【Q&A】All About Dog Nutrition – What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Your dog is definitely an important part of your life. Have you ever had questions about their daily meal and nutrition? Just as each dog has its own personality, its food preferences can vary widely. It’s common that many people have bought dog food only to find that their dog won’t eat it. In this article, we’ve compiled answers to common questions about dog food under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Q1: I have a puppy with a small appetite that won’t eat dog food well. I’m really worried about it.What should I do?
A:It’s not uncommon for puppies to have small appetites, especially when they’re adjusting to a new environment. First, make sure the food you’re offering is appropriate for puppies and easy to digest. Try warming the food slightly or adding a bit of warm water or milk to enhance the aroma. Also, maintain consistent mealtimes and limit treats, as they can reduce your puppy’s appetite. If the issue continues or your puppy seems unwell or underweight, consult a veterinarian for a thorough checkup.
Q2: I’m busy and can’t regularly take my dog out for walks. Is that a problem?
A:It’s understandable that a busy schedule and work obligations can make it difficult to spend enough time with your dog. However, not giving your dog regular exercise can lead to several negative effects.
・Lack of exercise: Without enough physical activity, your dog’s muscles may weaken, and unused calories can lead to obesity. Obesity increases the risk of illness and can shorten your dog’s lifespan.
・Behavioral issues: Limited social interaction with other dogs or people can hinder your dog’s social development, making them more anxious or overly alert. This may result in barking or aggressive behavior.
・Health problems: A lack of exercise can lead to constipation and a weakened immune system.
・Nutritional imbalances: Dogs that don’t exercise may eat less, which can lead to an imbalanced diet or even malnutrition.
・Mental health: Walks are a great source of mental stimulation and stress relief. Regular outdoor time is essential for supporting your dog’s emotional well-being.
We encourage you to take advantage of our dog walking service to help reduce these risks and support a better quality of life for your dog.
Q3: My dog has an extremely strong appetite and constantly begs for treats. What can I do?
A:A good appetite is generally positive, but too much of it can become a problem. Try using a slow-feeder bowl, switching to low-calorie food, or setting fixed treat times to avoid overindulgence.
If you find it too difficult to manage, consider consulting a veterinarian or taking advantage of our dog training service for personalized support.
Q4: I feel like I should feed my dog homemade food, but I’m too busy, so I end up giving it store-bought food. Is that okay?
A:Yes, that’s perfectly okay. While homemade dog food can be a great option when properly balanced, high-quality commercial dog food is formulated to fit your dog’s nutritional needs.
The important thing is to choose a product appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and health. Look for reputable brands that list meat or fish as the main ingredient, and avoid foods with excessive fillers or artificial additives.
If you ever want to supplement your dog’s diet with homemade meals, you can do so occasionally, but be sure to consult a veterinarian first to avoid nutritional imbalances.
It’s a great idea to serve special homemade meals only on your dog’s birthday or other special occasions.
The new dog food recently released by Unicharm offers the safety of homemade meals combined with enhanced nutritional value. If you’re interested, feel free to contact us—we’d be happy to provide you with a two-day sample.The food is:No artificial additives, flavors, or preservatives—ever.Only the freshest, locally sourced meat,fish and vegetables.A gentle, home-cooked taste your dog will love.Helps reduce tear stains.Improves coat health and shineSupports strong bones and joints.Contains natural fiber for healthy digestion.You’re welcome to contact us anytime.
Q5: Are there any foods that dogs should avoid?
A:Yes,absolutely. Some human foods can be harmful or even toxic to dogs.
Here are some common examples to avoid:・ Chocolate(Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs)
・Grapes and raisins( Can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts)・Onions and garlic (can damage red blood cells and cause anemia)・Avocados (contain persin, which can upset a dog’s stomach)・Macadamia nuts (can lead to weakness, vomiting, and tremors)・Alcohol and caffeine( are extremely dangerous and potentially fatal)・Bones, especially cooked ones(can splinter and cause choking or internal injury)・Xylitol(a sweetener found in gum and baked goods can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure)
If you’re ever unsure whether a food is safe for your dog, consult your veterinarian before offering it to them.If your dog accidentally eats any of the foods listed above, contact your veterinarian immediately.
