FEEDING

[Mummys boys]

What you feed your dog is a very important part of pet care. Proper nutrition is essential to keep your dog healthy and to ward off and manage diseases. Commercial pet foods vary in their nutritional values. Remember, more expensive does not always mean the food is of a higher quality.

Read the label - pet food ingredients are listed in much the same way as human foods, showing percentages of each ingredient. It is the proportion of all nutrients and ingredients (including water) that determines a food's nutritional value and palatability. If the ingredients are not listed or readily available for a dog food then ask yourself why.


Follow the manufacturer's guidelines as to how much to feed, but also use your own judgement. Many foods state quantity based on the dogs weight (desired weight) but you also need to take into account the activity levels of your dog.

Foods to avoid feeding to your dog
Here are some foods to avoid feeding your dog in large quantities.

Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine which can cause increased heart rate, restlessness and vomiting. In large doses it may be fatal.

Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and can cause renal failure.

Onions
May cause anaemia.

Garlic is also part of the onion family. In large doses it may cause dermatitis and asthma. Some owners, however, use garlic tablets as a natural flea repellent. Always follow doses carefully.

Milk & Dairy Products
Lactose, which is found in milk and dairy products, is not digestible to dogs.

Fruit
Fruit can be high in sugar and can also be acidic. This will upset your dog's digestion and is best avoided.

Potatoes
Feeding potatoes is not recommended due to their high starch content, which is not very digestible to dogs and may cause problems.
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[Robin]

I disagree with your comment on potato starch. This is a very important carb alternative for dogs who are intolerant to cereal - Robin, Nutritional Advisor, PetsTums. Visit the Health and Diet forum for FAQ on diet and nutrition.

[Mummys boys]

I must amit I give my boys potato and never had a probs..
But I do know of dogs that have had..so like us somethings we can have some we cant