How to Feed Your Dog a Balanced Diet

No single dietary plan can be considered ideal for every dog. Here are some general guidelines to follow that can keep your dog healthy and her appetite satisfied.

1. Be sure to choose a reputable brand of dog food. Check with your veterinarian for recommendations.

2. Select a high-quality dog food that's appropriate for your dog's age, weight, activity level or size. Make sure to feed your dog dry food as well as moist canned food to help keep his teeth clean.

3. Be sure that protein ratios are appropriate for your dog's breed and age. Typically, dog food with 20 to 30 percent protein content provides a healthy balance.

4. Avoid overfeeding, since obesity can lead to a variety of medical problems, including musculoskeletal problems, and can aggravate hip dysplasia (abnormal growth or development of the hip joint).

5. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps' it encourages begging and may not be good for her digestive system. If you must give her 'people food,' put the scraps in her dog bowl after the family has finished the meal. Be careful to avoid giving her onions or chocolate.

6. Feed your dog a measured amount twice daily, but keep in mind that some dogs prefer to eat one meal a day.

When switching dog foods, do it gradually over a week by increasing the ratio of new food to old food. This will help avoid digestive upsets.

Avoid over supplementing your dog's diet with vitamins and minerals. Excess dietary supplements cause nutritional imbalance and medical disorders. Some vitamins and minerals are toxic in high dosages