Although beneficial, you’ll have a lot of things on your plate the moment you decide to become a pet owner. One of the most important responsibilities you’ll have is to ensure that your pet stays strong and healthy for the longest time possible. As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to pay attention to the food that your pets eat and see to it that their nutritional requirements are met.
With the number of dog food and treats available in the market today, choosing which to give for your pet can become a struggle. You’ll even have to spend time weighing the pros and cons of wet food vs. dry food for dogs before deciding which types of food to incorporate into your pet’s diet. This is especially true if you’re taking care of a puppy, a senior, or a sick dog.
To help you come up with a sound decision, listed below are some of the best food you can give to your pet to keep them strong and healthy:
1. Bone Broth
If you’re looking for cheap and healthy food to give to your pet, bone broth can be an excellent option. This food is very easy to prepare as you’ll only have to simmer a few bones with apple cider vinegar. Then, you may add the broth to the food of your pet or let them drink the broth directly.
Although uncommon to some pet owners, you should actually start incorporating bone broth to your pet’s diet as this can help improve their digestion, reduce inflammation, and alleviate joint pain. Bone broth can also boost your pet’s immune system and support their brain functions.
2. Oatmeal
Just like how it improves human health, oatmeal also provides several health benefits when taken by dogs. Oatmeal is a great snack or meal for your dog as it is packed with fiber. Your dog should consume sufficient amounts of fiber every day to ensure that their digestive tract works well, and that their weight is in check. If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, you should let them eat oatmeal always as this can prevent their blood sugar levels from spiking.
If you think oatmeal is the perfect addition to your pet’s diet, make sure that you cook it thoroughly first and don’t add any sugar.
3. Pork
Pork is another healthy food that you can give to your pet. Aside from being available almost everywhere, pork is considered as an anti-allergy dog food. If your furry friend is allergic to chicken, pork can be a safer and healthier alternative.
However, since pork is naturally high in calories, it’s best if you give this to your dog in moderation only. Feeding your dog with excessive amounts of pork can lead to weight gain or obesity, which can become the reason why they will be more susceptible to certain health conditions.
4. Eggs
Contrary to popular belief, eggs are actually safe for dogs. As long as cooked properly, eggs can be a great source of protein for your dog. Protein is an essential building block that helps maintain and repair damaged cells and tissues, and supports your dog’s immune system. The amount of protein that your pet regularly receives also affects their energy levels; the more protein they get from their diet, the more energetic they become.
Aside from these, eggs can also help calm your dog’s upset stomach and manage symptoms of other digestive issues.
5. Yogurt
Human beings love to indulge in sweet treats every once in a while, so why can’t your dog do the same? Yogurt is a healthy and sweet dessert that you can let your dog enjoy. This food is rich in calcium and protein, which are two of the most important nutrients that can improve your dog’s bone and skin health.
But, since there are several varieties of yogurt available in the market today, check the label of the product you’re eyeing to buy. Plain yogurt is a safe choice for dogs as this can help manage your dog’s digestive issues.
Ask A Pro For Help
Pet nutrition is an important subject that should not be taken lightly. The food with which you will regularly feed your pet can significantly affect their overall health and quality of life. Feeding your dog with dog food that is not suitable for their health needs can increase the risk of them developing or acquiring certain health conditions; sometimes, this might even lead to death.
Avoid taking chances when deciding what food to give to your pet by asking your vet for a recommendation. With their experience, they can become your best friend when it comes to pet nutrition.