Feeding your dog seems like a straightforward task, but many well-meaning pet parents unintentionally make mistakes that can affect their dog’s overall health. Nutrition plays a crucial role in the well-being of dogs, just like it does for humans. From portion sizes to food types, the choices you make can impact your dog’s weight, energy levels, digestion, and even longevity. Freshpet reviews common feeding mistakes that dog parents make and provides tips on how to avoid them to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

1. Overfeeding Your Dog

One of the most frequent mistakes is overfeeding. Dogs love food, and it can be tempting to indulge them with treats or larger portions. However, overfeeding can lead to obesity, which increases the risk of various health issues, including joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes.

How to Avoid It:

• Use measuring cups or a food scale to ensure you are feeding your dog the correct portion size. The amount will vary depending on their size, age, breed, and activity level. Always refer to the feeding guidelines on your dog food packaging or consult with your veterinarian.
• Avoid feeding table scraps or excessive treats. Limit treats to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
• If your dog seems hungry between meals, consider splitting their meals into smaller, more frequent portions rather than giving extra food.

2. Feeding an Imbalanced Diet

A well-balanced diet is essential to your dog’s health. Some dog parents, particularly those who prepare homemade meals, may inadvertently provide an imbalanced diet that lacks essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Feeding only meat or only carbohydrates without proper nutrient balance can lead to deficiencies and long-term health issues.

How to Avoid It:

• If you’re feeding commercial dog food, ensure it meets the nutritional guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This indicates that the food is balanced and complete.
• For homemade diets, work with a veterinary nutritionist to create balanced meals. There are also numerous resources, such as online tools and apps, that can help ensure your homemade meals meet your dog’s nutritional needs.
• Variety is important. Even with a balanced commercial diet, occasionally introducing new proteins, vegetables, or grains can add beneficial nutrients and prevent your dog from getting bored with their meals.

3. Inconsistent Feeding Schedule

Dogs thrive on routine, and an inconsistent feeding schedule can affect their digestive system and lead to issues like weight fluctuations and anxiety around food. Some dog parents feed their pets at irregular times or change their feeding routine too often.

How to Avoid It:

• Set a regular feeding schedule and stick to it. Most adult dogs do well with two meals a day, spaced 8-12 hours apart.
• For puppies, feed them smaller meals 3-4 times per day, and gradually transition them to fewer meals as they grow.
• Avoid free-feeding, where food is left out all day. This can lead to overeating, food guarding, and difficulty managing their weight.

4. Not Considering Your Dog’s Age and Activity Level

Many dog parents make the mistake of not adjusting their dog’s diet as they age or based on their activity level. Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs, as do highly active dogs compared to more sedentary ones.

How to Avoid It:

• Feed age-appropriate food. Puppies need more protein and calories, while senior dogs may require fewer calories but more joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine.
• Adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s activity level. Active dogs may require more calories, while less active dogs need fewer to avoid weight gain.
• If you’re unsure of how to adjust your dog’s diet as they age or change their activity level, consult your vet.

5. Feeding Too Many Treats

While treats are a great way to reward your dog, many pet parents overdo it. Too many treats can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and even digestive issues.

How to Avoid It:

• Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Opt for low-calorie, healthy treats like small pieces of carrot or apple, or choose treats specifically designed for dogs.
• Consider using part of their daily food allowance for training rewards instead of additional treats.
• Avoid giving your dog treats that are high in fat, sugar, or artificial ingredients, as they can negatively impact their health over time.

6. Ignoring Food Allergies or Sensitivities

Some dogs are prone to food allergies or sensitivities, which can cause symptoms such as itching, ear infections, and digestive problems. Ignoring these symptoms and continuing to feed a food that irritates your dog can lead to long-term health problems.

How to Avoid It:

• Pay attention to signs of food allergies, such as chronic itching, vomiting, diarrhea, or frequent ear infections. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy or sensitivity, consult your veterinarian.
• Conduct an elimination diet, under veterinary guidance, to determine which ingredients might be causing the problem. Once identified, avoid foods containing those ingredients.
• Look for hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods if your dog has known sensitivities.

7. Not Providing Enough Fresh Water

Feeding mistakes aren’t just about food—hydration is equally important. Some dog parents forget to provide enough fresh water, especially in hotter months or after exercise.

How to Avoid It:

• Always have fresh water available for your dog, and change it daily to ensure it stays clean.
• Increase water availability during hot weather, after exercise, or if your dog is on a dry kibble diet, which may require more water intake.
• Consider adding water to your dog’s dry food or offering wet food occasionally to help with hydration.

Feeding your dog properly requires attention to their individual needs, including their age, breed, activity level, and any health conditions. By avoiding these common feeding mistakes, you can help ensure that your dog stays healthy, maintains a balanced weight, and lives a long, happy life. If you ever feel unsure about your dog’s diet or feeding routine, consult your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to create a plan that works best for your four-legged friend.