If you are one of the few who has been blessed with the presence of a dog at home, are best advised to check with the veterinarian in order to make sure their furry friend is in top shape. Considering the amount of junk mixed up with dog food and other supplements, it is hard to tell if your dog is receiving the benefits a well balanced diet has to offer.
Start out by selecting a good veterinarian, if you don’t already have one. A reputable vet will only have your dog’s best interest in mind. Through a thorough examination, the veterinarian will be able to diagnose your dog’s health condition. Some may be obvious, such as a weight issue, or deteriorated teeth and gums. But other conditions such as anemia and renal problems may not be so easy to detect.
After a careful examination, you are likely to be recommended a diet for your dog, which more often than not will turn out to be dry kibbles. A bag of kibbles is the most common suggestion due to its teeth cleaning properties. As the dog chews on dry food, he will also be cleaning his teeth and gums. However, you could end up with a totally different diet depending on the examination results. Your vet will want to discuss your dog’s eating habits, including feeding schedule and the quality and quantity of snacks you give him.
Every dog is unique, and as he grows and ages, your vet will get to know him better. As time goes by you will find yourself working together with the veterinarian as a team, and figuring out what best influences your dog while discarding others. Some animals have unique eating disorders that can lead to overweight issues, and thus, require special treatment and a controlled diet. Other specific qualities of your dog may be his surroundings. It is almost certain that your vet will suggest different servings for dogs living in an apartment, than their counterparts living in the country.
The eating habits of your dog are of up most importance to his health. Your pet’s vet will be able to recommend any vitamins and minerals in the form of supplements to feed your dog in the event he is lacking any essential nutrients in his meals.
Some of the things your vet will be on the lookout during your visit will be healthy teeth and gums, healthy joints, strong skin and fur, among others. Usually these ailments are treated through the dogs food, or through the use of supplements in his diet. Thus discussing what your dog eats with the veterinarian is a complete must.
Avoid the common mistake of diagnosing your dog, or making decisions on your own based on jingles and reading labels at store shelves. Don’t be foolish enough to prescribe any kind of medication on your just because he is an animal. Talk to the veterinarian, and decide what’s best for your pet together. In the end, your dog will be the one to benefit from an informed decision.