A balanced diet with proper nutrients is essential for the development and general good health of your pup. In addition, variety, including healthy dog treats, can be vital in sustaining your dog's mental well being.

Pet food and dog treat manufacturers produce food with the precise nutritional formula to suit your pet. In addition, there are foods for specific stages of life and recipes for particular health needs. 

Each nutrient in your dog's diet has a purpose. And without adequate nutrition, your dog would not be able to maintain excellent health. 

When it comes to their food, it's also important to remember that dogs get satisfaction and stimulation from different textures, tastes, and smells. And there is a whole emerging industry of natural dog treats, toppers and chews that supplement any nutritional deficiencies while satisfying these sensory needs.

Proteins, for instance, provide a source of energy and help with muscle function and growth. In contrast, fats provide energy, help the brain function, and keep the skin and hair coat shiny and healthy, and carbohydrates supply a source of quick energy that allows your dog to be active and energetic. 

These days we're pretty savvy about our own diet and health and as consumers, we see this reflected in the expanding healthy options available on the supermarket shelves. But though the range of dog foods is also growing, many of us are still choosing value for money over quality. And while that makes economic sense, we also need to start prioritising the nutritional needs of our pets. 

At Pawtion, we believe that with a bit of knowledge, we could be making better choices for our precious pooches.

So, here’s our top tips for satisfying your dog's dietary needs with a range of food sources.

Muscle Tone and Body Condition

Protein is vital for body function. It's essential not only for healthy muscles but skin, fur and even organs. 

• Protein is necessary to repair and create cells and is essential in the development of your pooch.
• The proper amount of protein ensures that your dog can build and maintain strong muscles. Therefore, protein sources (chicken, beef, etc.) should be one of the first things on any dog food label.

Skin and Coat Health

We know that a shiny coat is a sign of good health in pets. Usually, it indicates your dog is eating the proper balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. The right amount of fatty acids plays a huge part in your dog's overall health:

• Fatty acids work on skin health which in turn affects your dog's fur. Unhealthy dry skin may lead to a dull, brittle coat and even fur loss.
• Omega-3 fatty acids work as an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing itching and other irritations. 
• Seafood treats and food toppers are a convenient way to supplement your dog's omega fatty acids.

Healthy digestion

What a dog eats has a holistic impact on the body, including the digestive system. And a variety of treats and meals can help you manage your dog's digestive system if you have a targeted approach. 

• Prebiotics can contribute to a healthier gut. In addition, some carbohydrates encourage good bacteria, which promote balance in the digestive system.
• Lean proteins can help maintain a healthy digestive system and help avoid making a sensitive digestive system worse.
• The right balance of fibre in your pup's diet helps absorb nutrients and promote a healthy digestive system.

Immunity and disease prevention

The vitamins and minerals in quality dog foods encourage a functioning immune system and healthy metabolism.  

• Vitamins protect and fix cells daily. 
• Minerals promote normal cell function for good health. 

Vitamins and minerals are present in both plant and animal foods, and deficiencies result in illness. 

So, what does a variety add to your dog's health?

Keep things fresh:

Giving a variety of proteins to your dog prevents boredom. Also, trying a range of foods helps you understand your dog's likes and dislikes. 

Added nutrition:

No food source has everything your pet requires; a complete and balanced diet offers various meals and food sources. 

Prevents intolerance:

Consistently feeding your dog the same type can build up intolerance to certain ingredients. This can mean allergies or sensitivities and may lead to a lack of interest in food.

The optimal varied diet from pup to senior dog

It can take time to determine what’s best for any dog but here’s our suggestions:

• Ensure a smooth transition by using new foods as treats or toppers for a short time. 
• Incorporate unique and novel foods in the form of treats into their daily activities. 
• Treats can be tasty rewards but also an essential component of your dog's healthy diet. 
• Different proteins such as seafood are an easy way to add healthy diversity to your dog's diet. 
• Some pet owners raise their dogs on a pure kibble diet. And while technically there's nothing wrong with that, just like humans, your pooch will get bored of the same foods day after day. Try mixing their diet up with a variety of tasty, nutritional toppers to give them some added vitamins and minerals while keeping their taste buds satisfied. 

Pups

When introducing new foods to a puppy, be aware of any signs of illness or distress. Like humans, dogs can have intolerance and allergies. As a result, certain foods may not agree with your pup. Take note of your pup's stool, so you know what to avoid or continue with in the future.

Adult dogs

Choose complete and balanced foods. You can add meat, vegetables and fish for variety. Choose large, raw, meaty bones. It's crucial never to overfeed.

Senior

Observe your senior dog for chronic health issues and ask your vet which foods may help or worsen the problem. For example, which foods do they struggle to eat or digest? Are there any that seem to give them discomfort?

For some senior dogs, frequent smaller meals are best. Some old dogs may need more fibre, protein or other nutrients to maintain health. Speak to your veterinarian about your pooches' specific needs.

Conclusion

Generally speaking, unless your dog has serious health issues, it will thrive on a varied diet. Be sure you choose a complete and balanced diet with a variety of proteins on rotation.

If your dog isn't used to change, be sure to transition slowly over to new proteins; your pup will likely adjust without issue but monitor them initially until you're sure they've adapted completely. 

Mental stimulation is also super important for your dog's health and well-being; treats and chews can really help with your pup’s mental health and development. This is one of the reasons we developed our Pawtion treats and chews in the first place. So check out our seriously tasty products in a range of pooch-worthy flavours and chew-times.