Every dog is special. But it’s not just their personality. Every dog has unique nutrition needs based on their breed, size, shape, activity level and many other factors. The best way to help your dog be the best version of themselves is to build a healthy, balanced bowl that’s a combination of proteins, toppers, hydrators and supplements that are specific to your pet.
THE BUILDING BLOCKS
These are the essentials of a balanced bowl. It’s not a
stagnant list – the more you rotate ingredients the more balanced nutrients your pet receives.
BASE
The main ingredient and 90% of your pet’s nutrition. Can be mixed from different categories including kibble, raw, and freeze dried.
Examples:
Wet Food, Dehydrated, Freeze-dried, Lightly Cooked, Raw
HYDRATORS
Pets don’t always drink enough water. The additional liquid keeps them hydrated and adds more nutrients and flavor.
Examples:
Broth, Goat Milk, Edible Elixirs
TOPPERS
Nutrient-dense toppers round out essential ingredients your dog needs to thrive.
Examples: Cans & Pouches, Freeze-dried, Raw, Dehydrated, Veggie
SUPPLEMENTS
Vitamins, herbs and superfoods prevent and even ease symptoms.
Examples:
Digestive, Hip & Joint, Calming, Skin & Coat, Immune Support, Allergy Support, Heart Health, Bladder Health, Growth and Development, Dental Health
HERE ARE SIX THINGS TO
THINK ABOUT WHEN YOU’RE
THINKING ABOUT FOOD
1. BREED
Sheepdogs shouldn’t eat like Shih Tzus. Different breeds, different needs. Small dogs prefer smaller kibble. Big dogs tend to gulp so raw or freeze-dried diets slow them down.
2. AGE
You can’t eat like you used to and neither can your pet. Energetic puppies need 2-3 times more food than adults. Senior dogs need smaller portions and extra moisture from a good hydrator.
3. FITNESS
Is your dog getting a dad bod? Try a raw diet. Highly active dogs need more moisture and protein from a topper and bone broth. Underweight dogs might need a high-calorie food supplement.
4. GEOGRAPHY
Hot climates mean a hot dog so hydrate them with goat milk. Cold climates pack on pounds so reduce their base and add a warm broth. Suburban dogs generally burn more calories than city canines. If you move, adjust their diet accordingly.
5. CONDITIONS
Food is often the best medicine. From dental health to mental health, there’s a supplement that can help. For overall wellness, try lightly cooked diets. Allergies and sensitive stomachs respond well to limited ingredient diets. Diabetic pets should avoid the carbs in kibble.
6. SEASON
Winter hibernation burns fewer calories, so consider reducing portions. Summer leaves pets extra thirsty and hungry so a hydrator may help. Upset tummies can be soothed with seasonal pumpkin.
As always, talk to your vet to make sure you understand all the health conditions of your dog.
LEARN MORE
Check out our pet parenting resources or ask one of our Pet Foodies in store to help you shop for the right bowl for your pet.
