting carbohydrate for sustained energy.
c. Fats and Oils
(1). Fish Oil: High in omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
(2). Chicken Fat: Provides energy and enhances flavor.
(3). Flaxseed Oil: A plant-based source of omega-3.
d. Fruits and Vegetables
(1). Carrots, Peas: Rich in vitamins and fiber.
(2). Blueberries, Apples: Antioxidants and vitamins.
(3). Spinach, Kale: High in vitamins A, C, and K.
e. Specialized Diets
(1). Grain-Free Options: For dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities.
(2). High-Protein Diets: For active or working dogs.
(3). Senior Formulas: Tailored for older dogs with joint support and lower calories.
4. Feeding Guidelines
a. Meal Frequency
(1). Puppies: 3-4 times a day.
(2). Adults: 2 times a day.
(3). Seniors: 1-2 times a day, depending on activity.
