Introduction
Welcome to my blog! I'm Mohsin King, a holistic veterinarian and founder of The Natural Pet Doctor. In this blog, I'll be sharing my top three tips on how to improve your dog's diet and ensure their optimal health. By following these tips, you'll be able to reduce the risk of disease and support your furry friend's overall well-being.
Tip 1: Add Real Food to Your Dog's Diet
If your dog is currently on a processed kibble food, it's time to start adding real food into their diet. Contrary to popular belief, adding human food to your dog's diet can actually benefit their health. By incorporating leftover veggies like carrots, broccoli, and leafy greens, you'll provide important phytonutrients and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in their body. A study by Purdue University even showed that adding leafy greens and brightly colored vegetables to a kibble diet three times a week reduced the risk of cancer by up to 90 percent.
To take it a step further, consider adding lightly cooked grains or even a raw food diet to provide the most appropriate nutrition for your dog. By including a small amount of steamed or lightly cooked leafy greens, such as spinach, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, along with fresh organic blueberries and leftover meat, you'll ensure a well-rounded and nutritious meal for your furry friend.
Tip 2: Choose Higher Quality Treats
Many pet parents are unaware that some treats on the market can actually cause inflammation in their dog's body. It's crucial to select higher quality treats that are free from chemicals and additives. Avoid treats that are sourced from China, as they may contain toxic substances. Additionally, be cautious of rawhides, as they often contain chemicals and are a byproduct of the leather industry.
When choosing treats, thoroughly research the company and carefully read the ingredient labels. Look for treats made from single source proteins and dehydrated meats from grass-fed organic farming systems. Companies like Natural Farm Pets offer high-quality treats that are both delicious and safe for your furry companion.
Tip 3: Check the Ingredient List on Your Dog's Food
It's essential to pay attention to the ingredient list on your dog's food. The first ingredient should always be meat, and not just any meat, but high-quality meat. Avoid foods that list "meat meal" as the first ingredient, as it is a rendered form of diseased and unsuitable meat. Meat meal is cooked at high temperatures, which can produce carcinogenic byproducts.
Dogs thrive on higher protein diets, so it's important to choose dog foods that prioritize protein over carbohydrates. Many commercial dog foods are high in carbs, which can lead to an increased risk of cancer. When checking the pet food label, ensure that meat, such as poultry or beef, is listed as the first ingredient. Avoid foods that rely heavily on ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy.
Conclusion
Improving your dog's diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being. By incorporating real food, choosing higher quality treats, and checking the ingredient list on their food, you can significantly reduce the risk of disease and support their optimal health. Remember, a healthy diet is key to a happy and thriving furry companion.
