Dog nutrition — dietary needs, standards, and feeding practices (Merck Vet Manual)
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Good nutrition is crucial for your dog’s health.Look for dog foods that have the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) label, which means they meet certain nutritional standards.Dry food is usually better than canned food because it helps keep teeth and gums healthy while providing the same nutrition.Diets for different life stages (puppy, adult, senior) are available in stores and online.Some special diets for health issues (like obesity or allergies) are only available through veterinarians.Most adult dogs should be fed 1 to 2 times a day, while puppies need more frequent meals.Large-breed dogs should be fed smaller meals at least twice a day to prevent their stomachs from bloating.Table scraps should be limited and should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.Always provide fresh, clean water for your dog, and never restrict access unless your vet advises it.One common issue is overfeeding, which can lead to obesity and other health problems .For most dog breeds, you should always be able to feel the animal’s spine and ribs, but not see them.In cold weather, outdoor dogs need twice as many calories to keep warm.They should be fed double their regular amount of high-quality dog food in smaller meals to avoid digestive issues.Nutritional Requirements In cold weather, outdoor dogs need twice as many calories to keep warm.
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Source: pdf-raw/companion-care/companion_dog_nutrition_src.txt · https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/selecting-and-providing-a-home-for-a-dog/providing-a-home-for-a-dog